In 2022, the cheapest new car in Australia was typically the Kia Picanto S (manual) at around $16,000 AUD before on-road costs, with the MG 3 Core often close behind at roughly $18,000 AUD drive-away.
Both are simple, cheerful runabouts with enough grunt to outpace a mobility scooter, provided said scooter isn’t downhill.
On the used market, 2022-registered Picanto and MG 3 examples commonly landed between $14,000–$20,000 AUD depending on kilometres, condition, and state charges.
Expect basic safety tech, tight cabins, and fuel use around the mid-5s to high-6s L/100km if you drive like you’ve met a speed limit before.
As ever, check service history and warranty status, and remember “drive-away” isn’t a personality trait—just the final price.