As popular now as they ever were, sports utility vehicles or SUVs have continued to adapt for the changing car marketplace.
In the past, these gas guzzlers were only driven by those who lived in places where the roads were rougher and they needed a durable vehicle to get them around the rugged terrain. As time has gone on, more and more people have started to appreciate these spacious and practical vehicles.
Energy efficiency has become a prime concern for many drivers, and these vehicles have adapted to growing trends. Now they are seen as the ultimate family car, as well as being for people that simply love driving a vehicle that offers power, space and commanding views of the road ahead.
The largest of these vehicles can seat seven and also have ample space in the boot. A few years ago, car manufacturers began to cotton on that many people wanted to drive an SUV, but couldn’t justify having such a large vehicle. The first medium sized SUVs were the Toyota Rav4 and Nissan Qashqai, which were a runaway success, particularly with families.
Consumers still demanded something smaller and cheaper. Along came the small SUV, also known as the SUV crossover, which are only slightly more expensive than their hatchback
counterparts, but still offer the same practicality and imposing road presence of their larger cousins.
In this blog, I have chosen some of the top small, medium and large SUVs to take a closer look at so that whatever size you are thinking of buying, you will get a good idea of the best features of each car and can make more of an informed decision.
Small SUVs and Crossover Cars
Citroen C4 Cactus
Certainly one of the most quirky vehicles out on the market in 2017, the Cactus is both visually striking and offers a number of great features as well. The most obvious of these to talk about is the ‘airbump’ panelling around the side which is designed to protect the vehicle from the minor bumps, scrapes and scratches that happen in everyday driving. This innovative idea gives you even more assurance when you are out on the road, or even squeezing into that tight parking space!
A variety of colours mean that you can personalise this car to your own style, and it looks quite special from the outside. Inside, there is ample space for passengers and a decent boot size that you would not necessarily expect at first glance. In terms of its fuel economy, some models promise to return 80mpg. As with many other car manufacturer promises, you are unlikely to get this on a regular basis, but it is still a very economical vehicle nevertheless.
Skoda Yeti
It has been around for a long time now, but don’t let that put you off as the Yeti is still one of the best small SUVs on the market. This one is particularly attractive for families as it offers an enormous amount of boot space, as well as a rear seat that slides backwards and forwards, or it can even be completely removed for even more roominess. A family of five will fit comfortably inside, making it great for long trips.
The Yeti has always been known for its practicality, and its drivability as well. Out on the road, it handles really well and the steering is highly responsive. Engines vary depending on what you are using this vehicle for but all offer a good level of economy. Those who will be using this car for long trips may want to invest in the 2.0 diesel engine, which offers the highest level of fuel efficiency, while the 1.2 turbocharged petrol engine is better for those who aren’t planning to cover huge distances.
Dacia Duster
One of the new kids on the block, the Duster is also one of the most affordable vehicles in the small SUV range. In its appearance, it doesn’t look anywhere near as snazzy as the Cactus, but those who go on drivability rather than looks will not be disappointed. The cheapest one doesn’t offer you a huge amount in the way of extras (in fact, there is not even a radio!), so if you’re planning on getting a lot of miles under your belt, it is worth investing in the diesel version, which will also give you features including Bluetooth connectivity and alloy wheels.
The whole vehicle has been designed with economy in mind, created for people who simply want a good quality car to get them from A to B at an affordable price. If this is you, then you won’t be disappointed with the Duster.
Medium Sized SUVs
Renault Kadjar
As mentioned earlier, the Nissan Qashqai was the first vehicle that first sparked off the trend for medium sized SUVs, so it makes sense that a car that shares much of the original’s DNA is one of the best in class in 2017. A bold and modern looking car, the Kadjar has overtaken its forbearer thanks to its affordability, increased space and popularity with owners.
Renault has waited a long time before getting in on the burgeoning medium sized SUV marketplace, but it has been worth the wait. Not only is the boot huge, there are plenty of compartments on the inside to keep things, while there is also ample space for passengers as well. Safety has always been one of Renault’s main strengths and the Kadjar is no exception with a five star Euro NCAP rating. Ultimately, this is one of the central reasons that people choose to drive SUVs so it should give great peace of mind.
Peugeot 3008
Another new competitor to the field and yet another fantastic choice for those looking for a high quality medium sized SUV. This is a car that offers something for everyone. Drivability – tick. Practicality – tick. Appearance – tick. It’s hard to say enough good things about it.
The outside is sleek and sophisticated, while the inside is comfortable and inviting. It offers a range of engines for every different type of driver, with the diesel being the pick of the bunch in terms of fuel efficiency. Its i-Cockpit display is futuristic and replaces the traditional dashboard dials.
Volkswagen Tiguan
One that has been around for a long time and enjoyed a great deal of success, the Tiguan is always a popular choice and comes with the reliability you would expect from a Volkswagen. Criticised in the past for looking a little drab and dull, the manufacturers have addressed this issue and made one of the most attractive looking vehicles they have ever produced.
It’s a little pricier than some other vehicles in the same range, but with Volkswagen, you get what you pay for. Leasing options can be found at https://www.intelligentvehiclefinance.co.uk/
A range of engines and specifications allow you to customise this vehicle to your heart’s content. The interior is inviting without being too flashy, and passengers will be very pleased with the amount of space on offer. For drivers, this is a lovely, quiet and smooth car that lives up to its promise.
Full Sized SUVs
Skoda Kodiaq
No manufacturer has reinvented itself to the same extent as Skoda. Previously known for their unreliability, they are now coming out with some of the best vehicles in the market in all ranges and the Kodiaq is no exception. High quality materials have been used inside and out to craft this sleek and stylish car that is also smooth and spacious.
Drivers and passengers alike will enjoy the overall experience of travelling in this car which runs like a dream. That’s not to say that it isn’t powerful as well, but it has been designed so that it retains its smooth feeling on all kinds of road surface.
Jaguar F-Pace
All manufacturers are now getting involved in the SUV party and Jaguar is just the latest to join in with the F-Pace. For a first attempt, it’s absolutely sublime! Its sister company is Land Rover which should set many people’s minds at ease if they question whether Jaguar is capable of producing vehicles like this.
Both 2.0 and 3.0 engines are available depending on how highly you rank power or economy. In many ways, it brings a touch of the sports car to an SUV which is very refreshing, though price-wise, it is definitely on the upper end of the spectrum.
Volvo XC90
Like the Volvos of old, this one has been constructed with safety very much in mind. It has so much technology on board, it can take away steering, braking and accelerating duties from the driver in slow moving traffic.
Not just a pretty toy, space and reliability are also here in bucketloads. It has a feeling of fantastic luxury on the inside, and unlike the SUVs of old, seven adults can comfortably sit inside with no problems whatsoever.
