Last year 113,142 used imports were sold in New Zealand, which is approximately 40 per cent more than the amount of new cars sold.

As expected, Covid-19 did affect used passenger car sales in 2020, and they were down around 19.5 per cent compared to 2019.

We had a look at some used import models on driven.co.nz which were in the top three bestsellers for 2020.

Mazda Axela

Mazda’s Axela topped the ladder with 5,984 registrations, making up a 5.3 per cent market share. The name ‘Axela’ is a combination of ‘accelerate and excellent’.

The first generation of these models was released way back in 2003 as a replacement for the long-running 323 and Familia range. As for engine size, the Axela was originally produced in three varieties – a 1.5-litre, 2.0-litre and 2.3-litre.

We found a brilliant example a 2013 Sport S for $13,990 (+ORC). This model features the Skyactiv power plant and develops reasonable pull with a 2.0-litre 113kW engine.

With just over 30,000km on the clock it’s a great deal, with plenty of bells and whistles including a push button start, ESC, fog lights, immobiliser, ISOFIX  and even paddle shifts for a sportier drive.

Toyota Aqua

The second bestselling used import of 2020 was the Toyota Aqua, with 5,104 registrations making up 4.5 per cent market share.

Known as a 'Prius C' when New Zealand new, this Japanese domestic-spec vehicle is highly regarded as an economical hybrid option.

In Japan the Aqua competes with the Honda Fit hybrid, both of which possess very similar dimensions.

The Aqua is powered by a 1.5-litre engine which is mated to a CVT gearbox. It utilises Toyota’s third-generation hybrid synergy drive system using a small 0.9 kWh nickel-metal hydride technology battery. This frugal model sips just 3.9L/100Km.

We found a white 2014 model with a mere 25,000 km on the clock for $13,790 inclusive. Interestingly, it was an international listing and still located in Japan. It included 12-months of registration and mechanical breakdown insurance, as well as up to $100 off fuel to get you on your way.

Honda Fit

The third bestselling used model in 2020 was the Honda Fit, with 4,229 sales and 3.7 per cent market share.

This little Honda was the successor of the Logo, and was first released all the way back in 2001. It became very popular due to its fuel efficiency and clever use of space. The Fit even won the Japanese Car of the Year Award in 2001 and 2002.

Today’s market seems to be more or less filled with the newer third generation Fit GK model. Power outputs range from the 67kW 1.2-litre variant, up to the most powerful 1.5-litre 135kW hybrid model.

The majority of imports feature a CVT gearbox, except in the hybrids, which use an advanced seven-speed DSG transmission.

Another draw is the efficient design with the fuel tank and rear suspension layout allowing a multiple-mode seating system, marketed by Honda’s ‘Magic Seats’. This allows you to contort the seats into an array of arrangements and tailor the use of space to your specific needs.

We found a 2013 model in a nice red colour, which came with Honda’s safety package, which included City Brake Assist (CTBA) and eight airbags. Even this non-hybrid 1.3-litre 73kW variant sips just 5.5-6.0L/100km. The asking price for this example is $12,670 (+ORC).

Buying used

All these popular models are great on fuel and are excellent choices if you’re in the market for a used car. Despite not initially being destined for our shores, used imports resonate with Kiwis and make up a large percentage of the cars on our road. This year, it was particularly interesting to see the Toyota Aqua take second spot in used car sales, which demonstrates the increased appeal of hybrid vehicles for Kiwi motorists looking to reduce their fuel usage.

Find out more about how the AA can help when buying a used car:

• AA Money - aa.co.nz/money
• AA Insurance - aa.co.nz/insurance
• AA Car Reviews - aa.co.nz/car-reviews
• AA Running Cost Reports - aa.co.nz/runningreports
• AA Preferred Dealers - aa.co.nz/preferred
• AA Pre Purchase Inspections - aa.co.nz/inspections
• AA History Report - aa.co.nz/vehiclehistory

Vehicle experts you can trust