Best Japanese SUVs for Long Trips in 2026

• December 05, 2025
• Category: Used Cars for Melbourne

As of 2026, the demand for Japanese SUVs from top models like Toyota and Honda is increasing. Australian families prefer SUVs due to their vast space and better manoeuvrability on rough roads. These features make these Japanese models the top choice for families and long drives.

But with great features comes the major price tag. A lot of average Aussie families can't afford the latest 2026 models. But here is a catch: you can enjoy all the latest features of a Japanese SUV by opting for second-hand used cars.

In this blog, we have compiled a list of the latest used Japanese SUVs that feel easy on the bank. We’ll look into those models; perhaps one of them is your next vehicle. But before that let’s first understand the importance of SUVs

Reasons Why Japanese SUVs are Top Choice For Longer Journeys

An SUV is a larger passenger vehicle built for comfort and better control on the road. These cars offer more space than standard sedans and feel steady on both city and country roads.

Long trips need comfort, space, and steady performance. SUVs handle these needs well and make travel easier for families across Australia. These vehicles stay reliable on both highways and rougher roads. Here are some of the top features that make Japanese SUVs a perfect vehicle for a longer journey.

• Have spacious cabins that suit families and groups.
• Offer strong road stability for long-distance driving.
• Carry luggage and gear without any hassle.
• Provide higher seating for better visibility.
• Deliver dependable performance on city and regional roads

Top 5 Reliable Japanese SUVs

Below you'll find good value Japanese SUVs that prove to be a valuable addition to your family journey.

2022 Toyota Raize SUV

If you're looking for a hybrid Japanese SUV to buy for your long family trips, we recommend the 2022 Toyota Raize SUV. This car has a seating capacity of about 5 people and comes with a touch-screen infotainment system that makes long drives entertaining.

Here are some of the technical features of this used Japanese SUV:

• Fuel: Hybrid – Gasoline, offering excellent fuel efficiency and lower running costs.
• Cylinders: 4, which makes for smooth and reliable engine performance.
• Engine Size: 1.2 L, combining enough power with economical fuel consumption.
• Engine Capacity: 1,200 cc, ideal for both urban commutes and longer drives.

Pro Tip: When you buy a used 2022 Toyota SUV, make sure to check the km travelled. The ones with under 80,000 km are the perfect choice for buying the vehicle.

2. 2020 Toyota Harrier SUV

Now this is one of the premium Japanese SUVs with great features at a reasonable price range. The Toyota Harrier has a vast interior with the capacity to accommodate up to 5 people.

The 2020 Toyota Harrier SUV is a hybrid and fuel-efficient car that saves money in the long run on fuel costs. The most exciting feature about this Japanese SUV is its automatic transmission.

Here are some of the main features of this vehicle:

• Automatic driving for effortless city and highway journeys.
• Excellent hybrid fuel efficiency and lower running costs without sacrificing power.
• Has 4 cylinders that offer balanced engine performance for responsive driving.
• Engine Size is 2.5 L, which is Strong enough for city and highway driving while remaining economical.
• Comes with a 2,500 cc engine capacity that is reliable power for both comfort and performance on every journey.

The feature that makes this used Japanese SUV stand out is the G Leather Package. This offers a premium interior with genuine leather seats, power-adjustable seating, and upgraded finishes for luxury and style.

3. 2021 Toyota Corolla Cross SUV Hybrid

Another great Japanese SUV for memorable journeys is the 2021 Toyota Corolla Cross SUV. This vehicle is vast enough to accommodate 5 people. The fuel efficiency of the model makes it cost-effective for longer drives.

Its interesting feature is dual zone climate control. This makes it easy for both the front row and back row passengers to adjust the temperature and enjoy their ride with ease.

Here are some of the outstanding qualities of this used Japanese SUV:

• Engine Size: 1.2 L – Efficiently balances power and fuel economy, making every drive economical.
• Engine Capacity: 1,200 cc – Ideal for urban traffic and highway trips, providing dependable performance with low operating costs.
• Collision Braking – Helps prevent or reduce collision severity, keeping you safer on the road.
• Reverse Camera with Parking Sensors – Makes parking easy and protects your vehicle in tight spaces.

Pro Tip: If you find the Toyota Corolla Cross SUV with under 60,000 km travelled, then that is a perfect mileage and you should highly consider such a vehicle.

4. Toyota C-HR SUV

If you want a Japanese SUV that is easy to drive and safer for the roads, then the top pick is Toyota C-HR SUV. This hybrid model is compact yet comfortable enough to accommodate 5 people for city drives and weekend trips.

If you're considering buying this Japanese SUV model, make sure that the mileage is under 70,000 km. Lower km means better performance on the road.

Here are some of the features that make this car easy to drive on Melbourne roads and highways

• Power Steering – Makes steering smooth and effortless in city traffic or tight spots.
• Cruise Control – Keeps your speed steady on highways, reducing fatigue on long drives.
• Collision Braking – Helps prevent accidents by automatically applying brakes in emergencies.
• Lane-Keep Assist – Keeps your car centred in the lane, adding extra safety and confidence.
• Reverse Camera – Makes parking easy, safe, and stress-free in tight spaces.

5. 2020 Toyota RAV4 SUV

For the car enthusiasts who want to blend efficiency with a stylish look, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 is the best option.

This Japanese SUV is a hybrid model with great fuel efficiency, which lets you save fuel budget in a longer run. Now, if we talk about the seating capacity, the car has a spacious interior and can accommodate 5 people.

The thing that makes this JDM model stand out is the roomy cargo area and folding rear seats, which give practical flexibility for luggage or gear.

Its technical features include:

• Fuel: Hybrid – Gasoline, combining fuel efficiency with strong performance.
• Cylinders: 4, providing smooth and reliable engine performance.
• Engine Size: 2.5 L, balancing power and efficiency for everyday driving.
• Engine Capacity: 2,500 cc, delivering dependable performance for both city and highway drives.

The used Japanese SUV with under 40,000 km travelled is an ideal choice, but if you find generally newer ones with under 20,000 km, then that is the perfect deal for the 2020 Toyota RAV4.

Final Thoughts

Japanese SUVs are within the range of every local across Melbourne and Australia. For safer and longer rides, these models prove to be highly efficient. If you want to buy one of such vehicles, you can contact NJ Japan Motors. So, make smart choices today and come visit our used car dealership in Point Cook or Maidstone for your next vehicle purchase.

FAQs

Which Japanese SUV is best to buy in 2026 in Australia under budget?
If you like to stay within budget, we recommend buying the latest used Japanese SUV models. Toyota and Honda SUVs stand out among other JDM models.

Can I buy a Japanese SUV under a $30,000 budget?
Absolutely, you can find a range of quality JDM SUVs at NJ Japan Motors. We have under-budget models from Sabura, Honda and Toyota.

Are used Japanese SUVs worth it in 2026 for Melbourne, Victoria, Roads?
Yes, Japanese SUVs have spacious interiors, and they offer a safer ride for long trips, all in a very reasonable price range.

Where can I buy a used Japanese SUV in Melbourne?
You can visit the Maidstone and Point Cook yards of NJ Japan Motors to buy premier used Japanese SUVs in Melbourne.