SUVs are popular across the globe, and for good reason. Automakers continue to diversify their range of SUVs with each passing year because these are the most affordable vehicles by performance for value. That is why, if you are looking for SUVs for sale in South Africa, we have rounded the top 5 cars for you. You can easily search and review them on SBT South Africa. So, let’s begin.

1. Hyundai Kona

The first vehicle that tops our list of the best SUV cars in South Africa is the Hyundai Kona. The Hyundai Kona is a compact SUV that has a new design for the 2023 model year. It is available in three powertrain options: gasoline, hybrid, and electric.

The 2023 Hyundai Kona comes with three engine options. You can find a 2.0-liter engine that gives 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. Moreover, there’s also the option of a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine that gives 195 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque.

Moreover, the 2023 Hyundai Kona has two transmission options. A six-speed automatic transmission comes as standard. On the other hand, if you opt for the 1.6-liter engine, you can enjoy a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

The 2023 Hyundai Kona has a stylish and modern interior. It prioritizes comfort and convenience for the driver and passengers. Furthermore, a large touchscreen display dominates the dashboard, and there are several high-quality and soft-touch materials lining the cabin.

Additionally, the 2023 Hyundai Kona has a bold and eye-catching exterior design. In the front, a large grille catches the eye, and there are sleek headlights and taillights. Basically, the Kona has a muscular stance, and it’s just perfect for off-road driving.

Another key point of the Kona is its ample capacity. The gasoline-powered Kona has 19.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, while the hybrid Kona has 18 cubic feet of space. The electric Kona has 11.2 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats but an additional 26.1 cubic feet of space under the cargo floor.

Lastly, the price of the Hyundai Kona on SBT Japan lies between ZAR 186,000 and ZAR 567,000, depending on the make and model.

2. Kia Soul

Next on our list is the 2023 Kia Soul. It is an eye-catching subcompact SUV to drive that certainly stands out on the roads.

Two powertrain options are available for the 2023 Kia Soul. A 1.6L four-cylinder engine produces 126 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. A 2.0L engine produces 147 horsepower and 133 lb-ft of torque. A continuously variable gearbox (CVT) is matched with both engines.

The 2023 Kia Soul is available with a single transmission option, which is the CVT. The CVT is smooth and efficient, and it helps the Soul achieve good fuel economy.

The 2023 Kia Soul comes with plenty of room and a cheerful interior. The materials are high-quality, and the fit and finish are excellent. Moreover, you will find the push-button ignition with keyless entry and a smartphone charging pad. Other features it boasts include ambient lighting and heating for the seats.

On the outside, the Kia Soul has an impressive body. It’s boxy and angular, but it’s also stylish and modern. The headlights are large and expressive, while the taillights are stylish as well.

The 2023 Kia Soul boasts an impressive 61.3 cubic feet of cargo space when the rear seats are folded. This is more than many other subcompact SUVs, including the Honda HR-V (58.3 cubic feet) and the Toyota C-HR (59.4 cubic feet).

Despite all its features, the Kia Soul SUV prices in South Africa begin from ZAR 102,000 and go up to ZAR 417,400.

3. Kia Niro

The 2023 Kia Niro is a compact SUV that comes in three variants: hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or fully electric powertrains. It’s known for its fuel efficiency, versatility, and a long list of standard features.

Furthermore, there are three powertrain options to choose from:

Hybrid: The hybrid Niro comes with a 1.6-liter engine that gives a combined 146 horsepower. It has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of up to 50 mpg in the city and 46 mpg on the highway.

Plug-in hybrid (PHEV): The PHEV Niro uses a larger 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and a larger electric motor to produce a combined 188 horsepower. Moreover, it can achieve up to 105 MPGe combined.

Electric (EV): The EV Niro uses a 64.8-kWh battery and an electric motor to produce 201 horsepower. It has an EPA-estimated range of 289 miles, making it one of the longest-range electric SUVs on the market.

All three powertrain options of the 2023 Kia Niro come with a standard six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

The 2023 Kia Niro has a stylish and well-designed interior. There is enough room for both front and rear passengers. Furthermore, the 2023 Kia Niro has a modern and stylish exterior design. The headlights and taillights are sleek and impressive.

Additionally, The 2023 Kia Niro comes standard with a long list of technology features, including a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a suite of driver-assistance features.

As a result, you can purchase the Kia Niro between ZAR 201,000 and ZAR 581,600 from SBT Japan.

Also read: Unveiling the Top 5 Muscle Cars for Sale in South Africa

4. Mazda CX-30

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 is another sought-after SUV for sale in South Africa that makes this list for its performance and functionality. It is a compact SUV that is well-liked by urban dwellers.

Under the hood, the CX-30 houses a responsive and fuel-efficient powertrain. It commonly comes with a 2.5-liter engine that is most suitable for daily commutes while giving commendable fuel economy.

Furthermore, the engine is paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission, delivering power to either the front wheels or all four wheels in the available all-wheel-drive configurations.

Additionally, the interior of the CX-30 is thoughtfully crafted and exudes class. The cabin is set apart with high-quality fittings that give a premium feel. Moreover, the seats are comfortable even if you take a long drive.

However, the Mazda’s signature KODO design philosophy shines through in the CX-30’s exterior aesthetics. The vehicle exudes elegance and athleticism with its sleek lines, sculpted curves, and captivating front grille.

Simultaneously, Mazda prioritizes technology integration to enhance the driving experience. The CX-30 comes with an advanced infotainment system that has a user-friendly touchscreen interface. Smartphone integration, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allows seamless connectivity for navigation, music streaming, and hands-free communication.

The SUV prices in South Africa for Mazda CX-30 are between ZAR 239,500 and ZAR 719,000.

5. Honda CR-V

The 2023 Honda CR-V continues to draw attention in the compact SUV cars segment of South Africa. With its versatile design, advanced technology, and efficient performance, the CR-V caters to a wide range of drivers seeking a well-rounded vehicle.

Under the hood, the 2023 CR-V typically houses a peppy yet fuel-efficient powertrain. Most models come with a responsive 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering a commendable balance of power and efficiency. Furthermore, this engine comes with a CVT and gives smooth acceleration and optimal fuel economy in various driving conditions.

Honda’s design philosophy is evident in the CR-V’s exterior, characterized by sleek lines, a bold front grille, and sculpted contours that impart a sense of sophistication and modernity.

Step inside the CR-V, and you’ll find a thoughtfully crafted interior that emphasizes comfort and functionality. The cabin boasts quality materials, comfortable seating, and ample legroom and headroom for occupants in both the front and rear seats. The layout is user-friendly, with controls placed intuitively for easy access.

The Honda CR-V prices begin from ZAR 126,000 and go up to ZAR 373,476. You can review the vehicle at SBT South Africa.