best medium suv australia 2023 under $50k

Hunting the best medium SUV in Australia for 2023 under $50k? Here’s the sensible shortlist without the marketing glitter.

• Toyota RAV4 (GX/GXL Hybrid) — Pros: stellar economy and resale; Cons: wait times can be longer than a Centrelink queue and the cabin is more hard-wearing than plush.
• Mazda CX‑5 (Maxx Sport/Touring) — Pros: premium feel and sweet ride-handling balance; Cons: back-seat/boot space trail newer rivals and fuel use is average.
• Kia Sportage (S/SX) — Pros: big cabin, long warranty, lots of safety tech; Cons: base engine is only adequate and prices creep quickly with options.
• Subaru Forester (2.5i-L) — Pros: excellent visibility, comfy ride, standard AWD; Cons: performance is modest and infotainment feels old-hat.

Any of these will nail family duties under $50k; pick the one that fits your driveway and your patience for waitlists.