Every parent wants the perfect parental family SUV, right? You need space, you need power, you need it to not look like a ‘parent car’, and you need all the bells and whistles. Basically, what you want is a million rand car, but you can’t afford that.

I received a message yesterday from a mom who is looking for an SUV that is “…cool, practical, good resale value and not that heavy on juice. And yes, leather seats and automatic is a must!”

You see? You want it all, but your budget does not allow for it. But that is where I come in. Juliet to the rescue I like to say! (Ok, I don’t really like to say that, but you can think it if you so desire.)

New or second-hand?

The whole ‘should-I-buy-new-or-second-hand?’ debate is one for another time. However, there are many fantastic second-hand options that will offer more space and perhaps more along the lines of what you are looking for. You will find my second-hand options at the bottom of this post.

Until then…

Here are five SUVs under R350 000 that have the space (well sort of) and spec you are after. Design is subjective so you decide on that for yourself. Most will have leather interior as an optional extra if you want. And they are all automatic models.

Disclaimer: The pics might not show the exact model I list. But you get the idea.

RENAULT DUSTER 1.5 dCi PRESTIGE 4X2
Priced from: R340 900

SUZUKI VITARA 1.6 GL+ 6AT 2WD
Priced from: R342 900

PEUGEOT 2008 ALLURE 1.2 81KW AT
Priced from: R343 900

HONDA BR-V 1.5 ELEGANCE CVT
Priced from: R312 100

RENAULT CAPTUR 88KW TURBO DYNAMIQUE
Priced from: R336 900

SECOND HAND

If you have up to R350 000 to spend, walk in to a Mazda or Kia dealership and try make a deal on the CX-5 or Sportage (two of my absolute favourite cars). There are many demo models you may just be able to get your hands on. Other options include Hyundai Tucson, Volkswagen Tiguan, Toyota RAV4 and give the Nissan X-Trail a look too.

If you have more to spend, I list five SUVs for under R450k.