Strong demand for EVs has brought sharper prices for electric cars and SUVs, with many now below $40,000. Chinese brands are leading the charge: BYD, Geely, Jaecoo, GWM, MG, Chery, Leapmotor and others. Here are the cheapest EVs you can buy in Australia right now.
Motoring
Australia’s best family cars for 2026: electric, hybrid and ICE
Families come in all shapes and sizes, so we’ve lined up the best car choices across small, medium and large SUVs, and hatchbacks, sedans and wagons – with EV, hybrid and traditional engines in the mix.
Australian families have never had it so good when it comes to finding a new car. Regardless of budget, the size of your family, where you live and drive and even what you like to do on your family trips, there is bound to be a car that is the perfect fit for you.
Families come in all different shapes and sizes, so there is no longer a conventional ‘one-size-fits-all’ family car like we used to have with iconic models like the Holden Commodore and Ford Falcon.
“These days, a family can drive anything from a hatchback to a rugged off-roader to a spacious people-mover, with a variety in between,” says RACV Motoring Editor, Terry Martin. “That extends to what powers them too. With the rise and rise of electrification there are EV and hybrid options in almost every shape and size.”
In this guide, we take you through some of the standout options across the gamut of family cars available in 2026 – including EVs, plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), non-plug-in hybrids and cars with a traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) – to help you choose the right one for you.
To help with your search, we’ve also provided links to RACV’s Car Match website, which allows you to compare a wide array of new and used cars and understand insurance, finance, running costs and more, so you have a clear picture of the ownership experience.
More: Research and compare new cars, SUVs and utes on sale today in Australia
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The electric 2026 MG4 EV Urban offers a roomy interior for families at an affordable price.
Best small family hatch: MG4 EV Urban
If you’re looking for a nimble, compact family car at home in the city, then it’s hard to go past MG’s all-new MG4 EV Urban. While it may share the first half of its name with the brand’s other small electric hatch, the (rear-wheel-drive) MG4 EV, the Urban is a different proposition altogether.
Notably, power is sent through the front wheels, just like a Toyota Corolla or Mazda3, which means the motor and other mechanical bits are packaged at the front. This allows for a spacious cabin with room for parents up front and two kids in the back.
The real selling point for the MG4 Urban, however, is the price. It starts at just $31,990 drive-away – or $29,990 drive-away under a current offer – which means it’s cheaper than the likes of the Corolla and other hybrid models. But because it’s electric, you’ll save on running costs too.
Research and compare MG4 EV Urban models on sale: prices, specs, features, running costs, safety
Also consider: Geely EX2, Toyota Corolla, Kia K4
If the MG doesn’t tick all the boxes for you, the new Geely EX2 is worth consideration. It may be small, but the EX2 also starts below $30,000 drive-away – $29,807 for Victorian private buyers at the time of writing – which is a bargain for an all-electric, rear-wheel-drive, five-seat hatchback.
Research and compare Geely EX2 models on sale
If you’re not ready to make the switch to EV, there are some other great choices in the hatchback segment, starting with the Toyota Corolla. Now hybrid-only, the Corolla has been a staple of the small car market for decades. Priced from $29,610 plus on-road costs, the Corolla is affordable, fuel-efficient and comes with Toyota’s reputation for dependability.
Research and compare Toyota Corolla models on sale
Another more conventional choice is the petrol-powered Kia K4. While it may be a small car on paper, it offers a roomy (and stylish) cabin that is suitable for family duties. The K4 range starts at $32,090 plus ORCs for the S and stretches to the premium and sportier GT-Line for $43,790 plus ORCs.
Best small family SUV: Hyundai Kona
One of the reasons why the Hyundai Kona is so popular is because Hyundai provides buyers with choice – there are petrol, hybrid and all-electric options, depending on your preference.
You also get plenty of choices from across a range of prices. The Kona line-up starts at just $33,700 for the petrol model, $36,950 for the hybrid and $46,000 for the battery-powered Kona Electric. These prices don’t include on-road costs, but watch out for regular offers – at the time of writing, Hyundai was offering discounts across the range, often with ORCs thrown in or dramatically reduced.
Regardless of which powertrain or price you choose, you get a roomy cabin that belies its compact outer dimensions. The Kona also comes well equipped across its broad model range that stretches from the entry-level variants to the sporty N Line.
Research and compare Hyundai Kona models on sale: prices, specs, features, running costs, safety
Also consider: BYD Atto 2, Chery Tiggo 4, Honda HR-V
For an alternative EV in the popular small SUV segment, the BYD Atto 2 should be considered. Small in size but big on value, the Atto 2 offers electric-only motoring for just $31,990 plus on-road costs, which is highly competitive. BYD is also launching a plug-in hybrid version to bolster the range.
Research and compare BYD Atto 2 models on sale
The Chery Tiggo 4 is another small SUV that’s made a big impression in a short period of time. It’s become one of the top-selling models in this class, in large part thanks to its highly affordable price, starting at just $23,990 drive-away. It also has a frugal hybrid powertrain option.
Research and compare Tiggo 4 models on sale
If you prefer a more established brand, the Honda HR-V is worth a look, particularly its e:HEV hybrid options. Starting at $39,990 drive-away, the HR-V hybrid offers excellent space and design with an engine that has an official fuel consumption rating of just 4.3L/100km.
Best medium family SUV: BYD Sealion 7
Few models have entered the Australian market in recent years with such an immediate impact as the BYD Sealion 7.
It’s spacious and well-equipped but, more importantly for many families these days, it is very competitively priced. Starting at just $54,990 drive-away for the Premium, the Sealion 7 is highly appealing next to a mid-range Toyota RAV4 Hybrid or the entry-level Mazda CX-60, for example.
The proof is in the popularity, with the Sealion 7 already among the best-selling medium SUVs in the country.
Research and compare BYD Sealion 7 models on sale: prices, specs, features, running costs, safety
Also consider: Toyota RAV4, Tesla Model Y, Nissan X-Trail
There’s a reason why the Toyota RAV4 remains one of the most popular choices for families – it has a generous and well-appointed interior, a spacious boot and an all-hybrid line-up to choose from. And that now includes a plug-in hybrid option for those looking to save even more on fuel or begin the transition to an EV future.
Research and compare Toyota RAV4 models on sale
If you are ready for an EV but not sold on the Sealion 7, the other obvious choice is the Tesla Model Y. Tesla remains the default choice for many when it comes to EVs and the latest Model Y is one of the most advanced options. It was also rated by ANCAP as one of the safest cars on the road, and, to drive, is a great all-rounder. There’s also a six-seater Model Y L now available.
Research and compare Tesla Model Y models on sale
The Nissan X-Trail is another excellent option for families looking for a medium-sized SUV. The e-Power hybrid variants employ clever technology and start as low as $49,080 plus on-road costs. And in a rare move for a medium SUV, the X-Trail is available with a seven-seat layout, although the third row is really a ‘kid-only’ space.
Best large 7-seat family SUV: Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid
The bold-looking latest-generation Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid is a fantastic family SUV. Not only is the cabin roomy, the Santa Fe’s interior is also well-thought-out, brimming with the kind of convenient storage and spaces that make the difference between an SUV and a family car.
While there is a non-hybrid option, the petrol-electric combination is the better choice with a claimed consumption of just 5.6L/100km. That’s a small figure for such a big SUV and one that will make family life easier with less visits to the petrol station.
The Santa Fe also caters to your budget and lifestyle, with the entry-level model (known only as Santa Fe) listed at $57,400 plus on-road costs, before stepping up to the more generously equipped Elite (from $63,900) and finally the Calligraphy at $73,900 plus ORCs, which provides luxury car levels of equipment and high-quality finishes.
Research and compare Hyundai Santa Fe models on sale: prices, specs, features, running costs, safety
Also consider: Kia EV9, Toyota Kluger, BYD Sealion 8
If you want to ditch petrol or diesel power altogether and go all-electric, the Kia EV9 is a strong option. It doesn’t come cheap, starting from $97,000 plus on-road costs, but that’s not only because it’s an EV but it’s also a size bigger than a Santa Fe – as well the Kluger and Sealion 8 we’ve listed in this section – so your family has room to grow.
Research and compare Kia EV9 models on sale
If the Santa Fe is too bold for your taste, and the EV9 too expensive, the Toyota Kluger offers a more conservative approach to the traditional seven-seat SUV. It’s hybrid-only now and offers plenty of space inside, but does cost more than the Hyundai, starting at $62,410 plus ORCs.
Research and compare Toyota Kluger models on sale
Another fuel-efficient option is the BYD Sealion 8, which features an advanced plug-in hybrid powertrain with a claimed EV-only range of up to around 150km (depending on the model, and based on the lenient NEDC cycle). The large SUV returns combined-cycle fuel economy of 5.3L/100km when battery power drops below 25%, while the starting price of $56,990 plus ORCs also undercuts the Santa Fe.
Best family SUV for towing: Ford Everest
If you’re a family that likes adventure or taking a caravan, you need an SUV built for the job. Which is why SUVs like the Ford Everest are so popular, because they offer space for the family but also have the strength to pull a caravan or boat.
Well, at least a caravan or boat less than 3.5 tonnes, which is the braked towing capacity of the Everest. That’s equal to what the Ford Ranger ute can manage, which isn’t surprising because the Everest is based on the same foundations as the Ranger.
That’s not to say the Everest is a utilitarian workhorse. Ford has made some key changes to ensure the SUV is as comfortable and capable on the school run as it is navigating off-road trails.
Research and compare Ford Everest models on sale: prices, specs, features, running costs, safety
Also consider: Toyota Prado, Denza B5, Isuzu MU-X
The next obvious choice for those looking for a family SUV that doesn’t mind getting dirty or towing is the Toyota Prado. The smaller (we use the term loosely) LandCruiser was given a major overhaul in 2025, introducing new underpinnings, a hybrid powertrain and fresh looks, but it remains a highly capable SUV.
Research and compare Toyota LandCruiser Prado models on sale
Putting pressure on both Ford and Toyota is the all-new Denza B5, a new luxury spin-off from BYD. Arriving alongside the bigger B8, the new Denza 4x4 SUVs offer plenty of space, frugal plug-in hybrid powertrains, competent off-road capabilities and a 3.5-tonne towing capacity.
Research and compare Denza B5 models on sale
Or if you prefer something simpler but well-proven, the Isuzu MU-X is the SUV spin-off of the Japanese brand’s popular D-Max ute. It isn’t as refined on-road but it has plenty of off-road capability and has no trouble towing.
Best family sedan or wagon: BYD Seal 6 Touring
Once the default choice for Australian families, the humble sedan and wagon are on the endangered species list… but they aren’t gone yet! One of the newest entrants is one of the most impressive: the BYD Seal 6 Touring wagon.
The new mid-size Seal 6 is also available as a sedan, but the Touring is our pick with its more practical nature for families. It has a roomy cabin, a handy 670-litre boot and can drive for 1000km on a single tank of fuel and a fully charged battery – we put that claim to the test in a drive from Sydney to Melbourne.
When you factor in the $39,990 (plus on-road costs) starting price and its potential fuel savings, the Seal 6 Touring is a smart choice for families.
Research and compare BYD Seal 6 models on sale: prices, specs, features, running costs, safety
Also consider: Mazda 6e, Kia EV4, Toyota Camry
If you want to ditch fuel altogether, there’s an all-electric Seal sedan available, but we’d recommend taking a close look at the Mazda 6e and Kia EV4.
The Mazda 6e is the product of Mazda’s long-running partnership with China’s Changan Automobiles (the maker of Deepal cars), arriving as the first Chinese-built model from the brand in Australia. It boasts a lovely yet familiar Mazda design while offering a very competitive electric powertrain at an attractive price – starting at $49,990 plus on-road costs.
Research and compare Mazda 6e models on sale
While the Kia EV4 may not be the most conventional-looking car, it has been designed to both fit a family and cut through the air as cleanly as possible. The result is an electric sedan capable of up to 612km (WLTP claimed) on a single charge and a surprisingly roomy back seat for a four-door of this size.
Research and compare Kia EV4 models on sale
That brings us to the Toyota Camry, which since the demise of the Holden Commodore and Ford Falcon has been the stalwart of the family sedan segment. And with good reason. Now only available with an economical hybrid engine, and with refreshed looks and more refined chassis, the Camry is no longer a safe but dull choice. Instead, it’s an appealing proposition for those looking to avoid an SUV but still in need of space for the family.
The Kia Carnival remains a firm favourite for large families in Australia.
Best people-mover: Kia Carnival
While SUVs are the more popular choice, when it comes to finding the biggest and most practical family transport, it’s impossible to beat a people-mover. And the undisputed leader of the people-mover pack is the Kia Carnival.
Kia has made a change to the Carnival in the past year, dropping the thirsty V6 petrol engine in favour of a more fuel-efficient hybrid option. (The trusty turbo-diesel also remains.)
But the rest of the Carnival remains unchanged, with good reason. Its sliding doors (which have power assistance on higher-grade models) make getting in and out of the cavernous interior easy. Once inside, there is a generous three rows of seating, with the option to carry up to eight occupants, with room for their luggage – which is a major difference from most SUVs.
Priced from $54,560 plus on-road costs for the base grade but stretching to $76,840 plus ORCs for the flagship GT-Line hybrid, there is a Carnival for any family.
Research and compare Kia Carnival models on sale: prices, specs, features, running costs, safety
Also consider: Hyundai Staria, Volkswagen ID. Buzz, Zeekr 009
Hyundai has also added a hybrid powertrain to its Staria people-mover. However, unlike the more SUV-like Carnival, the Hyundai Staria doesn’t disguise its commercial van origins as well. If you’re happy to live with that, you do get a very spacious cabin for a growing family.
Research and compare Hyundai Staria models on sale
If you’re on the fence about moving into a people-mover because you think you’ll look daggy, but want the space only a van can offer, then the Volkswagen ID. Buzz could be for you. The Kombi-inspired retro look packs a very modern all-electric powertrain under the surface, so it’s both funky and green.
Research and compare VW ID. Buzz models on sale
Alternatively, you could go upmarket and consider an all-electric, luxury people-mover, such as the Zeekr 009. Available in either a very family-friendly seven-seat or a more pampering six-seat variant, and equipped with one of the largest batteries on the market, the 009 has a claimed WLTP driving range of 582km. But it comes at a price, starting at $115,900 plus on-road costs and only going up from there.
The information provided is general advice only. Before making any decisions please consider your own circumstances and the Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determinations. For copies, visit racv.com.au. As distributor, RACV Insurance Services Pty Ltd AFS Licence No. 230039 receives commission for each policy sold or renewed. Product(s) issued by Insurance Manufacturers of Australia Pty Ltd ABN 93 004 208 084 AFS Licence No. 227678.
