Best Mid-Size SUVs for Comfort and Practicality

Best Mid-Size SUVs for Comfort and Practicality – Australia 2025 Guide

Mid-size SUVs remain the sweet spot for many Aussie families—offering the perfect blend of size, comfort, interior flexibility, safety, and fuel efficiency. Whether you’re after a weekend getaway vehicle or a daily commuter that can haul kids, sports gear, and groceries, the mid-size SUV category offers impressive versatility.

In this comprehensive 2025 guide, we break down the best mid-size SUVs in Australia that deliver on comfort and practicality without skimping on tech or driving enjoyment.

Why Choose a Mid-Size SUV?

Mid-size SUVs sit neatly between compact crossovers and large 7-seaters. They typically offer:

• Plenty of cabin and cargo space

• Good fuel economy compared to full-size SUVs

• Elevated driving position

• Advanced driver-assist safety features

• Optional AWD for light off-roading

• More comfortable ride quality than utes or large SUVs

For growing families, couples needing extra room, or retirees who value a higher seating position and flexibility, mid-size SUVs tick all the right boxes.

Key Features to Prioritise in 2025

When shopping for a mid-size SUV in 2025, keep an eye out for:

• Comfortable seats with lumbar support

• Advanced infotainment with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto

• Rear legroom and wide-opening doors

• Large boot capacity (over 500L ideal)

• Safety tech: AEB, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring

• Hybrid or fuel-efficient engines

• Quiet cabin with quality insulation

Top Mid-Size SUVs in Australia for 2025

Here are the standout mid-size SUVs offering the best balance of comfort and practicality in 2025:

1. Toyota RAV4

Why it stands out:
Australia’s top-selling SUV remains the benchmark for value, reliability, and hybrid efficiency.

• Powertrains: Petrol or Hybrid (FWD or AWD)

• Boot Space: 580L

• Safety: 5-star ANCAP, Toyota Safety Sense

• Fuel Economy (Hybrid): ~4.8L/100km

Highlights:

• Smooth and quiet ride

• Excellent fuel savings

• Spacious second-row and boot

• Strong resale value

Ideal for: Families wanting low running costs and reliability.

2. Mazda CX-5

Why it stands out:
Sporty drive and premium-feeling interior, updated for 2025 with more tech and refinement.

• Powertrains: 2.0L, 2.5L petrol, or turbo-petrol AWD

• Boot Space: 438L (smallest on this list)

• Safety: 5-star ANCAP

• Infotainment: 10.25-inch screen, wireless CarPlay

Highlights:

• Upscale interior with plush materials

• Engaging driving dynamics

• Comfortable suspension tune

Ideal for: Drivers who want a bit more luxury and engagement in daily drives.

3. Kia Sportage

Why it stands out:
Loaded with features and space, the Sportage is a family favourite.

• Powertrains: Petrol, diesel, or hybrid (HEV due in late 2025)

• Boot Space: 543L

• Infotainment: Dual 12.3-inch curved screens

• Warranty: 7 years/unlimited km

Highlights:

• Roomy and tech-heavy interior

• Class-leading warranty

• Comfortable and composed ride

Ideal for: Tech-savvy families looking for great value.

4. Hyundai Tucson

Why it stands out:
Futuristic design and great practicality paired with a confident on-road presence.

• Powertrains: Petrol, diesel, hybrid (2025 facelift incoming)

• Boot Space: 539L

• Infotainment: 10.25-inch display with voice controls

Highlights:

• Loads of cabin storage

• Excellent second-row comfort

• Smooth driving experience

Ideal for: Style-conscious buyers who want daily practicality.

5. Subaru Forester

Why it stands out:
Unrivalled visibility, standard AWD, and family-friendly packaging.

• Powertrains: Petrol and e-Boxer Hybrid

• Boot Space: 498L

• Drive: Standard symmetrical AWD

• Fuel Efficiency (Hybrid): ~6.7L/100km

Highlights:

• Rugged yet comfortable

• Excellent visibility and safety

• Proven off-road light-duty capability

Ideal for: Outdoor-loving families or rural drivers.

6. Nissan X-Trail (e-POWER)

Why it stands out:
Innovative e-POWER hybrid tech offers EV-like smoothness without charging.

• Boot Space: 575L

• Fuel Efficiency (e-POWER): ~6.1L/100km

• Drive: e-4ORCE AWD available

Highlights:

• Spacious and high-quality interior

• Excellent powertrain smoothness

• Quiet cabin and confident handling

Ideal for: Buyers wanting hybrid benefits without charging.

7. Honda CR-V (All-New 2025 Model)

Why it stands out:
Completely overhauled with hybrid tech, new platform, and much better cabin tech.

• Powertrains: Turbo petrol or hybrid

• Boot Space: Over 570L (5-seater)

• Interior: Premium soft-touch materials, large touchscreen

Highlights:

• Much-improved refinement and ride

• Honda Sensing safety standard

• Rear seat comfort is top-tier

Ideal for: Families wanting smooth performance and generous interior space.

8. Skoda Kodiaq (New Generation)

Why it stands out:
Offers full-size space in a mid-size package with clever European touches.

• Seating: 5 or 7 seats

• Boot Space: Up to 765L (5-seater)

• Warranty: 7 years

Highlights:

• Clever storage and design

• Premium interior without premium price

• Huge cargo space

Ideal for: Families needing flexible seating and storage.

9. Mitsubishi Outlander (PHEV)

Why it stands out:
Plug-in hybrid SUV with real EV range—perfect for urban commutes.

• EV Range: ~84km (WLTP)

• Total Range: Over 800km

• Seating: Available with 7 seats

Highlights:

• Silent EV drive mode

• High safety and tech spec

• AWD traction and impressive fuel economy

Ideal for: Eco-conscious buyers with charging access.

10. Ford Escape Vignale (Final Run in 2025)

Why it stands out:
Luxurious features, punchy hybrid engine, and agile handling.

• Fuel Efficiency (Hybrid): ~5.4L/100km

• Interior: Leather trim, premium stereo

• Boot Space: 556L

Highlights:

• High equipment levels

• Quiet cabin

• Excellent highway cruising

Ideal for: Buyers wanting last-chance value from a premium-feel SUV.

Honorable Mentions

• Peugeot 3008 – French flair and well-built interior, limited dealer network.

• MG HS Plus EV – Great price but let down by refinement and tech glitches.

• Volkswagen Tiguan – Still excellent to drive, but tighter rear seat space.

Best for Each Buyer Type

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best mid-size SUV in Australia comes down to balancing your priorities—whether it's fuel savings, tech features, interior space, or comfort on long drives.

In 2025, the competition is fierce but that’s great news for buyers. You’ll find strong hybrid options, plush interiors, long warranties, and class-leading safety no matter your budget.

Always test drive your top contenders and compare specs like boot space, rear legroom, warranty coverage, and infotainment ease-of-use.