An all-in-one solution to the needs of a growing Australian family, midsize SUVs have in recent years become a go-to option thanks to their versatility and family-friendly practicality.
With that in mind, which are the best midsize SUVs for Australian families in 2023? Let’s take a closer look to find out.
In no particular order, we present you with our list of the best midsize SUVs for Australian families:
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Request a quoteMazda CX-5
We’ll kick off our list with one of the names synonymous with the midsize SUV class, the Mazda CX-5 which has, for years now, been one of Australia’s favourite family SUVs.
The CX-5 range offers buyers an accessible entry point into the midsize SUV segment, with a spacious and practical design that is perfect for a family of five, and an extensive range for buyers looking for some more premium features.
There are three engine options across the range, with both front and all-wheel drive platforms on offer, offering buyers some serious versatility within the accessible and well-equipped range.
Haval H6
When it comes to outright sales numbers, Haval has been quick to ascend to the top 10 midsize SUVs here in Australia with the H6, which is perhaps one of the best value picks on the market.
The H6 range is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder producing 150kW of power and 320Nm of torque which is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, with both front and all-wheel drive platforms available.
Standard equipment for the entry-level H6 includes 18-inch alloys, a pair of 10.25-inch displays, LED headlights, keyless entry & start, and climate control, with the added bonus of a seven-year, unlimited KM warranty across the range.
Ford Escape
While the Ford Escape is consistently overshadowed by its major rivals, it remains one of the sportiest members of the midsize SUV segment, and is a great option for practical-minded buyers that still want to have some fun.
The Escape comes powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder that produces a very healthy 183kW of power and 387Nm of torque, which is thrown to the wheels via an eight-speed transmission and a capable suspension system to handle some fun in the bends.
For fuel-conscious buyers, Ford has also added a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) Escape that pairs a 2.5-litre four-cylidner with an electric motor and 14.4kWh lithium-ion battery pack that offers all-electric driving ranges of 50km and a claimed fuel economy figure of just 1.5L/100km.
Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson has benefitted from a major overhaul not too long ago, which has helped to cement it as one of the best overall midsize SUVs you can buy in Australia.
Within the range, there’s a heap of options across a fairly generous price scale, meaning budget-conscious buyers have an affordable and well-equipped base model to pick from, while those looking for a premium package can opt for the range-topping Highlander.
The base model picks up a set of 17-inch alloys, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, rear-view camera with parking sensors and an 8.0-inch infotainment system, while the flagship Tucson features heated and ventilated seats, a surround-view camera and a BOSE sound system.
Toyota RAV4
There’s few bigger names in the world of midsize SUVs than the vehicle that helped to kickstart their mass adoption, the Toyota RAV4.
Far from becoming complacent, Toyota has been working away to ensure the RAV4 remains extremely competitive against key rivals, with the added bonus of hybrid engine options across the full range that drop fuel economy figures to just 4.7L/100km.
Inside, the RAV4’s cabin is exceptionally practical and perfect for growing families, while the option of both 2WD and AWD platforms gives buyers more variety within the range.
Isuzu MU-X
The Isuzu MU-X remains one of Australia's favourite midsize SUVs, offering a heap of space for large families and enough power to tow boats and caravans on long-distance road trips without breaking a sweat.
The MU-X range is split into three variants, with the option of 2WD and AWD platforms, with power supplied by the same 3.0-litre turbo-diesel unit that kicks out 140kW of power and 450Nm of torque.
Inside, there’s enough space for seven people, while towing capacity has been increased across the range to 3500kg, which makes the MU-X a bonafide adventure-ready midsize SUV that doubles particularly well as a family runaround in town.
Genesis GV70
If you’re looking for a more premium slice of the midsize SUV life, the Genesis GV70 is by far Australia’s best-value luxury option that makes you question the need for spending six figures on a European creation.
Across the GV70 range, there’s a choice of three powertrains, all of which gain an eight-speed torque-converter automatic transmission that makes it feel sublime on the road.
Standard equipment for the cheapest member of the GV70 family, the 2.5T, includes 19-inch alloys, leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, LED headlights, reclining rear seats and a 14.5-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto.
Honda CR-V
One of the most accomplished names in the world of midsize SUVs, the CR-V, has only gotten better over time, with Honda refining its family-friendly nature while maintaining attractive asking prices.
The CR-V range comes powered by a choice of a 2.0-litre petrol engine in the base model, or a step-up to a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 140kW of power and 240Nm of torque, with the option of AWD platforms as you move up the range.
The cabin can be optioned in both a five- and seven-seat layout that makes it particularly welcoming for families, with a heap of space in the boot that measures 522L in the five-seat layout.
Kia Sportage
The updated Kia Sportage range is a clear sign that Kia wants to dominate the midsize SUV segment, with the range gaining a hybrid addition at some point in 2023.
The Sportage range offers buyers a choice of four trim levels with two engines and the choice of front-wheel drive and AWD platforms available across the lineup - all of which are backed by Kia’s seven-year, unlimited KM warranty.
Standard equipment for the entry-level Sportage S includes 17-inch alloys, LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and an 8.0-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto.
Mitsubishi Outlander
Mitsubishi’s update for the Outlander has made it one of the heavy hitters of the midsize SUV segment.
The company gave it a massive styling update - inside and out - while adding more entertainment and safety equipment as standard. It’s also one of the few midsize SUVs that can pack seven passengers into the cabin.
Better yet, the Outlander gains Mitsubishi’s class-leading ten-year warranty coverage with capped price-servicing that remains the best ownership program in Australia.
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