Australia's love affair with small SUVs continues! These versatile vehicles offer the perfect blend of city-friendly size, weekend adventure capability, and everyday practicality. Whether you're after fuel efficiency, thrilling performance, cutting-edge tech, or luxurious comfort, the 2025 market has something for everyone.
We've scoured the offerings to bring you the best small SUVs hitting Australian showrooms in February 2025. This guide covers a range of price points and priorities, so you can find the perfect fit for your lifestyle and budget.
The Top Small SUVs:
1. Toyota Corolla Cross

Toyota Corolla Cross
- Price Range (MRLP): $36,480 - $50,030*
- Why it's great: The Corolla Cross is your gateway to affordable SUV ownership without sacrificing quality or practicality. It's well-equipped for the price, offers impressive fuel economy, and handles Aussie roads with confidence. Perfect for budget-conscious families and everyday commuters.
- What we love:
- Well-equipped for the price
- Powertrain is economical and willing
- Rides rougher roads with aplomb
- Things to consider: Boot space is on the smaller side, and the cabin could offer more storage solutions. The petrol engine can be a bit noisy when pushed.
2. Volvo XC40

2. Volvo XC40
- Why It's Great: Awarded Best Small SUV Under $80K in the 2024 Drive Car of the Year awards, the Volvo XC40 combines Scandinavian style with practicality and a comfortable ride.
- What we love:
- Added standard equipment now even more compelling
- Cabin execution is top-notch
- Decent ride comfort
- Things to consider: The B4 engine tune could use a bit more power, and fuel consumption can be on the higher side. The mild-hybrid system's idle stop-start could be smoother.
3. Mercedes-Benz EQA (Electric)

3. Mercedes-Benz EQA (Electric)
- Price Range (MRLP): $82,300 - $85,800*
- Why it's great: Step into the future of driving with the EQA, a luxurious and refined electric SUV from Mercedes-Benz. It offers a smooth, quiet ride and all the premium features you'd expect from the brand. A great choice for those looking to embrace electric driving without sacrificing comfort or style.
- What we love:
- A familiar transition for Mercedes buyers
- Priced right for the premium EV segment
- Cabin is jam packed with high quality tech
- Things to consider: The driving range isn't as extensive as some competitors. Rear passenger and cargo space are a bit limited.
4. BMW X1

4. BMW X1
- Price Range (MRLP): $61,800 - $92,300*
- Why it's great: Need space? The X1 surprises with its roomy interior, making it a practical choice for families. It also boasts a modern infotainment system and a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies.
- What we love:
- Spacious interior
- Comprehensive driver assist tech
- Crisp and modern infotainment
- Things to consider: BMW's subscription model for certain features (that are already built into the car) can be frustrating. The transmission can be slow to react at low speeds.
5. Audi SQ2

5. Audi SQ2
- Price Range (MRLP): $70,800 - $70,800*
- Why it's great: Unleash your inner racer with the Audi SQ2! This pocket rocket delivers exhilarating performance and sharp handling, thanks to its powerful engine and quattro all-wheel-drive system. It's a genuinely fun and engaging SUV that doesn't compromise on style.
- What we love:
* Fantastic performance
* Surety from the all-wheel-drive system in all conditions
* It looks great and feels a bit naughty - Things to consider: Rear passenger space is limited, making it less ideal for families. The infotainment system, while functional, isn't Audi's latest generation.
6. Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

6. Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class
- Price Range (MRLP): $63,600 - $99,000*
- Why it's great: The GLA-Class offers a blend of luxury, style, and performance. It boasts a premium interior, a comfortable ride, and, in the AMG versions, seriously impressive power. It's the perfect choice for those who want a sophisticated and sporty SUV.
- What we love:
- Scintillating performance when you want...
- ... and docile enough to pass off as a regular SUV when you need
- Commendable ride quality
- Things to consider: The price tag is hefty, placing it at the premium end of the segment. Fuel consumption can be high, especially with the performance-focused engines.
7. Volvo C40 Recharge (electric)

7. Volvo C40 Recharge (Electric)
- Price Range (MRLP): $78,990 - $87,990*
- Why it's great: Stand out from the crowd with the Volvo C40 Recharge. This stylish electric SUV boasts a distinctive coupe-like design, a beautifully crafted interior, and a refined driving experience. It's a perfect blend of sustainability and Scandinavian cool.
- What we love:
- Exterior styling and interior insulation
- Both models drive exceptionally well
- Ride refinement is excellent on any surface
- Things to consider: The sloping roofline reduces rear headroom. The price is still relatively high, and there's no spare tyre.
8. Lexus LBX

8. Lexus LBX
- Why it's great: The LBX provides an accessible entry point to the Lexus brand, renowned for reliability and a premium ownership experience. This compact hybrid offers a stylish design, a comfortable interior, and impressive fuel efficiency. A great all-rounder for city driving.
- What we love:
- Lexus ownership costs and benefits are impressive
- Appealing gateway into owning a luxury hybrid car
- A good-looking car – inside and out
- Things to consider: It's not as powerful as some rivals. The rear seats are compact, and the interior door handles can take some getting used to.
9. Genesis GV60 (electric)

9. Genesis GV60 (Electric)
- Price Range (MRLP): $103,384 - $110,384*
- Why it's great: The GV60 is a technological tour de force, offering blistering acceleration, ultra-fast charging capabilities, and a futuristic design. It's packed with innovative features and provides a glimpse into the future of electric driving.
- What we love:
- Incredible performance off the line
- Storage space galore
- Equal-fastest-charging EV on the market
- Things to consider: The digital side mirrors are an acquired taste, and some interior materials don't feel as premium as the price suggests. There's no wireless smartphone mirroring.
10. Jaguar E-Pace

10. Jaguar E-PACE
- Price Range (MRLP): $76,773 - $80,823*
- Why it's great: The E-PACE embodies Jaguar's signature style and luxury. It boasts a beautifully crafted interior, a refined driving experience, and a head-turning design. A sophisticated choice for those who value elegance and a premium feel.
- What we love:
- Stylish good looks and design
- Interior quality is first-rate
- Refined and relaxed at highway speeds
- Things to consider: It's one of the more expensive options in the segment. The transmission can be hesitant at times, and the idle stop/start system can be laggy.
Let's Summarise
From budget-friendly options to luxurious electric models, the small SUV market in Australia offers incredible choice. This list is your starting point for finding the perfect vehicle to match your needs and driving style. Remember to research thoroughly, compare specifications, and – most importantly – take a test drive before making your decision! Which small SUV are you most excited about? Let us know in the comments!
