Feature article
Best used cars for under $30k in NZ
With a budget of up to $30,000, there are plenty of excellent used vehicles available in New Zealand.
With a budget of up to $30,000, there are plenty of excellent used vehicles available in New Zealand that combine value, reliability and safety. Whether you’re after a family-friendly SUV, a capable ute, or even a hybrid or EV, this price range opens the door to some of the best choices on the market. In this guide, we’ve rounded up top picks across various categories to help you find the right fit for your needs, lifestyle, and driving habits—without going over budget.
Best compact SUV
Kia Seltos 2019 - 2024
The Kia Seltos (2019–2024) is a strong contender in the NZ used car market, offering a stylish, practical, and well-equipped compact SUV. It's popular among Kiwi buyers thanks to its spacious interior, high seating position, and user-friendly technology. With a good mix of economy and performance, the 2.0L petrol engine is the most common, while the turbocharged 1.6L version (available in GT-Line models) delivers more punch for those who want a sportier feel.
The Seltos features modern safety tech like autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control, particularly in higher trims. Infotainment is a standout, with large touchscreens, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto on most models.
Potential issues include reports of a noisy CVT transmission in the 2.0L models and some concerns around the durability of interior materials in base trims. Turbocharged variants may require more expensive servicing, so check service history closely.
For most buyers, LX+ or EX models from 2020 onwards strike the best balance between features and affordability. These offer updated styling, strong safety equipment, and represent excellent value in the used SUV segment in New Zealand.
Best family wagon
Subaru Outback 2015 - 2020
The Subaru Outback (2015–2020) is a great used car option for New Zealanders, especially those who enjoy outdoor activities. It combines the comfort of a wagon with the capability of an SUV, offering standard all-wheel drive and generous ground clearance—perfect for Kiwi roads, beach trips, and ski fields. The Outback has a spacious interior, large boot (512L), and is packed with safety tech like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and autonomous emergency braking in higher trims.
Engine options include a reliable 2.5L four-cylinder and a more powerful 3.6L six-cylinder, both mated to a CVT automatic. The 2.5L is more common and fuel-efficient, but the 3.6L is better if you want to tow. The ride is smooth and composed, and interior quality is excellent for the class.
However, be cautious of CVT issues—look for regular servicing and smooth operation. Some early models may suffer from oil consumption or battery drain problems. Also, check for signs of corrosion underneath, especially in imports.
The best pick for most buyers is a NZ-new 2.5i Premium from 2017–2020, offering EyeSight safety tech, leather seats, and excellent all-round value for money in the NZ market.
Best ute
Nissan Navara 2016-2022
The Nissan Navara (2016–2022) is a solid choice on New Zealand’s used ute market, offering a mix of practicality, comfort and off-road capability. With its rugged styling and tough ladder-frame chassis, the Navara is well-suited for both tradies and lifestyle buyers needing towing power (up to 3500kg braked) and load-carrying ability. It’s available in single, king, and double cab formats, with the double cab being most popular.
The 2.3L twin-turbo diesel engine is punchy yet efficient, delivering strong torque for towing and good highway economy. Most models come with a 7-speed auto though a 6-speed manual is available too. Both 4x2 and 4x4 models are available too. Inside, the Navara stands out for its comfort and features, especially in higher trims like the ST-X, which includes leather seats, reverse camera, and touchscreen infotainment.
However, buyers should watch for issues like rear leaf spring sag (mainly in early models), DPF (diesel particulate filter) blockages from too much short-distance driving, and potential turbocharger wear in high-mileage examples. Regular servicing is crucial.
The best option for most Kiwi buyers is the post-2018 ST or ST-X 4WD double cab, which offers a good balance of refinement, safety features, and rugged ability for NZ conditions.
Best EV
Kona electric 2018 - 2023
The Hyundai Kona Electric (2018–2023) is a compelling used EV choice in New Zealand, offering strong range, low running costs, and a compact SUV design well-suited to urban and regional driving. The 64kWh model delivers a real-world range of 400–480km, making it ideal for daily commutes and longer trips alike. Its quiet, responsive drive and low energy consumption—around 15kWh/100km—make it one of the most efficient EVs in its class.
Safety is a strong point, with all models equipped with autonomous emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims add features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alerts.
For most buyers, the 64kWh Premium or Premium SE models from 2020 onward are the best picks, offering the longest range, updated infotainment, and comprehensive safety features. These models strike a balance between performance, equipment, and long-term value in the NZ used EV market.
Author
Kyle has been reviewing cars since starting at NZ Autocar magazine in 2003 and has been editor since 2009. In that time he’s become an expert on what makes for a good vehicle while also gaining insights into the local automotive industry.
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