Best SUVs Under $40K in Australia – 2025 Comparison of Value and Features

1. 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross GX (FWD)

Price: From $33,980 + ORC
Engine: 2.0L Petrol / Hybrid
Transmission: CVT
Fuel Economy: 4.4L/100km (Hybrid)
ANCAP: 5-Star

Why it stands out:
Toyota's hybrid tech leads the market. The Corolla Cross GX delivers exceptional fuel economy, Toyota reliability, and resale value. Although it's an entry-level trim, it includes AEB, lane-keeping assist, and a large infotainment system.

Best For: Fuel-efficient urban driving.

2. 2025 Kia Seltos Sport+

Price: From $35,490 drive-away
Engine: 2.0L Petrol or 1.6L Turbo
Transmission: CVT / DCT
Fuel Economy: 6.9L/100km
ANCAP: 5-Star

Why it stands out:
The Seltos continues to be a value-for-money king. It blends interior tech, safety features, and youthful styling with Kia’s unbeatable 7-year warranty. The Sport+ trim includes blind-spot monitoring and smart cruise control.

Best For: Tech-savvy, young buyers.

3. 2025 Mazda CX-30 G20 Touring

Price: From $38,490 drive-away
Engine: 2.0L Petrol
Transmission: 6-speed Auto
Fuel Economy: 6.5L/100km
ANCAP: 5-Star

Why it stands out:
Mazda offers arguably the best interiors in this segment. The CX-30 boasts a premium cabin feel, sharp dynamics, and an upscale design language. Despite being compact, it’s incredibly refined.

Best For: Drivers wanting luxury on a budget.

4. 2025 MG ZST Essence

Price: From $32,990 drive-away
Engine: 1.3L Turbo Petrol
Transmission: 6-speed Auto
Fuel Economy: 7.1L/100km
ANCAP: 5-Star

Why it stands out:
A fully loaded SUV for well under $35K. The MG ZST offers a panoramic sunroof, digital dash, leatherette seating, and a premium feel—making it a strong choice for buyers wanting bells and whistles on a tight budget.

Best For: Feature-focused buyers.

5. 2025 Subaru Crosstrek 2.0L AWD

Price: From $34,990 drive-away
Engine: 2.0L Boxer Petrol
Transmission: CVT
Fuel Economy: 7.2L/100km
ANCAP: 5-Star

Why it stands out:
The Crosstrek (formerly XV) offers standard AWD, rugged underpinnings, and genuine go-anywhere capability. It’s the only sub-$40K SUV with proper off-road cred.

Best For: Outdoor lifestyle and rural driving.

6. 2025 Haval Jolion Ultra Hybrid

Price: From $39,990 drive-away
Engine: 1.5L Hybrid
Transmission: DHT
Fuel Economy: 5.0L/100km
ANCAP: 5-Star

Why it stands out:
Great Wall Motors is shaking up the market with the Jolion. The Ultra Hybrid is fully loaded with a massive screen, luxury touches, and one of the best hybrid fuel economies at this price.

Best For: Budget-conscious hybrid seekers.

7. 2025 Hyundai Kona 2.0 CVT (Standard)

Price: From $37,490 drive-away
Engine: 2.0L Petrol
Transmission: CVT
Fuel Economy: 6.6L/100km
ANCAP: 5-Star

Why it stands out:
The redesigned Kona looks futuristic and is much larger than its predecessor. Even the base model includes wireless smartphone charging, adaptive cruise, and solid driving dynamics.

Best For: Style-conscious drivers.

Quick Comparison Table

What to Look For When Buying a Budget SUV in 2025

1. Safety Technology

Even in the budget range, features like lane departure warning, AEB, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise are increasingly standard.

2. Resale Value

Brands like Toyota, Mazda, and Subaru generally hold their value better than some newcomers.

3. Warranty and Servicing

• Kia: 7-year warranty
• Hyundai: 5-year warranty
• Toyota: 5-year with capped-price servicing
• MG & Haval: Now also offer competitive warranties

4. Fuel Type: Hybrid vs Petrol

If you drive often, a hybrid like the Corolla Cross or Jolion can save you thousands over time. If performance is more important, turbo petrol engines in the Seltos or CX-30 are more engaging.

5. Space and Comfort

Always check boot capacity, rear legroom, and whether the second row suits adult passengers or child seats.

Who Should Buy Which SUV?

Final Verdict: What’s the Best SUV Under $40K in 2025?

Best Overall: Toyota Corolla Cross GX Hybrid – unbeatable efficiency, resale, and dependability.
Best Value for Features: MG ZST Essence – packed with tech, feels more expensive.
Best for Driving Fun: Mazda CX-30 – refined and elegant with premium touches.
Best All-Rounder: Kia Seltos Sport+ – balanced, reliable, tech-filled.

The good news? You don’t need to spend $50,000+ to get a fantastic SUV in 2025. This sweet spot below $40K is packed with value and variety—and there’s never been a better time to buy.