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10 New SUVs You Can Buy for the Same Price as a Used Toyota Corolla Cross

South Africans are rethinking the value of buying used vehicles, especially in the compact SUV segment. According to TransUnion’s Q1 2025 Mobility Insights Report, the second-hand vehicle market is slowing down as more consumers turn toward brand-new models, particularly from affordable Indian and Chinese manufacturers.

The shift comes down to simple economics: many cash-strapped households are realizing that the price of a used car such as the popular Toyota Corolla Cross can now get them a brand-new SUV, complete with a full warranty, modern features, and zero mileage.

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Used vs. New: The Corolla Cross Benchmark

A quick glance at AutoTrader’s latest market data shows that the average price of a two-year-old Toyota Corolla Cross is about R390,158. These pre-owned models typically have around 28,000km on the clock and are nearing the end of their 3-year warranty period. Most also belong to the pre-facelift generation, as Toyota updated the model in early 2025.

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While still reliable, a used Corolla Cross offers less value in terms of long-term peace of mind compared to what some newer, entry-level SUVs are now bringing to the market. With that in mind, here are 10 brand-new SUV and crossover models you can buy for around the same price each offering a blend of features, efficiency, and warranties that make a strong case for going new.

Top 10 New SUVs Around R390,000

ModelPricePower (kW/Nm)Fuel (L/100km)WarrantyService Plan
Hyundai Venue 1.2 ExecutiveR329,90061 / 1156.55y/150,000km + 7y drivetrain3y/45,000km
Omoda C5 1.5T StyleR364,900115 / 2307.45y/150,000km + 10y engine2y/25,000km
Honda Elevate 1.5 ComfortR371,00089 / 1456.75y/200,000km4y/60,000km
Mahindra XUV 3XO 1.2T AX5LR374,99982 / 2005.65y/150,000km5y/100,000km
Citroen C3 Aircross Max (7-seater)R379,90081 / 2056.35y/100,000km4y/60,000km
Kia Seltos 1.5 LSR379,99584 / 1446.75y/unlimited km4y/60,000km
Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.5 GL AutoR381,90077 / 1386.05y/200,000km4y/60,000km
Haval Jolion Pro 1.5T PremiumR391,150105 / 2108.17y/200,000km7y/75,000km
Chery Tiggo 4 Pro 1.5T ComfortR399,900108 / 2107.25y/150,000km + 10y engine5y/60,000km
Volkswagen T-Cross 1.0TSIR399,90070 / 1755.93y/120,000km3y/45,000km

Why Buyers Are Choosing New

There are several reasons why more people are choosing new vehicles over pre-owned options:

  • Longer warranties and service plans provide financial protection.
  • Better technology and safety features in new models.
  • Peace of mind with zero mileage and no prior wear or damage.
  • Lower running costs, thanks to improved fuel efficiency and modern engineering.

In many cases, buyers no longer have to compromise on brand-new ownership just to stay within budget. Brands like Chery, Mahindra, Haval, and Omoda are offering aggressive pricing backed by strong warranties to win over budget-conscious South Africans.

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Even traditional automakers like Kia, Hyundai, and Honda have entered the fray with well-specced, affordable SUVs that rival the used offerings from legacy brands.With used vehicles like the Toyota Corolla Cross pushing the R390,000 mark, it makes sense to consider what brand-new options are available at the same price point. The models listed here offer better long-term value, full warranty coverage, and fresh-from-the-factory quality.

For anyone in the market for an SUV in South Africa today, buying new might not just be a smart choice it could be the best one.

Related article: Best Cars for Tall People in 2025: Top Picks for Comfort and Space

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