Luxury for less: The rise of vehicle dupes in Australia

As the cost of living crisis continues to squeeze household budgets, more and more consumers are turning to vehicle “dupes” as an affordable alternative to luxury brands. These cars deliver the same styling, features and prestige appeal of luxury vehicles without the premium price tag, making them an increasingly popular choice for financially conscious buyers. With traditional luxury car ownership moving further out of reach for many Aussies, Carma has witnessed increasing demand for vehicles that deliver the visual impact and technological sophistication of high-end models at a more accessible price point. From Chinese manufacturers prioritising budget friendly options, to mainstream brands incorporating design cues from premium makes and models, the dupe phenomenon represents a shift in the automotive industry that's reshaping how Aussie’s buy cars. All dupe examples featured in this article have been provided by Carma’s Head of Buying, Peter Willis.

Choosing a dupe isn’t just about price, it’s about finding the right fit for your lifestyle. Beyond value, you’ll want to consider things like interior space, off-road ability, performance, safety rating, warranty, and even aftermarket accessories. Some brands, like Mazda, specialise in manufacturing cars that make great ‘dupe’ options for buyers. They offer sleek, modern styling that often mirrors more expensive premium brands without the luxury price tag. Inside and out, Mazdas feel polished and thoughtfully designed, with comfortable interiors, intuitive infotainment, and attention to detail that rivals higher-end models. On top of that, they’re known for their reliability, strong resale value, and manageable running costs, making them a smart choice for buyers who want the look, feel, and performance of a pricier car without paying an arm and a leg. Whether it’s a compact hatch, a family SUV, or a rugged ute, Mazda consistently delivers quality that makes them a standout in the dupe market.

Our favourite Mazda dupes

Small car:

Looking for a small car that feels premium without the premium price? The Volkswagen Polo is a popular choice, but the Mazda2 is a smart dupe. It delivers the same agile handling, stylish design, and refined driving experience, all at a more budget-friendly price point.

SUV:

Craving the luxury SUV experience without the luxury price? The Audi Q5 is a head-turner, but opting for the Mazda CX-60 could save you thousands. With its bold styling, premium interior and advanced tech, the CX-60 delivers the same sophisticated feel at a fraction of the cost.

Ute:

After a tough ute that can handle it all? The Toyota HiLux is the go-to for many Aussies, but the Mazda BT-50 is a competitive dupe. Built on trusted underpinnings, the BT-50 delivers comparable strength, capability and reliability, all while coming in at a lower price. With modern styling, solid towing power and a reputation for durability, it’s a ute that works just as hard, for less.

Other popular dupes

4WD:

The Ford Ranger is a powerhouse ute with a loyal following, but the Mitsubishi Triton is a sharp alternative that gives you plenty of bang for your buck. With proven reliability, strong off-road performance and the versatility to handle both work and play, the Triton offers many of the same strengths as the Ranger at a fraction of the cost.

SUV:

The Toyota RAV4 has long been one of Australia’s favourite SUVs, but the Kia Sportage is a worthy dupe for those wanting style and substance at a sharper price. With its bold design, spacious interior, advanced tech and strong safety credentials, the Sportage delivers much of what makes the RAV4 so popular, in a more budget-friendly package. It’s proof you can get a modern, feature-packed SUV without paying extra for the badge.

Electric:

The Tesla Model 3 is one of the most recognised names in the EV world, but the BYD Seal makes a strong case as its dupe. With sleek styling, impressive range, advanced tech, and sharp performance, the Seal delivers a premium electric driving experience at a more accessible price point. For buyers wanting the Tesla feel without the Tesla spend, the BYD Seal is a smart alternative.

Keen to check out more dupes? Take a look at our 2024 Dupe Report for more great cars that won’t break the bank.

While some cars may look alike or share popular features, the real value comes from knowing exactly what you’re getting. That’s why it pays to do your research, compare models side by side, and consider essentials like safety ratings, warranty and even aftermarket accessories. With Carma, you can do it all in one place. Our easy-to-use car comparison tool makes choosing simple, and with every vehicle having gone through our rigorous inspection, reconditioning and quality assurance process (that’s verified by the NRMA), you can shop with confidence knowing you’ll be getting a quality pre-owned car.