As the year comes to a close, it’s time to look back on the premium mid-sized SUVs that wowed the CarExpert test team in 2024.
Hyundai Ioniq 5 N
A host of new electric models have entered the market, while established luxury brands made meaningful improvements to standing ICE models.
The result was a crop of upmarket SUVs that scored elite ratings from our test team. These are the five that topped our score charts over the calendar year.
Some of these models have been reviewed on multiple occasions this year – in that scenario, we’ve featured the variant that achieved the highest rating.
These models all compete in the medium SUV over $60,000 category, as defined by VFACTS sales statistics published by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI).
Prices are based on each manufacturer’s configurators for a Victorian postcode, which should give you a representative estimate of what the average buyer will end up paying.
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Genesis GV70 
Tesla Model Y
| Model | CarExpert rating | Victorian drive-away price |
|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Ioniq 5 N | 9.0 | $124,440 |
| Genesis GV70 | 8.8 | $87,214 – $110,221 |
| Tesla Model Y | 8.6 | $61,200 – $89,334 |
| Cupra Formentor VZx | 8.4 | $67,790 |
| Kia EV5 | 8.4 | $56,770 – $75,990 |
Hyundai Ioniq 5 N
Not only was the Hyundai our top rating premium mid-sized SUV, it was our top rated car, period.
Scoring 9.0 out of 10, the electric Hyundai Ioniq 5 N was awarded near-perfect ratings for performance, handling dynamics, technology infotainment, and fit for purpose.
Hyundai N’s three pillars are Corner Rascal, Racetrack Capability and Everyday Sportscar. Just like the i20 N, i30 N and Kona N before it, the Ioniq 5 N delivers.
It’s a great evolution of the ‘hot hatch’ formula, even if it’s more of a crossover. It’s silly fast and fun to drive, comfortable and practical enough to daily, while offering zero local emissions, usable driving range (if with a measured right foot), as well as fast to charge.
Power comes from a dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain, combining a 166kW front and 282kW rear motor for total system outputs of 448kW of power and 740Nm of torque.
The electric motors, which Hyundai says can rev up to 21,000rpm, are powered by a new 84kWh lithium-ion battery, with enhanced thermal management and a claimed peak charging speed of 350kW.
You can read our full review of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N here
| Hyundai Ioniq 5 N | |
|---|---|
| CarExpert rating | 9.0 |
| Victorian drive-away price | $124,440 |
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Supercar performance in a Hyundai! | It’s bloody expensive |
| Properly fun to drive on road and track | Can’t always hide its 2.2t weight |
| Still a spacious and practical family daily | Some may find the looks, sounds a bit much |
Interested in buying a Hyundai Ioniq 5 N? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
MORE: Everything Hyundai Ioniq 5
Genesis GV70
Since its launch in 2021, the Genesis GV70 has been a standout choice in the super-competitive mid-sized luxury SUV segment, and the latest update scored 8.8 out of 10 in our ratings.
A perfect score for cost of ownership underpinned that rating – Genesis provides free scheduled servicing for the first five years, a real point-of-difference when compared to premium rivals.
We also praised the GV70 for its interior design and quality – there is not a surface that feels cheap or plasticky.
On the road, the GV70 feels and drives like a proper premium product. The engine and transmission work harmoniously for both powertrain options, and it it rides beautifully if you prioritise comfort over unnecessary rigidity.
Two engines are offered – a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder and a 3.5-litre turbocharged six-cylinder. Both offer more than 200kW of power, although they can be a little thirsty.
You can read our full review of the Genesis GV70 here
| Genesis GV70 | |
|---|---|
| CarExpert rating | 8.8 |
| Victorian drive-away price | $87,214 – $110,221 |
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent interior fit and finish | Price increase is noticeable |
| Smooth drivetrains | Doesn’t carry Euro brand prestige |
| Great ride with sporty character | Limited dealer network |
Interested in buying a Genesis GV70? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
MORE: Everything Genesis GV70
Tesla Model Y
Rounding out the podium is the electric Tesla Model Y, which scored 8.6 out of 10 in our latest test.
Now priced from just $55,900 before on-road costs, discounts have improved the value of an already well-priced vehicle, and it remains a top choice for EV buyers.
The Model Y is very minimalist inside and out, with a spacious and practical interior. It’s incredibly safe, and shouldn’t cost much to run given Tesla’s condition-based servicing policy.
When it comes to the driving experience, the Model Y is mostly inoffensive with plentiful power on tap and the quiet ambience of a large, insulated electric car.
However, question marks over values remain. Tesla is constantly tinkering with pricing, and hurting resale values as a result.
You can read our full review of the Tesla Model Y here
| Tesla Model Y | |
|---|---|
| CarExpert rating | 8.6 |
| Victorian drive-away price | $61,200 – $89,334 |
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Market-leading | Price cuts hurt resale |
| Still extremely well equipped | Still not as comfy as some rivals |
| Ultra practical design | Short warranty |
Interested in buying a Tesla Model Y? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
MORE: Everything Tesla Model Y
Cupra Formentor
Consistent ratings across the board saw the sporty, sexy Cupra Formentor VZx scored 8.4 out of 10 back in February.
Featuring a drivetrain closely related to the Volkswagen Golf R, the top-spec Formentor absolutely rips when you put your foot down. It’s also a mature commuter, with light steering, a comfortable ride from the adaptive dampers, and a solid (but not standout) sound system.
Inside, bucket-style seats and a sporty steering wheel featuring start and drive mode buttons make the Formentor VZx feel meaningfully sportier than any other SUV for the same money.
Sporty thrills don’t come at the cost of practicality either – the Formentor packs more space inside than you’d expect given its angular, overgrown hatchback proportions.
Our main criticism? The optional Akrapovic exhaust is very expensive, and just doesn’t sound special enough, enough of the time to justify the spend.
You can read our full review of the Cupra Formentor VZx here
| Cupra Formentor VZx | |
|---|---|
| CarExpert rating | 8.4 |
| Victorian drive-away price | $67,790 |
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Impressive performance | Noisy on the open road |
| Surprisingly spacious interior | Interior technology can be fiddly |
| Sharp exterior styling stands out | Akrapovic exhaust isn’t loud enough for $6000 |
Interested in buying a Cupra Formentor? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
MORE: Everything Cupra Formentor
Kia EV5
Kia’s latest electric car in Australia was a hit with our test team at launch, scoring 8.4 out of 10.
In particular, the EV5 stood out in the areas of interior practicality (9) and value for money (8.8).
It’s a much better-rounded package than both the EV6 and EV9, while also coming in cheaper than the similar Niro EV.
If you’re coming from an older car, it offers a much less intimidating setup than its rivals. The interior of the EV5 may be modern, but it isn’t quite at the ‘spaceship’ level that can be a dealbreaker for many EV buyers.
The EV5 is an easy car to drive too, with plenty of range and a comfortable ride. Three electric powertrains are available, but we’d recommend the base variants that feature a single motor producing 160kW and 310Nm.
You can read our full review of the Kia EV5 here
| Kia EV5 | |
|---|---|
| CarExpert rating | 8.4 |
| Victorian drive-away price | $56,770 – $75,990 |
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Familiar presentation | Intrusive lane-keep assist |
| Impressive real-world economy | Annoying speed limit warning |
| Reassuring driving dynamics | Regenerative braking quirks |
Interested in buying a Kia EV5? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
MORE: Everything Kia EV5
