In 2020 alone, there were 916,968 vehicles sold on the AU car market, out of which 49.6% were SUVs. Comparatively, up to August 2022, the AU car market has sold 717,575 vehicles, and again, SUVs were the most sold vehicle. 

At Driva, our team suspects there are a number of reasons why Aussies love SUVs so much. 

It might be because SUVs can go from being excellent everyday driving cars during the week to the perfect off-road getaway vehicle on the weekend. Or perhaps it’s because they often offer the best value in the game at a great starting price. 

Whatever the reason, it’s always good to do a bit of research before buying a new car, so wanting to find the best value SUVs on the market is a good start! 

There’s no ‘right car’. 

We all have different tastes and what one person loves about their SUV, another might roll their eyes at. Some Aussies might be after a small luxury SUV with automatic transmission, while their next-door neighbour needs a large SUV with better towing capacity to help get their boat to and from the water. 

To remove our bias, we’ve checked the 2023 consumer reports on the best vehicle brands in the overall Australian car market. 

Based on the reports’ research, we’ve compiled the following list of the best-selling SUVs in 2023 in Australia:

• Hyundai Kona
• Kia Niro
• Kia Sorento
• Mazda CX-30
• Ford Bronco
• Volvo XC40
• Volkswagen Tiguan
• Kia Sportage
• Hyundai Sante Fe
• Toyota RAV4
• Mazda CX-5
• Mitsubishi Outlander
• Hyundai Tucson
• Subaru Forester
• Honda CR-V
• Ford Escape
• Nissan X-Trail

Some of the brands here, like Toyota and Hyundai, weren’t included in the report but our team has decided to include them in the list as we’ve personally seen the incredibly high demand for these SUVs within the AU market. 

Remember, before you purchase any vehicle, you need to make sure that you’ve researched the brand, model and features of any car you’re looking to buy and that you have your car finances in order. 

To help you do this, we’ve reviewed and detailed the specs of each SUV below.

Hyundai Kona

Pros:

• Base model provides excellent value, packed with features and performance
• Impressive fuel efficiency to keep you on the road for longer
• Advanced safety features to keep you and your passengers secure

Cons:

• Limited cargo space, so you may need to pack light for long trips

The Hyundai Kona is the ultimate fusion of style and substance, with a sleek and sporty design that's sure to turn heads on the road. But this compact SUV isn't just a pretty face - it also boasts impressive fuel efficiency to keep you on the road for longer, and advanced safety features to keep you and your passengers secure. 

With Lane Keeping Assist, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, and other high-tech features, you'll have peace of mind every time you hit the road.

Features:

• Lane Keeping Assist
• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
• Blind-Spot Collision Warning
• Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning
• 8-inch touchscreen display
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• Wireless device charging
• Heads-up display

Kia Niro

Pros:

• Impressive fuel efficiency that will save you money on gas
• Spacious and comfortable interior, perfect for families on the go
• Generous warranty coverage for added security

Cons:

• Sluggish acceleration may not appeal to drivers who enjoy a more spirited ride

The Kia Niro is the perfect blend of eco-friendliness, style, and practicality, with an impressive fuel efficiency that will save you money on gas without sacrificing comfort or performance. And with a suite of high-tech safety features, including Blind-Spot Collision Warning and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, you’re in great hands. 

With an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and wireless device charging, the Kia Niro is the ultimate modern family car.

Features:

• 8-inch touchscreen display with rear camera display
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• Wireless device charging
• Blind-Spot Collision Warning
• Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning
• Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go
• Lane Keeping Assist
• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist

Kia Sorento

Pros:

• Upscale interior with plenty of standard features
• Roomy third row
• Smooth ride and responsive handling

Cons:

• Below-average fuel economy for its class

If you're in the market for a three-row SUV that's packed with amenities and has a luxurious feel, the Kia Sorento is definitely worth considering. The Sorento's spacious cabin is loaded with standard features, including a user-friendly infotainment system and a suite of advanced safety technologies. Your passengers will feel like kings in the rear seat in these models. The only downside is that its fuel economy is not as impressive as some of its competitors.

Features:

• Available all-wheel drive
• Standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Standard forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
• Standard blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
• Available panoramic sunroof
• Standard rearview camera with dynamic guidelines
• Available leather upholstery
• Up to 10.2 km/L combined fuel economy

Mazda CX-30

Pros:

• Agile and fun-to-drive handling
• Impressive fuel efficiency
• Generous standard safety features

Cons:

• Limited cargo space

The Mazda CX-30 may be a newcomer to the compact SUV market, but it's already making waves with its combination of dynamic performance, sleek styling, and outstanding fuel economy. The CX-30's well-designed cabin is both comfortable and attractive, and its long list of standard safety features protects drivers and passengers from accidents. 

The only downside is that cargo space is somewhat limited, so this may not be the best choice for families with lots of gear to haul.

Features:

• Available all-wheel drive
• Mazda Connect infotainment system with 8.8-inch display
• Standard forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking
• Available adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability
• Available power moonroof
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• Standard push-button start
• Up to 13.2 km/L combined fuel economy

Ford Bronco

Pros:

• Classic styling with modern features
• Impressive off-road capabilities
• Roomy and comfortable cabin

Cons:

• Relatively poor fuel economy

The Ford Bronco is back and better than ever! With its classic, rugged design and modern features, this SUV is ready to tackle any adventure you throw at it. The Bronco's impressive off-road capabilities are matched by its spacious and comfortable cabin, making it a great choice for both off-roading and daily driving. 

However, if fuel efficiency is a top priority, the Bronco may not be the best choice.

Features:

• Standard 4x4 drivetrain
• Available 35-inch off-road tires
• Available advanced 4x4 systems with automatic on-demand engagement
• Available removable doors and roof panels
• Standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Available 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Standard forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
• Up to 9.8 km/L combined fuel economy

Volvo XC40

Pros:

• Bold and distinctive design
• High-quality interior with many tech features
• Excellent safety ratings

Cons:

• Above-average price compared to competitors

The Volvo XC40 is a stylish and luxurious compact SUV that's designed to stand out from the crowd. With its bold exterior styling and high-quality interior, the XC40 offers a premium driving experience that's hard to match. The car is also packed with tech features that enhance its appeal, including a large touchscreen infotainment system and a 360-degree camera system. 

Additionally, the XC40 has received top marks in safety testing, making it the risk-averse driver’s choice. However, the XC40 is priced slightly higher than some of its competitors.

Features:

• Standard forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
• Standard lane departure warning and lane keep assist
• Available Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving system
• Standard 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Available 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
• Standard power-operated tailgate with hands-free access
• Available panoramic sunroof
• Up to 12.5 km/L combined fuel economy.

Volkswagen Tiguan

Pros:

• Spacious and comfortable interior
• Smooth and composed ride quality
• Strong fuel economy

Cons:

• Average acceleration and handling

The Volkswagen Tiguan is a popular compact SUV that offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. Its spacious interior is perfect for families, and the ride quality is smooth and composed. Additionally, the Tiguan offers impressive fuel economy, making it a great choice for those who want to save on gas. 

However, the acceleration and handling are only average, which may not be ideal for those who prioritise performance.

Features:

• Standard forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
• Standard blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert
• Available adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go function
• Standard 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Available 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation
• Standard keyless entry and push-button start
• Available panoramic sunroof
• Up to 12.7 km/L combined fuel economy

Kia Sportage

Pros:

• Stylish and sporty design
• Generous list of standard features
• Excellent warranty coverage

Cons:

• Limited cargo space

The Kia Sportage is a stylish and sporty compact SUV that stands out with its modern and eye-catching design. The Sportage also offers a generous list of standard features, including a user-friendly infotainment system and advanced safety features. 

Additionally, Kia's warranty coverage is among the best in the industry, giving consumers extra power in their purchase. However, the cargo space may be limited for those who need to carry larger items.

Features:

• Standard forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
• Standard lane departure warning and lane keeping assist
• Available all-wheel drive
• Available panoramic sunroof
• Standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Available premium audio system
• Standard rearview camera with dynamic guidelines
• Up to 11.9 km/L combined fuel economy

Hyundai Sante Fe

Pros:

• Spacious and upscale interior
• Smooth and comfortable ride
• Advanced safety and driver assistance features

Cons:

• Limited cargo space behind the third row

The Hyundai Santa Fe is a popular midsize SUV that offers a spacious and upscale interior, making it perfect for families. The ride quality is smooth and comfortable, and the handling is responsive and agile. The Santa Fe also offers advanced safety and driver assistance features, making it a top choice for those who prioritise safety. 

However, the cargo space behind the third row is limited, which may not be ideal for larger families.

Features:

• Standard forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
• Standard lane departure warning and lane keeping assist
• Available all-wheel drive
• Standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Available panoramic sunroof
• Standard rearview camera with dynamic guidelines
• Available heated and ventilated front seats
• Up to 11.9 km/L combined fuel economy

Toyota RAV4

Pros: 

• Heaps of interior space and well-built cabin 
• Perfect for off road enthusiasts
• Same engine Toyota has built a reliable name on

Cons:

• Base models lacks modern necessities, such as non-power adjustable driver’s seat

This compact, well loved SUV is perhaps one of the more popular vehicles on this list - chances are you know someone who owns one. There’s a reason for this. With an intelligently built cabin, you feel like you’ve got acres of leg and head room, even for a small to midsize SUV. With hybrid and petrol engines to choose from, and two or 4-wheel drive options, coupled with Toyota’s reputably long-lasting engineering, this is a tough, nifty SUV that will be at home in the city or out in the bush for years to come. 

Features:

• Front parking sensors
• Active cruise control
• Five USB ports - one for each passenger
• 8.0- inch screen with an intuitive interface

Mazda CX-5

Pros: 

• Base model provides excellent value, packed with features and performance
• Leather upholstery in more expensive models
• Excellent infotainment system

Cons:

• Small second row, not ideal as a family car

Even though the Mazda CX-5 came fashionably late to the SUV party in Australia (2012), it’s managed to make a lot of friends and become the life of the party. Maybe it’s the SUVs stylish looks, awesome handling and drive performance, or plenty of high-tech features that have managed to wow aussies. Whatever it is, we’re just glad the Mazda CX-5 decided to show up. 

Features:

• MZD Connect Infotainment (latest features, prestige, click wheel controller, back to basics interface)
• Digital radio 
• Digital navigation
• Adaptive cruise control
• Autonomous emergency braking system
• Ranked high for head and elbow room

Mitsubishi Outlander

Pros: 

• Expensive but comes with a long warranty and is the most economical SUV on this list
• Premium interior with leather-wrapped steering wheel
• Beautiful, spacious interior

Cons:

• Needs a more powerful engine

A direct rival to the RAV4, the Mitsubishi Outlander is another incredible midsize SUV out of Japan. With exterior styling and design reminiscent of a Toyota Landcruiser, and impressive diesel, petrol, and plug-in hybrid electric models available, this is an SUV that’s won over many hearts in Australia. If you've got a bigger family and need a bit more space for the kids, then the Mitsubishi Outlander is a great choice. 

Features:

• Front parking sensors
• Carplay and android auto
• Built-in satellite navigation
• Driver knee and centre airbag
• Wireless phone charging
• AEB system
• Cruise control

Hyundai Tucson

Pros: 

• All-Wheel Drive option
• Well-equipped cabin
• Active and passive safety features

Cons:

• Hybrid powertrain models could be improved

The Hyundai Tucson is one of the best-value medium SUVs on the market in Australia and it’s easy to see why these cars are driving out of car dealerships on the daily. Much like its cousin, the Hyundai Santa Fe, this mid size SUV is the whole package. Spacious, safe, stylish and with AWD capabilities, the Hyundai Tucson is a solid choice.   

Features:

• 8-inch screen infotainment system
• Wireless charger comes as standard
• Ability to configure and personalise layouts 
• AWD option
• Tyre pressure monitoring 
• Lane-keeping assist with blind-spot monitor

Subaru Forester

Pros: 

• Great cargo capacity for a compact SUV
• AWD is standard issue
• Excellent ground clearance for off road driving

Cons:

• Lacks powerful engines with better tow ratings and acceleration 

Although newer models of the Forester no longer have diesel engines, this SUV is still a big favourite of Aussies. With awesome ground clearance and a stylish exterior, the Forester is the perfect SUV in and out of the city.

Features:

• 8-inch display screen 
• Lane keep assist with sway warning function
• Adaptive cruise control
• Pre-collision braking and throttle management
• Tall profile design gives an expansive outward view, reducing blind spots
• USB ports for both front and rear seats
• Bluetooth connectivity for hands free-calling

Honda CR-V

Pros: 

• The best adaptive cruise control and sensing system on this list
• Simple but effective AWD system
• Excellent hybrid models available

Cons:

• Mundane exterior design with cheap feeling interior finishes

Coming in at a more affordable price range, drivers of the Honda CR-V will have more money in their pocket to cover on road costs and will definitely be feeling like they’ve found the best value SUV on the market. With this affordable price comes a slightly cheaper feeling to the interior and exterior however, but performance is still up there with the best.

Features:

• 4 USB ports 
• Apple Car Play and Android Auto
• Powerful Honda Sensing system
• Lane departure warning
• Rear parking sensors and rear cross traffic alert on higher models
• Over 40 inches of legroom and 39 inches of headroom in rear for passengers

Ford Escape

Pros: 

• Powerful, turbocharged engines with selectable driving modes
• Advanced plug-in hybrid system
• Comfortable and spacious cabin

Cons:

• Basic features on entry-level models

Coming with three engine choices, the Ford Escape is a compact SUV both in looks and in features. With state-of-the-art technologies for smartphones, excellent safety features and superb handling in the many selectable drive modes, the Ford Escape is definitely one of the best-value SUVs on the market in Australia right now. 

Features:

• 8-inch screen (well polished and full of options)
• Power tailgate
• Mix of physical and digital buttons on heads up display
• Dual-zone climate control
• FordPass Connect allows you to check on the vehicle status remotely 
• DAB/FM/AM radio is standard and easy to navigate through 
• 4 USB inputs, 2 in the front and 2 in the back
• Decent cargo capacity
• Wireless charge pad
• Vista panoramic sunroof

Nissan X-Trail

Pros: 

• Petrol-hybrid engine option that drives incredibly smooth
• Highly fuel efficient
• Goes above and beyond standard safety equipment and features

Cons:

• Poorly designed centre-console that lacks features and is hard to use

Although the Nissan X-Trail no longer offers petrol and diesel engines, it’s still a classic for all the right reasons. At an extremely competitive entry price, you might not find all the high-tech gadgets and features in some of the other SUVs on this list, but you’re guaranteed excellent performance. With unbeatable fuel efficiency and a highly comfortable driving experience both on and off road, this SUV is hard to beat.

Features:

• Reversing camera
• Instant access buttons
• Smartphone mirroring
• Speed limit assist
• Intelligent keyless entry with push button engine start
• Satellite navigation with traffic monitoring
• Front and rear parking sensors
• LED headlights on popular models

Sometimes you want a bit more oomph when you put your foot down. Sometimes you want to feel your body pushed back into the seat when you accelerate on the freeway and that’s okay. 

If you’re looking for an SUV that’s focused more on performance and power, then these ones are for you.

Porsche Cayenne

The Porsche Cayenne is a luxury SUV that combines the performance of a sports car with the versatility and functionality of an SUV. With its powerful engine and exceptional handling, the Cayenne provides an exhilarating driving experience that is sure to impress even the most discerning car enthusiast.

Power: 404kW (770Nm)

0-100km/h: 3.9 seconds

Porsche Macan

The Porsche Macan is a compact SUV that delivers sports car-like performance without sacrificing comfort or functionality. With its sleek design and powerful engine, the Macan is the perfect vehicle for drivers who want the best of both worlds.

Power: 324kW (550 Nm)

0-100km/h: 4.3 seconds

BMW X5 M

The BMW X5 M just proves once again what we all know…the Germans really know how to make motor vehicles. If you want an unparalleled driving experience that both looks, sounds and feels like you are the hero or heroine of your own Bond film, then look no further than the BMW X5 M. 

Power: 423kW (750 Nm)

0-100km/h: 4.2 seconds

Although the Range Rover Sport is a bit slower than our two German beauties, it’s still an SUV worthy of the most powerful list. Stylish, luxurious and fast, this SUV ticks all the boxes.

Power: 405kW (680 Nm)

0-100km/h: 4.7 seconds

We understand that there is a lot to consider, so we have tried to expose you to the most beneficial information you will need when looking for your future SUV.  

Why not use our car loan calculator and see how much you need to borrow to get your hands on the best SUVs in Australia?

What is the difference between adaptive cruise control and smart cruise control?

Adaptive cruise control and smart cruise control are similar features that help maintain a set speed and distance from the vehicle in front of you. However, smart cruise control typically includes additional features such as stop-and-go functionality, which allows the vehicle to come to a complete stop and resume driving in traffic.

Is rear cross traffic alert worth it?

Rear cross traffic alert is a safety feature that warns drivers of approaching vehicles when backing up. While it may not be necessary for all drivers, it can be especially useful in areas with limited visibility, such as crowded parking lots. For drivers who frequently encounter these situations, it can provide added peace of mind and help prevent accidents.

What are the cheapest and most reliable compact SUVs?

The cheapest and most reliable compact SUVs can vary depending on factors such as brand, model, and year. However, some popular models that consistently rank well in reliability, performance and affordability include the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, and Subaru Forester. When choosing between the best SUVs it’s important to consider factors such as fuel efficiency, safety features, passenger room and maintenance costs when choosing a vehicle that fits your budget and lifestyle.

What is the best hybrid SUV on the market right now? 

The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Honda CR-V Hybrid, and Ford Escape Hybrid are among the best-selling hybrid SUVs on the market.

What are the most popular luxury SUVs? 

The most popular luxury SUVs include the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Audi Q5, and Lexus RX.