NZ New Car Sales April 2026: 'solid' growth but EVs slow despite fuel prices

The Motor Industry Association (MIA) says New Zealand’s new vehicle market posted "solid" growth in April, with registrations climbing 11.7 per cent year-on-year to 9864 units.

Year-to-date registrations have now reached 46,688 units, up 12.9 per cent compared with the same period in 2025, pointing to continued underlying demand despite mixed results across some segments.

Growth was largely driven by the light passenger vehicle segment, which rose 16.9 per cent to 7110 units. Light commercial vehicles were comparatively flat, increasing just 0.5 per cent to 2375 units.

Despite ongoing high fuel prices, demand for electrified vehicles softened compared with March highs. Battery-electric vehicles accounted for 11.1 per cent of registrations in April, while plug-in hybrids represented 11.9 per cent, a fall from 16.2 per cent and 9.7 per cent respectively.

Internal combustion engine vehicles still held the largest share of the light passenger market at 44.7 per cent, though their dominance continues to ease year-on-year.

Toyota remained the overall market leader in April with a 23 per cent share, equivalent to 2276 registrations. The brand also led the passenger and SUV market with 1440 units and a 20 per cent share.

In the commercial vehicle segment, Ford narrowly edged out Toyota, recording 837 registrations against Toyota’s 836, with both brands claiming a 30 per cent share.

SUVs and electrified vehicles continued to dominate the light passenger market, led by medium SUVs with 2598 registrations, followed by compact SUVs on 2181 units.

Business buyers remained the largest customer group, accounting for 57.1 per cent of registrations in April, ahead of private buyers at 38.8 per cent.

The ute market continued to underpin the commercial segment, with the Ford Ranger leading on 753 registrations. The Toyota Hilux followed with 607 units, ahead of the Mitsubishi Triton on 268.

MIA chief executive Aimee Wiley said passenger vehicles were driving much of the market’s recent growth.

“Passenger vehicles are driving much of the increase, while commercial segments are showing more moderate movement,” said Ms Wiley.

“At the same time, broader economic conditions are becoming more complex, contributing to more varied performance across segments.”

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