As the SUV market in Australia continues to flourish, car enthusiasts and families alike are spoilt for choice with a myriad of options. In 2023, five outstanding SUVs have risen to the top, combining style, performance, and cutting-edge features. Let’s delve into the details of the top-selling SUVs that have captured the hearts of Australians across the country.
1. Toyota RAV4: Leading the Pack with Versatility and Safety
The Toyota RAV4 maintains its stronghold as one of Australia’s favorite SUVs. Boasting a compact design, the RAV4 is a perfect blend of versatility and safety. Powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower, the RAV4 ensures a smooth and comfortable ride. What sets it apart is its comprehensive safety suite, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. With a spacious cabin and excellent fuel economy, the RAV4 is a top choice for families on the go.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L 4-Cylinder |
| Horsepower | 203 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm |
| Transmission | Direct Shift 8-speed Automatic |
| Drive Modes | Normal, Eco, Sport |
| Drive Type | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| AWD Option | Available |
| AWD Features | Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) |
| Fuel Efficiency | Up to 27 city / 34 highway / 30 combined (EPA-est.) |
| Safety Features | – Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5 (TSS 2.5) |
| – Star Safety System™ | |
| – Eight airbags |
- Safety Features: The 2023 Toyota RAV4 comes with Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5, which includes features such as Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Automatic High Beams, Lane Tracing Assist, and Road Sign Assist.
- Infotainment: The infotainment system of the 2023 Toyota RAV4 includes a 9-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, Amazon Alexa compatibility, SiriusXM® with 3-month All Access trial, and Wi-Fi Connect with up to 2 GB within 3-month trial.
- Boot Space: The cargo capacity of the 2023 Toyota RAV4 is 37.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 69.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down .
2. Mazda CX-5- A Symphony of Style and Performance
Mazda’s CX-5 secures its spot as a stylish and sporty SUV, delivering a seamless combination of elegance and performance. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine generates 187 horsepower, providing a thrilling yet comfortable driving experience. Inside, the CX-5 boasts a well-designed interior with high-quality materials. The 10.25-inch infotainment display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto add a touch of modernity, making the CX-5 an all-encompassing package for those who crave sophistication with a hint of sportiness.
| Specification | 2.0 e‑Skyactiv G 2WD | 2.5 e‑Skyactiv G AWD | 2.2 Skyactiv‑D AWD | 2.2 Skyactiv‑D AWD 165ps Manual | 2.2 Skyactiv‑D AWD 165ps Automatic | 2.2 Skyactiv‑D AWD 194ps Automatic | 2.2 Skyactiv‑D AWD 184ps Automatic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2.0 e‑Skyactiv G 2WD | 2.2 Skyactiv‑D 2WD | 2.2 Skyactiv‑D 2WD | 2.2 Skyactiv‑D AWD | 2.2 Skyactiv‑D AWD | 2.2 Skyactiv‑D AWD | 2.2 Skyactiv‑D AWD |
| Drive Type | 2.0 e‑Skyactiv G 2WD | 2.2 Skyactiv‑D AWD 184ps Manual | 2.2 Skyactiv‑D AWD 184ps Automatic | 2.2 Skyactiv‑D AWD 184ps Manual | 2.2 Skyactiv‑D AWD 184ps Automatic | ||
| Maximum Power Output (ps/KW) / rpm | 165 (121) / 6,000 | 165 (121) / 6,000 | 194 (143) / 6,000 | 184 (135) / 4,000 | 184 (135) / 4,000 | 194 (143) / 6,000 | 184 (135) / 4,000 |
| Max. Torque (Nm / rpm) | 213 / 4,000 | 213 / 4,000 | 263 / 4,000 | 445 / 2,000 | 445 / 2,000 | 445 / 2,000 | 445 / 2,000 |
| Acceleration (0-62 mph) | 10.7 seconds | 10.2 seconds | 9.5 seconds | 9.2 seconds | 9.3 seconds | 9.3 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Top Speed (mph) | 125 | 119 | 121 | 129 | 129 | 129 | 129 |
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Overall Length / Width / Height (mm) | 4575 / 1845 (2115) / 1675 (1680) |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2700 |
| Ground Clearance (mm) – Unladen | 192 (200) |
| Front Track / Rear Track (mm) | 1595 / 1595 |
| Front Headroom / Leg Room / Shoulder Room (mm) | 1007 (999) / 1041 / 1451 |
| Rear Headroom / Leg Room / Shoulder Room (mm) | 991 / 1007 / 1391 |
| Cargo Volume, acc. to VDA (l) – 5-Seat Mode | 522 (510) |
| Cargo Volume, acc. to VDA (l) – 2-Seat Mode | 1638 (1626) |
| Brake Type – Front / Rear | Ventilated / Solid |
| Brake Dimensions – Front (Petrol / Diesel) | 297 / 320 |
| Brake Dimensions – Rear (Petrol / Diesel) | 303 / 303 |
3. Hyundai Kona: Where Fun Meets Functionality
For those seeking a subcompact SUV that radiates fun and functionality, the Hyundai Kona stands out. Driven by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower, the Kona promises a dynamic and enjoyable driving experience. Its well-designed interior is complemented by an 8-inch infotainment display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, ensuring that the Kona offers not just a fun ride but also a technologically advanced and comfortable one.
| Technical Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 1.0T 120PS 6MT |
| Fuel Type | Petrol |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Max Power (PS/kW) | 120 / 88.3 @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque (Nm/lbs ft) | 172 / 126.9 @ 1500 – 4000 rpm |
| 0-62mph (seconds) | 11.8 |
| Top Speed (mph) | 112 |
| Euro Status | EURO 6d |
| Type | 3 Cylinder DOHC |
| Valve | 12 |
| Displacement (cc) | 998 |
| Bore & Stroke (mm) | 71 x 84 |
| Compression Ratio | 10.5 |
| Expected Price | $25,990 |
| Specification | Items | KONA Electric |
|---|---|---|
| DIMENSIONS | Overall Length (mm) | 4 180 |
| DIMENSIONS | Overall Width (mm) | 1 800 |
| DIMENSIONS | Overall Height (mm) | 1 570* |
| DIMENSIONS | Wheelbase (mm) | 2 600 |
| ELECTRIC MOTOR | Electric Motor Type | Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) |
| ELECTRIC MOTOR | Max Power | 100 KW (136 PS) |
| ELECTRIC MOTOR | Max Torque | 395 Nm (40.27 Kgm) |
| HIGH VOLTAGE BATTERY & CHARGING | Type | Lithium-ion Polymer |
| HIGH VOLTAGE BATTERY & CHARGING | Capacity (kWh) | 39.2 |
| HIGH VOLTAGE BATTERY & CHARGING | AC Charging (0-100%)** | Approx 6 h 10 min |
| HIGH VOLTAGE BATTERY & CHARGING | DC Charging (0-80%) @50 kW** | Approx 57 min |
| AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION | Type | Single Speed Reduction Gear |
| SUSPENSION | Front | Mcpherson Strut Type |
| SUSPENSION | Rear | Multi – Link |
| BRAKES | Front | Disc |
| BRAKES | Rear | Disc |
| TYRE | Size | 215/ 55 R17 (D=436.6 mm) Alloy Wheel |
| TYRE | Emergency Spare Tyre | T135/80 D17 (D=436.6 mm) |
4. Kia Niro: A Hybrid Marvel for the Eco-Conscious
Kia’s Niro makes a mark as a hybrid SUV, appealing to the environmentally conscious driver. The 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, combined with an electric motor, delivers an impressive 139 horsepower and exceptional fuel economy. The Niro’s spacious interior and a plethora of standard features, including an 8-inch infotainment display and connectivity options, make it a compelling choice for those looking to make a green statement without compromising on comfort and style.
| Technical Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 1.6L Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) |
| Displacement (cc) | 1,580 cc |
| Bore x stroke (mm) | 72.0 x 97.0 |
| Compression Ratio | 14.0:1 |
| Horsepower (ps @ rpm) | 105 ps @ 5,700 rpm |
| Horsepower (kw @ rpm) | 77.2 kw @ 5,700 rpm |
| Torque (kg.m @ rpm) | 14.7 kg.m @ 4,000 rpm |
| Torque (lb.-ft. @ rpm) | 106.3 lb.-ft. @ 4,000 rpm |
| Torque (Nm @ rpm) | 144 Nm @ 4,000 rpm |
| Fuel Type | Petrol |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Expected Price | $25,990 |
5. Kia Sorento: The Midsize Marvel
Rounding out the top 5 is the Kia Sorento, a midsize SUV that excels in comfort and space. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine provides a robust 191 horsepower, ensuring a smooth and powerful ride. With an 8-inch infotainment display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, the Sorento caters to the tech-savvy driver, while its spacious interior makes it an ideal choice for families seeking a comfortable and reliable SUV.
| Technical Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2.5L 4-cylinder Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engine |
| Displacement (cc) | 2,497 cc |
| Bore x stroke (mm) | 88.5 X 101.5 |
| Compression ratio | 13.0:1 |
| Max. power (hp @ rpm) | 191 hp @ 6,100 rpm |
| Max. torque (lb-ft @ rpm) | 181 lb.-ft. @ 4,000 rpm |
| Fuel Type | Petrol |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic Transmission |
| Drivetrain | Front Wheel Drive |
| Passenger Capacity | 6 |
| Passenger Doors | 4 |
| Body Style | Sport Utility |
| Expected Price | $25,990 |
In conclusion, the top 5 SUVs dominating the Australian market in 2023 showcase a harmonious blend of style, performance, and innovative features. Whether you prioritize safety, sportiness, eco-friendliness, or spaciousness, these SUVs cater to diverse preferences, making them the go-to choices for Australian drivers in the current automotive landscape.