best compact suv 2023

Hunting for the best compact SUV of 2023 in Australia is like picking the top servo pie—depends what you value, and heat lamps lie.

Here are standouts worth a test-drive, each with its own flavour:

• Mazda CX-30 — Pros: sharp handling, classy cabin, strong safety kit. Cons: back-seat/boot space tight, prices creep up in higher trims.
• Toyota Corolla Cross — Pros: frugal hybrids, broad dealer network, easy to live with. Cons: bland drive, wait times, and price creep on popular hybrid trims.
• Hyundai Kona (new-gen) — Pros: tech-packed interior, long warranty, loads of safety. Cons: base engine is meh, ride can be firm on big wheels.
• Kia Seltos (2023 update) — Pros: roomy cabin, great value, long warranty, torquey 1.6T AWD option. Cons: cabin noise at speed, some plastics, driver aids can nag.

Test-drive on your usual routes, set a realistic fuel and insurance budget, and pick the one that makes the school run feel less like penance.