Comparing SUV Servicing Costs: Which Models Offer the Best Value?
SUVs dominate the modern automotive market, with buyers drawn to their versatility, space, and elevated driving position. But with so many models available, picking the right SUV goes beyond just the sticker price. One important factor often overlooked is the cost of maintaining your vehicle over time, especially when it comes to routine servicing.
To help you navigate through the crowded SUV segment, we’ve broken down the servicing costs and support packages for some of the most popular SUVs on Australian roads.
Mitsubishi Outlander: Long-Term Peace of Mind
- Service Interval: 12 months/15,000km
- Capped-Price Servicing: 10 years (conditional)
- Total Cost: $4040-$5490
- Average Annual Cost: $404-$549
Mitsubishi offers one of the longest servicing programs with its conditional 10-year capped-price servicing, giving Outlander owners a decade of worry-free maintenance. The average yearly servicing cost varies between $404 and $549, depending on whether you opt for the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) or the internal combustion engine variants.
MG ZS: Affordable with Extended Warranty
- Service Interval: 12 months/10,000km
- Capped-Price Servicing: 7 years
- Total Cost: $2057
- Average Annual Cost: $294
The MG ZS is a standout in terms of affordability, not only in purchase price but also in running costs. Its seven-year capped-price servicing plan adds value, making it one of the more budget-friendly SUVs to maintain.
Kia Sportage: Variant-Specific Pricing
- Service Interval: 12 months/10,000km or 12 months/15,000km (depending on variant)
- Capped-Price Servicing: 7 years
- Total Cost: $3353-$3915
- Average Annual Cost: $479-$559
The Kia Sportage offers a mix of petrol, diesel, and hybrid variants, with servicing costs varying across the range. Despite the higher average annual costs, Kia’s seven-year unlimited-kilometre warranty adds extra value for long-term owners.
Hyundai Tucson: Transparent Lifetime Servicing
- Service Interval: 12 months/10,000km or 12 months/15,000km (depending on variant)
- Capped-Price Servicing: Lifetime (service activated)
- Total Cost: $1799-$2040 (5 years)
- Average Annual Cost: $360-$408
Hyundai’s Tucson comes with a lifetime capped-price servicing option, providing owners with transparent maintenance costs. With an average annual service cost of $360-$408, it’s a smart choice for those wanting predictable long-term ownership expenses.
Hyundai Kona: Variants Affect Costs
- Service Interval: 12 months/10,000km or 12 months/15,000km (depending on variant)
- Capped-Price Servicing: Lifetime (service activated)
- Total Cost: $1995-$2535 (5 years)
- Average Annual Cost: $399-$507
The Hyundai Kona follows a similar service schedule to the Tucson, with the total cost depending on the variant. Petrol models are cheaper to service than hybrid ones, but the overall lifetime servicing option makes the Kona a flexible and transparent choice.
Conclusion: Which SUV Offers the Best Value?
When it comes to aftersales support, the MG ZS impresses with its affordability and extended warranty. Mitsubishi’s long-term servicing program is a strong contender for those who plan on holding onto their vehicle for a decade. On the higher end of the spectrum, the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Kona provide extra features and flexibility, making them attractive options despite their slightly higher costs.
In the end, the best SUV for you will depend on your budget, usage, and long-term ownership plans.