The mid-size SUV section is Australia’s largest by way of each gross sales quantity and mannequin rely, and accounted for 1 / 4 of all new autos bought right here final 12 months.
As medium and huge passenger vehicles have disappeared, mid-size SUVs have supplanted them because the default household automotive alternative in markets like ours.
While many fanatics bemoan the rise of the mid-size SUV, it’s arduous to disclaim it’s typically simpler to wedge a cumbersome pram, sporting gear, and all the opposite household paraphernalia into one among these than it’s with a sedan (okay, so standard wagons are a factor too, however they’re much less handy for folks with restricted mobility and, bizarrely, they’ve an actual ‘ick’ issue with a whole lot of Aussies).
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Given the significance of this section, we requested the members of the CarExpert editorial workforce to choose their favorite new mid-size SUV with an inventory value of below $60,000 (excluding on-road prices).
There was no different caveat – workforce members might select any powertrain sort, whether or not that be petrol, diesel, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or electrical, they usually might decide from any model as long as the mannequin sat inside VFACTS’ medium SUV section.
What did the workforce decide?
Alborz Fallah: Tesla Model Y
I must make this very clear: I’m not an enormous fan of Tesla.
I did personal a Model Y for about 10 days earlier than it went again as a consequence of experience high quality and the dearth of a driver-oriented speedometer.
All that stated, having just lately spent a good bit of time within the up to date Model Y with the Full Self-Driving system enabled, I’ve to inform you there isn’t any different automotive that’s even in the identical class as that for below $60,000.
For the complete week that I had the car, it by no means as soon as set a foot flawed below any driving circumstances and despite the fact that I like to drive, I don’t like to drive in site visitors.

I liken the expertise to going from utilizing a horse to get to Coles, to utilizing a automotive. It doesn’t imply folks don’t nonetheless experience horses for the enjoyment and thrill of it (which is how I need to consider driving going ahead), however I don’t need to drive myself by heavy site visitors and wait at crimson lights. I desire a automotive to do that for me.
Tesla is the one firm that may supply that proper now and, in my expertise with Full Self-Driving, it really works flawlessly. I wouldn’t care if it had an 8.0-litre diesel engine in it, I’d decide it only for the FSD system.
The truth it’s additionally backed by one of the best charging infrastructure, appears to be like fairly good and at last rides effectively is a bonus. I simply want Elon would swallow his rattling pleasure and put a digital speedo in entrance of the motive force so I can see if his automotive is dashing all by itself!
MORE: Explore the Tesla Model Y showroom
Sean Lander: Skoda Karoq
Full disclosure: I spent my very own cash shopping for a Karoq final 12 months, however I simply bought the front-wheel drive.

The 4×4 is a beast – 140kW, very properly trimmed, and fairly darn economical besides.
What actually impressed me was once we did our medium SUV megatest final 12 months, throughout our difficult curler check – set on a 15-degree slope the place three wheels of the automotive haven’t any traction and one wheel is left to take the load – the Karoq out-performed each different SUV there.
You might ask your self what this has to do with real-world testing, however it’s an excessive instance of a automotive on an icy highway with no traction. It demonstrates how good the traction management system is – how effectively it sends torque to the place it’s required, when it’s required.
“But we don’t really have icy roads here – we’re not exactly Greenland!” I hear you say.

Sure, you’re proper, we aren’t. But when the highway is moist, or oil has been dropped, otherwise you do determine that autumn drive as much as Charlotte Pass is a good suggestion, you possibly can take consolation in realizing that your Karoq Sportline 4×4 is as much as the duty, that it has heated seats, and that there aren’t any – that’s proper, no – annoying security bings or bongs!
But its actual social gathering trick is the worth. You’re getting top-tier Volkswagen components for lower than an equal Volkswagen, a seven-year guarantee, and Skoda sellers like to do a deal.
MORE: Explore the Skoda Karoq showroom
Marton Pettendy: Kia Sportage
If I used to be out there for a mid-size SUV I’d definitely short-list all the identified portions just like the Honda CR-V, Nissan X-Trail, Hyundai Tucson, Volkswagen Tiguan, and each the Mazda CX-5 and Toyota RAV4 – both the present fashions or the brand new ones coming this 12 months.

But the one I’d lean in the direction of is the Kia Sportage – the one one among this bunch to return with an unconditional seven-year guarantee, an exquisite regionally tuned experience/dealing with bundle, and the choice of petrol, diesel and hybrid energy.
In truth, the Sportage is the one mainstream (sub-$60,000) mid-size SUV nonetheless accessible with a diesel engine, which is what I’d have as a result of I dwell outdoors the town and journey longer distances, and I’d mix it with all-wheel drive as a result of I’ve a tough gravel driveway and frequent treacherous rural roads.
For $56,900 earlier than on-roads, the top-spec GT-Line CRDi AWD would give me all of the efficiency, vary, versatility and user-friendliness I’d ever want, even when the equal hybrid model – the flagship of the upgraded MY26 vary launched in mid-2025 – will be had for about $4500 extra ($60,390 plus ORCs).
But I’d act moderately rapidly, given experiences the sixth-generation Sportage shall be accessible solely with hybrid and plug-in hybrid energy when it’s launched within the second half of subsequent 12 months.
MORE: Explore the Kia Sportage showroom
James Wong: Honda CR-V
I do know prior to now you’d in all probability hear me say Nissan X-Trail e-Power, however this time round I’m altering it up.

While the electrified X-Trail is objectively wonderful, its fundamental downside is the very fact its e-Power system isn’t as environment friendly as different mid-size hybrid SUVs. A latest replace (albeit a really delicate one) has additionally bumped up costs.
As a outcome, a high-spec X-Trail e-Power is available in over $60,000 after getting it in your driveway, which is why the Honda CR-V e:HEV makes extra sense to me.
Currently marketed for $56,990 drive-away, the CR-V is healthier packaged than the X-Trail inside, with more room within the rear and the boot, and Honda’s trick hybrid system is extra environment friendly in the true world.
It provides extra car-like dynamics for these wanting a extra participating drive, and it’s additionally less expensive to service at $199 a pop, which considerably makes up for the Nissan’s longer (conditional) 10-year guarantee.
It’s price noting, although, that there’s an up to date one coming quickly with accessible all-wheel drive and doubtlessly even higher effectivity.
MORE: Explore the Honda CR-V showroom
William Stopford: Hyundai Tucson
I’m tempted to pour one out for the Mazda CX-5 G35 Akera, some of the pleasing autos on this section to drive.

Its easy, punchy turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and six-speed auto ought to have been put within the CX-60, and it’s a crying disgrace the upcoming third-generation CX-5 received’t supply a turbo choice.
The CX-5 is displaying its age, nevertheless, and it’s not the roomiest car within the section. So I’d have a look at a Hyundai Tucson, and given the $60k cap I might simply slide right into a top-spec Premium model with the hybrid powertrain if I forego the N Line pack. That’s nice.
The Tucson Hybrid isn’t as pleasing because the CX-5 to drive, however it’s nonetheless punchy and cozy, and much more fuel-efficient. In Premium trim, the Tucson has actually all you could possibly ever need in a mid-size SUV by way of tools, after which some.

The styling nonetheless appears to be like respectable in the direction of the tip of this era’s run, and a mid-life replace stripped away a lot of the horrid piano black trim inside.
Give me one with the engaging two-tone inside, thanks very a lot.
MORE: Explore the Hyundai Tucson showroom
Max Davies: Subaru Forester
As others have talked about, this was tough to pin down. While not everybody really wants an SUV, I’ve nonetheless determined to comply with our standards and forged my vote for the Subaru Forester.

The new-gen Forester has confirmed well-liked because it landed in Australia in 2025, and almost the whole vary slides below our $60,000 funds even after on-road prices. My alternative is subsequently the top-spec non-hybrid Forester Touring, which is at the moment listed at $56,990 drive-away for a Victorian postcode.
While top-spec variants of any automotive aren’t normally one of the best worth buys, the Touring is the one Forester grade with the options I’d need if I had this a lot cash to throw round.
The drawcards for me are the leather-based and suede upholstery, ventilated entrance seats, and the 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, all of which might make it extra pleasing as a every day.

I’d additionally keep on with conventional petrol energy as an alternative of the Forester’s much-improved hybrid system. I merely like driving this bundle, as its boxer engine provides respectable efficiency, and its suspension and steering are effectively sorted.
My solely gripe could be its overreactive driver consideration monitor, however I’m positive there are workarounds…
An honourable point out has to go to the Volkswagen Tiguan 150TSI R-Line, although its on-road prices nudge it above $60,000.
MORE: Explore the Subaru Forester showroom
Damion Smy: Honda ZR-V
If I needed to drive it on a regular basis, it’d should be the Honda ZR-V.

It’s such a superb SUV to drive, given the core competency of its Civic underpinnings.
I do know it’s on the smaller facet, however for $55k drive-away the hybrid ZR-V check automotive we drove months again steered, rode and responded so a lot better than quite a few rivals as a result of – newsflash for different manufacturers – it’s genuinely participating behind the wheel.
There are SUVs with prettier or at the least extra palatable designs at this value level, such because the (smaller) Alfa Junior and Volvo XC40, however there’s additionally a smorgasbord of ugly, horrible-to-drive autos that mix right into a sea of mediocrity and are greatest ignored.
The ZR-V is well-made, moderately priced, and backed by a good guarantee and aftersales assist, and – for my part – Honda Australia can also be at the moment a model on the way in which up. Sign me up.
MORE: Explore the Honda ZR-V showroom
Josh Nevett: Kia Sportage
In the phrases of my discovered colleague James Wong… none of them. I’d purchase a sensible hatch or wagon as an alternative.

However, within the identify of enjoying by the principles, I suppose I’ll choose. And with my smart hat on, it’s arduous to go previous the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage.
While I usually choose the appear and feel of the Tucson, our $60k funds has me leaning in the direction of a turbo-petrol Sportage GT-Line, which comes totally loaded with all of the equipment you could possibly ever want for household life.
And finer particulars apart, the Sportage is spacious, comfy and satisfying to steer, with a protracted guarantee and loads of security options. Almost too many security options if you happen to ask me, however Kia has put within the work to make its programs extra user-friendly.
Alternatively, the Skoda Elroq is a cracking choice for these keen to purchase an EV.
MORE: Explore the Kia Sportage showroom
Ben Zachariah: Honda CR-V
This one was a wrestle for me (as you’re about to seek out out), and I in all probability spent extra time on it than I’d wish to admit to my bosses. Ladies and gents, I provide you with… an perception into my mind.

Of all of the fashions within the sub-$60K mid-size SUV section, there’s a robust shortlist of contenders. A longlist, if you’ll. Unfortunately, a lot of the variants I’d decide simply nudge outdoors of the set funds… or utterly blow previous it.
The Nissan X-Trail is gorgeous, the Ariya is superb (however a base variant for the cash), and it’s the identical story with the Mitsubishi Outlander and the remainder of the shortlist. Great vehicles, however not essentially something I’d really feel compelled to tug the set off on.
The Skoda Elroq is one other robust contender however, frankly, the sensible cash could be on the brand new Toyota RAV4 Edge Hybrid AWD. You simply understand it’s going to be a stable automotive – the final mannequin was one among Australia’s hottest fashions for good motive – and the very contemporary styling will assure very good resale worth.
But the one I really need is the RAV4 GR Sport, which is effectively out of our value vary. So that has me turning to the Honda CR-V e:HEV RS, which mixes a sporty theme with wonderful gasoline economic system – in addition to an equally unbelievable design and premium inside. But, then once more, I do choose all-wheel drive for my every day driver…
So, my reply is the Subaru WRX Sportwagon. Sorry, I do know it’s not a medium SUV, however it has all of the practicality of 1 and – CVT apart – is comparatively enjoyable on the highway, plus it has all-wheel drive. Fuel economic system be damned, I can eat two-minute noodles.
MORE: Explore the Honda CR-V showroom
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