Used cars: Top 3 luxury SUVs for R350 000 - Which is best?

So, what can you expect to get?

2013 BMW X5 40d

The BMW X5 put the word Sports into Sports Utility Vehicle when it was first introduced in the late ’90s. The X5 has evolved into a popular product with a variety of variants to choose from. Unfortunately, the latest model will see customers reaching just past the one million Rand mark. We, however, found an X5 40d for R349 990. The 40d makes use of a turbocharged 3.0-litre diesel engine, the same as in the 30d however it has been enhanced to develop 225kW instead of the 180kW found in the 30d. This specific model also features a sunroof, rear-view camera as well as park assist and voice control functions. Black leather, as well as an infotainment screen, add to the premium feel inside. It is also worth mentioning that this specific BMW X5 40d features a sporty body kit which enhances its visual appeal.

 

Related: New vs old BMW X5: what are top 4 differences?

 

2015 Audi Q7 3.0TDI

As one would rightfully assume, the Audi alternative to the BMW X5 comes in the form of the Q7. This was the brands first SUV and, like the BMW has seen a rise in popularity the world over. Our search gave us a list of 44 options within our specific pricing bracket, meaning that one has a variety of options available. The model that we found has the same kilometre reading as the BMW, 103 000km but it is also two years newer. The Audi Q7 that we selected features a 180kW 3.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine. It also happens to have an S-Line body kit for added visual appeal, sunroof and 21-inch rims. The model that we selected carried a list price of R349 900.

 

Related: Top 5 Audi Q7 articles on AutoTrader

 

2012 Range Rover Sport SDV6

A departure from Germany and its SUV offerings leads one to Britain and more specifically, the Range Rover. Our R350 000 budget leads us to a 2012 Range Rover Sport SDV6 with 121 000km on the clock and an HSE badge on the rear which means this example features all the bells and all the whistles. Under the bonnet is a 180kW 3.0-litre turbo diesel engine, similar to that found in the other options, however, the Range Rover offers a low-range transfer case and the ability to slug it out off the beaten track where the other two, while capable of some off-roading ability will not dare venture when the Range Rover can. Inside this specific offering, black leather covers the seats and dark English Oak covers the centre console. Like the others, it also features a sunroof and reverses camera.

 

Related: Top 4 Range Rover Sport features that stand out from the competition

 

A closer look at the figures

	BMW X5 40d	Audi Q7	Range Rover SDV6
Model Year	2013	2015	2012
Kilometres	103 000km	103 000km	121 000km
Engine	225 kW 3.0 diesel	180 kW 3.0 diesel	180 kW 3.0 diesel
Fuel consumption	7.5l/100km	7.4l/100km	9.2l/100km
Luggage space	650-litres	775-litres	787-litres

     

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Using the AutoTrader Finance Calculator we were given a possible monthly instalment figure of around R6 100 per month over 72 months with the current interest rate of 7.75% on the purchase price of R350 000.

 

Verdict

All three options carry an advantage. The BMW offers the most power but is less practical than the others. The Range Rover might offer the desired street credit and the ability to venture further into the unknown than the Audi and the BMW but it is older, has more kilometres and is heavier on fuel. After much consideration, it is the Audi Q7 that wins this comparison. It offers more space than the BMW, the same performance as the Range Rover, it is newer than both and has the same kilometre reading as the BMW, it is also the most economical. Search Audi Q7 listings for R400 000 and less here.

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