Beyond compare
Our car comparison series pits some of the most popular cars on the used-car market against one another to help find the perfect fit for you. This time around, it’s the battle of the family SUVs priced around $20,000.
The competitors
Mazda CX-5 Maxx Sport 2WD 2012
At a glance: 1997 cc petrol, 6-speed auto
Price range: $16,000–$20,300
Price when new: $33,620
Fuel economy: 6.4L/100km
Average km: 97,000
Mazda has found incredible success with the lauded CX-5 and finding a used one shouldn’t be hard given strong new-car sales at the time.
Kia Sportage AWD SLi 2012
At a glance: SLi 2359 cc petrol, 6-speed auto
Price range: $13,200– $17,400
Price when new: $32,720
Fuel economy: 9.2L/100km
Average km: 87,000
Kia really came of age around 2012, where sleek design, world-class safety and solid engineering helped them shake the ‘cheap and cheerful’ reputation of yesteryear.
And in this competitive space, car markers live and die by their reputations.
The Kia Sportage is great value for money.
Subaru Forester XS AWD 2012
At a glance: 2498 cc petrol, 4-speed auto
Price range: $15,400–$19,700
Price when new: $36,990
Fuel economy: 9.3L/100km
Average km: 87,000
As one of the first SUVs to hit our market, the Forester was (and remains) a strong seller and there are plenty around to choose from.
Volkswagen Tiguan 132 TSI Pacific 2012
At a glance: 1984 cc petrol, 6-speed auto
Price range: $15,000–$19,200
Price when new: $35,990
Fuel economy: 8.8L/100km
Average km: 85,000
The Tiguan certainly appeals to those with an eye for German engineering and a European ride without the hefty price tag of a BMW, Audi or Mercedes equivalent.
The Volkswagen Tiguan is cheap to run.
What’s hot
This really depends on what you’re looking for.
The CX-5 takes the cake in the styling stakes, and also has the best fuel economy of the bunch at a frugal 6.4L/100km.
While the Tiguan does okay in this space, the other two are relative guzzlers, considering their size and power.
With the most power and torque of the four here, the Tiguan will tick the boxes for those seeking a bit more ‘oomph’, and it also happens to be the cheapest to run.
But despite its power, the Forester is probably a better option for families who like to go bush every now and then.
That’s thanks to superior ground clearance and a great balance between off-road agility and on-road comfort.
Having said that, the CX-5 is better for towing, with the highest braked towing capacity.
Where the Sportage shines is its five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, meaning you might just be able to find one that’s still covered.
What’s… not
Servicing is a necessary cost for any car, but it’s harder to stomach when the outlays are more than you expected.
For the Forester, the six-monthly or 12,500km servicing intervals are pricey and definitely the weakest point of Subaru’s offering.
The same applies for the CX-5, which requires attention every six months or 10,000 kilometres.
On the topic of servicing: if you’re leaning towards the Tiguan, make sure it’s got a good service history.
Maintenance and repairs can be costly for VWs – especially if they haven’t been looked after – and, as this model’s had some transmission shift issues, you should hunt one down that’s had any recalls addressed and software updates completed.
Fuel economy is definitely a pain point for both the Forester and Sportage, and the Kia falls slightly short in terms of rear visibility and space for adults.
Other bug bears include louder cabin noise in the CX-5; and a four-speed auto in the Forester, when it really calls for a five- or six-speed.
The Subaru Forester XS gets top marks for being a great all-rounder.
Don’t buy a lemon
If you’re in the market for a used car, consider getting an RAA Vehicle Inspection.
