Affordable Family SUV in Australia 2025

Apart from a $500 price bump at point of entry, there aren’t a lot of changes to the latest-generation Hyundai Kona from its predecessor. Two other identified changes are leather-appointed armrests on the doors of the Base Kona, and updated badging on the rear of the hybrid variants. Three powertrains options remain for the Kona, including a 2.0litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder, a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder, a 1.6-litre petrol-electric hybrid four-cylinder and full electric version. Overall, this small SUV is a top choice with a large cargo area, attractive interior, and efficient fuel consumption. Check out more details at 2025 Hyundai Kona.

An important latest-generation launch for MG this year is the ZS. It’s the best-selling small SUV in Australia that has been given a spruce-up in 2025 with more space, technology and hybrid power for the first time. Hybrid models are the only variants on offer until regular petrol variants arrive at a later date. Pricing on the MG ZS Hybrid + is a lot more than the previous ZS which started from $20,990 in its cheapest entry-level form. The price hike can be attributed to the inclusion of modern crash-avoidance safety technology, as well as hybrid power. Check out more details at 2025 MG ZS Hybrid+. 

Hitting the market with a comprehensive facelift, ditching its previous chrome grille surround trim and shifting to a wider intake ‘inspired by ancient Japanese armour scales’. In 2025, Qashqai benefits from significant safety upgrades which include a new bird’s eye surround-view camera to allow drivers to visualise the car from any angle. Unfortunately, Australia has missed out on multiple variants of the SUV that are available in Europe. However, the latest-generation Australian 2025 release is still a solid option for a family SUV with a turbocharged 1.3-litre four-cylinder petrol engine. Check out more details at 2025 Nissan Qashqai. 

The price-tag has been hiked for the Mazda CX-3 in 2025 as the brand axes its old G20 Sport variant. Now, the range opens at $30,370 before on-road costs for the G20 Pure, which is $3420 more expensive than the 2024 lineup’s entry point. Changes to the G20 Pure include new 18-inch alloy wheels, adaptive cruise control and Smart Brake Support. Additional features increase as the model level does. In terms of safety, the Mazda CX-3 is currently unrated by safety authority ANCAP due to its five-star rating from 2015 expiring - however it does boast important safety features including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning and more. Check out more details at 2025 Mazda CX-3. 

A 5-seat SUV with a 5-star ANCAP safety rating - that’s about as interesting as this car gets. The 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross lacks any standout features in the crowded compact SUV market. But it’s practical and comfortable, with a hybrid engine boasting good fuel economy. While it has a spacious and comfortable interior, lots of hard plastics have been used which feel pretty cheap, especially in lower trims. Overall, the Cross is a solid choice for an affordable family vehicle, just not the most exciting in its class. Check out more details at 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross. 

Building on Kia’s reputation for dynamic design, cutting-edge technology and powerful aesthetics - the latest generation of the Seltos has set a high benchmark in the crowded small-SUV market. It’s got 4 available trims in Australia - S, Sport, Sport+, and GT-Line. While the S variant is entry-level, it still boasts an extensive kit with alloy wheels, revised styling, and quality interior features at a competitive price point. Overall, the 2025 Kia Seltos remains a solid choice for those seeking an affordable, reliable SUV thanks to its straightforward features and value for money. For more information, head to 2025 Kia Seltos.

A confirmed arrival later this year is the new-generation Mitsubishi ASX. In the 2025 model, modern styling, advanced tech, and enhanced driving dynamics are expected - marking a significant departure from the current ASX which has been a staple for the brand’s lineup for the past 15 years. Additionally, the 2025 models will bring efficient engine options, including small turbocharged petrol engines and potentially hybrid options. Further details on the new-generation can be found at 2025 Mitsubishi ASX. 

A strong blend of style, technology and value is evident in the 2025 GWM Haval Jolion lineup, but it's not without its drawbacks. While the design of variants in the range is modern and appealing, as well as a tech-rich cabin with decent interior materials - some rivals offer more premium features, interiors and refinement at similar price points. Performance-wise, the Jolion generates adequate power from its turbocharged engines, and the overall comfort of the ride is commendable with plenty of room to improve in later models. Ultimately, the Jolion lineup is a solid choice for families prioritising affordability and safety features. For more details, visit 2025 GWM Haval Jolion. 

An eyecatching design to hit the 2025 affordable SUV market in Australia - the Chery Omoda 5 has a new, lower-priced version with less equipment but stronger value proposition. Introduced as a sharply priced entry-level model, the Omoda 5 doesn’t look much like an entry-level model at all. With a driveaway price below $30,000, the latest-generation is a pretty smart choice for style-conscious buyers on a budget. By progressing to the next model up, buyers will achieve a more powerful engine and all-wheel drive for just over $40,000. For further details, check out 2025 Chery Omoda 5.