Let’s be honest: new cars are shiny, smell great, and make you feel like a winner. But with prices climbing and interest rates doing their thing, Australians are asking a pretty fair question: why pay top dollar when you can get the same thing for less, just two years older and barely broken in?
We’ve lined up five of the most popular cars on Aussie roads: utes, SUVs, and family haulers. At easyauto123, one thing we know about is second-hand cars. We’ve pitted the brand-spanking-new 2025 versions against their 2022 counterparts. Because sometimes, the smartest buy isn’t the newest one. Let’s dive in.
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Ford Ranger: New tech or tried and true?
The 2025 Ranger (above) is flexing. It’s got a tough new face, hybrid powertrain options, and even a portable power station built in, ideal if you’re on-site or just pretending to be. It’s slick, refined, and more capable than ever.
But hold on. The 2022 Ranger (below) is still a beast. Same 2.3L turbo engine, same towing grunt, same rugged charm. And here’s the kicker: you can pick one up for considerably less. If you don’t need the hybrid or all the shiny tech, why not pocket the savings and buy yourself a trailer while you’re at it?
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Kia Sportage: Face lift or fat wallet?
Kia went all-in on the 2025 Sportage (above). It’s bigger, bolder, and finally offers a hybrid setup to sip fuel instead of guzzling it. The cabin looks like it belongs in something twice the price, and it’s a strong contender in the mid-size SUV game.
But an earlier model Sportage (below)? It’s like the same friend before they hit the gym and grew a beard. Still reliable, still roomy, still smooth on the road. Just a little less pretty. And you can snag one for a great price online now. That’s a huge chunk of change left over for road trips, kids’ soccer gear, or, dare we say, a cheeky caravan.
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Toyota RAV4: Hybrid hype or old reliable?
Toyota barely touched the RAV4 in recent years. Why? Because they didn’t need to. It’s already one of the best in the game, especially the hybrid, which seems to run forever on the smell of an oily rag.
So when you line them up, it’s not about what’s different, it’s about what’s smarter. If the design hasn’t changed and the tech barely moved, why shell out extra for a 2025 model when an earlier incarnation does the job just as well? Especially when Toyota’s legendary resale value means you won’t be left short when it’s time to sell.
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Honda CR‑V: Fresh off the lot or just fresh enough?
The CR-V has always been the quiet achiever. It’s not loud, it’s not flashy; it just nails comfort, space, and reliability. The 2025 version (above) brings in a sleeker design and a slick hybrid option that boosts fuel economy and tech appeal.
But the 2021 CR‑V (below) is no slouch. It’s roomy, comfy, and built to last. Plus, you can get one for nearly half the price of a new one if you play your cards right. That’s a serious bargain, especially if you’re after a family runabout that does the job without the showroom markup.
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Mazda CX‑5: Polished or Practical?
If the CX‑5 were a person, it’d be that friend who always looks sharp without trying. The 2025 model (above) is more refined than ever, with better safety gear, tweaked styling, and that signature Mazda polish.
But here’s the thing: the 2022 version (below) was already slick. The drive quality? Still top-tier. The interior? Still feels premium. So if you can live without the very latest trimmings, the 2022 CX‑5 gives you 90% of the experience for 70% of the cost. That’s maths we like.
So… New or used?
If you’ve got your heart set on the latest tech, the newest badge, or the best possible resale value down the track, then go for it. A new 2025 model will tick all the boxes and make you feel like a legend behind the wheel.
But if you’re the kind of buyer who likes to play it smart, stretch your dollar further, and still drive something dependable and capable, those 2022 models are calling your name. Same guts. Same ride. Less cash.
And that’s a deal worth driving home.
Need help choosing the right one or want to see what’s actually on the lot right now? Hit us up and we’ll steer you straight at easyauto123.
