Last year, there was a very high number of SUV models sold in New Zealand, with medium-sized SUVs making up a massive 19% of the new passenger vehicle segment.
With the continued interest in new SUV models, there’s been a knock-on effect in the used market for these vehicles, with a wide range of medium sized SUVs now available. Here’s a few we found on driven.co.nz:
Toyota RAV4 Limited AWD 2.5
Year: 2014
Mileage: 96,000km
Price: $24,950 ($60,790 when new)
The Toyota RAV4 has been a popular SUV for Kiwis since it was first introduced back in 1995. Around a year ago, the fifth generation model was released, and was the second-bestselling new passenger car of 2019. It was also included in the Top 10 for AA Driven New Zealand Car of the Year 2019.
The model we scouted was a fourth-gen Limited model, and finished in a vibrant red. This particular variant replaces the full size spare wheel with a space saver type for a more specious boot capacity of 577L with all the seats up.
In tougher conditions, the AWD on-demand system has the ability to split the torque evenly between the two axles. Under normal driving conditions, the AWD system keeps the vehicle in front wheel drive for increased fuel economy.
This Toyota RAV4 uses a conventional six-speed automatic transmission, which is teamed to a 2.5L engine that delivers 132kW at 6,000rpm. Economy-wise, it uses 8.5L of fuel over 100km and offers flexibility with a decent 1500kg braked towing capacity.
Mazda CX-5 GSX 2.5
Year: 2013
Mileage: 64,000
Price: $24,900 ($44,095 when new)
The Mazda CX-5 has a lot to offer, and was the third-bestselling new passenger car in 2019.
Much like the Toyota RAV4, the CX-5 uses a conventional six-speed automatic transmission. The model we found was powered by the SKYACTIVE-G engine, which runs a rather high 13:1 compression ratio and, despite the 2.5L capacity, ticks along frugally, with a consumption rating of just 7.4L/100km.
Rear cargo space is respectable at 403 litres with the 60/40 split seats up, and 1,560 litres with the rear seats folded flat. This type of interior space is generous for a vehicle of this size, and is actually on par with Mazda’s own CX-7, despite its smaller dimensions.
Kia Sportage 2.0 LX
Year: 2016
Mileage: 54,000
Price: $24,950 ($35,990 when new)
Partly down to its more-accessible price point, the popular Kia Sportage has been a favourite with Kiwis for over a decade now.
The LX is the entry-level model in the range, and remains a popular choice for buyers who don’t necessarily require an AWD system. It is a popular city SUV, ideal for those drivers who use their car mainly for the daily school run and weekly shopping.
Despite being the entry model, the Kia Sportage LX isn’t too light on features - this example we found boasts Apple CarPlay and a reverse camera. The Kia Sportage packs a 2.0L engine, which develops 114kW @ 6,200rpm and a fuel economy rating of 7.9L/100km.
Mitsubishi Outlander 2.4 VRX 4WD
Year: 2015
Mileage: 120,000
Price: $24,995 ($54,490 when new)
The Mitsubishi Outlander 4X4 was treated to a facelift in 2015 and some additional touches of luxury. These new features included voice recognition, a 360-degree reverse camera, satellite navigation and even front heated leather seats. Speaking of seats, the Mitsubishi Outlander has plenty – seven, to be exact.
The Outlander is also capable of going off the beaten track thanks to its 4WD system, with its softened suspension no doubt helping to keep it settled. The model we found has a six-speed CVT transmission and a 2.4L engine with a fuel economy of 7.5l/100km.
There’s a lot to consider when you’re buying a used car, but you can count on the AA for tips and advice. For further information about buying a car, take a look the full range of AA services and resources to help you through the process from start to finish.
Find out more about how the AA can help when buying a used car:
- AA Money - aa.co.nz/money
- AA Insurance - aa.co.nz/insurance
- AA Car Reviews - aa.co.nz/car-reviews
- AA Running Cost Reports - aa.co.nz/runningreports
- AA Appraised - aa.co.nz/appraised
- AA Pre Purchase Inspections - aa.co.nz/inspections
- AA History Report - aa.co.nz/vehiclehistory
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