Sales of midsize SUVs have skyrocketed, with medium SUVs fast becoming the most popular niche within the wider SUV segment, with no signs of slowing down in 2024 and beyond.
As a result, manufacturers have virtually flooded the market with a medium SUV of their own to capitalise which is both a good and a bad thing for buyers.
The great news is that there’s a world of options out there, with fierce competition keeping things beneficial for buyers. The downside is that it’s easy to get lost in the hunt.
This is why we’ve put together a list of key criteria you should consider while choosing the right medium SUV and we’ll be shortlisting our favourites for things like fuel economy, off-roading, value and more.
Join us as we take a look at what you need to consider when choosing the right medium-size SUV for you and your family.
How to Choose the Right Medium-Size SUV
While there’s an endless list of things to consider when shopping around for your midsize SUV, let’s take a step back and list out the fundamentals - these include:
Make & Model Variants
Manufacturers have models, for example, the Kia Sportage and within that model lineup, there may be anywhere from four to a dozen model variants.
One of the best ways to save yourself some cash and avoid being up-sold at the dealership is to take a close look at individual model variants and find the one that ticks all your boxes.
You may be surprised to find out that a mid-range model variant comes with everything you need.
Fuel Efficiency: Hybrid vs Non-Hybrid
Fuel efficiency should be one of the most important aspects of choosing a medium SUV, simply due to the immense savings down the line.
Nowadays, many manufacturers offer a hybrid version of their popular medium SUVs, though the upgrade can come at a significant cost.
This requires you to do some math on how worthwhile the investment of a hybrid powertrain may be, and a close inspection of the difference between, for example, the Forester Hybrid and standard Forester - which isn’t as dramatic as you might expect.
Thankfully, non-hybrid engines have come a long way in terms of efficiency, meaning you don’t necessarily have to pay extra for a hybrid to keep your fuel bills manageable.
Interior Space & Practicality
Most midsize SUVs come packing the same dimensions, though not all are created equal when it comes to interior space and practicality.
Some models prioritise the driving experience up front, leaving less legroom for growing kids in the back row, while others offer equal accommodation for those front and rear.
It’s also important to consider things like how the seats fold, how much boot space is on offer and how wide the rear doors open up, which is particularly useful for parents looking to install child seats.
Safety Tech & ANCAP Safety Ratings
Major steps have been made in recent years to roll out the full suite of active safety tech in major segments, with the vast majority of medium-size SUVs coming jam-packed with clever tech.
Things you’ll want to keep a close eye on are whether the vehicle is fitted with features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alerts, parking sensors and even parking assistance systems that help to keep you and your family safe.
It’s important to note that while manufacturers are increasingly generous, some vehicles, particularly an entry-level model might miss out on some key safety tech.
Ground Clearance, AWD & 4x4 Options
If you’re looking to hit the Great Outdoors in your midsize SUV, you’ll want to pay close attention to things like the amount of ground clearance on offer, and whether there’s an AWD option at the pointy end of the range.
While medium SUVs are typically designed for the urban jungle, there are a number of options that can confidently tackle some light off-roading and beach excursions.
Warranty, Roadside Assist & Capped-Price Servicing
Once the dust has settled on your purchase, things like a long warranty and capped-price servicing help to add some peace of mind and help you more effectively manage your budget down the line.
Five-year warranties have become the norm these days, while manufacturers like Kia, GWM/Haval and SsangYong have warranties stretching seven years, while MG and Mitsubishi offer up to ten years.
Five of the Most Fuel-Efficient Midsize SUVs
- Toyota RAV4 (4.7L per 100km)
- Kia Sportage HEV (4.9L per 100km)
- Haval H6 HEV (5.2L per 100km)
- Honda CR-V e:HEV (5.5L per 100km)
- Citroen C5 AirCross (5.7L per 100km)
- Nissan X-Trail e-Power (6.1L per 100km)
- Hyundai Tucson Diesel (6.3L per 100km)
Six of the Best-Value Midsize SUVs
Our Favourite Adventurous Midsize SUVs
Five Midsize SUVs with the Biggest Boot
- GWM Haval H6 (600L)
- Peugeot 3008 (591L)
- Nissan X-Trail (585L)
- Citroen C5 AirCross (580L)
- Toyota RAV4 (580L)
Best Luxury Midsize SUVs
Best Plug-in Hybrid Electric (PHEV) Midsize SUVs
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If you’re looking to upgrade to a new midsize SUV, be sure to reach out to one of our car-buying experts who can help take the stress out of the buying process and find you the best possible price.
Get in touch with one of our Car Buying Specialists today.
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Which is the Best Medium SUV to Buy in Australia?
It’s impossible to say exactly which is the best medium SUV here in Australia, simply because different buyers have different demands. Some of the most popular midsize SUV options include the Mazda CX-5, Toyota RAV4, Mitsubishi Outlander, Kia Sportage and the Hyundai Tucson.
What is the Best-Selling Midsize SUV in Australia?
According to the latest VFacts report, the best-selling medium-size SUVs sold here in Australia are the Toyota RAV4 - by quite a large margin - alongside the Mitsubishi Outlander, Kia Sportage and the Tesla Model Y.
What is the Safest Midsize SUV in Australia?
Using the latest round of ANCAP safety ratings, some of the safest medium-size SUVs sold here in Australia include the Lexus RZ, BYD Sealion, GWM Haval H6, Kia Sportage, Land Rover Discovery Sport, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Mazda CX-60, Mitsubishi Outlander and the Tesla Model Y.
