The kids have moved out. The house is quieter. The garage, once packed with soccer gear and school bags, now holds only the echo of weekend carpools. For many empty-nesters, this moment arrives with a quiet realization: the family SUV no longer fits the life they’re living.
A group of automotive journalists, some of them empty-nesters themselves, selected new vehicles under a $70,000 budget before on-road costs. Their choices show changing priorities: less about hauling kids, more about personal taste, comfort, and the freedom to drive something that feels like a reward.
From workhorse to weekend warrior
Marton Pettendy, managing editor, chose the Ford Ranger V6 XLT 4×4 dual-cab. At $67,990 plus on-road costs, it stays under budget while offering the towing capacity and rugged utility he still wants. “I don’t need a Raptor or a Super Duty,” he said. “Just the grunt to tow whatever I want, and the most useful ute equipment Ford offers, without any of the superfluous stuff.”
The Ranger’s recent update replaced the bi-turbo diesel four-cylinder with more V6 options, improving its value. For Pettendy, who still takes off-road trips, it’s a practical choice that doesn’t sacrifice capability or the joy of driving something distinctly Australian.
Sporty, stylish, and just enough space
For those who no longer need three rows of seats, the selections favored vehicles that balance fun with practicality. James Wong, marketplace editor, picked the Cupra Formentor. “At that stage of life, you’re likely to want something a little more special,” he said. “Something with flair and uniqueness, but still practical enough to cart the kids—or their kids—to the golf club or winery.”
The Formentor’s design and higher stance make it stand out, while its mix of technology and comfort appeals to drivers transitioning from family sedans or SUVs. Wong preferred the VZx or VZe variants, both of which stay under $70,000. “It’s got a whiff of premium about it but wears an alternative badge,” he added.
Damion Smy, deputy news editor, went for the Honda Prelude. “As the hair I have left starts to turn grey, it seems more suitable than the brilliant GR86 I still pine after,” he said. The Prelude’s Civic-based chassis delivers a smooth ride, and its two-door layout offers a sense of occasion without the back strain of lower-slung sports cars. “It’s a decent thing if you can get in and out of it without straining your back,” he noted.
Wagons, sedans, and the case for going electric
Max Davies, marketplace journalist, quickly decided on a wagon. His choice was the Skoda Octavia RS, which he described as “sharp but compliant,” thanks to its adaptive suspension. At $64,990 drive-away, it’s quick enough for enthusiasts but refined enough for daily use. “All-wheel drive is the only thing I’d miss,” he said.
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William Stopford, news editor, faced a challenge: his ideal car, the Mazda 3 Turbo AWD sedan, isn’t sold in Australia. After ruling out premium rear-wheel-drive sedans—none of which fit the budget—he landed on the Hyundai Sonata N Line. “It’s like a more mature i30 Sedan N,” he said. “Sharply styled, strong performance, and loaded with kit.”
The Sonata’s front-wheel-drive layout wasn’t his first choice, but with the Kia Stinger discontinued and the Genesis G70 priced out of reach, it became the best option. Stopford also mentioned the Cupra Formentor, praising its SUV-like ride height without the bulk.
Dave Kavermann, the team’s New Zealand correspondent, took a different approach. His selection was the Skoda Elroq Select 85, an electric SUV focused on fundamentals over flash. “It doesn’t chase trends with gimmicky tech or attention-grabbing styling,” he said. “Instead, it focuses on getting the basics right.”
The Elroq’s 500km real-world range makes road trips manageable, while its compact size suits city driving. “The ride is supple, the cabin is quiet, and the raised seating position makes getting in and out easy,” Kavermann added. With 210kW and 545Nm of torque, it’s also quick enough to handle spirited driving.
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For empty-nesters who’ve spent years driving minivans and SUVs, the Elroq offers a refreshing change. It requires only an openness to something new.
The team’s choices share a common theme: the end of family duty doesn’t mean the end of driving pleasure. Whether it’s a rugged ute, a sporty coupe, or an electric SUV, the right car can feel like a second act where the driver comes first.
The garage might finally stay clean.
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