Best Used SUVs Under $30,000 in Perth WA 2026: Reliability, Fuel Economy & Family-Friendly Picks

The used SUV market in Perth remains incredibly popular in 2026, thanks to Western Australia's mix of city driving, coastal roads, and weekend escapes to the Margaret River or the Wheatbelt. If you're searching for a used SUV under $30,000 in Perth, you want something reliable, spacious, fuel-efficient, and safe — without the new-car price tag.

This guide rounds up the strongest contenders currently circulating in the Rockingham, Mandurah, Fremantle, and greater Perth used car scene. These models consistently appear in local listings, hold value well, and suit Australian conditions.

SUVs make up over 50% of used vehicle sales in WA due to their higher ride height (great for potholes and unsealed roads), versatile cargo space, and family appeal. In 2026, buyers prioritise:

• Strong safety ratings (ANCAP 5-star where possible)

• Reasonable fuel consumption amid fluctuating petrol prices

• Proven reliability to avoid expensive repairs

• Good ground clearance for light off-road or beach access

1. Toyota RAV4 (2016–2019 models)

   The benchmark for reliability. Hybrid variants deliver 5–6 L/100km combined — excellent for Perth commutes. Spacious interior, strong resale, and Toyota's legendary durability. Common issues: Check for timing chain wear on non-hybrids. Average price: $22,000–$29,000.

2. Mazda CX-5 (2017–2020)

   Sporty handling and premium-feeling cabin. Petrol turbo models offer punchy performance; diesels hit ~6 L/100km. Excellent safety tech (AEB, lane-keep). Watch for rust on underbody in coastal areas. Average price: $20,000–$28,500.

3. Hyundai Tucson (2016–2020)

   Feature-packed for the money — panoramic sunroofs, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and generous warranty remnants. Diesel variants are frugal (~6.5 L/100km). Solid 5-star ANCAP. Inspect for transmission smoothness. Average price: $18,000–$27,000.

4. Subaru Forester (2016–2019)

   Standard AWD is perfect for WA's wet winters and gravel roads. Reliable boxer engine, good visibility, and high safety scores. Fuel use ~7–8 L/100km. Check CVT history carefully. Average price: $21,000–$29,000.

5. Honda CR-V (2015–2018)

   Smooth ride, cavernous boot, and Honda reliability. Petrol models average 7.5 L/100km. Very family-friendly with easy-access rear seats. Minimal major faults reported. Average price: $19,000–$26,000.

6. Kia Sportage (2016–2020)

   Striking looks, long factory warranty (up to 7 years on some), and modern tech. Diesel options sip fuel. Great value. Monitor for electrical gremlins in early models. Average price: $19,500–$28,000.

7. Nissan X-Trail (2017–2020)

   Seven-seat options for larger families. Diesel variants offer towing capability and ~6.5 L/100km. Comfortable cruiser. Check CVT fluid service records. Average price: $20,000–$29,000.

8. Mitsubishi Outlander (2016–2020)

   PHEV versions (plug-in hybrid) give electric-only range for short Perth trips. Spacious third row in some. Reliable but thirsty on petrol-only models. Average price: $22,000–$30,000.

• Get a PPSR check

  — Essential to avoid written-off or stolen vehicles.

• Service history

  — Full logbooks trump everything.

• Independent inspection

  — Worth $200–$300 to spot hidden issues (rust, suspension wear).

• Test drive in real conditions

  — Perth traffic, highways, and hills reveal a lot.

• Fuel type

  — Diesels suit high-km drivers; hybrids/PHEVs save money in city use.

• Seasonal factors

  — Summer heat stresses batteries/AC; coastal salt accelerates rust.

• Skipping a pre-purchase inspection

• Focusing only on low kilometres (neglecting service history)

• Ignoring future costs (rego, insurance, tyres for larger SUVs)

With Perth's used SUV supply strong in 2026, buyers have leverage. Take your time, compare multiple examples, and prioritise vehicles from reputable sellers with transparent histories.

Ready to start your search? Local dealerships and online platforms in Rockingham and Perth often stock these exact models.