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People look for SUVs for a variety of reasons – whether you have a growing family and need a car that can safely cope with everything you throw at it, or you need a car that can handle your off-road hobbies and city driving as well, or if you just have grown accustomed to having a spacious and powerful automobile.

To help you make your choice, here is a rundown of four of the most affordable SUVs on the market today.

Kia Sportage

Founded in 1944, Kia is Korea’s oldest manufacturer, and their SUV has consistently impressed reviewers and car buyers alike. The Sportage boasts Hill-Start Assist Control and Downhill brake control to help you while driving, dusk-sensing automatic headlamps, and childproof rear door locks. Reviewers at drive.com.au praise its ‘design-driven exterior’ and the powerful engine. The affordability of Kia’s range is often highlighted, and early in 2012 the brand won the award for the Total Cost of Ownership, awarded by Kelley Blue Book – a sign of its dependability and its low ownership costs.

Skoda Yeti

The Skoda Yeti has many fans, and it’s not hard to see why – in 2011, the Skoda Yeti was named the best SUV of the year (under $40,000) by drive.com.au, and this SUV was a finalist in the same competition in 2012. The judges praised its responsive all-wheel-drive system and ingenious use of space. It is roomy and spacious inside, easily able to fit everything you might need to transport (and, at a maximum of 1665 litres, it boasts a bigger boot than many other SUVs!). The safety features include seven airbags, the Starting Assistant, which allows you to start the car easily in difficult environments (such as when hauling a heavy load or when on an incline), and the Hill Driving Assistant, which helps the SUV stay on track and at a constant speed when travelling downhill.

Hyundai Santa Fe

While SUVs might not be the cars that Hyundai is best known for, the midsized Hyundai Santa Fe is winning people over with its appealing design, smooth handling, and effective use of space. Safety is a primary consideration for the Santa Fe, and it offers seven airbags as standard, a sophisticated Anti-Lock Braking System, and a Vehicle Stability Management system that will help keep you safe in any condition. According to drive.com.au, many buyers of the Santa Fe have children and they appreciate the extra space that the Santa Fe provides, enabling them to take their family and friends with them on long or short journeys. The Santa Fe Elite won the award for Australia’s Best Cars 2012 in the category for Best SUV over $40,000, but the Santa Fe Active is more affordable and offers many of the same features.

Skoda Scout

If you’re looking for a compact SUV, consider the Skoda Scout. In addition to six airbags and an advanced satellite navigation system, this 4×4 is full of helpful features, including a Light Assistant that will help illuminate your path when you’re getting in or out of the car, an engine immobilizer that can help prevent theft, a centre console between the two front seats that is cooled by the car’s air conditioning system (so your drinks or snacks will stay chilled and ready to drink or eat!), and a built-in net system in the boot to stabilize anything you’re transporting – whether that’s luggage, groceries, or sporting equipment.