Searching for used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia? Compare reliable, family, luxury and near-new SUVs with prices, features and buying tips in one trusted guide.
If you’re shopping for used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia, you’re in a really strong position. This budget opens the door to some of the most practical, comfortable and well-equipped SUVs on the market, without paying new-car prices.
From family-friendly SUVs with loads of space, to reliable everyday models known for low running costs, right through to near-new and luxury SUVs that feel far more expensive than they actually are, there’s a lot of choice under the $40,000 mark. Many used SUVs in this range still come with modern safety tech, smooth highway performance, good fuel economy and plenty of features that make daily driving easier.
This page brings together the best used SUVs under $40,000, focusing on real value rather than hype. Whether you need room for kids and gear, want something dependable for long drives, or are simply looking to upgrade into a nicer SUV without stretching your budget, you’ll find clear, practical options worth considering below.
If you are also comparing sedans, hatchbacks and utes in the same budget range, our full guide to used cars under $40,000 in Australia covers all body styles and value options.
Best Family Used SUVs Under $40,000 in Australia
When it comes to practicality, space and safety, family-friendly used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia offer excellent value. At this budget, buyers can comfortably choose from large seven-seat SUVs, reliable mid-size models and even near-new options without paying new-car prices.
The biggest advantage of buying used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia for family use is flexibility. You get proper room for kids, car seats and luggage, along with modern safety features and proven reliability. Below are some of the most popular and well-rounded family SUVs that consistently stand out in the Australian used car market.
Family Used SUVs Under $40,000 – Comparison Table
| SUV Model | Seats | Safety Rating | Comfort | Reliability | Family Practicality | Fuel Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Kluger (2018–2022) | 7 | 5 Star | Very Good | Excellent | Excellent | Moderate |
| Mazda CX-9 (2017–2021) | 7 | 5 Star | Very Good | Very Good | Very Good | Moderate |
| Hyundai Santa Fe (2018–2022) | 5 / 7 | 5 Star | Good | Good | Very Good | Good |
| Kia Sorento (2018–2022) | 7 | 5 Star | Very Good | Good | Very Good | Moderate |
| Mitsubishi Outlander (2019–2023) | 5 / 7 | 5 Star | Good | Average | Good | Good |
| Nissan X-Trail (2019–2022) | 5 / 7 | 5 Star | Good | Good | Good | Good |
Buyers working with a tighter budget may also want to compare value options in our used cars under $30,000 in Australia guide.
1. Toyota Kluger – One of the Safest Family Used SUVs Under $40,000 in Australia
The Toyota Kluger remains one of the safest choices for Australian families. It’s known for its roomy interior, comfortable ride and strong long-term reliability. Most used Klugers under $40,000 are seven-seaters, making them ideal for larger families or those who need flexible seating.
Key family highlights include generous second-row legroom, a wide-opening rear door for child seats, strong ANCAP safety ratings and excellent resale value. Hybrid versions are also available within budget and are especially popular for families doing a lot of city driving.
Overall Rating:
Safety: Excellent
Comfort: Very Good
Reliability: Excellent
Family Value: Excellent
The Toyota Kluger is one of the safest bets when shopping for used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia. It offers a spacious seven-seat layout, smooth ride quality and strong long-term reliability, which is why it remains a top choice for families.
For buyers comparing all segments and price ranges, our best SUV in Australia guide breaks down top performers across every category.
Pros
- Excellent interior space for kids and long trips
- Strong safety performance and build quality
- Excellent resale value and low ownership risk
Cons
- Fuel economy is average compared to smaller SUVs
- Older infotainment on earlier models
2. Mazda CX-9 – Stylish and Comfortable Family Used SUV Under $40,000
The Mazda CX-9 is a great option for families who want space without giving up a more premium feel. It’s one of the better-driving large SUVs in this price range and offers a comfortable cabin that works well for long trips.
Most used CX-9 models under $40,000 come with seven seats, good safety technology and a surprisingly refined interior. It’s a solid choice for families that want practicality with a bit of style and better on-road handling than many rivals.
Overall Rating:
Safety: Very Good
Comfort: Very Good
Reliability: Very Good
Family Value: Very Good
The Mazda CX-9 suits families who want something that feels a bit more premium while staying within the used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia budget. It drives well, looks modern and works nicely for long-distance travel.
Pros
- Refined interior and comfortable ride
- Good balance between size and handling
- Strong safety features for its class
Cons
- Third-row space not as generous as Kluger
- Fuel consumption can be higher when loaded
3. Hyundai Santa Fe – Well-Rounded Family Used SUV Under $40,000 in Australia
The Hyundai Santa Fe is one of the most well-rounded family SUVs under $40,000. It’s available in both five-seat and seven-seat layouts and is known for its smooth ride, good fuel efficiency and excellent safety features.
Families appreciate the Santa Fe for its comfortable suspension, easy-to-use infotainment system and lower maintenance costs compared to some European SUVs. Later models in this price range often include advanced driver assistance systems as standard.
Overall Rating:
Safety: Very Good
Comfort: Good
Reliability: Good
Family Value: Very Good
The Hyundai Santa Fe is one of the most practical used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia, especially for families who want good tech, smooth driving and reasonable running costs.
Pros
- Available in five-seat and seven-seat versions
- Comfortable suspension for daily use
- Good value for money in the used market
Cons
- Interior feels less premium than some rivals
- Not as sporty to drive
4. Kia Sorento – Feature-Packed Family Used SUV Under $40,000
The Kia Sorento is a strong family favourite thanks to its practicality and long list of features. Used Sorento models under $40,000 often include seven seats, large cargo space and solid towing capability for families with boats or caravans.
It’s particularly popular with families who want a balance between space, comfort and value. Many Sorento models from this era still feel modern inside and offer good reliability, especially when serviced regularly.
Overall Rating:
Safety: Excellent
Comfort: Very Good
Reliability: Good
Family Value: Very Good
The Kia Sorento is a popular family SUV thanks to its space, safety and strong feature list. Many buyers choose it when comparing used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia because it offers modern design without luxury pricing.
Pros
- Spacious seven-seat layout
- Strong safety and driver assistance features
- Good towing capability for family trips
Cons
- Fuel economy is average for its size
- Servicing costs can be slightly higher
5. Mitsubishi Outlander – Affordable Family Used SUV Under $40,000 in Australia
For families wanting flexibility without going full-size, the Mitsubishi Outlander is a smart pick. It offers optional seven seats, good fuel economy and a compact footprint that’s easier to drive around town than larger SUVs.
Used Outlanders under $40,000 are common, especially ex-fleet and near-new models. Families like it for its simple ownership experience, reasonable servicing costs and strong safety credentials.
Overall Rating:
Safety: Good
Comfort: Good
Reliability: Average
Family Value: Good
The Mitsubishi Outlander appeals to families who want a lower purchase price while still accessing the benefits of used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia. It’s practical, easy to drive and widely available.
Pros
- Often cheaper than similar competitors
- Available with seven seats
- Good fuel efficiency for family use
Cons
- Interior and ride feel less refined
- Reliability is average compared to Toyota or Mazda
6. Nissan X-Trail – Practical and Efficient Family Used SUV Under $40,000
The Nissan X-Trail is ideal for smaller families or those who don’t always need seven seats. It’s known for its comfortable ride, good boot space and excellent safety reputation.
Many used X-Trail models under $40,000 come well equipped with modern driver assistance features and are easy to live with day to day. It’s a reliable, no-fuss family SUV that suits both city and highway driving.
Overall Rating:
Safety: Very Good
Comfort: Good
Reliability: Good
Family Value: Good
The Nissan X-Trail works well for smaller families who want efficiency and comfort without moving into a large seven-seat SUV. It remains a popular option among used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia.
Pros
- Comfortable ride and easy to drive
- Good fuel economy for daily use
- Reliable and affordable ownership
Cons
- Third row is best for occasional use
- Less cargo space than larger SUVs
Summary for Family Buyers
If your priority is space, safety and long-term ownership confidence, used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia offer excellent family value. Models like the Toyota Kluger and Kia Sorento suit larger families, while the Mazda CX-9 and Santa Fe strike a strong balance between comfort and practicality.
Reliable Used SUVs Under $40,000 in Australia
If reliability is your top priority, buying used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia makes a lot of sense. This price range includes many proven SUV models with strong reliability records, affordable servicing and long-term ownership confidence. These are the SUVs buyers choose when they want fewer surprises, lower repair risk and consistent performance year after year.
Reliable used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia are ideal for daily commuting, long-distance driving and families who want peace of mind. The models below are well known in the Australian market for durability, strong resale value and dependable ownership.
If long-term ownership matters most, our car reliability ratings in Australia guide explains which brands and models perform best over time.
Reliable Used SUVs Under $40,000 – Comparison Table
| SUV Model | Seats | Reliability | Maintenance Cost | Comfort | Resale Value | Overall Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota RAV4 (2019–2022) | 5 | Excellent | Low | Very Good | Excellent | Excellent |
| Toyota Kluger (2018–2022) | 7 | Excellent | Moderate | Very Good | Excellent | Excellent |
| Mazda CX-5 (2019–2023) | 5 | Very Good | Low | Very Good | Very Good | Very Good |
| Subaru Forester (2019–2022) | 5 | Very Good | Moderate | Good | Good | Very Good |
| Hyundai Tucson (2019–2023) | 5 | Good | Low | Good | Good | Good |
| Mitsubishi Outlander (2019–2023) | 5 / 7 | Average | Low | Good | Average | Good |
1. Toyota RAV4 – One of the Most Reliable Used SUVs Under $40,000 in Australia
Overall Rating:
Reliability: Excellent
Comfort: Very Good
Ownership Cost: Low
Value for Money: Excellent
The Toyota RAV4 consistently ranks among the most reliable used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia. It suits buyers who want low running costs, excellent fuel efficiency and proven durability.
Pros
- Excellent long-term reliability record
- Strong fuel economy, especially hybrid models
- Low servicing and repair costs
Cons
- No seven-seat option
- Interior is practical rather than luxurious
2. Toyota Kluger – Reliable Large Used SUV Under $40,000
Overall Rating:
Reliability: Excellent
Comfort: Very Good
Ownership Cost: Moderate
Value for Money: Excellent
The Toyota Kluger is ideal for buyers wanting reliability in a larger SUV format. Among used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia, it stands out for durability, safety and strong resale value.
Pros
- Proven mechanical reliability
- Comfortable for long-distance driving
- Excellent resale demand
Cons
- Higher fuel use than mid-size SUVs
- Larger size not ideal for tight city parking
3. Mazda CX-5 – Reliable and Easy-to-Own Used SUV Under $40,000 in Australia
Overall Rating:
Reliability: Very Good
Comfort: Very Good
Ownership Cost: Low
Value for Money: Very Good
The Mazda CX-5 is one of the most balanced used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia, offering strong reliability, enjoyable driving and reasonable ownership costs.
Pros
- Solid reliability across petrol and diesel engines
- Comfortable and well-finished interior
- Easy to drive in both city and highway conditions
Cons
- Boot space smaller than larger SUVs
- No third-row seating
4. Subaru Forester – Reliable AWD Used SUV Under $40,000
Overall Rating:
Reliability: Very Good
Comfort: Good
Ownership Cost: Moderate
Value for Money: Very Good
The Subaru Forester appeals to buyers who want reliability combined with standard all-wheel drive. It’s a strong option among used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia for varied road conditions.
Pros
- Standard AWD across most variants
- Strong safety reputation
- Good visibility and ride comfort
Cons
- Servicing costs slightly higher than Toyota or Mazda
- Interior design is more functional than modern
5. Hyundai Tucson – Reliable Value Used SUV Under $40,000 in Australia
Overall Rating:
Reliability: Good
Comfort: Good
Ownership Cost: Low
Value for Money: Good
The Hyundai Tucson is popular with buyers looking for reliable ownership without stretching their budget. Many used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia Tucson models still feel modern and well equipped.
Pros
- Affordable servicing and maintenance
- Comfortable for daily driving
- Good availability in the used market
Cons
- Reliability not as strong as Toyota long term
- Performance is average
6. Mitsubishi Outlander – Budget-Friendly Reliable Used SUV Under $40,000
Overall Rating:
Reliability: Average
Comfort: Good
Ownership Cost: Low
Value for Money: Good
The Mitsubishi Outlander suits buyers prioritising price and practicality. While reliability is average compared to top performers, it remains a common choice among used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia.
Pros
- Lower purchase price
- Simple ownership experience
- Good fuel economy
Cons
- Interior quality feels basic
- Not as durable as Toyota or Mazda
Reliability Buyer Summary
For buyers focused on long-term dependability, used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia from Toyota and Mazda remain the safest choices. Models like the RAV4, Kluger and CX-5 offer proven reliability, strong resale value and low ownership risk, making them ideal for stress-free ownership.
Before buying, it helps to understand how much you can negotiate on a used car in Australia, especially when dealing with private sellers.
Luxury Used SUVs Under $40,000 in Australia
If you want a bit more style, refinement and premium feel without paying new-car prices, there are impressive luxury used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia that deliver upscale comfort, strong tech and a nicer drive. These aren’t just basic run-arounds — they feel more grown-up, with quality interiors, smoother performance and features that rival new models in lower segments.
Choosing luxury in this budget means you can enjoy things like leather seats, better sound systems, advanced safety tech, powerful engines and more refined suspension — all while staying within the range of used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia. Below are some standout luxury options worth considering.
Buyers wanting a deeper comparison of premium models can also explore our full breakdown of the best luxury SUVs in Australia.
Luxury Used SUVs Under $40,000 – Comparison Table
| SUV Model | Seats | Premium Feel | Tech & Safety | Ride Quality | Reliability | Overall Luxury Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audi Q5 (2014–2017) | 5 | Very Good | Very Good | Very Good | Good | Very Good |
| BMW X3 (2014–2017) | 5 | Very Good | Very Good | Very Good | Average-Good | Very Good |
| Volvo XC60 (2014–2018) | 5 | Excellent | Excellent | Very Good | Good | Excellent |
| Mercedes-Benz GLC (2016–2019) | 5 | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Good | Excellent |
| Lexus NX (2016–2020) | 5 | Very Good | Very Good | Very Good | Very Good | Very Good |
| Jaguar F-Pace (2017–2019) | 5 | Excellent | Very Good | Excellent | Average | Very Good |
1. Audi Q5 – Premium Entry Luxury Used SUV Under $40,000 in Australia
Overall Rating:
Luxury Feel: Very Good
Ride Comfort: Very Good
Tech & Safety: Very Good
Ownership Confidence: Good
The Audi Q5 pairs refined design and solid performance, making it one of the most appealing luxury used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia. It feels upmarket without feeling old, giving you a mix of comfort, style and practicality.
Pros
- Quiet, comfortable ride with premium interior touches
- Good balance of performance and efficiency
- Solid tech features for its age
Cons
- Maintenance and servicing costs can be higher
- Older infotainment may feel dated compared with newer rivals
2. BMW X3 – Sportier Luxury Used SUV Under $40,000 in Australia
Overall Rating:
Luxury Feel: Very Good
Ride Comfort: Very Good
Tech & Safety: Very Good
Ownership Confidence: Average-Good
The BMW X3 appeals if you want the luxury feel and a bit of sportiness in your used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia. It’s engaging to drive with precise handling and strong safety tech, while feeling more premium inside than mainstream options.
Pros
- Excellent handling and driver engagement
- Premium interior with good seating support
- Strong performance across engine range
Cons
- Reliability can vary by service history
- Servicing costs higher than non-luxury rivals
3.Volvo XC60 – Scandinavian Luxury Used SUV Under $40,000 in Australia
Overall Rating:
Luxury Feel: Excellent
Ride Comfort: Very Good
Tech & Safety: Excellent
Ownership Confidence: Good
The Volvo XC60 stands out on this list of luxury used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia with its Scandinavian design, comfort focus and strong safety tech. It feels refined inside and out, with a calm ride and comfortable seating for long drives.
Seat comfort can make a big difference on long trips, which is why many buyers compare models using our guide on which SUV has the most comfortable seats.
Pros
- Very comfortable and supportive seats
- Top safety tech and strong protection
- Premium Scandinavian interior design
Cons
- Higher servicing costs
- Fuel economy moderate in larger engines
4. Mercedes-Benz GLC – Refined Luxury Used SUV Under $40,000 in Australia
Overall Rating:
Luxury Feel: Excellent
Ride Comfort: Excellent
Tech & Safety: Excellent
Ownership Confidence: Good
The Mercedes-Benz GLC brings classic luxury SUV appeal to the used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia range. It feels more sophisticated than many mainstream SUVs, with a smooth ride, premium cabin materials and advanced safety features.
Pros
- Strong premium brand appeal
- Comfortable and composed ride
- Excellent safety and convenience features
Cons
- Ownership costs can be higher
- Infotainment system can feel less intuitive for some buyers
5. Lexus NX – Reliable Luxury Used SUV Under $40,000 in Australia
Overall Rating:
Luxury Feel: Very Good
Ride Comfort: Very Good
Tech & Safety: Very Good
Ownership Confidence: Very Good
The Lexus NX is one of the more reliable luxury choices among used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia. It blends premium comfort with strong baseline equipment, making it a solid option for buyers who want luxury with greater ownership confidence.
Pros
- Strong reliability reputation for its class
- Comfortable ride and quality interior finishes
- Good fuel economy for a luxury SUV
Cons
- Performance can feel modest compared with sportier rivals
- Smaller boot space than some competitors
6. Jaguar F-Pace – Stylish Luxury Used SUV Under $40,000 in Australia
Overall Rating:
Luxury Feel: Excellent
Ride Comfort: Excellent
Tech & Safety: Very Good
Ownership Confidence: Average
The Jaguar F-Pace is one of the more stylish and dynamic luxury used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia. It stands out with athletic handling and a premium interior that feels special compared with many mainstream SUVs.
Pros
- Exceptional driving dynamics for a luxury SUV
- Premium interior materials and unique design
- Spacious cabin for passengers
Cons
- Reliability can be average and servicing costs higher
- Fuel economy moderate
Luxury Buyer Summary
For buyers who want more comfort, style and premium features from used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia, there are several strong choices. Volvo XC60 and Mercedes-Benz GLC lead the pack for overall luxury feel, while Lexus NX stands out for reliability in the premium segment. Audi Q5 and BMW X3 balance performance and refinement for buyers who want both luxury and driving enjoyment.
Near-New Used SUVs Under $40,000 in Australia
If you want the feel of a newer SUV—low kilometres, modern tech, fresh safety features—without paying new-car prices, there are plenty of near-new used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia worth considering. These models are often late-model examples that still have plenty of life left, making them ideal if you want up-to-date features and confidence in your buy.
Buying near-new used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia lets you get recent safety tech, better fuel efficiency, cleaner emissions and a more modern interior without the steep depreciation that hits new cars. Below are some of the best near-new options available in this price range.
Once you’ve shortlisted your options, you can browse current used cars for sale in Australia to compare prices and availability.
Near-New Used SUVs Under $40,000 – Comparison Table
| SUV Model | Model Years | Typical Km Range | Tech & Safety | Comfort | Practicality | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mazda CX-5 (2021–2024) | 2021–2024 | 30,000–70,000 km | Very Good | Very Good | Very Good | Excellent |
| Toyota RAV4 (2020–2023) | 2020–2023 | 30,000–80,000 km | Excellent | Very Good | Very Good | Excellent |
| Hyundai Tucson (2021–2024) | 2021–2024 | 20,000–60,000 km | Very Good | Good | Good | Very Good |
| Kia Sportage (2021–2024) | 2021–2024 | 20,000–60,000 km | Very Good | Good | Good | Very Good |
| Subaru Forester (2020–2023) | 2020–2023 | 30,000–80,000 km | Very Good | Good | Good | Very Good |
| Honda CR-V (2020–2023) | 2020–2023 | 30,000–80,000 km | Very Good | Good | Good | Good |
1. Mazda CX-5 – Strong Near-New SUV Under $40,000 in Australia
Overall Rating:
Tech & Safety: Very Good
Comfort: Very Good
Practicality: Very Good
Near-New Value: Excellent
The Mazda CX-5 is one of the most desirable near-new used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia. With its refined cabin, modern tech and balanced driving character, it gives you a premium feel without new-car pricing.
Pros
- Comfortable cabin and modern infotainment
- Good safety and driver assistance features
- Excellent overall value in near-new condition
Cons
- Boot space smaller than larger SUVs
- Rear seat room not the best in class
2. Toyota RAV4 – Popular Near-New SUV Under $40,000 in Australia
Overall Rating:
Tech & Safety: Excellent
Comfort: Very Good
Practicality: Very Good
Near-New Value: Excellent
The Toyota RAV4 is a top pick among near-new used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia because it combines strong resale value, low running costs and trusted reliability with recent model features.
Pros
- Excellent fuel efficiency, especially hybrid versions
- Very low kilometres on many listings
- Strong reputation for durability
Cons
- Higher purchase demand can make good examples sell quickly
- No third row for larger families
3. Hyundai Tucson – Well-Equipped Near-New SUV Under $40,000 in Australia
Overall Rating:
Tech & Safety: Very Good
Comfort: Good
Practicality: Good
Near-New Value: Very Good
The Hyundai Tucson represents solid value when shopping near-new used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia. It comes with a comfortable ride, modern tech and good equipment levels for the price.
Pros
- Great tech and infotainment options
- Comfortable for daily driving
- Low kilometres common at this price point
Cons
- Not as refined as premium rivals
- Resale value not as strong as Toyota or Mazda
4. Kia Sportage – Comfortable Near-New SUV Under $40,000 in Australia
Overall Rating:
Tech & Safety: Very Good
Comfort: Good
Practicality: Good
Near-New Value: Very Good
The Kia Sportage is a strong contender in the near-new used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia space. It offers modern looks, easy-to-use tech and a comfortable ride.
Pros
- Stylish design and modern cabin
- Good safety features
- Competitive pricing for near-new examples
Cons
- Fuel economy average in this class
- Less premium feel than Mazda or Toyota
5. Subaru Forester – All-Weather Near-New SUV Under $40,000 in Australia
Overall Rating:
Tech & Safety: Very Good
Comfort: Good
Practicality: Good
Near-New Value: Very Good
If you want all-wheel drive as standard and solid everyday performance, the Subaru Forester is among the best near-new used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia. It offers a strong combination of safety, ride comfort and versatility.
Pros
- Standard AWD across most variants
- Strong safety and driver aids
- Comfortable seats and good cabin visibility
Cons
- Servicing costs slightly higher than mainstream rivals
- Interior quality functional rather than premium
6. Honda CR-V – Practical Near-New SUV Under $40,000 in Australia
Overall Rating:
Tech & Safety: Very Good
Comfort: Good
Practicality: Good
Near-New Value: Good
The Honda CR-V is practical, easy to live with and remains a favourite among buyers looking for near-new used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia. It’s especially attractive for families and commuters.
Pros
- Spacious cabin and comfortable seating
- Balanced ride quality
- Good reliability reputation
Cons
- Tech features not as cutting-edge as some rivals
- Resale value lower than Toyota or Mazda in some cases
Near-New Buyer Summary
To get the most out of near-new used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia, models like the Mazda CX-5 and Toyota RAV4 stand out for their blend of modern tech, comfort and strong overall value. The Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage add choice for those who prioritise features and pricing, while the Subaru Forester and Honda CR-V offer all-weather capability and practicality.
Conclusion: Finding the Best Used SUVs Under $40,000 in Australia
Buying used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia puts you in one of the strongest value segments of the market. At this price point, you’re not forced to compromise on safety, space or comfort. Instead, you can choose from family-friendly seven-seat SUVs, proven reliable models, premium luxury options and near-new vehicles with modern technology and low kilometres.
Whether your priority is room for kids, long-term reliability, a more refined driving experience or the peace of mind that comes with a newer model, there are excellent used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia that suit real-world needs. The key is focusing on condition, service history and choosing a model that fits your lifestyle rather than chasing features you don’t need.
With the right choice, a used SUV in this budget can deliver years of comfortable, dependable ownership while avoiding the heavy depreciation of buying new.
Before buying any used SUV, it’s strongly recommended to run a vehicle history check through the Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR). A PPSR check helps confirm whether a used car is free from outstanding finance, has been reported stolen, or has been written off.
FAQs – Used SUVs Under $40,000 in Australia
What are the best used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia?
Some of the best used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia include the Toyota RAV4, Toyota Kluger, Mazda CX-5, Mazda CX-9, Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Sorento and Subaru Forester. These models are popular because they offer a strong balance of reliability, safety and value.
Can you buy a near-new SUV under $40,000 in Australia?
Yes, many near-new used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia are available, especially models from 2020 onwards. Popular choices include the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage, often with low kilometres and modern safety features.
Are used SUVs under $40,000 reliable?
Most used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia are very reliable if they have been well maintained. Japanese and Korean brands are especially known for strong long-term reliability and affordable servicing, making them a safe choice for used buyers.
What is the best family SUV under $40,000?
For families, the best used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia usually include seven-seat options like the Toyota Kluger, Mazda CX-9 and Kia Sorento. These models offer space, safety and comfort for kids, car seats and long trips.
Are luxury SUVs under $40,000 worth buying?
Luxury used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia can be worth it if you budget for slightly higher servicing costs. Models like the Volvo XC60, Lexus NX, Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLC offer premium interiors and comfort at a much lower price than new.
What mileage is acceptable for a used SUV under $40,000?
For used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia, mileage between 30,000 km and 80,000 km is generally considered good, depending on age and service history. A well-serviced higher-kilometre SUV can still be a strong buy.
Is it better to buy a used or new SUV with a $40,000 budget?
In most cases, buying used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia gives better value than buying new. You can access higher-spec models, larger SUVs or luxury brands that would be out of reach if buying new.
Which used SUV under $40,000 is cheapest to maintain?
Among used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia, models like the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson and Mitsubishi Outlander are generally cheaper to maintain due to lower servicing costs and wide parts availability.
Do used SUVs under $40,000 hold their value?
Yes, many used SUVs under $40,000 in Australia hold their value well, especially Toyota and Mazda models. Strong resale value is one of the reasons these SUVs remain popular in the used market.