Looking for the Best SUV Under 30k? Check Out Driva’s Buying Guide

SUVs are among one the most popular types of cars in Australia. They are ideal for both city driving and going off road - and with lots of entry level models coming from the big name manufacturers, you’re likely to find good value when you buy an SUV. 

In fact, SUVs have such a competitive market in Australia that we’re confident you can get an excellent vehicle with a base price starting under $30,000.

To save you hours of scouring the internet, here’s Driva’s (and Australia's) favourite SUVs under 30,000.

Pros

• Large boot and tons of rear space.
• Great driving experience with hill descent control, wireless apple carplay and android auto
• Ample standard safety features such as forward collision warning and blind spot monitoring

Cons

• Not a fan of the rubbery steering, which seems to let down the rest of the car's dynamics package.

The HR-V by Honda is newly refurbished, and it looks amazing. Honda has really done an excellent job making this car even better than before, as the prior model was amazing as it was! This new-gen small SUV is a fast car that feels amazing to drive. 

It’s smooth, continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) handles Australian roads well. In terms of aesthetics, it’s a well-rounded vehicle that manages to provide the best technology demonstrated in small features and the infotainment unit. 

With parking sensors, and automatic emergency braking, the nifty HR-V is definitely one of the best SUVs under 30,000.

Pros

• The infotainment system is world-class, slick, and simple. 
• The boot is one of the largest sizes among the SUV models.
• Includes all safety standard features such as lane assist and front and rear parking sensors.

Cons

• The resale value of this car isn’t amazing. 

Kia as a brand has long been steadily gaining popularity. Their cars are known for offering drivers true value for money while featuring amazing technology features. That’s exactly what the Seltos base model does. With rear cross traffic alert, front and rear reversing camera, intelligent speed limit assist for highway driving, and exquisite dashboard tech, the Kia Seltos has all the standard inclusions + must haves you could ever need. Being a medium SUV, it’s ideal for medium to large size families, and thanks to the roomy rear of the vehicle there’s a lot of storage space. 

Overall, this is an amazing vehicle because of its technological features and the level of comfort it provides. Kia is a reliable brand that has delivered great vehicles time and time again.

Pros

• Dual-zone climate control with good fuel economy.
• High-quality interior finishes with plenty of room for multiple adult passengers.
• Great tech features such as adaptive cruise control, bluetooth connectivity and keyless entry.

Cons

• The all-black interior might not be for everyone.

Toyota, the ever-reliable car manufacturer, has an affordable SUV of its own to offer Australian drivers: the C-HR. This sporty car looks amazing. It’s a truly stunning car in terms of its looks. While the all-black interior might not be for everyone, it’s one of our team's personal favourites. In terms of its performance, it’s a Toyota, so you know it’s great to drive, providing a comfortable and simple experience. It’s another notch in a winning streak for Toyota. Choose from the 1.2L turbo petrol as an all wheel drive or a 2WD, or opt for the hybrid option that charges while you drive! 

Overall, this is a great car that drives great and has tons of amazing features. Some of the tech features include the upgraded infotainment unit with apple carplay and android connectivity, satellite navigation, voice recognition, and more. There’s no doubt that the Toyota C-HR is one of the best SUVs under 30,000.

Pros

• Has Auto emergency braking (AEB), which works at speeds of 5-250km/h. 
• Versatile boot allowing for more sitting or storage space, depending on the need. 
• Amazing tech features for the price of the vehicle.

Cons

• No cup holders, rear ceiling-mount grab handles, or fold-down armrests, which is odd. 
  

Volkswagen isn’t Australia’s most popular car brand, but that doesn’t mean they’ve got nothing good to offer. The T-Cross is a great vehicle offering a decently sized car, an appealing exterior design, and a lovely interior. With the T-Cross, you’re getting a great deal of tech and safety features. As a result, it will be a comfortable car to drive, knowing that it will keep you as safe as possible. The driving experience itself is fairly standard; it’s a smooth ride with a decent 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged engine. 

Overall, the VW T-cross is a solid option for driving in Australia thanks to its interesting design and standard features. 

Pros

• The car is technology-focused.
• Stylish both inside and out.
• Tons of standard equipment and safety features.

Cons

• If you’re looking for more horsepower this small SUV may not be your best match. 

Nissan throws their hat in the ring for the best SUV under $30k with the Qashqai. This SUV is one of the best-selling SUVs around the world - so if that doesn’t tell you something, we’re not sure what will! The Qashqai is a car boasting many strong tech features including Apple carplay and Android Auto. Beyond tech, the car is safety conscious with a lot of safety pack features included. 

Unfortunately, the one complaint about this vehicle is that it’s not considered to be the fastest SUV out there. Granted, it’s under $30k, but it struggles against some of the other options on this list when it comes to speed. If this isn’t important to you, consider this 

Pros

• There are tons of safety features in the Konas comprehensive safety package. 
• Drives like a hatchback.
• Numerous additional features.

Cons

• The headlights are LED, which is disappointing.

Hyundai’s Kona is rather similar to the Kia Seltos. Where it differs is that it feels somewhat more recent in terms of certain features. The Kona has a fresh design and great additional features, making it a great option for those looking for an SUV. Hyundai is known for its cars offering a value-for-money approach, and the Kona is no exception to this ethos. Its biggest disappointment is the lack of true tech features. For example, the car doesn’t feature Apple Carplay, which we think is a major oversight on Hyundai’s part. However, the driving experience provided by the Kona has been noted as being exceptional, so we can’t take all points away because of a lack of Apple Carplay. 

Overall, this is a great SUV. Is it the best? Not at all. But it’s still well worth considering if you’re serious about getting an SUV under $30k.

Pros

• The engine is super quiet for added peace while driving.
• The interior and exterior are stylish.
• LED daytime running lights with lots of tech features.

Cons

• The rear is unfortunately cramped. 

The Mazda CX-30 is a compact crossover SUV that sports a sleek design with a sporty twist. Mazda’s signature style choices are found all over this vehicle, but also its impeccable performance is found under the hood. The driving experience is smooth, comfortable, and responsive. You’ll enjoy every second behind the wheel. The interior of the vehicle has a range of advanced tech features and an infotainment unit. 

Overall, Mazda’s always been a reliable car maker, and the CX-30 is no exception. It’s an affordable SUV that’s a fuel efficient option that drives like a dream. 

Pros

• Decent power, performance, and handling. 
• Spacious interior. 
• Fuel efficient model.

Cons

• The interior and exterior are rather boring.

The Skoda Kamiq isn’t a model that’s meant to blow you away by any means. However, if you’re looking for an SUV that’s great value for money, then you might be looking for a car like the Kamiq. It’s a car that performs well and has a spacious interior. While aesthetically, this car isn’t anything special, it makes up for it with other key aspects.

Overall, consumers who prioritise driving and value are going to be happy with this choice of vehicle. It’s versatile and fun to drive with better fuel efficiency than other SUV models. 

If these options simply aren’t enough, we’ve got two other articles you should check out! Our first additional article is about the 5 best-used SUVs in Australia. Our second additional article is about the best SUVs in Australia (not limited to price).

With all these amazing affordable SUV options, it’s time to get an SUV or your own! With Driva, you can find the best loan options in Australia. 

Simply go online and apply now, and we’ll match you with the best lender for your financial needs. To get an idea of what it might cost you, check out our finance calculator right here. We’ll have you behind the wheel of your new SUV in no time!

Best used SUV under $30k

This honour has to go to the Kia Seltos. It’s a newer model from a great brand that’s true value for money. You’re getting world-class technology in a car that drives well, is comfortable, and provides enough space for a growing family. This is the best SUV under $30k. 

Fastest SUV under 30k

The fastest SUV under 30k is most likely the Hyundai Kona. Offering a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, it produces 110 kW of power and 180 Nm of torque. This makes it decent when it comes to speed.  

Which is the best SUV on a low budget?

The Mazda CX-3 is one of the cheapest options in terms of an SUV. It’s a stylish model that has a sleek interior, a decent infotainment unit, is relatively fuel efficient, and is easy to drive. Overall, it’s a great model SUV and vehicle in general, all while being extremely affordable.