We’ve made comparing our compact and crossover SUV range easy
With ample choice on the market, we’ve made comparing crossover and compact SUV options as stress-free as possible. In this guide we’ll be comparing some of New Zealand’s most popular crossover/compact SUVs. Categorised from everyday options to premium, performance, luxury, hybrid, electric, and more.
Looking to compare electric crossover and compact SUVs? View our comprehensive electric vehicle guide.
Often characterised as a weekly urban commuter and backyard explorer, the crossover or compact SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle) is a small SUV that has plenty of boot space and a decent amount of clearance from the road. But what exactly are crossover vehicles? Well, if you like the idea of a cross between a hatchback and an SUV, then a crossover SUV (sometimes referred to as a Crossover Utility Vehicle, CUV), might be the perfect vehicle for you. Compact and crossover SUVs offer the perfect step up from your traditional hatchback in terms of utility, without the scary or unnecessary jump into the mid-size or large SUV market.
Did we mention compact SUVs seamlessly fit right into the New Zealand lifestyle with the ability to effortlessly tackle both city commutes and classic kiwi roadtrips?
Whether your criteria includes extra boot space, a hybrid option or enhanced performance, we’re sure to have a dream crossover or compact SUV that meets your budget. As the single largest collection of automotive brands in New Zealand, we have an array of award-winning SUVs on offer.
So what exactly is a crossover or compact SUV?
If you’re looking at crossover/compact SUVs, you’re likely wanting a vehicle that offers the practicality of a SUV, but feels more like a hatchback. Built on a lighter car-like platform, these SUVs employ a unibody construction. This means that the underlying frame is a single unit, similar to a hatchback, whereas larger SUVs are generally built on a truck chassis. A lighter unibody frame provides adequate interior, passenger, and luggage space with improved fuel economy and superior ride handling qualities. This vehicle category combines the popular maneuverability and ease-of-parking of a hatchback – but with added ground clearance and often additional safety features. New Zealand’s crossover and compact SUV market has demanded more durability, that’s why we often see slight off-road characteristics in this category, such as wheel arches and additional underbody protection. Perfect for New Zealand roads.
If towing capacity is high on your list of vehicle requirements or you’re afters something a little larger, be sure to check out our medium or large SUVs, too.
Purchasing a crossover or compact SUV
Purchasing a new vehicle is an exciting journey, and for most people it’s the second biggest purchase after home ownership. With such a big purchase, you naturally want to do some research. With so many different options available, we understand it can get overwhelming, quickly. So, we’ve done the hard work for you; comparing brands, models, price range, fuel economy, boot space, and more.
We understand that you may not be ready to speak to a salesperson just yet, but keep in mind our dealerships do hold insights into current stock availability, including what’s available at the dealership, what’s available in the country, and what’s due to arrive on the next boat. You can make an enquiry here.
Test driving a crossover or compact SUV
If you know what you’re looking for, feel free to complete a test drive booking to get the ball rolling.
Preparing yourself for a test-drive? Be sure to read this handy article about what you can expect when test driving a vehicle.
Choose a category
To help find a compact or crossover SUV that suits your lifestyle and budget, choose your preferred category below.
Compare everyday crossover and compact SUVs
These everyday crossover SUVs are exactly that; suitable for everyday use and offering appeal to a wide market. Whether taking the kids to school, picking up the groceries up, or heading to the bach, these cars get the job done while offering excellent value.
View our range of crossover SUVs from roughly $25,000 to $35,000.
Character Overview
Meet one of the most fun crossover SUVs on the road. A sleek muscular body with compact features, Kia’s all-new crossover SUV is here. The Stonic provides a roomy passenger experience with all the benefits of the crossover class, plus fun features and fresh features that bring a free spirit to the vehicle.
Kia Stonic
- From 6 L/100 km fuel economy
- Up to 1,135 litres of storage space
- Petrol
- 5 year/150,000 km Kia warranty*
- Explore the Kia Stonic
Character Overview
Sophistication meets bold architecture in the Haval Jolion. Designed with ultimate intelligence in mind and brought to life by high-performing technology – all from just $29,990 + ORC. Investing in a Haval means driving a car that’s been designed with you in mind, built with pride and engineered to last.
Haval Jolion
- From 8.1 L/100 km fuel economy
- Storage capacity TBC
- Petrol or Hybrid
- 5 year/150,000 km Kia warranty*
- Explore the Haval Jolion
Character Overview
For bold design that catches the eye, look no further than the Kia Seltos. An all-round performer with exemplary control, dynamic performance and enhanced occupant protection.
“If you’re after a practical, well-priced runabout, which provides the everyday durability to fare the storm of young kids, wet dogs, and muddy rugby boots – you will not be disappointed with the Seltos LX. ” – Alistair Weekes, Drivelife.co.nz
Kia Seltos
- From 7.7 L/100 km fuel economy
- Up to 1,428 litres storage space
- Petrol
- 5 year/150,000 km Kia warranty*
- Explore the Kia Seltos
Character Overview
Stylish, safe and fuel efficient fun! The ultimate Toyota combination of hatchback confidence with SUV capability makes it a dream to drive any adventure, big or small.
Toyota Yaris Cross
- From 6.0 L/100 km fuel economy
- Up to 390 litres of storage space with the rear seats up
- Petrol and hybrid options
- 3 year/100,000 km Toyota warranty*
- Explore the Toyota Yaris Cross
Character Overview
The HR-V is the master of compact crossover efficiency, offering a high-riding position and a clever interior that feels much larger than its footprint suggests. It is the perfect companion for the “urban adventurer.”
“A nicely packaged small utility… comfort, interior space, responsive handling, and a long list of standard driver assists.” – Car and Driver
Honda HR-V
- From 5.2 L/100 km fuel economy
- Up to 304 litres of storage space with the rear seats up
- e:HEV Hybrid
- 5 year (unlimited km) warranty*
- Explore the Honda HR-V
