If you’ve been on the roads lately, you’ve probably noticed one thing: SUVs are everywhere. Seriously, it feels like you can’t turn a corner without spotting a RAV4, an X-Trail or a CX-5. But here’s a fun thought—what did we drive before everyone hopped on the SUV bandwagon? It might be hard to believe for the average Zoomer, but we didn’t always have the luxury of high rides and flashy features. Let’s take a stroll down memory lane and look at the good ol’ days of the car scene in Australia.
STATION WAGONS
The original family hauler
Back in the day, the station wagon was 'the' Aussie family car. If you needed room for the kids, the dog and all that weekend camping gear, this was your ride. Station wagons were practical, spacious, and in their time, considered pretty cool. With iconic models from Holden, Ford and Chrysler, these cars could fit everything—from surfboards to family luggage – making them perfect for those long drives along the coast.
HATCHBACKS
Compact yet ready for anything
Now, if you didn’t need quite as much room but still wanted a car that could keep up with your active lifestyle, the hatchback was the way to go. It was compact, fuel-efficient, and perfect for those who preferred the convenience of a quick boot (or hatch!) opening up. Aussies flocked to cars like the Toyota Corolla and the Mazda 3, and even today, hatchbacks remain a solid choice for city driving. Not too big, not too small—just right for most situations.
VANS
A love affair with space
For those who really loved to travel in style (and with tons of stuff), the van was the vehicle of choice. Whether you were lugging around surfboards, music equipment, or a bunch of kids, vans were the answer. They weren’t exactly known for their sleek design, but they were reliable and provided all the space you could ever need. Vans were all about function over form, and let’s face it, that’s something we Aussies can appreciate.
Are we over the SUV craze?
So, where does that leave us today? Sure, SUVs have their advantages—higher driving positions, more space, and that “I’ve made it” vibe. But there’s something about the simplicity of a station wagon or hatchback that still appeals to many of us. It’s not about driving a beast of a car; it’s about driving something that fits your needs without the hassle of parking in tight spaces or burning through too much fuel. Don’t get me wrong, we’re hardly ones to pass up a beautiful modern SUV but, sometimes, less can still be more.
Drive something unique
If you’re feeling like breaking away from the SUV herd, look no further than easyauto123. We’ve got a great selection of quality second-hand cars, from trusty hatchbacks to classic station wagons. Whether you’re after something sporty, practical, or just a car with a little more character, we’ve got you covered. Explore our range and find your perfect non-SUV ride today.
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