Car Loans Australia Weekly Motoring and Market News Wrap
Each week, get a concise wrap of the biggest motoring headlines across Australia: new model launches, dealer trends, running costs, safety recalls, EV updates, road-rule changes, and consumer policy shifts. We cut through the noise with plain-English summaries and practical takeaways for everyday drivers and car buyers. Stay informed in minutes and feel confident about your next move on the road, wherever you live in Australia.
This Week:
This weeks wrap covers the post‑hike rate environment and how its feeding into car finance. Recent table updates show fixed car loan offers still starting with a five for some borrowers, while variable options remain wide. We break down fixed versus variable trade‑offs, highlight the impact of borrower profile and vehicle age on pricing, and suggest stress‑testing ahead of the RBAs mid‑March meeting. Listeners are encouraged to compare quotes, check fees and comparison rates, keep pre‑approvals current, and use a free eligibility assessment at car-loans-australia.com.
EPISODE 1316 | Car Loans Australia Weekly Motoring and Market News Wrap | Sun, 22nd Feb 2026
25 Feb 2026 | Paige Estritori
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Read Full Transcript:
Hello and welcome to the Car Loans Australia Weekly Motoring and Market News Wrap, Im Paige Estritori, and its Sunday 22 February 2026.
First, the interest-rate backdrop. Earlier this month the Reserve Bank of Australia, or RBA, lifted the cash rate to about three point eight five per cent, and lenders have been flowing that through. This week, fresh updates to car loan comparison tables show fixed offers still starting with a five for some borrowers, while variable options are wider and can move with the market. If youre shopping, build your budget using the comparison rate, watch fees, and consider a fast, free eligibility check so you know where you stand before you head to a dealer.
Next up, fixed versus variable—whats shifted this week. Fixed car loan pages refreshed around the 16th point to sharper three‑year options alongside longer fixed terms. Fixed can lock in repayments, which helps with planning, while variable may give you flexibility if rates ease later. The practical move is to compare both side by side, check any early‑repayment or break costs, and get personalised quotes from a panel rather than relying on the first offer you see.
Meanwhile, variable car loan tables updated in the last few days underline how spread out pricing is right now. That makes your profile—credit history, loan amount, vehicle age and whether its new or used—more important than ever. If youre self‑employed or have a few credit blips, a broker can help present your application properly and match you with lenders whose policies fit, without hurting your credit score while you compare.
Finally, eyes turn to the RBAs next meeting in mid‑March. We cant predict the outcome, but you can stress‑test your numbers by adding a quarter of a per cent to your rate to see if the repayments still work. If youve got a pre‑approval, check the expiry and update documents so youre not caught short on delivery day.
Thats the wrap. For quick comparisons and a free eligibility assessment tailored to you, head to car-loans-australia.com. Im Paige Estritori—drive safe, and Ill see you next week.
The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.
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