Hyundai Raises Prices on Combustion Models
Hyundai Australia has lifted prices on several petrol and hybrid models by up to $500 after a record emissions penalty.
Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in Buying/Selling
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Hyundai Australia increased prices on several combustion-powered models by up to $500, with the changes taking effect 1 October 2026. The move follows a $4.2 million fine for exceeding its 2025 fleet CO2 emissions target.
Why it matters
The price rises reflect the cost of meeting Australia's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard, which has tightened each year since it took effect almost two years ago. Hyundai attributes the increases to global economic factors, manufacturing and logistics costs, and local policy.
Hyundai was fined $4.2 million for exceeding its 2025 fleet CO2 emissions target and ranked fourth-worst among brands, behind Mazda, Nissan and Subaru. Pricing rises of up to $500 apply to the i30, Sonata, Venue, Kona, Tucson and Santa Fe, while Staria, Staria Load and Palisade XRT Pro are unchanged.
The players
Hyundai Motor Company Australia
The local arm of the South Korean carmaker, which raised prices and was fined for missing its fleet emissions target.
The details
Price increases took effect on 1 October 2026 and apply to combustion-powered variants, though many affected models also offer electrified powertrains that narrow the gap with petrol versions. Hyundai has signalled that further fines may follow unless it imports more zero- to low-emissions vehicles or buys emissions credits from other carmakers.
Timeline
2025: Hyundai exceeds its fleet CO2 target and incurs the $4.2 million fine.
1 October 2026: Price increases on affected combustion models take effect.
2027: Tougher CO2 emissions targets come into force.
Roadmap
The Australian New Vehicle Efficiency Standard has been in force for almost two years and its CO2 targets tighten again in 2026 and 2027. Brands that miss their fleet targets are now paying for it through fines and higher prices on combustion models.
Buyers of the i30, Sonata, Venue, Kona, Tucson and Santa Fe may pay up to $500 more than before the change. Those considering a petrol or hybrid version should compare the price gap with its electrified counterpart before signing.
The takeaway
Before committing to a combustion model, check whether the electrified version of the same car narrows the price gap. Prices on older stock may be worth confirming with your dealer before the new pricing applies.
Further reading
For more on how price changes affect what you pay at the showroom, see Buying/Selling in Australia.
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