Best small SUV in 2024 in Australia: know price, specs & features

With every new innovation, the challenge lies in the resources required to implement that innovation. Take off-roaders, investing in one only makes sense if a larger portion of our time is spent off-roading than in city traffic. Thus, what is the answer to the question, how can we create a specific niche which has the durability and comfort of an SUV but can also be manoeuvred and parked easily in tight spaces? The answer is Small SUVs. The mini-beasts may fool the ignorant but to a regular driver, it's a boon. While small, these SUVs are extremely spacious and loaded with features that allow them to be versatile for both families and individuals eager to embark on an adventure.

The compact nature of these vehicles offers a unique blend of practicality, efficiency, and versatility that resonates with a diverse range of individuals. As we delve into the benefits of owning small SUVs in Australia, it becomes evident that these pint-sized powerhouses are not only reshaping transportation norms but also carving a distinct niche in modern automotive landscapes.

Here is our pick of the best Small SUVs based on mileage, comfort & value for money.

Subaru Crosstrek

Data for 2023 Subaru Crosstrek 2.0L G6X Auto AWD MY24

The result of Subaru doing everything right and putting all those in one vehicle is Crosstrek. The Crosstrek is for those who have awakened their animal spirits and aren’t afraid to embrace it. Crosstrek is available in 10 vibrant colours, and is a strong machine across multiple terrains. From sand to snow, Crosstrek becomes an asset to carry load wherever your whimsy takes you. Ready to make every day what you want it to be, the all-new Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive Subaru Crosstrek is capable of taking on almost any adventure, anywhere, anytime.

Taking a human-centred design approach, the all-new Subaru Crosstrek has been years in research and development. In collaboration with a medical school, Subaru designers studied the structure and movement of the human body, to create a small SUV with an interior that is intuitive to your needs.  From supportive seating to an intuitive dashboard design that reflects how sound and visual information is taken in by the human body. Every element of the interior design is focused on comfort, practicality, convenience and ease of use, to make each journey more enjoyable, while also ensuring that you and the the Crosstrek are always in sync.

Key Features of Subaru Crosstrek:

• Dual Zone Climate Control with Memory
• Distance Control
• Voice Recognition
• Cargo Tie-down Hooks/Rings
• Rain Sensors

What’s good about it?

• Stylish and Eye-Catching Design
• Engaging Driving Dynamics
• High-quality interior

What’s not so good about it?

• Limited Rear Passenger Space
• Infotainment System Complexity
• Road Noise
  

Hyundai Venue

Data for 2022 Hyundai Venue Manual MY23

While you’re exploring your options in the small SUV segment, Hyundai Venue offers you a Knight edition which is worth all the glory and gold! Coming to the beauty of Venue is the turning radius and handling. Venue is a champ in handling the city curves and those narrow, harrowing lanes that your friend told you is a shortcut. While the highway experience might not be the best, the city driving experience can’t be complimented enough. The initial thrust puts you in a main character energy and makes your drive showstopping.

You’ll be surprised at how much Hyundai has managed to pack into such a compact package. Connectivity, safety, comfort, style… all the modern-day essentials are included as standard, plus lots more. Hyundai Bluelink brings smart mobility closer – the connected car is the next evolution of a super-connected lifestyle. The Bluelink app puts the future at your fingertips, conveniently connecting you with your Venue, giving you access to a range of controls and functions. However, currently the Bluelink is available in Elite variants only.

Key Features of  Hyundai Venue:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available
• Anti-lock Brake System
• Electronic Stability Control
• Pollen Filter
• Boot area - Organiser/Shelving/Divider

What’s good about it?

• Fuel-efficient
• Reliable
• Comfortable ride

What’s not so good about it?

• Small interior
• Not as fun to drive
• Interior equipment
  

Ford Puma

Data for 2022 Ford Puma JK Auto MY22.5

A compact SUV that’s just as stylish as it is smart, the Ford Puma dares to be different. Ford Puma is the lightest vehicle in this list and proudly the lightest vehicle on the Australian roads. Continuously winning ‘Best Car’ in the Best Light SUV of the Year since 2021, Ford Puma is an unbeatable contender in this segment. Unfortunately, the limited production of the car has made it invisible to the public. While it’s subtle, it has all the Puma like features (notice headlights).

Flexible interiors offer exceptional functionality, without skimping on the fun. Packed with the highest level of connective technology, the Puma is more than it looks. As a compact SUV with ample storage, the Ford Puma boot space is a hefty 410L, increasing up to 1170L with the rear seats folded down in a 60/40 split. The Puma’s adaptive rear parcel shelf can adjust its position to allow for larger items to be stored.

Key Features of Ford Puma:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Available
• Climate Control
• Cruise Control
• Voice Recognition
• Cargo Tie-Down Hooks/Rings

What’s good about it?

• Stylish design
• Comfortable ride
• Long list of standard features

What’s not so good about it?

• Not as fun to drive
• Interior can be a bit cramped
• Cargo space
  

Mazda CX-3

Data for 2023 Mazda CX-3 Maxx Sport DK Manual FWD

Setting new standards and new rules of the game is what Mazda does best. With CX-3 in their small SUV segment, they have surpassed all other competitors barring few. This small SUV is all about luxury and comfort. With Bose surround sound, multiple seat configurations and 8” screen, Mazda CX-3 is as smooth on the inside as it is on the road. The road noise is barely audible. It does a great job in making you forget the outside world for a while. Word to the wise - be a passenger in this car to make the most of it.

Mazda, sets all kinds of standards and comes with exceptional performance. Thanks to the breakthrough Skyactiv Technology, Mazda CX-3 delivers an impressive mix of power and fuel efficiency to truly take your driving experience to a new level. However, the car does have some limitations. The infotainment system is set to default with Apple CarPlay and no customisation is available from Mazda at this point. Mazda launched the MZD app to offer better connectivity which also seems like a task sometimes.

Key Features of Mazda CX-3:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available
• Pedestrian Alert Control
• Anti-lock Brake System
• Electronic Brake Force Distribution
• Blind Spot Sensor

What's good about it?

• Stylish design
• Fun-to-drive handling
• Fuel-efficient engine

What’s not so good about it?

• Small interior
• Not as much cargo space
• Pricey for a subcompact SUV
  

Toyota C-HR

Data for 2022 Toyota C-HR GXL Auto 2WD

The urban jungle is best navigated through reliable drivetrain and innovative technology. Whether it’s a carpool or driving solo, C-HR brings a new meal to the table. The Toyota C-HR features the best of Toyota’s technology to make your journey as entertaining and effortless as possible. With a multimedia system with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, you could quickly access apps by voice command which is extremely effective.

While the conversation is about technology, the driver’s help tech department hasn’t lost its momentum and brings in some fascinating gizmos. Four cameras on the Toyota C-HR combine to give you a bird’s eye view of your surroundings which helps in making parking much easier. Another great feature is the customisation allowed in Toyota C-HR - wheel caps, bonnet protectors, slimline weathershields, roof racks, mirror caps, and side steps whatever you want, can be added.

Key Features of Toyota C-HR:

• Smooth and Responsive Performance
• Luxurious Interior
• Advanced Technology and Safety Features
• Attention to Detail
• Reliability and Ownership Experience

What’s good about it?

• Luxurious Interior
• Smooth and Refined Performance
• Advanced Safety Features

What’s not so good about it?

• Limited Rear Passenger Space
• Outdated Infotainment System
• Modest Fuel Efficiency
  

Mitsubishi ASX

Data for 2022 Mitsubishi ASX GS XD Manual 2WD MY23

Amidst the modern and trendy choices, the Mitsubishi ASX takes a different approach. It prioritizes its role as a means of transportation, focusing on simplicity, practicality, and value. Understanding the ASX is straightforward. It's a five-door wagon that has been in existence since 2010, with Mitsubishi consistently updating it over the years. Throughout its lifespan, the ASX has been available with petrol and diesel engines, as well as the option for front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

Packed with the latest tech to keep you safe, connected and entertained, ASX has space and style with performance to match. The best part about the ASX is the cargo space and the power tailgates which don’t fail you when you’re showing it off to your friends. Another great feature is the wide opening and low flooring which gives you extra space but doesn’t seem awkward for classy tastes. ASX is amongst the most economical SUVs available in the market, with the base model starting as low as $15,550.

Key Features of Mitsubishi ASX:

• Fuel-efficient engine
• Spacious interior
• Fun to drive
• Affordable
• Reliable

What’s good about it?

• Affordability
• Compact and Maneuverable
• Generous Cargo Space

What’s not so good about it?

• Outdated Technology
• Mediocre Performance
• Limited Advanced Safety Features
  

Audi Q2

Data for 2021 Audi Q2 35 TFSI Auto MY21

Audi Q2 is undoubtedly the best getaway car. It is an award winning car, however the awards don’t recognise how elegant it is to drive and how easy it is to maintain. This urban SUV sports aggressive styling, a distinctive light signature and 18-inch wheels as standard equipment. Inside, the beautifully appointed cabin impresses with a wealth of equipment and driver assistance systems, including Audi’s MMI navigation plus. This compact SUV promises outstanding fun whether you’re driving around in the city or on a long leisurely drive.

With Adaptive Cruise Control now as standard in Audi, Q2 will automatically adjust its speed to match the speed of the car in front of you. Audi side assist also comes as standard in the Q2, alerting the driver to vehicles in the blind spot when changing lanes or of vehicles approaching at speed from the rear. Another great feature is the optional colour ambient lighting package plus, allowing you to personalise the interior. With its multi-coloured backlighting in the instrument panel, front knee pads and ambient lighting in the front doors, the interior of the Q2 can be transformed with 10 ambient colours to choose from.

Key Features of Audi Q2:

• Electronic Stability Control
• Blind-Spot Sensor
• Dual Zone Climate Control
• 18" Alloy Wheels
• Traction Control

What’s good about it?

• Fuel-efficient
• Spacious interior
• Fun to drive

What’s not so good about it?

• Small cargo space
• Noisy cabin
• Suspension can be stiff
  

Toyota RAV4

Data for 2023 Toyota RAV4 GX Auto 2WD

RAV4 is an amazing vehicle in the small SUV segment, and was the 3rd highest selling vehicle in Australia with almost 35,000 units sold in 2022. It is available in 7 distinct colours with two drivetrain options. This allows consumers to hyperfocus on their needs depending upon their choice of usage. While it’s a small SUV it not inadequate compared to a full fledged SUV apart from seating. The standard Toyota features come along with the premium safety features such as Toyota Safety Sense including Active Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Safety system with Pedestrian (night and day) and Cyclist detection.

Apart from the notable Toyota touch, the makers have also given great detail to occupant comfort and categorising the boot space. The cargo compartment seems quite open and accommodating. Whether it’s a picnic with 5 members of your family or 4 fools have decided to carjack you to a nearby hill. RAV4 contains any and all requirements for you.

Key Features of Toyota RAV4:

• Apple CarePlay and Android Auto Available
• Anti-lock Braking System
• Electronic Stability Control
• Hill Holder Control
• Electronic Brake Force Distribution

What’s good about it?

• Fuel-efficient
• Fun to drive
• Well-equipped

What’s not so good about it?

• Small interior
• Noisy on the highway
• Not as refined
  

Conclusion

In a world where urban landscapes grow denser, environmental concerns become paramount, and economic sensibilities steer choices, the ownership of small vehicles emerges as a strategic and conscientious decision. The array of benefits, from enhanced manoeuvrability to improved fuel efficiency and reduced ecological impact, underscores the profound impact of these compact chariots. As we embark on a future where space is a premium and sustainability a mandate, embracing the small vehicle ethos becomes a testament to our adaptability, pragmatism, and dedication to harmonious coexistence with both our surroundings and fellow commuters. So, whether it's the bustling city streets or the winding countryside lanes, the small vehicle is poised to lead the way towards a more streamlined, sustainable, and style-conscious future of mobility.

FAQs

1. What are the best small SUVs currently available in the Australian market?

Some top small SUVs in Australia include the Toyota C-HR, Mazda CX-3, Hyundai Venue, Subaru Crosstrek and Mitsubishi ASX.

2. What factors should I consider when looking for the best small SUV for my needs?

Consider factors like size, fuel efficiency, safety features, technology, cargo space, budget, and driving preferences.

3. What are the key advantages of choosing a small SUV over other vehicle types?

Small SUVs offer versatility, fuel efficiency, and city-friendly size, and often come with advanced tech features.

4. Which small SUVs offer the best fuel efficiency in Australia?

Models like Toyota C-HR and Mazda CX-3 have great fuel efficiency.

5. Are there any small SUVs known for their safety features and ratings?

Mazda CX-3, Subaru Crosstrek, and Toyota C-HR are known for their safety features and good crash test ratings.

6. What are the most reliable small SUV brands in Australia?

Brands like Toyota, Mazda, and Hyundai are often recognized for their reliability in the small SUV segment.