CarExpert’s Top 5 Midsize SUVs of 2024

As the year draws to a close, it’s time to look back at the cars that have left people in awe car expert 2024 Test Team.

What better place to start than in the mid-size SUV segment? Not only is it the largest selling plant in Australia, but it also enjoys stiff competition from numerous options from manufacturers all over.

We’ve had the chance to drive a lot of cars this year, and these are the top five cars on our all-time score list.

Some of these models have been reviewed multiple times this year – in this case, we’ve highlighted the variants that received the highest ratings.

According to VFACTS sales statistics released by the Federal Chamber of Automobile Industry (FCAI), these models belong to the mid-size SUV category.

Prices are based on each manufacturer’s Victorian postcode configurator, which should give you a representative estimate of what the average buyer will end up paying.

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Ato 3 world

First, it’s the only electric vehicle (EV) in our top five. This is also the only model of the Chinese Challenger brand.

With top ratings for infotainment technology, value for money and usefulness, the range-extended Atto 3 scored 8.4/10.

We found it to be an excellent choice for those who want a relatively easy-to-use mid-size SUV that offers considerable range and offers some tech and equipment that the ICE models simply can’t match. .

Instead of an internal combustion engine, the Atto 3 is equipped with a front-mounted permanent magnet synchronous electric motor with 150kW of power and 310Nm of torque.

The Extended Range model is equipped with a 60.48kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack and has a range of up to 410 kilometers according to WLTP testing.

Volkswagen Tiguan R

Looking back at the January review, Volkswagen’s popular Tiguan R also received a score of 8.4/10 as a cheap, high-performance SUV.

We’re particularly impressed with the performance and value of this fast flagship, even if it’s a bit pricey in terms of service.

The Australian model is packed with luxury-level features and technology, as well as dynamic features that can keep some sports cars honest.

The Tiguan R’s proven EA888 2.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine produces 235kW of power (over 5600-6500rpm) and 400Nm of torque (2000-5600rpm), with drive sent to all four wheels via a seven-wheel drive. Fast wet DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Our Tiguan R is slower than the cars sold in Europe and the UK, but otherwise it’s hardly a great all-rounder.

You can read our full review of the Volkswagen Tiguan R here.

Interested in buying a Volkswagen Tiguan R? Contact one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here

More: Everything about the Volkswagen Tiguan

Toyota RAV4

Australia’s best-selling mid-size SUV just missed out on the podium, but our expert reviewers still rated it highly in a crowded segment.

The top-spec RAV4 Edge Hybrid scored 8.3/10 in August, performing best in the safety (9.2) and suitability (8.8) categories.

The interior is blocky and user-friendly, just like it was a few years ago.

From a driving perspective, the RAV4 is a very comfortable car on the highway, with stable steering and supple suspension.

The flagship Edge now only comes with a hybrid all-wheel-drive powertrain, setting it apart from the rest of the range. Under the bonnet is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a pair of electric motors for a total of 163 kW.

Power is sent to all four wheels via a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Low fuel consumption is one of the RAV4’s strengths – Toyota claims its fuel consumption is only 4.8 liters per 100 kilometers.

You can read our full review of the Toyota RAV4 Edge AWD Hybrid here.

Interested in buying a Toyota RAV4? Contact one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here

More: All things Toyota RAV4

HondaCR-V

While other cars on this list excel in one specific area, the hybrid Honda CR-V performs consistently, scoring an 8.3/10.

From an ownership cost perspective, the CR-V performs well and is more fun to drive than the RAV4 while still offering a supple ride quality and refined driving experience.

An attractive, practical cabin, competitive technology and affordable service round out the CR-V’s attributes.

The CR-V e:HEV RS is powered by a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine and two electric motors, producing a combined output of 135kW and 335Nm.

Even in Eco mode, the hybrid SUV still performs strongly and we were able to achieve its claimed combined cycle fuel economy of 5.5L/100km.

You can read our full review here Honda CR-V e:HEV RS here.

Interested in buying a Honda CR-V? Contact one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here

More: Everything about Honda CR-V

Honorable mention

MG HS – 8.3

MG’s new mid-size SUV was launched in September and has been well received.

The new HS is a significant improvement over the outgoing model – it’s bigger, more practical, more efficient and packed with all the latest technology. It also drives much better, with a level of refinement that makes some European manufacturers nervous.

Safety technology has also been improved, meaning you won’t be inconvenienced by a poorly calibrated system.

You can read our full review of the MG HS here.

Sea Lion World 6 – 8.3

Even for the flagship premium model, it’s priced well and has a flexible cabin with family-friendly space and cargo capacity.

Honda ZR-V – 8.3

This list wouldn’t be complete without the Honda ZR-V.

The ZR-V was tested in flagship e:HEV LX guise and offers a host of premium and luxurious interior features, as well as plenty of standard equipment.

A 2.0-liter four-cylinder hybrid system is also an engine option. You’ll have to pay for the privilege, though, as our top-spec tester costs $54,900 before on-road costs.

You can read our full review of the Honda ZR-V e:HEV LX here.