Archive for January, 2020
Welcome To The Club: Fiat 500 Gets Update.
Fiat Australia has released details of a reinvigorated Fiat 500 line-up, with the unveiling of the new Lounge and Club variants.
The Italian city car remains true to its iconic design, refreshed with refined features and an option pack for the Club that takes the new line-up to an enhanced level of comfort across both the Lounge model and exciting new variant, the Fiat 500 Club.
Featuring the capable 51kW 1.2L powertrain, the Fiat 500 Lounge is offered in both Manual and Dualogic transmission and features 15 inch Glossy Silver Alloy Wheels as standard. Guillaume Drelon, Director, Brand & Product Strategy for Fiat, said: “We are thrilled to be able to offer additional features in the new Fiat 500 line-up that deliver a new level of sophistication. The Fiat 500 is truly a fun expression of its owner and with new technology and aesthetic refinements, it’s never looked better.”
The pair share the same 1.2L engine. The Fiat 500 Club comes with Dualogic transmission and is packed with additional standard features including a Fixed Glass Sunroof, Automatic Climate Control, DAB+ and Rear Bumper with Chrome Moulding. There are some extra niceties too, with the Club also gaining 16 inch Alloy Wheels, Fog Lights, and Dusk and Rain Sensors. The Club also offers two different interior options with black fabric seats with white inserts and eye-catching bordeaux stitching, or white fabric with black inserts and white stitching. Leather can also be specified.
Standard equipment for the pair is high. This includes the seven inch Uconnect Touchscreen Infotainment System with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a seven inch TFT Instrument Cluster Display, Voice Command with Bluetooth, Rear Parking Sensors, Cruise Control with Speed Limiter, Automatic Climate Control, Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel, and Daytime Running Lights with 15” Alloy Wheels on the Lounge.
The updated Fiat 500 range is on sale with the five speed manual Lounge starting from $19,250 (MSRP) through Fiat dealerships across Australia. The Club Auto starts from $23,250 (MSRP), with the Lounge and Club soft-tops starting from $25,250 and $27,250 respectively. The Fiat website can provide more information.
Medium AWD SUVs You Can Buy in 2020
With an even bigger range of Mid-size SUVs now available, the answer has to be ‘Why Not?’. Getting yourself into a new medium SUV is easier than ever with some good package deals, great warranties and service packages that are comprehensive. Got yourself a small family and like to get out on an adventure? Here is a list of all the medium SUVs on the market offering AWD.
Alfa Romeo
Alfa Romeo Stelvio AWD
Want some style? Alfa Romeo has got loads of ‘bravura’, ‘panache’ and ‘flair’. Three levels of trim are available for the Stelvio and you get to choose either diesel or petrol power. The new Alfa Romeo Stelvio is a smooth drive with great performance, handling and comfort. Want a decent luxury SUV? How about a look at the new Stelvio? Starting off with the Stelvio 2.0 AWD, here you get five seats, auto, petrol, 2.0-litre, 148 kW, 330 Nm, 5-star safety and around 7.0 litres/100 km.
Next comes the Stelvio 2.2 TDi AWD which is similarly priced to the previous model. Here you get the five seats, auto, Diesel, 2.2-litre, 154 kW, 470 Nm, 5-star safety and 4.8 litres/100 km. Style, torque and low fuel bills are a given.
Punchy and fun to drive, the Stelvio 20 Ti AWD delivers five seats, auto, petrol, 2.0-litre, 206 kW, 400 Nm, 5-star safety and 7.0 litres/100 km.
Audi
Audi Q5
Three forms of the 2020 Audi Q5 are available. The Audi Q5 TDI Quattro 140 Sport offers five seats, auto, diesel, 2.0-litre, 140 kW, 400 Nm, 5-star safety and a 5.1 litres/100 km figure.
Next is the Audi Q5 TDI Quattro 210 Sport with five seats, auto, Diesel, 3.0-litre, 210 kW, 620 Nm, 5-star safety and 6.0 litres/100 km. This is a phenomenally quick and satisfying SUV drive!
The most expensive new Audi Q5 with AWD is the TFSI Quattro 185 Sport model. Here you get five seats, auto, petrol, 2.0-litre, 185 kW, 370 Nm, 5-star safety and 7.1 litres/100 km efficiency.
Steeping up to the Q5 from the Q3 means more space but without getting into massive territory. Drive a new Audi Q5 AWD and you get the prestigious Quattro underpinnings with clever technology. Luxury is aplenty, while the drive is always satisfying. You’ll also love the digital driver’s display, too.
BMW
BMW X3
The BMW X3 gets into mid-size SUV territory. The 2020 X3 is nice to look at, comfortable and practical. Two models are available with AWD: The BMW X3 xDrive 20d AWD with five seats, an 8-speed auto, diesel power, 2.0-litre, 140 kW, 400 Nm, 5-star safety and around 5.7 litres/100 km economy. The BMW X3 xDrive 30i AWD has five seats, an 8-speed auto, petrol, 2.0-litre, 185 kW, 350 Nm, 5-star safety and around 7.8 litres/100 km economy.
BMW X4
You also get the choice of getting yourself into the sportier BMW X4 AWD models. The X4 has sleek lines and looks good. Practical interiors with nice trim and easy-on-the-eye materials all come together to make the new X4 a stylish and fun drive. The BMW X4 xDrive 20d AWD has five seats, auto, diesel, 2.0-litre, 140 kW, 400 Nm, 5-star safety and 5.8 litres/100 km fuel efficiency.
If you prefer petrol power, then the BMW X4 xDrive 30i AWD has five seats, auto, petrol, 2.0-litre, 185 kW, 400 Nm, 5-star safety and around 7.8 litres/100 km credentials.
Ford
Ford Escape
A very nice medium-size AWD Ford SUV is offered. You are sure to find a model to suit your needs. Safe, practical and comfortable, the 2020 Ford Escape is a trusty companion capable of carrying the small family when needed and delivering crisp handling and great engines. Two engines power the five variants; so one is a 132 kW Diesel with 400 Nm of torque on offer and excellent fuel efficiency. The other engine is an Ecoboost petrol-fed unit that puts out 178 kW and 344 Nm of torque. This is a strong engine that performs very well. All models use a smooth shifting auto gearbox and come with 5-star safety. The models on offer include Trend, ST Line and Titanium trims.
Holden
Holden Equinox
Where Ford treads you’ll always find a Holden equivalent nearby, or maybe that should be the other way around!
Holden provides the comfortable and spacious Holden Equinox. Well equipped, loads of options, comfortable seating, plenty of space and 5-star safety are strong Equinox features. The LTZ-V AWD models get all the flashy equipment and are really nice vehicles to drive. Two engines are available; the petrol model uses a 188 kW 2.0-litre engine with 353 Nm of power. Expect around 8.4 litres/ 100 km for this one.
The other Equinox AWD engine is the 100 kW, turbo-diesel unit with 320 Nm of torque and a fuel efficiency figure around the 5.7 litres/100 km mark.
Honda
Honda CR-V
Well known and well-loved is the trusty Honda CR-V mid-size SUV. It is one of the original first mid-size SUVs, so it’s been around for a few decades now. Putting it right into the modern market place, the 2020 Honda CR-V AWD models are very roomy, comfortable and practical vehicles boasting loads of high-tech equipment as well as a seven-seat option. Good strong engines and smooth power delivery make the new Honda CR-V a nice drive. With the new Honda CR-V variants you get five/seven seats, auto, petrol, 1.5-litre, 140 kW, 240 Nm, 5-star safety and around 7.4 litres/100 km fuel efficiency.
Hyundai
Hyundai Tucson
Stylish new Hyundai Tucson models are available with AWD. Depending on the level of trim, there will be plenty of variants to suit your needs. Hyundai’s latest HTRAC AWD system allows toque to be delivered and distributed on demand to ensure that fuel efficiency is optimized. If you can get yourself into the Limited versions you are loaded to the hilt with modern features that include all the high-tech features some high-end luxury cars offer. The diesel engine is a real gem, while the petrol alternative is smooth and responsive. 1.6T AWD variants offer five seats, auto, petrol, 1.6-litre, 130 kW, 265 Nm, 5-star safety and around 7.7 litres/100 km efficiency. 2.0R AWD variants offer five seats, auto, diesel, 136 kW, 400 Nm, 5-star safety and around 6.8 litres/100 km efficiency.
Jaguar
Jaguar E-Pace
Jaguar enters the medium SUV market place with its highly desirable new range of E-Pace SUVs. Style, luxury and driving dynamics are all part of the special E-Pace package.
E-Pace D150 has 2.0-litre diesel power, 110 kW, 380 Nm and around 5.6 litres/100 km.
E-Pace P200 has 2.0-litre petrol power, 147 kW, 340 Nm and around 8.0 litres/100 km.
E-Pace 250 has 2.0-litre petrol power, 249 kW, 365 Nm and around 7.7 litres/100 km.
E-Pace R-Dynamic D180 has 2.0-litre diesel power, 180 kW, 430 Nm and around 5.6 litres/100 km.
E-Pace R-Dynamic P250 has 2.0-litre petrol power, 184 kW, 365 Nm and around 7.7 litres/100 km.
E-Pace R-Dynamic SE P250 has 2.0-litre petrol power, 184 kW, 365 Nm and around 7.7 litres/100 km.
E-Pace R-Dynamic SE P300 has 2.0-litre petrol power, 221 kW, 400 Nm and around 8.0 litres/100 km.
All models have a nice smooth auto gearbox, 5-star safety and are impressive to drive.
Jeep
Jeep Compass
A new Jeep Compass AWD won’t break the bank but it will tame the terrain. You are always going to look good in the new Jeep Compass which is just as happy scampering off on the school run as it is crossing a stream. Trailhawk models a serious off-road vehicles built for exploring trails and other off-road excursions. Inside a new Compass there is plenty of space with nice seat comfort. Premium safety features and plenty of equipment keep the Compass at the head of the field.
Jeep Compass Limited 4WD delivers five seats, auto, petrol, 2.4-litre, 129 kW, 229 Nm, 5-star safety and around 9.7-litres/100 km efficiency.
Jeep Compass Trailhawk 4WD offers five seats, auto, petrol, 2.4-litre, 129 kW, 229 Nm, 5-star safety and around 9.8-litres/100 km efficiency.
Jeep Cherokee
The Jeep Cherokee is always a winner in the luxury medium SUV class. Recently spruced up and making a statement, both the Limited and Trailhawk models use the same strong 3.2-litre, 200 kW, petrol-fed motor with 315 Nm of torque. There is always plenty of power on tap, and the ride quality is smooth and comfortable. Off-road ability is outstanding. Plenty of space and equipment keep the drive relaxed and in control. A roomy five seats and 5-star safety completes the desirable package.
Kia
Kia Sportage
The good looking Kia Sportage is well appointed, comfortable and nice to drive. With tidy handling and a decent ride, the Sportage is proving popular. Try and get into the higher spec models and you’ll be sitting in an impressively comfortable, classy medium SUV.
The Kia Sportage 2.4-litre petrol variants (EX AWD, GT-Line AWD) use the same responsive 2.4-litre motor with 135 kW and 237 Nm. Expect around 8.5 litres/100 km fuel efficiency.
The Kia Sportage 2.0-litre diesel variants (LX AWD, LX Plus AWD, GT-Line AWD) have great power plants in the form of a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel, 136 kW, 400 Nm motor. Excellent fuel economy sits at around 6.4 litres/100 km.
All models come with AWD, auto gearboxes and 5-star safety.
Land Rover
Land Rover Discovery Sport
Off-road kings, Land Rover, offer AWD medium SUV buyers the chance of getting into the legendary Land Rover Discovery Sport. Premium 4×4 technology and formidable off-road prowess has the 2020 Discovery tackling tough terrain in comfort and with ease. On-road ride and comfort is equally impressive, and engine performance is strong whatever the task. You also get the option of having seven seats, too. New infotainment technology and stylish interiors make travelling in a new Discovery very enjoyable.
P200 R-Dynamic S – 5 seats, auto, petrol, 2.0-litre, 147 kW, 320 Nm, 5-star safety, 7.9 l/100 km.
P250 R-Dynamic S – 7 seats, auto, petrol, 2.0-litre, 184 kW, 365 Nm, 5-star safety, 7.9 l/100 km.
D180 R-Dynamic S – 5 seats, auto, diesel, 2.0-litre, 132 kW, 430 Nm, 5-star safety, 5.6 l/100 km.
P250 R-Dynamic SE – 5+2 seats, auto, petrol, 2.0-litre, 184 kW, 365 Nm, 5-star safety, 7.9 l/100 km.
D180 R-Dynamic SE – 5+2 seats, auto, diesel, 2.0-litre, 132 kW, 430 Nm, 5-star safety, 5.7 l/100 km.
Also under the Land Rover name is the very nice Range Rover Evoque. Style, luxury and off-road/onroad prowess makes this vehicle a premium choice.
Range Rover Evoque
P200 R-Dynamic S – 5 seats, auto, petrol, 2.0-litre, 147 kW, 340 Nm, 5-star safety, 7.7 l/100 km.
D180 R-Dynamic SE – 5 seats, auto, diesel, 2.0-litre, 132 kW, 430 Nm, 5-star safety, 5.7 l/100 km.
P250 R-Dynamic SE – 5 seats, auto, petrol, 2.0-litre, 184 kW, 365 Nm, 5-star safety, 7.9 l/100 km.
D180 R-Dynamic HSE – 5 seats, auto, diesel, 2.0-litre, 132 kW, 430 Nm, 5-star safety, 5.7 l/100 km.
P250 R-Dynamic SE – 5 seats, auto, petrol, 2.0-litre, 184 kW, 365 Nm, 5-star safety, 7.9 l/100 km.
P300 R-Dynamic HSE – 5 seats, auto, petrol, 2.0-litre, 221 kW, 400 Nm, 5-star safety, 8.1 l/100 km.
Lexus
Lexus NX
Balanced, sleek lines are part of the new 2020 Lexus NX AWD models. It has to be one of the classier looking mid-SUVs on the road, and with Lexus’s latest hybrid technology part of the model’s line-up you can have a luxury SUV ride, comfort and space with a fuel efficiency that brings you relief at the pump. Premium interior infotainment and technology, classy leather materials, and fit-and-finish that are second-to-none are all reasons why this is among the leading luxury SUV variants on the road. Excellent safety features and premium space add to the quality Lexus NX package, so the deal is 5-star safety and 5-seats. A smooth ride comfort and boasting plenty of grip all helps to make the new Lexus NX AWD SUV highly desirable.
One hybrid powertrain powers the NX 300h, NX 300h F-Sport and NX 300h Limited. This powerplant uses a CVT Auto, a 2.5-litre petrol engine with a combined output of 145 kW, 210 Nm and a fuel efficiency of around 5.7 litres/100 km.
The 2.0-litre Turbo petrol engine boasts 175 kW and 350 Nm to give plenty of grunt. Running with the 6-speed automatic gearbox, this set-up returns around 7.9 litres/100 km fuel usage.
Mahindra
Mahindra XUV500
Available as a highly appointed SUV, the new Mahindra XUV500 is spacious, comfortable and easy to drive. Good turbo-diesel power and economy should appeal to plenty of people after a well appointed AWD medium SUV.
The Mahindra XUV500 AWD W10 has seven seats, auto, diesel, 2.2-litres, 103 kW, 320 Nm, 4-star safety and around 8.1 litres/100 km fuel efficiency.
Mazda
Mazda CX-5
Petrol and diesel alternatives, classy looks and a nice drive to match, the Mazda CX-5 is popular for good reason. Hard to beat with so many pros including a competitive price makes the models in the Mazda CX-5 stable highly desirable.
The Mazda CX-5 GSX AWD Petrol and Limited AWD Petrol use the same engine, the only difference being in equipment levels. Both are five-seater, auto, 2.5-litre petrol, 140 kW, 252 Nm, 5-star safe, 7.4 litre/100 km mid-size SUVs.
The Mazda CX-5 GSX AWD and Limited AWD Diesel variants run with a 2.2 turbo-diesel motor boasting 140 kW, 450 Nm and 5.7 litres/100 km efficiency. These engines are some of the best in this class of vehicle. They are strong performers and very efficient.
The Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo has the 170 kW petrol variant with 420 Nm of torque. Smooth, punchy performance makes this a class act too.
Mercedes Benz
Mercedes Benz GLC
Mid-size Mercedes Benz SUVs are known as the GLC Series of vehicles. Luxurious, desirable, classy, safe and stylish are just some of the words used to describe this nice range of medium SUVs. Coupe styling is also on offer. They are pricey, but then they are very good.
All models seat five in comfort and use 9-speed automatic gearboxes. AMG models use a Speedshift gearbox. One hybrid model is available (300 e). Again, the GLC range of Mercedes Benz SUVs lead the way on the performance front; the AMG models deliver as much as 700 Nm from their 4.0-litre, 8-cylinder engines.
Mercedes Benz GLC models include the: 300 AWD, 300 e AWD, AMG 43 AWD, AMG 63S AWD, Coupe 300 AWD, Coupe AMG GLC 43 AWD, Coupe AMG GLC 63S AWD.
Mitsubishi
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
Two mid-size SUV models with AWD are available to the buyer.
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross AWD in XLS and VRX forms offer five seats, auto, petrol, 1.5-litres, 112 kW, 254 Nm, 5-star safety and around 7.7 litres/100 km. The turbo engine and the very good eight step CVT are matched really well for an enjoyable drive while delivering a refined ride and comfortable transport. Loaded with the latest infotainment and safety goodies you’ll enjoy the Eclipse Cross’s nice modern looks and classy cabins.
Mitsubishi Outlander
The Mitsubishi Outlander has been a go-to mid-size SUV for quite some time now, and with its latest offering it remains a highly competent medium SUV. Petrol, hybrid and now a new Diesel engine give the Outlander plenty of clout. Underpinning the Outlander is an excellent AWD system that manages slippery conditions with ease. CVT and conventional auto gearboxes are available.
So, LS, XLS, XLS Sport and VRX versions run with a 2.4-litre, 126 kW, 224 Nm petrol powerplant that offers around 7.2 litres/100 km efficiency. All are CVT, however you can choose the VRX with a 6-speed auto if you prefer.
With 366 Nm of torque and a very good all-round fuel efficiency of somewhere in the vicinity of 6.2 litres, the XLS and VRX can be had with this excellent turbo-diesel motor delivering 112 kW of peak power. This makes a strong case for those on the look out for a reasonably priced diesel powered mid-size SUV.
Ready to be blown away? Those in the know, will already be enjoying the Mitsubishi Outlander in PHEV form. Why? Under the hood is probably the best petrol/ev combination for any of the mid-size SUVs in 2020. Luxurious and well appointed, the PHEV also manage to get as low as 1.9 litres/100 km! Enough said…
Nissan
Nissan X-Trail
People are loving the nice curvy styling of the latest Nissan X-Trail. Solid dynamics, decent performance, great 4WD systems with decent off-roading potential, plenty of space, reasonable pricing and plenty of very good equipment all add up to make the new X-Trail another desirable SUV.
Nissan X-Trail 4WD variants start with the ST, step to the ST-L and then top out with the loaded Ti. Each uses the same peppy 2.5-litre petrol with 126 kW and 226 Nm. You can expect around 8.3 litres/100 km fuel efficiency for all the models which come with the auto gearbox as standard. Practical roomy interiors, good luggage space, seating for five and 5-star safe, the X-Trail is to be liked.
Porsche
Porsche Macan
Porsche get into the mid-size SUV market place with a variety of premium AWD Macan models. They demand a high price but then, like Mercedes equivalents, they are very good SUVs – more orientated towards sport/luxury than being a true off-roading SUV. Comfortable and very sporty with great road manners for the enthusiast, the AWD Macan is pure driving pleasure.
The Porsche Macan uses a 185 kW petrol engine delivering a top speed nearing 230 km/h. A 0-100 km/h sprint time of 6.5 seconds should be enough to have plenty of fun on the drive to work!
The Porsche Macan S uses a 260 kW petrol engine delivering a top speed nearing 254 km/h, and it has a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 5.1 seconds.
The Porsche Macan GTS uses a 280 kW petrol engine delivering a top speed nearing 261 km/h, and it has a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 4.7 seconds.
The Porsche Macan Turbo uses a 324 kW petrol engine delivering a top speed nearing 270 km/h, and it has a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 4.3 seconds.
Renault
Renault Koleos
Renault has two very decent AWD medium SUVs that are often overlooked in the masses. Don’t forget to check out a new 2020 Koleos 4×4. Riding on the same platform as the Nissan X-Trail you get a very good off-road system that is more than adequate for plenty of adventure. A petrol and diesel are offered both of which are very well equipped, spacious and comfortable. The Koleos looks smart and flowing, boasting striking LED DRLs and a classy set of alloys.
The Renault Koleos Intens/Sport 2.5 4×4 uses the responsive 2.5-litre, petrol engine with 126 kW and 226 Nm. You should get around 8.3 litres/100 km fuel efficiency out of one of these and its linked to the smooth auto gearbox.
The Renault Koleos Intens/Sport 2.0 4×4 offers the turbo-diesel engine in auto with plenty of power (128 kW) and a hefty 380 Nm of torque. This is the one to get if you need a Koleos for towing, but check out the 5.5 litre/100 km fuel efficiency – which you should match pretty closely.
Your new Renault Koleos comes with a comprehensive suite of 5-star safety features, and out on the open road it happily lopes along effortlessly and quietly.
Skoda
Skoda Kodiaq
For practicality, safety and style, the latest Skoda Kodiaq leads the way. A healthy boot space, sliding and reclining rear seats, seven seats, loads of storage space and a comfortable ride, the Skoda is a perfect mid-size SUV. A diesel and petrol option gives the buyer flexibility. Well equipped, well built and capable off-road, the 4×4 footprint is assured and well balanced for any road surface you care to travel down.
The Kodiaq Style and the Kodiaq Sportline models are offered with a 2.0-litre petrol engine delivering 132 kW and 320 Nm. But you can also get your Kodiaq with the superb 2.0-litre turbo-diesel packing 400 Nm of torque and 140 kW. Both engines are linked to a smooth auto gearbox.
Subaru
Subaru Forester
Another medium SUV that’s been through plenty of generations – one of the first of its type, in fact – is the 2020 Subaru Forester. This SUV delivers a great package in various trims that all run with the smooth 4-cylinder, 2.5-litre petrol, auto with 136 kW and 239 Nm. You should be able to get around 7.4 litres/100 km on average.
The latest Forester remains a solid buy, built nice and strong with 5-star safety, loads of new technology and X-Mode for its AWD capability. A good drive.
Toyota
Ever reliable, Toyota has a nice new RAV4 for sale for 2020. Only titivated up last year, the new RAV4 is an SUV that, in hybrid format, uses the new E-Four AWD system. Linked to the smooth and free revving 2.5-litre petrol, the combination of petrol/hybrid technology brings an excellent fuel efficient medium-size SUV to this rather large SUV segment of the market. In hybrid form the RAV4 delivers 131 kW of power and 221 Nm of torque, perfect for everyday driving. Fuel consumption can get as low as 4.7 litres/100 km. You’ll find the hybrid is available for the RAV4 GX, GXL and Cruiser models. The hybrids use a CVT gearbox for delivering power down to the AWD system.
The other engine that’s available for the Toyota RAV4 Edge AWD is the 2.5-litre Dynamic Force direct injection petrol engine which is linked to a very nice 8-speed auto. It has a few more horses under the bonnet with 152 kW and 243 Nm at the ready. Fuel consumption for the Edge is around 7.5 litres/100 km.
Safety is 5-star, so you get a loaded mid-size SUV with Toyota Safety Sense that includes active cruise control, a pre-collision safety system with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane departure alert, lane trace assist, auto high beam and road sign assist.
Seating is spacious and comfortable for the long haul, while the audio and other infotainment systems are all the latest tech. Plenty of options allow you to individualize you RAV4 to your tastes and there is even things like a panoramic roof.
Volkswagen
VW Tiguan
No more diesel options for VW’s Tiguan, however the two petrol engines deliver nice, smooth power and decent response. One of the 2.0-litre petrol Turbo units puts out 132 kW and 320 Nm, while the other jumps to 162 kW and 350 Nm. Allspace models add a third row of seats to make it possible to carry seven occupants including the driver.
Handy 4×4 systems make the 2020 VW Tiguan pretty good for going off-road. 5-star safety and decent fuel consumption rates all add up to making the pleasant Tiguan easy to live with and very handy to have when you want to escape for the weekend. The Tiguan interiors are smart and well put together.
Volvo
Volvo XC60
Volvo’s XC60 slots into the mid-size SUV segment perfectly. It is one of the most stylish medium SUVs on the market; it looks great from any angle. You also get the Thor hammer DRLs which catch attention instantly.
Out on the road the new Volvo XC60 performs very well with plenty of power and refinement. The ride is very comfortable, aided by the very comfortable seats. Take it off-road and the XC60 handles pretty much anything that comes its way – without being an out-and-out bush basher.
Engines come in the form of petrol, diesel and hybrid – all of which are 2.0-litre capacity. The hybrid is the most powerful engine, with 265 kW maximum combined output and as much as 440 Nm of torque. The hybrid is known as the T8, and with all that power comes an amazing 2.1 litres/100 km of fuel usage –why would you want anything else? It is pricy though…
D4 and D5 XC60 variants pack a tonne of torque from their diesel engines.
The T5 has: 5 seats, auto, petrol, 2.0-litre, 187 kW, 350 Nm, 5-star safety and 7.3 litres/100 km.
The D4 has 5 seats, auto, diesel, 2.0-litre, 140 kW, 400 Nm, 5-star safety and 5.2 litres/100 km.
The D5 R-Design has 5 seats, auto, diesel, 2.0-litre, 173 kW, 480 Nm, 5-star safety and 5.5 litres/100 km.
The T6 has: 5 seats, auto, petrol, 2.0-litre, 235 kW, 400 Nm, 5-star safety and 7.7 litres/100 km.
The T8 R-Design Hybrid has: 5 seats, auto, petrol, 2.0-litre, 265 kW, 440 Nm, 5-star safety and 2.1 litres/100 km.
Small SUVs You Can Buy in 2020
Judging by sales trends, the commanding popularity of owning and enjoying an SUV will continue into 2020. So, what can you buy this year if you’re looking to get into a small SUV with AWD? Let’s take a closer look.
Audi
Audi Q2
Audi has the sparkling little Audi Q2 AWD. You can get this one in the Q2 TFSI 140 kW Quattro Sport mode with five seats, a 7-speed auto, petrol, 2.0-litre Turbo, 140 kW, 320 Nm, 5-star safety and with 6.4 litres/100 km fuel consumption.
For way more performance the hot little SQ2 TFSI 221 kW Quattro is stunningly quick. Available with five seats, a 7-speed auto, petrol, 2.0-litre, 221 kW, 400 Nm, 5-star safety and around 7.4 litres/100 km fuel consumption.
Audi Q3
Audi also offers the slightly larger Audi Q3 with Quattro underpinnings and good looks. You will enjoy the new Q3 45 TFSI with five seats, a 7-speed auto, petrol, 2.0-litre, 132 kW, 320 Nm, 5-star safety and around 6.7 litres/100 km fuel consumption.
The punchy performance of the Q3 S-Line 45 TFSI will delight. It comes with five seats, a 7-speed auto, petrol, 2.0-litre, 169 kW, 350 Nm, 5-star safety and around 7.6 litres/100 km fuel consumption.
BMW
BMW X1
The smallest BMW SUV with AWD is found in X1 guise. Known as the BMW x-Drive 20d 4×4 you have something quite special to get yourself around. The Twin-Turbo diesel is a beauty with plenty of pep, great driving dynamics and low fuel usage. It comes with five seats, an 8-speed auto, diesel, 2.0-litre, 140 kW, 400 Nm, 5-star safety and around 4.8 litres/100 km fuel consumption.
BMW X2
BMW also offer a small SUV in the form of the X2 AWD. The X2 has low, sleek lines; however it still has SUV status. You can get this nice looking, nice driving vehicle with five seats, an 8-speed auto, petrol, 2.0-litre, 141 kW, 280 Nm, 5-star safety and around 6.5 litres/100 km fuel consumption.
Honda
Honda HR-V AWD
The smallest Honda SUV comes in the form of the HR-V. Available with AWD, five seats, auto, petrol, 1.5-litre, 96 kW, 155 Nm, 5-star safety and around 5.3 litres/100 km fuel consumption. The HR-V won’t break any land speed records but it does deliver comfortable, efficient transport with loads of technology and safety features.
Hyundai
Hyundai KONA AWD
Hyundai offer their small SUV in AWD as well as in FWD. Both the 1.6T AWD and the 1.6T Elite AWD use the same engine and underpinnings with the difference being price and equipment levels. With a new Hyundai KONA AWD SUV you will enjoy five seats, a 7-speed DCT transmission, petrol, 1.6-litre, 130 kW, 265 Nm, 5-star safety and around 6.7 litres/100 km fuel consumption. The KONA’s nice styling, price and drive add up to a nice experience.
Jeep
Jeep Renegade
Yes, you can get yourself a legendary Jeep as a small SUV. Jeep’s compact SUV has all of Jeep’s 4×4 mastery with its proven technology and ruggedness always a hit. Known as the Jeep Renegade Trailhawk; with this model you have serious off-road potential that boasts low gearing for tough terrain. You also get five seats, an auto gearbox, petrol, 2.4-litre, 129 kW, 230 Nm, 5-star safety and a fuel consumption of around 7.5 litres/100 km.
Lexus
Lexus UX250H
The smallest Lexus SUV with AWD comes in the form of the UX250H; and it’s a hybrid. Sleek lines, plenty of style, loads of luxury, excellent performance and handy cabin space make the new Lexus UX250H a discerning small SUV choice. The UX has also been designed by a female engineer who also had a hand in the CT200’s design. This comes with five seats, an auto transmission, hybrid – petrol/electric power, 2.0-litre combustion, 135 combined kW, 190 Nm, 5-star safety and a fuel consumption around 4.7 litres/100 km.
Mazda
Mazda CX-3 AWD
A real winner with equally nice looks and a nice drive, it’s hard to walk by a new Mazda CX-3 AWD. Known as the CX-3 GSX AWD, you get a small SUV that has all the style as well as a comfortable interior, great technology and a fun drive. The CX-3 AWD comes with five seats, an auto gearbox, petrol, 2.0-litre, 110 kW, 5-star safety and a fuel consumption around 6.7 litres/100 km.
Mercedes Benz
Mercedes Benz GLA AWD
As a compact SUV, the new Mercedes Benz GLA AWD versions though almost car-like do offer some SUV credentials. It is based on the A-Class platform and is excellent – as you would expect. It is Mercedes Benz after all! This offer one of the nicest cabins in this class of car, particularly when you add the huge centre touchscreen and figure-hugging seats. These are also really nice driving cars with superb performance. If you don’t mind the higher price, then you’ll love these.
The Mercedes Benz GLA 250 4Matic has five seats, an auto gearbox, petrol, 2.0-litre, 155 kW, 350 Nm, 5-star-safety and a combined fuel consumption of around 7.0 litres/100 km. The Mercedes Benz GLA AMG 45 4Matic is the most powerful small SUV money can buy. It’s also the priciest! With this model you get five seats, an auto gearbox, petrol, 2.0-litre, 280 kW, 475 Nm, 5-star safety and a combined fuel consumption of around 7.5-litres/100 km. A 0-100 km/h dash can be performed in around five seconds.
Mitsubishi
Mitsubishi ASX AWD
Mitsubishi offers the excellent new ASX XLS AWD. This small SUV has a very modern style and offers its power from the excellent 2.2 turbo-diesel engine. This is a standout performer and perfectly matched for the ASX AWD version. The 2020 ASX cabin is comfortable, stylish and safe. You get the AWD version with five seats, auto, diesel, 2.2-litre, 112 kW, 366 Nm, 5-star safety and a 6.0 litres/100 km fuel consumption.
Nissan
Nissan Juke AWD
Nissan Juke has its small AWD model with the funkiest styling in this class. It’s all about cool looks, style and fun with this one. You can get the AWD Nissan Juke in Juke Turbo form which delivers a great drive, tidy handling and plenty of personality. The Nissan Juke Turbo has five seats, auto, petrol, 1.6-litre, 140 kW, 240 Nm, 5-star safety and a punchy drive with a fuel consumption of around 7.4 litres/100 km.
Ssangyong
Ssangyong Korando AWD
Very plush and comfortable, the 2020 Ssangyong Korando looks good and is nice and practical. Offered in AWD as the Korando 2.0 TDi it comes with a good price, five seats, auto, diesel, 2.0-litre, 129 kW, 360 Nm, 5-star safety and around 7.3 litres/100 km fuel consumption. This is proving a popular buy around the world, and for good reason too; this is a solid, stylish, nice driving and comfortable small AWD SUV.
Subaru
Subaru XV AWD
Based on the Impreza platform, the new Subaru XV 2.0i Sport and Premium models are very handy off-road, while remaining dynamic on-road. This is a competent, stylish small SUV that can easily scamper off road when required. Both the Sport and Premium models come with five seats, auto, petrol, 2.0-litre, 115 kW, 196 Nm, 5-star safety and around 7.0 litres/100 km fuel economy.
Suzuki
Suzuki Jimny 4×4
The extremely desirable and popular little Suzuki Jimny has impressed worldwide and is available in Australia with plenty of options for trim, technology and trim levels as well as manual and auto options. These are a delightful 4×4 SUV to drive with the added benefit of being able to tackle some serious off-road terrain. Even experienced 4WDers rave about them. This latest model has delivered and offers plenty for the adventurer. Manual versions are fractionally more fuel efficient, being able to return around 6.4 litres/100 km compared with auto versions which are around 6.9 litres/100 km. Both the Suzuki Jimny Sierra and Sierra 2 Tone offer five seats, auto and manual options, petrol, 1.5-litre, 75 kW, 130 Nm and 3-star safety.
Suzuki S-Cross AWD
Suzuki’s S-Cross is really a glorified Hatchback with a higher small SUV riding stance, a peppy little engine, excellent build quality, and all at a handy price. The AWD version is known as the Suzuki SX4 S-Cross LTD AWD, and it is nice and comfortable to drive. It’s also nice and practical with genuine seat comfort and space. You get five seats, auto, petrol, 1.6-litre, 88 kW, 156 Nm, 5-star safety and a 6.3 litres/100 km fuel consumption.
Suzuki Vitara AWD
With its nice styling, safety and comfort, the new Vitara is a very well-priced small SUV with great driving dynamics too boot. It’s based on the S-Cross platform. The latest Vitara has been pumped with high-tech safety features and also shows off its bold styling in many bright colour combinations. You’ll have fun with this one, and the Vitara is well built too. The Suzuki Vitara JLX AWD is the base model and offers five seats, auto, petrol, 1.6-litre, 86 kW 156 Nm, 5-star safety and 6.3 litres/100 km fuel consumption. The Suzuki Vitara Turbo AWD and AWD 2 Tone are great fun cars to drive. With these you get five seats, auto, petrol, 1.4-litre, 103 kW, 220 Nm, 5-star safety and 6.2 litres/100 km.
Toyota
Finally, to wrap up the available new small SUV drives, the Toyota C-HR is superbly built, nice to look at, comfortable and has hybrid technology. 2020 has the C-HR with smoother lines and a special Toyota Safety Sense suite. This is a reliable performer, and a small SUV drive that delivers AWD traction which is great for gravel roads as well as city streets. The Turbo AWD, Limited AWD and Limited AWD 2 tone all offer five seats, auto, petrol, 1.2-litre, 85 kW, 185 Nm, 5-star safety and an average fuel consumption of around 6.5 litres/100 km.
As you can see there is plenty of choice in the abundant selection you’ll find in the small SUV market place. Today’s modern technology, new materials and reliability make for enjoyable new car ownership. You can see why plenty of people are ditching their small hatchbacks for a more solid small SUV stance.
2019MY Nissan X-Trail Ti: Private Fleet Car Review.
This Car Review Is About: The 2019 model year Ti spec X-Trail from Nissan. At the time of writing there is a six tier range which includes the sports themed N-Sport. The Ti sits at the second highest spot under the TL and wants for little in comparison. The car provided comes in a five seater configuration.
How Much Does It Cost?: Nissan says a drive-away price in January 2020 is $44,490 for the Ti. That’s a bargain as the recommended retail is $45,340 before any on road costs.
Under The Bonnet Is: A 2.5L petrol engine and a Constant Variable Transmission. Peak torque of 226Nm spins in at 4,400rpm, whilst top power of 126kW is there at 6,000rpm. Economy is quoted as 8.3L per 100 kilometres on the combined cycle from a 60.0L tank. We saw a best of 7.3L/100km and a final average of 8.7L/100km. Emissions are 192grams/km. Dry weight is 1,562kg.
On The Outside It’s: A clear relation to the rest of the Nissan family, something some other brands should take into consideration. Every single Nissan has a relatable to another Nissan look. This starts with the deep Vee shaped nose/grille design before running to a sine wave crease-line along the side from the front to the’s rear muscular flanks. The rear lights are nicely integrated horizontally and the powered tailgate opens to a 565L cargo section. Drop the second row seats and Nissan says there’s 945L available. The Ti comes with a glass roof and incorporates a separate sunroof in this section.
The styling disguises the fact it’s quite long at 4,640mm and sports a wheelbase of 2,705mm. Height is only noticeable if you stand next to it at 1,740mm. Full width is 1,820mm. Good looking 19 inch alloys are shod with 225/55 Ecopia rubber from Bridgestone.
On The Inside It’s: Largely a very pleasant office. The immediate downside to the look is the drab and dull touchscreen display. It’s boring to look at, and slow to access DAB stations. the map display looks like a digital version of the now no-longer-available paper map books. That’s the downside. Otherwise there’s superbly supple cloth covered seats, which are heated front AND rear, the aforementioned glass roof, and an ergonomically laid out cabin.
The driver has a one touch up/down power window, keyless start, and a very efficient climate control system at their fingertips. There’s a decent centre console bin, and a drive select dial just forward of it. This allows two or four wheel drive (on demand) and a locked 4WD for soft-roading. Auto headlights and wipers add to the convenience factor as do the integrated cop holders in the rear seat which fold down and also provide a form of armrest. There’s hints of luxury thanks to the lush carpet mats fitted and the powered tailgate has a position memory. It’ll also automatically stop if a body is detected..
The dash itself is formed into an elegantly styled design, replete with soft touch materials and a stitched leather look. Button and tab placement follow a logical theme on the gently flattened “M” style layout, with a slightly flat bottomed wheel providing a little extra thigh space as well. Dull looking touchscreen design aside, it’s a pretty place to sit in and look at. That’s assisted by a beautiful Bose sound system with enough low end to please most and a nicely balanced sound stage.
On The Road It’s: A harder ride than expected. In no way was it a bad ride, far from it. There was ample absorbance and it was more the quicker return to a flat ride, and a definite feeling of tautness, that surprised early on. The car’s default drive by choice was the torque-split on demand 4WD. In the driver’s display is a graphic that shows the torque being applied front to rear and the drive is well enough set up to have the front doing most of the work without feeling as such.
Steering is well balanced with just the right amount of feedback and heft to ensure an engaging drive in this respect. Where the drive fell down was in the CVT’s unwillingness to deal with an engine that has great numbers and exhibits those when using the manual change via the gear selector or paddle shifters.
Anything other than a gentle push on the accelerator resulted in a sensation of feeling mired in mud. Forward motion felt uninspiring, and indifferent, whereas using the manual options gave a definite change in the liveliness of the drive. The brakes made up for it with confidence and solid stopping time after time.
What About Safety?: There’s plenty. Intelligent Cruise Control that adapts to the vehicle ahead, Autonomous Emergency Braking, and Blind Spot Warning with a small LED that lights up in the root of the wing mirror to visually advise. Intelligent Trace Control, a form of torque vectoring, is here, and it unobtrusively applies brakes to the wheels sensors feel need an additional boost, and this works cornering to assist in keeping the X-Trail on the road, rather than venturing to where it shouldn’t.
Intelligent Ride Control works with the engine and transmission, gently backing off torque when the car moves over something like a speed-bump or road ripple. This has the flow on effect of minimising pitch that passengers may feel. Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, and Intelligent Lane Intervention round out the safety package, with what Nissan calls their Intelligent Mobility service incorporating the Lane Intervention, Cruise Control, and Trace Control.
What About Warranty And Service?: Five years worth of warranty and unlimited kilometres are a good thing to have in the back pocket. This covers five years of roadside assist and should the vehicle be onsold inside that term, the warranty rolls over with it. Service is the now familiar capped price and varies depending on which level of service is required. This was the pricing structure as of January 2020.
At The End Of The Drive. The Nissan X-Trail Ti is a very featured and equipped vehicle. It rides and handles well enough, has a very good engine but has two things that need improvement. The visually uninspiring touchscreen needs an overhaul and Nissan has plenty of places to look. The other is the CVT. It’s a real negative in what is otherwise a mechanically very well sorted drive-line. More information of the X-Trail’s extensive range and feature set can be found here.
Level 2, 9 Help Street