Top 10 Cheapest Medium SUVs in Australia in 2025

Medium SUVs have become one of the most versatile choices for Australian motorists, combining a relatively compact footprint with useful cabin space, generous luggage capacity and the raised driving position many buyers prefer. This 2025 comparison brings together ten of the more affordable petrol-powered options in the segment, while also considering a selection of hybrid and battery-electric alternatives.

The Chery Tiggo 7 Pro SE establishes the value-focused end of the list with a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a 12.3-inch infotainment display and 549 litres of boot space. Its seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty adds further appeal for buyers who place importance on long-term ownership coverage. The Kia Sportage S takes a familiar approach, pairing a 2.0-litre petrol engine with a practical cabin, an eight-inch infotainment system and boot capacity that expands substantially with the rear seats folded.

GWM’s Haval H6 offers one of the strongest combinations of output and interior space among the featured models. Its 2.0-litre turbocharged engine produces 150kW and 320Nm, while the boot provides between 600 and 1,485 litres depending on the seating configuration. The MG HS Vibe follows with a smaller 1.5-litre turbocharged engine and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. The updated HS also benefits from a larger interior and increased luggage practicality compared with its predecessor.

The Mazda CX-5 G20 Maxx represents a more established interpretation of the medium SUV formula. Its naturally aspirated 2.0-litre petrol engine is paired with a cabin noted in the source material for its quality and a driving character that places emphasis on handling. The Mitsubishi Outlander ES is notable for its larger overall package, although this entry-level version uses five seats rather than the seven-seat layout available elsewhere in the Outlander range. It offers up to 1,466 litres of luggage capacity with the rear seats folded.

The KGM SsangYong Torres ELX takes a different visual approach, using rugged styling and a particularly generous 703-litre boot. Its 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine and 12.3-inch infotainment display place it firmly within the modern medium SUV category. Nissan’s X-Trail ST is another long-established name in the class, with a 2.5-litre petrol engine, 585 litres of boot space and a five-star ANCAP safety rating based on 2022 testing.

Subaru’s Forester stands apart through its all-wheel-drive system, which broadens its appeal for drivers who value additional traction and versatility. The tall cabin design contributes to good outward visibility and useful interior space, while luggage capacity extends to 1,768 litres with the rear seats folded. The Hyundai Tucson completes the main list with a contemporary cabin, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and up to 1,860 litres of cargo space.

Alternative powertrains are also becoming increasingly accessible in this class. The battery-electric models highlighted include the Geely EX5, Leapmotor C10, Deepal S07, BYD Sealion 7 and Kia EV5. Hybrid choices range from the Toyota RAV4 GX Hybrid and GWM Haval H6 Lux Hybrid to plug-in hybrid versions of the BYD Sealion 6 and GWM Haval H6 GT. Other listed hybrid options include the Subaru Forester, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Nissan X-Trail, Hyundai Santa Fe and GWM Tank 300.

Choosing between these vehicles ultimately depends on the balance required between cabin and boot space, engine performance, fuel consumption, drivetrain layout, safety credentials and powertrain technology. The comparison demonstrates that the medium SUV market now offers a broad spread of mechanical layouts and equipment levels, rather than a single formula, giving buyers several distinct ways to prioritise practicality, efficiency or all-weather capability.