Buyers deciding to purchase now or wait for new car models for 2026 may take consider possible new vehicle price rises and interest rate prospects for financing. Many vehicle owners do upgrade early in a new year while others will be waiting for the release of the latest model from their preferred manufacturer. Investing in a new vehicle, especially with finance, can be a significant decision for many buyers – businesses, individuals and households. The timing of the purchase can have impacts on many aspects including the price of the vehicle, the model options available and the motor vehicle loan.
So, is it best to buy right now or wait till later in the year when the new releases are in showrooms? We present a range of discussion points for buyers to factor into their own decision-making process.
Reasons not to Wait for New Car Models for 2026
One of the biggest reasons not to wait is vehicle pricing. Let’s face it. New releases will be at a higher price than current models. Over the past few years there has been significant price jumps when the latest model in a range is launched. Reasons for these price hikes include global inflation, extra tech and features and simply that it is what happens!
But in 2026 there is another reason why buyers may see price increases on new releases – NVES. That is the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard which was introduced by the Federal Government on 1 January 2025. The policy aims at making more low and zero emission vehicles available for Australians and penalises manufacturers that have too many non-compliant models in their range. The result has been some manufacturers removing certain petrol models from their range so that they meet compliance.
For others with the highly popular diesel cab chassis models, it can mean they face penalties. According to reports, most manufacturers have indicated that this penalty will be passed onto buyers with higher pricing on some models including SUVs and utes.
Buying a current model rather than waiting for new releases later in the year may represent a significant saving on the purchase price. Buyers may also score discounted pricing at run-out sales and on models that are being discontinued, if they buy now.
With the economic forecast looking like it could be another year for consumers to watch their spending, that saving could be significant, especially over the term of the car loan.
What are the new car models for 2026?
For those that really want the latest vehicle, there will be plenty to consider as the year rolls on. According to motoring experts, Australians will see new brands hitting the market along with new models in 2026. We’ve seen several new Chinese brands arrive in recent years with affordable pricing, and that looks set to continue.
The experts at Drive advise that buyers can look forward to new releases of the RAV4 and Mazda’s CX-5 as well as the VW Amarok, Navara and Musso. At the top end of the market, early in the year should see the latest from Aston Martin hit the showrooms. While if you want the latest Ferrari, you will need to wait until later in the year.
For those who don’t want to wait, several new Kia and Toyota HiLux models are already available. For a full calendar of what is expected, refer to the Drive experts who have done the work for you.
Vehicle Finance Comparison – Current vs New Car Models for 2026
For most, if not all buyers, costs will be the major consideration of a new vehicle purchase, especially with the costs-of-living pressures of 2025. That may involve a focus more on the finance than the purchase price – what will the vehicle cost in monthly loan payments.
The cost of vehicle finance is very much driven by the interest rate. Lenders set their own rates for their car loan products but tend to use the Reserve Bank rate decisions and the cash rate as a guide. The rate forecast for 2026 across the markets appears to be for rate rises this year. Inflation spiked in late 2025, the energy bonus has ended, and the latest employment figures point to an RBA rate increase early in the year.
Any cash rate increase could mean an increase in vehicle lending rates. Buying now could mean achieving a lower rate than waiting until later in the year. Buyers may also secure a better rate by borrowing less by making a higher down payment and by improving their financial position by reducing debt.
To prepare budgets for comparing current model with possible new model pricing, use our Finance Calculator and our latest rates as a guide. Rates vary with Personal Car Loans and Business Vehicle Finance so ensure you use the correct rate to obtain the most appropriate repayment estimates.
To be ready to buy and to set a buying price range, buyers can contact us for pre-approved finance. Loans that are approved before the purchase. This will provide you with how much you are approved to borrow which may determine the vehicle you can afford and streamline the selection process.
For finance quotes on current or new car models for 2026, contact Jade Car Loans on 1300 000 003.
DISCLAIMER: IN REGARD TO MISREPRESENTATIONS AND ERRORS CONTAINED IN THE MATERIAL AS PRESENTED, LIABILITY IS NOT ACCEPTED. THE DETAILS AND CONTENT IS PROVIDED FOR CAR BUYERS AND INDIVIDUALS AND BUSINESS SEEKING FINANCE PURELY AS GENERAL INFORMATION. THIS IS NOT PROVIDED AS THE ONLY SOURCE OF FINANCIAL INFORMATION. ANYONE THAT CONSIDERS THAT NEED FINANCIAL ADVICE ABOUT THEIR SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS SHOULD SEEK THEIR OWN FINANCIAL ADVISOR.
