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SUVs Starting Under $40K

Starting between $30,000-$40,000, SUV buyers can choose between top-end small models, quite a few midsizers, and some of the cheaper 7-seat SUVs.

Best SUVs according to our experts

01.
Toyota RAV4
From
$39,760
8/10
From
$39,760

Toyota's RAV4 order books are full to bursting and wait times are blowing out to 18 months or more, but that hasn't stopped people continuing to register their interest to buy one of these insanely popular mid‑sized SUVs.And it's no surprise because the RAV4 makes a lot of sense as a comfortable family 2WD wagon.But in a highly competitive market has this medium SUV lost its shine?


02.
Kia Sportage
From
$34,800
7/10
From
$34,800

It's easy to see why the newly facelifted Kia Sportage SX petrol is a serious competitor for the medium SUV market. The biggest pull factor is the (very healthy) price tag. However, its restyle has pushed it from being 'just okay' in the looks department to downright stylish. Add the practicality of a spacious cabin and, while it might not take the win, it certainly gets on the podium.


03.
Subaru Forester
From
$37,890
8/10
From
$37,890

Subaru hasn't given the Forester a facelift and it may be banking on the 'tried & tested' popularity of models gone by but in a market saturated with medium SUVs will the old‑school design still land a podium finish?


04.
Honda CR-V
From
$44,500
8.5/10
From
$44,500

The likeable Honda CR‑V has long traded on good looks, impressive engineering, family‑friendly practicality and value to lure buyers in.Now, the all‑new sixth‑gen version adds the e:HEV hybrid flagship to the mix, combining excellent economy and electrified performance to a substantially improved package.Is that enough to tempt buyers away from the evergreen Toyota RAV4 hybrid? We think so.


05.
Mazda CX-5
From
$33,990
7.5/10
From
$33,990

In Australia, we love Mazda, but one model is king above all others. After six years on sale though, should it be? We find out.