Mazda CX-30 G-20 Touring or Subaru XV 2.0i Premium. Help Me to Choose

mutnyi2001 on 20/05/2020 - 23:55
Last edited 21/05/2020 - 00:00

Considering to buy a new car for our family in one month, EOFY, and wanted to know the thoughts/votes of the ozbargainers on the shortlisted two cars-

Mazda CX-30 G-20 Touring $38839 and Subaru XV 2.0i Premium $37514.

Our kids are 7 and 9 years old, the car will mostly be used to drive them from/to school, regular sport competitions in city, and occasional out of city trips.

The points we are looking at are:

  • Long term ownership (10 years plus) and reliability
  • Convenience to drive in urban area
  • Comfort in general and in rear seats particularly
  • Fuel economy

We haven’t test-driven them yet but we’ve shortlisted them because they are of approximately the same sizes (we don’t want to have longer cars), have rear vents (very important in Adelaide summer trips, and which many other cars don’t have) and consume almost the same amount of fuel (8L and 8.8L accordingly, in urban).

Your thoughts and personal experiences will be appreciated.
Thanks

Poll Options expired

  • 69
    Mazda CX-30 G-20 Touring
  • 28
    Subaru XV 2.0i Premium
Automotive

Comments

  • Melb69 on 20/05/2020 - 23:57

    Mazda should have better driver experience and fuel efficiency. Subby has good safety features and reliable.

    • chartparker on 21/05/2020 - 10:18
      +3

      I love Subarus, but the XV still feels underpowered and the boot space is tiny. I went for a Forester and even that still feels small sometimes when cramming it full of baby stuff and pram etc

      • Wiser on 21/05/2020 - 14:19

        As an owner of Outback, i will never touch a subaru again.
        Quality is below par on so many fronts.

        • chartparker on 21/05/2020 - 14:36
          +4

          Not that I'm trying to defend, but just curious what the quality issues were?

        • CocaKoala on 21/05/2020 - 17:15
          +3

          As an owner of Outback, i will never touch a subaru again.
          Quality is below par on so many fronts.

          Compared to what?

          I've a 2015 outback that I would love to replace with the new Forester, but the damn thing is pretty bulletproof and hasn't given me one single trouble to speak of. Not to mention the exceptional AWD system and top notch safety.

          As an owner of a Subaru in fact, I'd probably not buy anything else based on my personal experience because it offers cutting edge safety tech at a reasonable price. And oh, did I mention the awesome traction from the AWD?!

          • Wiser on 21/05/2020 - 19:17
            +3

            @CocaKoala: Cabin Noice is the first one.
            Park brake issues nrver got fixed after three visits.There was a recall on this.
            AC thermostat is playing up after the warranty and two service centres couldn't fix it.
            Mirror switch assembly failed just outside the warranty.
            Paint work fades faster as the top coat is almost non existent.
            Service is expensive compared to otjer Japanese brands.
            Just changing a head light globe will set you back by around 120 and couple of hours.
            My 15 year old camry is still going strong without any issues other than normal wear and tear.

            • [Deactivated] on 21/05/2020 - 23:20
              +2

              @Wiser: looks like you get a lemon

        • cacakami on 23/05/2020 - 16:15
          +1

          Agreed, a few years got a brand new automatic Liberty and had many problems from minor (auto window switch failure, window seal failure) to major (stalling , engine rattling and losing power during hot days - after many visits to the service centre they were never resolved). The car body is so soft and dent easily. Overall, would not touch another Subaru again.

  • MarsTitan on 21/05/2020 - 00:00
    +2

    It is a hard choice. Let the kids decide.

    • entropysbane on 21/05/2020 - 06:43

      Not really. A few of my acquaintances have the XV. Love them. But take both for a drive and I am certain you would take the. cX-30. More power, better driving dynamics. Nicer interior. Better build quality. Not that Subaru is bad at those things (well, it’s pretty gutless in comparison), just the suby is an outdated model against the latest.

      But if this is your only car and you have a family you should be looking at a bigger car than either. Forester or.CX-5 from these brands for example. Your kids grow and they will want to bring a lot of stuff with them.

      • [Deactivated] on 21/05/2020 - 16:08
        +3

        Lmao you don't need a huge MomMobile to have kids. What car did your parents take you and your kids around in? Mine certainly didn't do it in a huge SUV and they managed fine

        • spackbace on 21/05/2020 - 16:35
          +7

          huge
          Forester or.CX-5

          Your use of "huge" is an interesting one. I wonder what else you regularly describe as "huge" which is, in actual fact rather average in size…

          • [Deactivated] on 21/05/2020 - 17:14
            +2

            @spackbace: Huge, compared to a small car.

            I am well aware they are mid size in today's market.

            • spackbace on 21/05/2020 - 17:15
              +4

              @[Deactivated]:

              a small car.

              But… OP isn't looking at Yaris

            • spackbace on 21/05/2020 - 17:18
              +1

              @[Deactivated]: Comparing a CX-30 against a CX-5, both with 2.0L engines:

              CX-5 uses 0.4L/100km more
              CX-5 is 15.5cm longer and 4.5cm wider

              Not exactly a tank vs a midget here…

              • [Deactivated] on 21/05/2020 - 17:20

                @spackbace: Not what I was talking about! I was referring to an SUV vs a hatchback.

                • spackbace on 21/05/2020 - 17:21
                  +4

                  @[Deactivated]: And you're the only one in this whole post that is… Not even OP is making references to a hatchback.

                  If you're going to rant, at least stick to the topic at hand, otherwise you may as well sit in the corner and talk to the wall.

                  • [Deactivated] on 22/05/2020 - 09:55

                    @spackbace: I know OP isn't referring to a hatchback. That's why I brought it up. They have the perfect use case for a sedan or hatchback.

          • crentist on 22/05/2020 - 20:00
            -1

            @spackbace: Average or not, this is a pretty good example of the point they were actually making, that people often think they need something bigger than they really do.
            You think a Forester is average, but I barely anyone I know has ever had anything that large. My family mostly had hatchbacks and compact sedans and we get around fine. My dad just got a Forester a few years ago for towing stuff, and it still feels massive.

            Even the new parents around me drive things like Corollas and Mazda 3s. My brother just upgraded his own Corolla for his third kid, and I'm pretty sure his new car is still smaller than the Forester.

            • spackbace on 22/05/2020 - 21:11

              @crentist: Why does everyone feel the need to preach? If OP (or more to the point, their wife) wants the SUV form factor, then let them… I recommended they aim bigger but within budget, but I'm not sitting here going "buy a Corolla instead!" What's the point? You know it's not what they want, yet you preach it.

              Modern 4cyl SUVs have similar fuel economies of their smaller hatch brethren and can offer similar internal space. They're just more expensive to buy. But people do like the higher seating position and higher car seat position for kids.

              But it has no effect on you if OP buys an SUV for his wife (and btw we're using the term SUV here lightly for a CX30). None whatsoever.

              My folks had a VN Commodore and XE/XF Falcon wagon, what about it? Some peoples' folks had Landcruisers. Everyone made do with what they could afford, and that's why OP isn't buying a BMW…

              • crentist on 22/05/2020 - 22:19
                -1

                @spackbace: You realise no one suggested a downsize? Smaller cars were only mentioned in response to the suggestion of an UPSIZE.

                Which isn’t what they want, etc, all that stuff you said, but the opposite way

        • entropysbane on 21/05/2020 - 17:18
          +2

          As a matter of fact a HQ kingswood station wagon with a front bench seat so my youngest sister could fit in between mum and dad. It was great for dates too once I had a licence.
          These two options are too small for a family.

          • spackbace on 21/05/2020 - 17:20
            +1

            @entropysbane: Yep, my folks had a XF Falcon wagon. The old ones that came on ute wheelbases basically. Drank like a fish, drove like a tank, emitted god knows how much bad carbons, and originally ran on Leaded fuel.

            But y'know, damn the mid-size SUV owners!

            • entropysbane on 21/05/2020 - 17:26
              +1

              @spackbace: Yeah. Once new cars started only coming with bucket seats dad got an early people mover, a 4 cyl Mitsubishi starwagon. It had a high roof with a big moonroof in it. It was a real come down from a 5.0Ll V8 and it was cream coloured, so I dubbed it the pus bus.

              • spackbace on 21/05/2020 - 17:27

                @entropysbane: And the 5.0 V8 probably had similar power to modern 4cyls! Crazy to think

              • BartholemewH on 23/05/2020 - 17:28

                @entropysbane: My old man had a Starwagon. I don't care if it had dual zone climate control in 1990, it was a gutless heap of shit.

    • payless69 on 22/05/2020 - 14:10

      A CVT ? Nah it is ok on the quad or drill press. Apologies for a spanner, a 19 plated SantaFe 8 Speed in diesel for the same dough. Anybody out here driving such a beast?

  • Melb69 on 21/05/2020 - 00:06
    +5

    Test drive. See if you can get an overnight test. A 10min zoom around the block tells you nothing. Try all road conditions. The earlier Mazda's suffered poor NV.

    • Bid Sniper on 21/05/2020 - 09:01

      This

      Overnight test on your daily run best way to tell. Subaru Sydney city let me do this and it was great way to determine suitability.

      • Melb69 on 21/05/2020 - 13:52

        We were given the first new gen Imprezza for a Sunday. The head unit infotainment failed while we had it. Music would play through it, but no screen. Put us off. Was a known issue with the first batch from the States. Everything was ok. I though a bit under powered, but I drive sporty cars.

        • rexstar on 22/05/2020 - 11:46

          The States? They come from Japan.

      • capslock janitor on 22/05/2020 - 13:21

        Not even that, ask for a weekend test :)

        • Melb69 on 22/05/2020 - 17:34

          Hard to get for Subbie. More like Sat 5 to Monday morning

  • plmko on 21/05/2020 - 00:51
    +2

    Only the Subaru almost counts as an SUV, the CX-30 is a jacked up hatch back.

    Understand the differences in uses before thinking X drives better than Y on the dealer pavement.

    • pinchies on 21/05/2020 - 03:49
      +4

      Nah, I own the XV and I think it is also just a jacked up hatch back (impreza). Boot is tiny and not deep at all.

      • Bid Sniper on 21/05/2020 - 08:59
        +5

        Its funny, I got a XV for the kid, yeah boot is on small side, can fit one pram thats it. Boot space on CX3 was laughable. Bought a STI for me, boot can fit two prams and passengers comfortably. Didn't expect that…

        OP look at the Kia Cerato wagon, GT trim is really nice, I should of bought that. Looks small but more interior space (428L),better fuel economy 7.4L, CUV have compromised storage and really just jacked up hatches sold at jacked up price.

        • penguin286 on 22/05/2020 - 20:20
          +2

          I've got the Kia Cerato Sports+ Hatch (no Wagons) and I reckon if you can sacrifice your need to bend your back more than usual and driving position, it's a no brainer for value. The GT would be an absolute blast to drive if you want to have the acceleration. Feels like an Audi inside, reliable as heck with 7 year warranty. Ticks just about every box and you could probably buy one for 30500-31k

      • plmko on 21/05/2020 - 10:08
        +3

        What you've described it sounds like you need a jacked up Hatch back. Which is why some will be disappointed with the XV.

        A SUV doesn't imply ample boot space, a SUV means it has off road capabilities but drives like a car. Something the CX-30 isn't because it's ground clearance is useless.

        Car marketers have increasingly blurred the definitions intentionally to upsell less capable cars at higher premium prices. Again fine if all you want is a jacked up hatch back.

      • Ahbal on 23/05/2020 - 07:49
        +1

        SUV =/= big boot space.

        SUV = Sports Utility Vehicle. i.e light offroad without being heavy or clunky on regular roads.

        Its not sporty, but it has offroad utility while still being fairly nimble as it has a true awd system.

        Most SUVs on the market are just big hatchbacks marketed to people who think suv = big.

  • Logical on 21/05/2020 - 01:25
    +1

    Hasn't the cx30 got boot capacity for 2 milk bottles only? You may fit 2 school bags, but not sure if you will fit sporting gear.

    • entropysbane on 21/05/2020 - 06:52
      +2

      XV 310 litres, CX-30 317 litres.
      Fine for a single, DINKS or empty nesters.
      Both too small if only car and you have kids.

  • whitelie on 21/05/2020 - 01:50
    +7

    I would look at a CX-5 rather than the CX-30.

    At least you'll fit everyone in reasonably comfortably (especially as they become teenagers if you're looking to keep it for 10 years) and have some boot space. It's only ~15cm longer than the CX-30 and uses around 1L more per 100kms. 7L bigger tank in the CX-5 but same average distance to a tank so about $10 more per fill.

    I don't think you'll have any reliability issues with either to be honest. Can't personally comment on the Subaru but we've had Mazda's for a long time. Should get 5 year warranty with 5 year roadside.

    • Superjesus on 22/05/2020 - 14:33
      +1

      I’d go for the cx-5 for sure. It’s due for a refresh so you might find some better deals. Cx-30 feels just like a bigger hatch.

  • zzzz99 on 21/05/2020 - 03:05
    +3

    My parents bought a 2019 Forester on my recommendation. I test drove the XV and Forester for them and tbh, the extra kick from the 2.5L Forester is well worth the slight increase in price with less than 1L/100km increase in fuel efficiency.
    I also think the CX-30 doesn't future-proof your car because it's quite small. If one of your kids is a boy, it could start being a bit of a tight fit (leg room and head clearance) once they hit puberty. I would agree with the above comment and consider the CX-5. I would only recommend small SUVs for people without kids who want the extra storage space a hatch or sedan doesnt offer.

    Also Mazda's skyactiv engines are ever so slightly more reliable than the Subaru's boxers. But I wouldnt use that as a deciding factor.

  • Velt on 21/05/2020 - 05:49

    Have a look at the new Skoda Scala, not an SUV but you can get a top spec one for the price you're looking.

    • mutnyi2001 on 21/05/2020 - 10:57
      +6

      Skoda could be a good car, but, at this stage, we've decided to stay away from the European cars due to the pricey long-term ownership factors.

      • Velt on 21/05/2020 - 11:06
        +2

        A Kia Cerato hatch is better than both your options in that case then I reckon

        • mutnyi2001 on 21/05/2020 - 11:11

          Kia Cerato is an excellent car, but with rear vents- Sport Plus- official 10.2L fuel consumption, in urban; and GT is not for us, at this stage.

  • modsec802 on 21/05/2020 - 06:24
    +8

    Neither - both are jacked up small hatches and not a bargain at almost $40k

    • mutnyi2001 on 21/05/2020 - 11:34

      We will be 'bargaining to death':) hence, waiting for EOFY.

      • spackbace on 21/05/2020 - 11:49

        EOFY sales start May 1st…

        And Subaru supposedly have a VIP sale today

      • supajuicy on 21/05/2020 - 15:36

        @mutnyi2001 Please report back on what you choice and outcome … in a similar vote; buy this year or wait 12 months.

      • Wiser on 22/05/2020 - 00:41
        +2

        All Subaru Metro dealerships are owned by one company(in Melbourne ,not sure about other metros). So unless you go out of metro area you will get almost same price tag at different dealerships.
        I just don't understand how this is allowed.

        • capslock janitor on 22/05/2020 - 13:23

          they must've bought out the competition? or some sort of collusion

  • brendanm on 21/05/2020 - 06:36
    +2

    Those are both small.
    Neither will get the rated fuel economy in the city, so don't buy a car based on that.

    • Euphemistic on 21/05/2020 - 08:35

      The fuel economy is al relative though. Maybe you won’t get the rates city cycle, but the higher the number on the sticker, the more fuel will be consumed - whether it matches the number or is a bit higher.

      • brendanm on 21/05/2020 - 09:00
        +2

        Generally, but a lot of people seem to expect that those are the numbers you will get in real world driving, when you won't, they then get upset.

        • spackbace on 21/05/2020 - 11:13
          +1

          Worse if they turn off "i-stop", which if they have any common-sense they would!

          • brendanm on 21/05/2020 - 11:40
            +6

            @spackbace: What, you don't like the engine turning off as you're about to pull out into traffic? Weird.

          • mutnyi2001 on 21/05/2020 - 11:41
            -4

            @spackbace: A real 'ozbargainer' would never turn off 'i-stop':) And we don't on our Mazda2.

            • spackbace on 21/05/2020 - 11:43
              +5

              @mutnyi2001: Sigh

              A 'real' ozbargainer doesn't buy a car brand new

              A 'real' ozbargainer buys hybrid, and focuses on lower running costs.

              A 'real' ozbargainer doesn't buy the premium models.

              STFU with your 'real ozbargainer' talk.

              • mutnyi2001 on 21/05/2020 - 12:08
                +3

                @spackbace: Ok. Thanks for your input- no need to continue (STFU:).

            • spackbace on 21/05/2020 - 11:48
              +2

              @mutnyi2001: The servicing costs for the Subaru over 5yrs/62,500kms are $2436.02.

              The Mazda is $1836 over 5yrs/50,000kms

              Both expensive servicing options.

  • malich on 21/05/2020 - 09:25

    Both are small cars for your needs. However if you're not looking for anything bigger I would recommend checking out the Kona too (if you like the polarising styling). It won the best small SUV award last year in drive.

    I drove the turbo one recently when my car was in for a service. I was very impressed. Great fun and quite zippy around the suburbs.

    • mutnyi2001 on 21/05/2020 - 10:54

      Kona seems to be a good car. But official urban fuel consumption is 9.7L, and we are not fans of the design (the front lights).

  • chartparker on 21/05/2020 - 10:20

    Seltos? Really good sized boot and very well priced - just make sure you springs for the $1000 safety pack

    • mutnyi2001 on 21/05/2020 - 10:49
      +1

      Seltos could be a good car but, at this stage, we want to try the cars with rear vents. Seltos GT-line, the only one with rear vents, doesn't appeal to us either due to the transmission or price tag.

      • chartparker on 21/05/2020 - 11:12

        Fair enough. The rear vents is definitely a nice to have if you have older kids in sweltering summers. Forester too big? The footprint isn't much bigger than XV, but it's a much taller and spacious car, with a huge boot

        • mutnyi2001 on 21/05/2020 - 11:31
          -4

          Forester would be a good car. But… 4625mm length is a bit long for us to manoeuvre in urban environment.

          • chartparker on 21/05/2020 - 11:35
            +2

            @mutnyi2001: It's 200mm longer than the XV, which for me seemed negligible, but it depends on your comfort level. I would've personally gone for an Outback but it was too long to fit into my garage lol. The Forester fits perfectly.

            My wife originally was terrified about driving and parking such a "big car" (Forester), but the high driving position and excellent visibility gave her so much confidence that she prefers driving it over her car of 10+ years.

            Also the L and Premium Foresters have forward and front corner cameras, which the XV doesn't offer (at least I don't think they do)

          • spackbace on 21/05/2020 - 11:41
            +1

            @mutnyi2001:

            4625mm length is a bit long for us to manoeuvre in urban environment.

            Your parking/driving inability confounds me

            • mutnyi2001 on 21/05/2020 - 11:43

              @spackbace: I would say 'your wife inability':)

              • chartparker on 21/05/2020 - 11:49
                +1

                @mutnyi2001: Trust me I know the struggle, but if I can get my wife to drive a Forester I think you stand a chance. It's definitely worth getting her to take one for a test drive.

          • penguin286 on 23/05/2020 - 02:19

            @mutnyi2001: ASX (4.3?m) feels a much easier car to drive compared to the Cerato (4.51m) so it's actually not a bad shout

  • spackbace on 21/05/2020 - 11:10
    +8

    Be careful of looking at fuel consumption figures because the Mazda has "i-stop", something many people turn off (turns the engine off at the lights). This was really something that was brought about to help rated consumption figures.

    With 2 kids, 7 and 9yo, I'd echo recommendations on looking at the next size up - CX5, Forester etc. The cars you're looking at won't last you long, and you'll quickly realise after purchase that they're too small for purpose.

    and occasional out of city trips.

    Why you'd do that in a compact SUV is beyond me. Might have enough room in the boot for 1 or 2 peoples' stuff, but not a family trip.

    • mutnyi2001 on 21/05/2020 - 11:18

      We already have one Mazda with 'i-stop' function- Mazda 2 2018 year. Official number 4.9L, on our display- 5.5L. Subaru has a similar 'stop-start' function, so I assume both cars should be within the same category.

    • mutnyi2001 on 21/05/2020 - 11:22

      Seems to have been working ok with us with smaller cars/boots. Boot space is not really a factor for us. But we know for many people it is- I understand what you mean. Thanks.

      • chartparker on 21/05/2020 - 11:28

        Ah nice. If boot space isn't a huge consideration I'd personally go for the XV. Eyesight is fantastic and the fit and finish of the newer gen Subies is great. Cabin space and visibility is much better than the CX-30 IMO. 12 month servicing intervals with the new engine and platform too

        • Bypass on 21/05/2020 - 17:59
          +2

          The CX-30 interior is a class above the Subaru, it's almost luxury car quality.

    • [Deactivated] on 21/05/2020 - 16:15
      -1

      Why you'd do that in a compact SUV is beyond me. Might have enough room in the boot for 1 or 2 peoples' stuff, but not a family trip.

      This discourse is honestly ridiculous.

      What are you people bringing with you? I've gone on a week long trip with four adults in smaller vehicles than a CX30.

      Out of city trip with two kids, let's say they stay two or three nights where they're going. A backpack or duffle bag each, being generous, and a bag for foodstuffs maybe? A soccer ball and a cricket bat? That would fit in a Mazda 2s boot let alone a CX30.

      Also, I believe if people are purchasing a larger car for a use that makes up less than, say, half of its lifespan, they should get a roofbox.

      Australians are out here driving massive SUVs when 90% of them would be fine with a sedan or hatch with a roofbox in the garage. They'd get better fuel economy, save like 25% of their initial purchase price, and get a better-driving vehicle.

      • spackbace on 21/05/2020 - 16:33
        +4

        Australians are out here driving massive SUVs when 90% of them would be fine with a sedan or hatch with a roofbox in the garage. They'd get better fuel economy, save like 25% of their initial purchase price, and get a better-driving vehicle.

        Wow way to over-exaggerate in an attempt to prove a point. The class of vehicle I suggested is marginally larger in dimensions, yet due to body shape creates far more interior space.

        Fuel economy difference is marginal.
        25% of purchase price - wtf?! OP is already in the price category of the next size of vehicle.
        Better-driving? Sorry I didn't realise a CX-30 or XV were ever heralded for being amazing GT cars.

        • [Deactivated] on 21/05/2020 - 17:17

          I wasn't really directing it at your comment broadly, just the bit that I quoted.

          Fuel economy of a Mazda 3 vs a CX30 maybe is marginal, but compared to a CX-5 is not marginal.

          I meant that a CUV is much more expensive than an equivalent sedan/hatch, not anything about the next size vehicle.

          CX30 and XV are not great driving vehicles. I was talking about how much better a sedan/hatch drives vs an equivalent SUV.

          • spackbace on 21/05/2020 - 17:23
            +3

            @[Deactivated]:

            Fuel economy of a Mazda 3 vs a CX30 maybe is marginal, but compared to a CX-5 is not marginal.

            Mazda 3 - 6.2L/100km, CX-30 - 6.5L/100km, CX-5 - 6.9L/100km

            Damn that extra 0.4L/100km! Not going to be able to have my avocado on toast!

            Interesting, 0.3L is marginal, 0.4L is not marginal. OK we've worked out your line in the sand.

            • [Deactivated] on 21/05/2020 - 17:35

              @spackbace: Are the 2.0L engines the biggest sellers in any of those models? I wouldn't buy a CX-5 with one.

              But fair enough, the fuel economy difference is slight.

              That wasn't my only reason though so since you ignored the others, I take it you agree?

  • pegaxs on 21/05/2020 - 14:54
    +4

    Wow, in that price range, I would be taking it down a notch in features and taking it up a notch in size.

    I'd be looking at CX-5 and Forester in the same price range if you wanted to stick to those two brands.

    I would also be looking at the Tucson Elite Or Kia Sportage SLi/SX+. Should be able to get one of those at under $40k at EOFY sales. Especially if you dont mind a 2019 20MY old stocker…

    That sort of spend may even get you into a low km demo RAV4 Hybrid if you are looking at fuel economy and urban driving…

  • This Guy on 21/05/2020 - 18:54
    +4

    Our kids are 7 and 9 years old

    Try putting the kids in the back. Those cars are too small now. They will be painfully small when they are teenagers.

    Long term ownership (10 years plus) and reliability

    Then avoid Mazda like the plague. Mazda is doing it tough and will likely have to restructure. Regional towns might loose dealers.

    We've decided to stay away from the European cars due to the pricey long-term ownership factors.

    Another reason to avoid Mazda. Also might want to avoid KIA if you don't plan to service. Those engines in crate form are stupidly expensive when they fail (but they normally only fail when neglected).

    Mazda CX-30 G-20 Touring $38839 and Subaru XV 2.0i Premium $37514.

    At that price point you can go two sizes bigger. The Sorento ($45k) Demo ($36k), Santa Fe ($45k) Demo ($37k), MUX ($41k) Demo ($38k), in base models are far nicer cars due to the extra room and power. Drive the demo you want to buy as their might be feature differences between the demo and current trim.

    Do not expect most dealers to price match those demo car prices. Feel free to try, but the usual (dumb) response is to piss off and buy the advertised car. Demo's are enabled by a manufacturer discount, so they are often hard to price match. The cheapest car on carsales usually doesn't exist (it will be available when you ring but 'sold' when you arrive on site).

    If you go a diesel, Hyundai/KIA's DFP filters engage at 5kmph. What that means is if you drive every day you need to make a weekly drive longer than 20 minutes. Most other brands engage their DFP between 55 to 80 kmph, meaning you need to drive a further ~15 minutes once a week after you reach highway or B road speeds.

    • [Deactivated] on 21/05/2020 - 23:19

      agreed. Car brand loyalty is annoying. To be honest with you ,all cars drive like shit if they are not performance vehicles. It's just to get to point A to point B in sufficient power and comfort. And subaru has the best AWD system. Go for subaru if you really need AWD.Otherwise buy the cheaper FWD version and save money.

      • This Guy on 22/05/2020 - 18:28
        +1

        Go for subaru if you really need AWD

        I checked the Forester. No eLSD, eDiff, locking diff or similar in spec sheet. Implies AWD system is useless once one wheel spins.

        The three cars mentioned have 'lockable' 'diffs' in 4x4 trim. The MUX in 4x4 trim is a proper, heavy duty 4x4. The MUX in all trims comes with all terrains, which make a far bigger difference on poor terrain than AWD on a Subaru.

        The three cars I listed are also a size bigger (7 Seater 4x4) than any Subaru (Large SUV).

        If OP want's adaptive safety (adaptive cruise control, etc.) than the Forester is a great choice. But if AWD is a deciding factor, OP would be better served with eLSD or locking diff.

        • [Deactivated] on 23/05/2020 - 09:39
          +1

          Yeah subaru awd is symmetrical it will generally provide more grip in compared to a FWD setup that only sends power to rear on demand.

          • This Guy on 27/05/2020 - 14:40

            @[Deactivated]: I did more research.

            Subaru's Xdrive is what will help with traction. You will find no difference between this and other brand's name for their eLSD as they are usually all the same Bosch part, just with a slightly different part number.

            Again, MUX will have far better low traction grip as it has all terrain tyres.

            As for road grip, The Focus RS (0.7s) and Equinox LTZ (6.8) both have part time AWD and beat the Forester's 0 to 100 time (7.7)

  • Levathian on 21/05/2020 - 18:54

    The XV is a jacked up impreza. I own an impreza, fuel economy is crap and the car only runs well on premium fuel, it's very sluggish on 91 and especially e10.
    Also being a bigger impreza it's not really a big family car so space will be tight inside.
    Dealer servicing costs more than Mazda but I guess you can go to an independent.

  • EnALup on 21/05/2020 - 19:04

    CX-5 Looks to be a powerful (akera, turbo petrol) and stylish inside out.
    Entry level premium model out of all, but more cash. Not sure why they are not in Hybrid.

    • michaelTito on 22/05/2020 - 09:50

      Picked one up yesterday for my dad. Better than a range rover.

      • EnALup on 22/05/2020 - 10:04

        How much u paid and which model?

        • michaelTito on 22/05/2020 - 11:11

          2020 Akera Turbo J serie. $47190 this is under business rego. Regular rego will be cheaper at $46800 I think. Car is ejt black and it only comes with floor mat.

          • EnALup on 24/05/2020 - 23:16

            @michaelTito: Wow. Isnt akera turbo top model 54k drive away?
            Can these get this much discount?

  • pwnd on 21/05/2020 - 20:03

    Considered the RAV4?

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