Reflecting on 2024’s Standout Vehicles: A Year of Impressive SUVs

As the curtain falls on 2024, it’s time for us to cast a retrospective gaze at the vehicles that captured the attention—and admiration—of the CarExpert test team this year.

The Dominance of the Mid-Sized SUV Segment

A fitting starting point for this discussion is the mid-sized SUV category, a segment that not only dominates Australia’s automotive market by sales but also boasts a fiercely competitive landscape filled with a myriad of options from both local and international manufacturers. Throughout the past year, we’ve had the privilege of evaluating a range of contenders, and here are the five that emerged as the highest scorers in our assessments.

For those vehicles that underwent multiple evaluations, we have highlighted the variant that received the top rating. All models featured here are categorized according to the definitions outlined in the VFACTS sales statistics from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI).

Our pricing estimates derive from each manufacturer’s configurators for a specific Victorian postcode, offering a realistic perspective on what the average consumer might expect to pay.

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Leading Contenders in the Mid-Sized SUV Market

  • Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
    • CarExpert Rating: 8.4/10
    • Price Range: $46,990 – $66,525

The 2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid has claimed the top slot with an impressive score of 8.4 out of 10. Praised for its spacious interior and advanced technology, it received top marks for practicality (9) and infotainment systems (9), showing no major weaknesses. Our test team admired its lively performance, commendable efficiency, and refined handling.

Compared to its closest rival, the best-selling Toyota RAV4, we found the Tucson’s hybrid iterations to offer superior driving dynamics, aesthetics, and technological capabilities. Under the hood, the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid features a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol-electric powertrain, generating 132kW and 264Nm, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. It boasts a competitive fuel efficiency of just 5.3 liters per 100 kilometers on standard 91 octane unleaded gasoline.

[Read the full review of the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid here.]

  • BYD Atto 3
    • CarExpert Rating: 8.4/10
    • Price: $47,261

Breaking into this elite list is the BYD Atto 3, an electric vehicle that differentiates itself in numerous ways. As the sole EV in our top five and the only representative from a Chinese manufacturer, the Atto 3 in its Extended Range configuration garnered a score of 8.4/10, achieving high marks for its technological offerings, value proposition, and practicality.

This mid-sized SUV, powered by a front-mounted electric motor producing 150kW and 310Nm, offers an impressive driving range of 410 kilometers, courtesy of its 60.48kWh lithium iron phosphate battery pack. Those seeking a practical electric SUV with advanced features will find much to appreciate in the Atto 3.

[Read the full review of the BYD Atto 3 Extended Range here.]

  • Volkswagen Tiguan R
    • CarExpert Rating: 8.4/10
    • Price: $74,990

The Volkswagen Tiguan R, reviewed in January, also earned a commendable 8.4/10 as a performance-oriented SUV at a competitive price point. Our assessment highlighted its impressive performance alongside a luxurious array of features, though it does have relatively high servicing costs.

Equipped with the proven EA888 2.0-liter TSI turbo-petrol engine, the Tiguan R delivers 235kW and 400Nm, with power routed to all four wheels through a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission. While it may lag slightly behind its European counterparts in acceleration, it remains an outstanding all-round option.

[Read the full review of the Volkswagen Tiguan R here.]

  • Toyota RAV4 Edge Hybrid
    • CarExpert Rating: 8.3/10
    • Price: $63,794

The Toyota RAV4, Australia’s best-selling mid-sized SUV, may not have clinched a top-three spot, but it certainly holds strong with a solid 8.3/10 from our reviewers. Exceptional scores in safety (9.2) and suitability for diverse needs (8.8) reflect its broad appeal.

The top-tier Edge model exclusively features a hybrid all-wheel-drive powertrain. Under the hood, you’ll find a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine coupled with electric motors, delivering a total of 163kW, and achieving impressive fuel efficiency of 4.8 liters per 100 kilometers.

[Read the full review of the Toyota RAV4 Edge Hybrid here.]

  • Honda CR-V e:HEV RS
    • CarExpert Rating: 8.3/10
    • Price: $60,400

Lastly, the Honda CR-V hybrid consistently impressed with an admirable score of 8.3/10. This model stands out as an embodiment of balance, excelling in cost of ownership and driving pleasure, all while delivering a smooth ride.

Combining a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine with twin electric motors, the CR-V e:HEV RS achieves a combined output of 135kW and 335Nm. Remarkably, it maintains a commendable fuel economy of 5.5 liters per 100 kilometers even in Eco mode.

[Read the full review of the Honda CR-V e:HEV RS here.]

Honorable Mentions

  • MG HS – 8.3: MG’s latest mid-sized SUV has garnered accolades for its extensive improvements in size, practicality, efficiency, and tech integration.

  • BYD Sealion 6 – 8.3: This plug-in hybrid SUV has been celebrated for its spacious family-friendly design and effective hybrid powertrain.

  • Honda ZR-V – 8.3: The flagship ZR-V impresses with premium interior qualities and a smooth hybrid engine, making it a standout option.

These vehicles collectively represent the evolution of the mid-sized SUV segment in 2024, showcasing not only advances in technology and efficiency but also a commitment to delivering quality, comfort, and safety.

Source:www.carexpert.com.au