SUV - Sub $30k (Ideally $25k) - New/Used - Ideas?

OZB39 on 23/09/2025 - 00:08
Last edited 23/09/2025 - 12:58 by 1 other user

Hello all, looking for advice and recommendations on a car upgrade for my wife.

Details/requirements:

  • Currently drives a 2013 VW Tiguan but spending more and more on it as time goes on and it's done over 155k.

  • Ideally $25k but can probably push to $30k if it's worth the additional expense.

  • Drives around 30 km per day and probably under 10k per year.

  • Doesn't need to be a big car as I have a Ranger through my work that we generally take on longer drives. Needs to have a decent enough boot space though - ideally 400 L or more as it needs to fit a decent sized pram. Oh and room for 2 car seats which most would anyway.

  • Ideally something no older than 2022 but again open to maybe 2020 if it was worth it.

  • Not fussy on brand really or too much on the driving experience as my wife sees it as A to B and doesn't care too much for cars.

Thoughts so far;

  • 2023 Tiguan - seems to tick most boxes and we sort of know what we're getting.

  • Haval Jolion 2025 model - likely petrol version die to boot space in PHEV.

  • Cherry Tiggo 7 pro 2024 - not great reviews so not 100% keen.

  • Ford Puma - possibly too small with me being 6" 1.

  • MG ZS - drove a petrol version a few years ago and it wasn't great but my wife probably wouldn't care. 24k drive away currently.

  • MG HS PHEV 2022 - not sure on MG as a whole to be honest.

  • Other options or slightly older cars that would be reliable and safe to invest in?

We do have the option to do a novated lease through her work but as she's only part time (earns approx. 66k) I don't think it would be worth it. Although those may increase through a family trust distribution going forward.

Anything I'm missing or should be looking at instead?

Thanks for reading and any help advice would be much appreciated.

Automotive Car SUV

Comments

  • MS Paint on 23/09/2025 - 00:16
    +13

    recommendations on a car upgrade for my wife;

    Seems like a fair deal to me. I recommend the MG ZS. Which day is your wife available for pickup?

    • freeb1e4me on 23/09/2025 - 00:34
      -1

      Did the wife give consent to being picked up?

      • websterp on 23/09/2025 - 08:52

        $30K for a SUC? That is crazy money no matter how good the SUC is.

  • Far Cough on 23/09/2025 - 00:21
    +9

    Haval Jolion 2025 model - likely petrol version die to boot space in PHEV.

    Cherry Tiggo 7 pro 2024 - not great reviews so not 100% keen.

    Ford Puma - possibly too small with me being 6" 1.

    MG ZS - drove a petrol version a few years ago and it wasn't great but my wife probably wouldn't care. 24k drive away currently.

    MG HS PHEV 2022 - not sure on MG as a whole to be honest.

    all of these are absolute warm garbage on wheels

    You should look at a base model cx5, Kia sportage, Hyundai Tucson.
    Tbh though just get the 2023 Tiguan.

    • OZB39 on 23/09/2025 - 00:35

      That is absolutely fair šŸ˜‚

      I'm a little more fussy but my wife really isn't (hence me) so thought I'd see if there was anything I'm missing out on with some of the new foreign imports…

      Previously had a shortage and it was nice with no dramas. Think those you suggested jump over the $25k but maybe doable.

      Tiguain is looking the front runner now based on value and everything else.

      • freeb1e4me on 23/09/2025 - 00:39
        +2

        Tiguain is looking the front runner now based on value and everything else.

        Stay away from euro cars. This one was reviewed with a score of 6.3/10

        • OZB39 on 23/09/2025 - 00:43

          Now I'm back to square one šŸ˜‚

          I thought it has reasonable reviews from having a quick look…

          • Euphemistic on 23/09/2025 - 06:09
            +1

            @OZB39: Reviews on euro cars tend to be related to new models. Owning a euro car out of warranty is upping the risk of major repairs.

  • Liger Zero on 23/09/2025 - 03:45
    +10

    Skoda Kamiq?
    I believe it won car of the year and it's quite popular

    • dcep on 23/09/2025 - 03:56
      +3

      Kamiq Select run-out stock @ $29k brand new with 7 years warranty.

    • ONEMariachi on 23/09/2025 - 04:14
      +1

      Came here to say this too. Itā€™s effectively a VW T-Cross in a different shell.
      With the Karoq being the Tiguan equivalent.
      The scala is also really nice too.

      • Far Cough on 23/09/2025 - 07:36

        The T-Cross never sold well nor did the Kamiq

        • ONEMariachi on 23/09/2025 - 07:54
          +4

          correct. Not selling well doesn't make them a poor choice though.

          • Euphemistic on 23/09/2025 - 15:32

            @ONEMariachi: Not selling well means there may be less parts readily available and less mechanics that are familiar with their foibles - particularly as they start to get on in years.

            • happydude on 23/09/2025 - 16:43
              +6

              @Euphemistic: Same parts across VW/Skoda/Curpa/Audi.

              You're not really going to have that problem.

            • ONEMariachi on 23/09/2025 - 18:19
              +1

              @Euphemistic: what happydude said. The Skoda is effectively a previous years VW and the VW is the previous years Audi. You won't have issues finding parts. 7 year warranty is excellent too.

              • Euphemistic on 23/09/2025 - 21:08
                -2

                @ONEMariachi: Fiar ebough, but still stand by less sales equals liklihood of parts being more difficult to get than more common vehicles.

                Case in point: Had to get a part from interatate for a diesel grand vitara when the petrol parts were in the shop. Diesel was lower volume seller. Other common cars ive been able to pick up most parts same day.

                • ONEMariachi on 24/09/2025 - 07:51
                  +1

                  @Euphemistic: Thatā€™s some quality ignoring of what we said.

                  • Euphemistic on 24/09/2025 - 09:26
                    -1

                    @ONEMariachi: You can still have low volume sales, even if you add up 3 brands. Just becasue they share a lot of parts, doesnt mean that there arent parts that are harder to get.

                    Body panels are one that are not changeable between models and having a low volume model may mean a longer wait for parts after a crash. This may also affect insurance premiums.

              • serpserpserp on 24/09/2025 - 20:44
                -1

                @ONEMariachi: If my previous Skoda warranty was anything to go by, many things will be excluded.

    • carlJack on 23/09/2025 - 13:28

      This is the one to pick.

  • ONEMariachi on 23/09/2025 - 04:18
    +6

    Another option to consider is the mitsubishi ASX. 2023 models are when the 10 year warranty started so may be in your budget and still really good warranty. The platform is a bit older tech, but they drive well and are reliable.

    • WhyAmICommenting on 24/09/2025 - 16:54
      -1

      ai but seems right:
      "Yes, the Mitsubishi 10-year New Car Warranty is generally transferable to subsequent owners, but it depends on the vehicle being eligible for the extended warranty and having all required services performed at an authorised Mitsubishi dealership"

      • ONEMariachi on 24/09/2025 - 17:42
        +1

        Yea sounds about right when I was looking at a 2024 outlander.
        Nearly every brand that offers more than 5 seems to require you service through them for the extra warranty though

  • Euphemistic on 23/09/2025 - 06:11
    -1

    If you want to keep it for a while and not be concerned about resale value buy japanese or jorean. Avoid chinese and euro.

  • randomusername2017 on 23/09/2025 - 07:04
    +5

    SUC

    MG gotta be at the top of the list then šŸ¤”

    Other options or slightly older cars that would be safe to invest in?

    Could safely invest a large amount in maintaining and running an old Cayenne.

  • Spookware on 23/09/2025 - 07:18
    -2

    Lol would not put wife in any of those POS cars, how embarrassing.

    • Far Cough on 23/09/2025 - 07:36

      Yeah, imagine not caring.

    • WhyAmICommenting on 24/09/2025 - 16:54

      (caution: they bought a Jeep)

  • Kongzi on 23/09/2025 - 07:20

    HV

  • Nonce on 23/09/2025 - 08:10
    +5

    camry

  • pegaxs on 23/09/2025 - 08:42
    +18

    If you are considering a PHEV, just drop the ā€œpetrolā€ part if youā€™re only doing short trips. MG ZS EV, MG4 or BYD Dolphin and never put fuel in your car again. Plenty of old stock, very low km models of these floating around all under $30k

    For 10km drive each day, these evs are ideal for short haul work. Donā€™t even need anything more than a 10a general purpose standard wall outlet to charge it.

    I know Iā€™m am going to get negged for this opinion (being Chinese AND ev), but it really makes sense. Short haul, urban driving is what EVā€™s do best. No more fuel costs. Lower servicing costs. In the same budget.

  • tanksinatra on 23/09/2025 - 10:04
    +3

    Have you thought about a used EV? There are a fair few used ones around now and they can save a lot in petrol and servicing. Your daily driving is well within their capability. Just need a place to charge.

    • areustillpretty on 23/09/2025 - 13:04
      +3

      I second this. Just charging at home will be fine given it's only 30km a day. If OP insists on SUV, Atto 3 won't be too bad.

  • OZB39 on 23/09/2025 - 10:35
    +4

    Thanks for all of your comments so far, appreciate the advice - good or bad.

    Thoughts on the options proposed;

    • Skoda Kamiq - Definitely an option. Previously had a Fabia vRS and actually thought it was the best car I owned. Worth grabbing a Karoq a couple of years older if it falls into the 25-30k? Brand new runout at $30k seems reasonable also if we can stretch.

    • Kia Sportage - We would be keen on this but likely a 22/23 model and heading more towards the the 30k mark.

    • MG4 - Possibly not quite what we're looking for.

    • MG ZS EV - Again an option but wasn't overly impressed with the test drive previously albeit it wasn't an electric option.

    • USED EV No issues with going full electric either. She parks in a garage with power etc so that's not a drama. Hence the reason I thought some of the chinese options in there. Think the BYD Dolphin would have too small a boot space in this instance.

    • Mitsubishi ASX - Plenty of our friends have these and they seems great value. Putting me off was the lack of major updates and a little outdated but a 23 model with 10 year warranty is tempting for sure.

    Thanks everyone.

    • oscargamer on 23/09/2025 - 15:56
      +2

      Kamiq has 400L boot
      Tiggo 4 has 380L
      Tiggo 7 has more than 600L ($30k driveaway)
      MG ZS or ZST 2024 used for $20k 460L - revolting car, but cheap motoring

      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ifI5r7_9M4Y

      REGARDLESS of all that. You MUST take your kid seats and try them in any car you are considering. You will know the space they take up, either forward or rear facing and depending on the front seat positions. And you MUST also take your pram/s and check them for fit…..been there, done that before

      • dcep on 24/09/2025 - 03:37

        Kamiq has surprisingly big space/legroom for rear seats given the whole car only 4.2m long.

  • shxhshzhz on 23/09/2025 - 12:18
    -1

    Chery Tiggo 4 $23990 driveaway brand new

    • OZB39 on 23/09/2025 - 12:35
      +1

      Thank you, I think the boot space and car may just be a little tight - 2 adults tollder and newborn.

  • singlemalt72 on 23/09/2025 - 15:09
    +2

    2023/24 Mitsubishi Outlander - many to be had sub $30K with <40,000km and come with 10 year factory warranty - it will be a 2WD at this price point, but a great vehicle (I have the PHEV)

  • 2jzzzz on 23/09/2025 - 20:16

    Japanese or Korean

  • oscargamer on 23/09/2025 - 20:59
    -1

    Jolion looks good

  • Trying2SaveABuck on 23/09/2025 - 21:21
    +3

    On the list above i would only consider the VW, you could get the Skoda Kimiq which is the same car different skin probably better value

    I would not touch MGs or Chery no one who isnt $$$ bias has ever said anything good about them - also MGs are having shit loads of problems - they also drive like shit - the bias to how cheap they are on Ozbargain is a bit strange they are not good cars they are cheap for a reason.

    I will say Havals arent bad and the wider GMW car ecosystem seems to go alright - know a few people who have the GMW Canon they have nothing but good things to say.

    Otherwise if you want my advice get a Japanese car you cant really go wrong Toyotas have gotten to expensive but you would be able to find something in some of the other brands in your price range.

    I know a lot of people here like Korean cars - personally I dont rate them why buy Korean when you can buy Japanese price wise they are much for a muchness? But that's just my opinion German cars are also good but maintaining them in Australia is just expensive.

  • OZB39 on 24/09/2025 - 00:24
    +2

    Thanks everyone for your input and advice, I am essentially none the wiser with all the options and opinions provided - why can't there be a correct answer!!

    The safer options seem to be a Tiguan, Kamiq, Sportage, ASX maybe? Possibly a Kia Seltos even? These will likely be a couple of years old I guess. Or potentially the Haval/BYD which seems to be the better out of the Chinese options - I've heard a few similar opinions. I think anything Japanese would be out with our price range unfortunately.

    • ONEMariachi on 24/09/2025 - 07:57
      +2

      I had a shortlist similar to you and honestly couldnā€™t make my choice until i went for test drives. I think youā€™re at that point now. Do some test drives and the choice will likely become clearer to you. End of the day you want something you feel comfortable in and will also fit the things you need it to fit.

  • TWISTYY on 24/09/2025 - 12:58
    +2

    2025 ZST - Just bought a brand new one for my dad paid 20.5k driveaway. Full of tech, 10 year warranty (absolutely crazy) seems to hold value well.

    It's the most you'll get out of a car for the price guaranteed.

    Use the other 5-10k and take the wife on a holiday.

  • casho on 24/09/2025 - 16:27

    "fit a decent sized pram. Oh and room for 2 car seats" Cound be a station wagon or hatchback also. Seeing as your wife doesn't care, just get something cheap

    • OZB39 on 24/09/2025 - 19:58

      I did have a look at wagons but to be honest there's not a lot around in the 2022 onwards (in the price bracket).

      The only really options I saw were Skoda Octavia wagon.

      • Nuclearvodka on 25/09/2025 - 14:30

        And they're awesome cars.

  • serpserpserp on 24/09/2025 - 20:48

    Any reason it has to be an SUV and not a sedan?

    • OZB39 on 24/09/2025 - 22:17

      No not really, the Mrs liked the SUV shape and generally easier for car seats etc.

  • Techefy on 24/09/2025 - 21:07
    -2

    Why going for these random shitboxes, buy a toyota

  • AustriaBargain on 25/09/2025 - 00:29
    +2

    Under 10k of city driving a year, I'd look at one of those Chinese cars. Especially if you've never owned a brand new vehicle before. They aren't the best, but either are second hand brand name cars at this price.

  • Megatron on 25/09/2025 - 16:14
    -2

    You should be able to get a Merc ML250 2015 model with less than 125k Kms for that. They are well built.. I have owned one for 5.5 years now and other than 1 yearly service that generally costs $600-1000, I have only had to do the water pump which at $1200 wasnt dear at all. They are Diesel and the fuel around the city costs less too :)

  • tempestswitch on 25/09/2025 - 20:19

    But 30km a day is more than 10K a year

  • tempestswitch on 25/09/2025 - 20:23
    +1

    CX5 full stop if it was me.
    They're super reliable (except for the 2.2L Diesel) and parts and maintenance are dirt cheap.
    2.5L NA is fine for everything. Ours even towed our camper trailer easily.

    Can get a 2023 G25 Maxx Sport pretty easily.

    I would avoid VW tbh. New ones are just so prone to water pump, DSG issues.
    Saying this from owning a 7.5 R and 140TSI Troc. Been through 4 water pumps, oil consumption issues and rattly interiors

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