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Australian 4WD & SUV Buyer's Guide Magazine April Issue#29 2017 (Digital)

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100 Articles

Welcome to Australian 4WD & SUV Buyers Guide .

Right now, a revolution is taking place in the Australian new vehicle market. For the first — but certainly not the last — time in history, 4WD and SUV sales will exceed those of cars in 2017, as Australians of all ages and family circumstances turn to the space, versatility and value of wagons large and small. One-tonner utes, especially double-cab variants, are also enjoying unprecedented popularity, particularly among tradies, who use them as one size fits all work, play and family transport, and grey nomads, who appreciate their affordability, diesel economy and suitability for towing. I hope you enjoy the magazine and that it helps you choose the 4WD, SUV or ute that works best for you. Your comments are always welcome. Email me at info@4wdmag.com.au…

JOSHUA DOWLING Australia’s premier motoring journalist, Joshua Dowling is the National Motoring Editor of News Corp Australia and a World Car of the Year judge. Joshua is renowned for his consumer-first approach and you can also find his roadtests on Carsguide.com.au, news stories on news.com.au or read his regular rants on Twitter: @JoshuaDowling JOHN CAREY One of Australia’s most accomplished motoring writers, John is a previous editor of Overlander, a contributor to Wheels magazine where he is a Car of the Year judge, and publications in the USA and UK. He lives in Bergamo, Italy. PETER MCKAY Peter McKay has been writing about cars since 1976, for publications including Wheels and The Sydney Morning Herald. He has competed in seven Bathurst 1000s, the Nurburgring 24 Hours, Spa 24 Hours, Australian…

Our piggybank indicates a 4WD or SUV that we think represents good value for money against the others in its class. It may not necessarily be the cheapest, but taking into account factors such as standard equipment, safety, the way it drives, resale values and quality, it shapes up as a good deal. A capital S indicates a vehicle that scores five stars out of five for occupant protection in ANCAP crash tests. Go to www.ancap.com. au. for more information If you’re after a safe, practical wagon to carry the kids, look for this symbol. We’ve limited its use to vehicles that have an ANCAP score of at least four stars out of five and have six airbags plus stability control as standard or as affordable options. We’ve also taken…

LAND ROVER DISCOVERY

It started life as a simple, utilitarian 4x4 wagon in 1991. Now, the fifth generation Land Rover Discovery, which arrives in Australia in July, has morphed into a sophisticated, high-tech luxury wagon, still with its signature 4x4 capability that differentiates Discovery from its German rivals. As with the current model, Discovery is a seven-seater, with the two back seats folding flat to form the load floor. Each seat has an ISOFIX anchor, so you can fit up to four restraints in total. Rows two and three can be folded and raised via the 10-inch infotainment touchscreen or, if you’re away from the vehicle and want to change the layout when you return, via an app on your smartphone. There’s a huge load area in five-seater mode, and connectivity for all…

LAND ROVER DISCOVERY

ALFA ROMEO STELVIO

Alfa Romeo has just launched a full-on challenge to Audi, BMW and Mercedes as it attempts, once again, to become a major global player in the luxury car business. It’s gone straight in at the deep end with the Giulia, a mid-size sedan designed to take on Audi’s A4, BMW’s 3 Series and the Mercedes C Class. Using the same architecture, mechanicals, electronics and many other components, Alfa will launch the Giulia-based Stelvio SUV in Australia in early 2018. The name comes from a legendary mountain pass in the Italian Alps, which is one of the great drives of Europe — as long as you get to it early in the morning, before the crowds of other eager petrolheads who want to have a crack at it too. It climbs…

ALFA ROMEO STELVIO

Audi’s second-generation Q5 arrives in the third quarter of 2017. It’s slightly bigger than the original, but weight-saving measures have reduced its mass by up to 90kg. The rear seat is a 40/20/40 split layout, while the cargo area volume with all seats in use is up only marginally to 550–610 litres; with the rear seat completely folded, there are 1550 litres to fill. Audi’s virtual cockpit features customisable digital instruments on a 12.3-inch screen, including a full-width navigation display that’s right in your line of sight. Audi’s voice control is also included. It’s one of the most sophisticated in the business and it speaks flawless English. Engine choices for Australia have not yet been finalised, but we will get a 2.0-litre turbodiesel with 140kW of power, and a 185kW…

This big beastie is Audi’s new premium luxury SUV, based on the Q7 seven-seater, but in this initial concept model it’s done as a four-seater with a coupe-style body. The production version, which will differ only in detail from the concept, will launch in 2018. At 5.02m long, with a wheelbase of 3m, cabin space is vast and each of the four occupants is treated to a luxurious seat and unlimited legroom. The production version will probably have a three-person rear seat option. The luggage compartment is 630 litres — big enough for everybody’s Louis Vuitton cases. Audi’s virtual cockpit includes hi-res imaging on the 12.3- inch screen, top down or 3D navigation displays; a head-up display is also featured. Drivetrains are expected to include a plug-in hybrid, with a…

VOLKSWAGEN ATLAS

Volkswagen’s largest SUV in its current Australian lineup is the five-seater Touareg, however the Americans are about to get a big new seven-seater wagon called the Atlas, which is due to launch there in a few months. Atlas is built on the same platform as Audi’s Q7, so it’s a snip over 5m in length. Built in Tennessee (putting VW on Donald Trump’s “good guys” list), there are no firm plans for it to be made in right-hand drive at this stage, but VW Australia would certainly like to have it and it’s possible, though far from a done deal, that in the not-too-distant future, it will be made with the steering wheel on the correct side. It runs two drivetrains: a 177kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol, with an eight-speed automatic and…

VOLKSWAGEN ATLAS

While a right-hand-drive VW Atlas is still to be confirmed, you will actually be able to buy one, with different sheetmetal and a turbodiesel engine option, in Australia from July when the new Skoda Kodiaq arrives. Skoda is a subsidiary brand of VW, like Audi, and Kodiaq uses the same platform, or basic structure, as Q7 and Atlas. Its body is a bit shorter at 4.7m. It’s a seven-seater as standard in Australia. Skoda promises state-of-the-art smartphone integration with its Skoda Connect and SmartLink apps that together control infotainment, navigation and emergency assistance communication. Automatic emergency braking from speeds up to 34km/h is standard; optional safety tech includes radar cruise, blind-spot monitoring and rear-cross traffic alert. Atlas’ automated trailer reverse parking system is also available. There’s plenty of boot space…

HOLDEN EQUINOX & ACADIA

Holden is expanding its SUV portfolio with two new models, the Acadia and Equinox, both sourced from its GM parent in the US. Acadia (above) is a product of the GMC brand and is a mid-size wagon that, in Australia, will go up against Kluger, Pathfinder, Hyundai Santa Fe and Mazda CX-9. In the US, Acadia is offered with 143kW 2.5-litre four-cylinder and 231kW 3.6-litre petrol V6 engines, both naturally aspirated. Initially, we will get the latter, with a six-speed automatic and front- or all-wheel drivetrains. Five seats are standard; a seven-seater layout will also be available. The Equinox (at right), made by Chevrolet, is a smaller wagon that will replace the Captiva and take on Toyota’s RAV4, Subaru’s Forester and the Mazda CX-5. It’s a sleek, contemporary five-seater, with…

HOLDEN EQUINOX & ACADIA

Jeep sales have gone off the cliff in Australia because new-car buyers have lost confidence in the brand, largely due to a poor reliability record, a hard-ball approach to customer relations, and general corporate incompetence under previous local management. Jeep is hoping to begin a turnaround in its fortunes with the new Compass, a compact SUV due here mid-year. Jeeps are now pretty good things to drive, and the 2017 Compass looks like a winner, especially the Trailhawk model, which offers strong off-road credentials, hard to find in this class. Variants with 4x4 capability run a nine-speed automatic transmission with a 20:1 first-gear crawl ratio in Trailhawk in lieu of a dual-range transfer case; 4x2 models use a six-speed automatic. A six-speed manual is also available. We will get the…

ARK DUAL TRAILER SOCKET

It could happen to the best of us. You spend months planning for that great week-long trip away in the caravan or camper trailer. You’ve gone through your checklists to ensure everything is packed, you load the essential snacks and drinks into your vehicle and start to back it up to the trailer. You hook it up to the hitch, attach the safety chains, plug in your lights and then double-check it all because you have heard too many horror stories of trailers coming off cars on the highway and you don’t want to be “that bloke”. You hit the road. All is good. Fast-forward eight hours or so. You reach what will be your new home for the next few nights. The jockey wheel comes down, you unhitch, get…

ARK DUAL
TRAILER SOCKET

IRONMAN CAMPING GEAR

Ironman 4x4 has everything you need to fit out your 4WD, SUV or ute for adventure travel, but when you head out into the scrub you’ll also need high-quality camping equipment to make life comfortable and convenient. Ironman’s roof-top tent is the best way to get off the ground in comfort, protected from critters and the weather. It unfolds in minutes and all bedding remains in the tent, so setup and pack up are quick and easy. It’s 1.4m wide and 2.4m long, so even big blokes can fit, while the roof height is 1.3m, allowing you to sit up. The high-density foam mattress is 65mm thick. It sits on a lightweight, insulated aluminium floor, and the tent itself is made from waterproof, breathable, durable poly-cotton canvas, with YKK zips.…

IRONMAN CAMPING GEAR

JAYCO ADVENTURER

Jayco dominates the Australian caravan and camper trailer market, but until now has largely left the serious off-road hardware end of the business to smaller, more specialised manufacturers. However, with the release of its fully independent J-Tech suspension package a couple of years ago, now available on most of its caravans and campers, it was only a matter of time before Jayco produced a caravan that was purpose-built to tackle more ambitious terrain. Enter the Adventurer, now available in four variants: a 13.42-foot pop top, a 16.5-foot caravan and two 19.6-foot caravans. ATMs range from 2300–3500kg, with generous payload allowances. Adventurer is built on a heavy-duty, hot-dipped galvanised chassis, with its J-Tech suspension beefed up via an additional large-diameter Pedders off-road damper on each wheel, plus electrocoated suspension components for…

JAYCO ADVENTURER

REDBOOK VALUATIONS

In the Australian 4WD & SUV Buyer’s Guide, we include trade-in values for every model in our Showroom section. These are provided to us by Redbook, Australia’s leading authority on used-car, 4WD and SUV values. Each model we test includes three- and five-year retained values, expressed as a percentage. These are based on what the wholesale price — i.e. the price a dealer would pay for the car — would be for a car in average condition with average kilometres for its age. You’ll find Redbook’s three-and five-year retained values in the Spex for single-page tests and at the end of the What’s Standard section in tests that run over two pages. When you’re selling your car privately, trading it in or buying a car, a Redbook valuation is money…

REDBOOK VALUATIONS

Beyond the capability of your gear, your wish list and your financial resources, the two great determining factors on any extended Australian touring expedition are time and distance. You never have enough of the former, while the latter is as much a state of mind as a physical reality. If you keep the plot mobile and pointed in the right direction, you’ll get there, eventually. Still, there’s no escaping the fact that every way is the long way in Australia, especially if you’re traversing the country. In this first story, we look at the three east-west routes: the Savannah Way from Cairns to Broome across the Top End; the Outback Way, from Winton in Queensland to Laverton, WA, via Uluru; and Highway One, from the eastern states to Perth across…

TEST INDEX 36 Audi Q2 37 Audi Q3 38 Audi Q5 39 Audi Q7 40 Bentley Bentayga 41 BMW X1 42 BMW X3 43 BMW X6 44 BMW X5 46 Citroen Cactus 47 Dodge RAM 48 Fiat 500X 49 Ford Everest 50 Ford Ranger 52 Ford Ecosport 53 Ford Escape 54 Holden Trax 55 Holden Captiva 56 Holden Ute 57 Holden Trailblazer 59 Holden Colorado 60 Honda HRV 61 Honda CRV 62 Hyundai Tucson 63 Hyundai Santa Fe 65 Isuzu D-Max 66 Isuzu MU-X 67 Jaguar F-Pace 68 Jeep Cherokee 70 Jeep Grand Cherokee 72 Jeep Wrangler 74 Jeep Renegade 75 Kia Sportage 76 Kia Sorento 77 Land Rover Discovery Sport 78 Land Rover Discovery 80 Lexus NX 81 Lexus RX 82 Lexus LX 83 Maserati Levante 84 Mazda BT50…

AUDI Q2 FROM $41,400

The Audi Q2 already looks awfully close to becoming Australia’s most desirable premium small SUV. Like it says on the tin, the Q2 is one size smaller than Audi’s already-popular Q3, being engineered on the VW Polo/Audi A1 small car platform. The new Audi SUV isn’t cheap, with a starting price of $41,400 for the base Q2 1.4 TFSI. This model has a 110kW turbocharged petrol four-cylinder engine, driving the front wheels via a seven-speed double-clutch automatic. It’s a great little engine, with cylinder-on-demand technology that automatically and imperceptibly shuts down two cylinders under light throttle loads to save fuel. Consumption is a claimed 5.2L/100km. A Q2 2.0 TDI quattro with 110kW turbodiesel four, seven-speed double-clutch auto and Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system, is priced at $47,900. A range-topper, the Q2…

AUDI Q2 FROM $41,400

AUDI Q3 FROM $42,900

The Audi Q3 range opens with the 110kW 1.4-litre turbopetrol TFSi, with a six-speed twin-clutch S-Tronic transmission and front-wheel drive, priced at $42,900. Quattro all-wheel-drive models start with the 110kW 2.0-litre turbodiesel/seven-speed S-Tronic TDi at $48,500. The high-performance 2.0-litre turbodiesel, with 135kW, is priced at $57,500. The Q3’s 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine is the successor to the EA189 that got VW into such a mess. It is not subject to any legality issues. The 132kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol TFSi seven-speed S-Tronic quattro is $52,900. The 280kW 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbopetrol RS Q3 tops the range at $81,510. It takes on the Mercedes AMG GLA45. The numbers suggest that you’re not that much better off if you choose the more powerful version of the 2.0-litre turbodiesel, particularly in real-world driving. It’s got a sizeable…

AUDI Q3 FROM $42,900

AUDI Q5 FROM $63,600

Audi’s Q5 has been a Goldilocks family-freighter choice for many parents around the world. The 169kW 2.0 TFSi turbopetrol quattro is $63,966. The 140kW 2.0-litre TDi turbodiesel quattro is $63,600. This is an updated, emissions-compliant version of the EA189 cheater engine fitted to earlier Q5s and withdrawn from sale. The 200kW 3.0-litre V6 TFSi twin-supercharged petrol quattro is $76,816 and the 190kW 3.0-litre V6 TDi turbodiesel quattro is $78,555. This engine was also part of the Dieselgate conspiracy, with specific cheater software installed to achieve the same ends as that in the 2.0-litre engine. It too is now emissions compliant. The SQ5, with a 240kW 3.0-litre V6 twin turbodiesel, is $92,955. The SQ5 Plus, with a 250kW chip, is $108,855. It’s got more stomp than a herd of elephants but…

AUDI Q5 FROM $63,600

AUDI Q7 FROM $96,855

Audi’s second-generation Q7 is a huge improvement over the first. That model’s whale-like scale made it a daunting vehicle to drive in the city and its high weight meant it had the handling agility of a humpback. The 2017 Q7 is only slightly shorter and a fraction narrower, but Audi’s engineers found ways to shed around 300kg without affecting strength or compromising safety. The Q7 is now among the more pleasant large, premium SUVs to drive. There’s little steering feel, a trait common to the breed, but the Audi copes gracefully with corners, ride comfort is very good and noise levels are low. The Q7 — in this guise at least — doesn’t pretend to be a sportster and this is to its credit. Audi’s engineers offer the 3.0-litre V6…

AUDI Q7 FROM $96,855

BENTLEY BENTAYGA FROM $420,600

If you need proof the world has gone mad for SUVs, look no further. The Bentley Bentayga is the most extreme and expensive mutation of the breed. The base model — if “base” is the right word in this context — costs $420,600. The First Edition, a limited-run special with Union Jack badging, 22-inch wheels and embroidered seats, is $624,400. For that you can buy two top-of-the-range Porsche Cayennes or Range Rover Vogues. Or one of each. The Bentayga also has the dubious honour of having the world’s most expensive option. A Breitling clock on the dash costs close to an extra $300,000. There is already a digital clock in the car’s instrument display. Bentley claims Breitling can only build four of these particular in-car clocks each year. Maybe they’re…

BENTLEY BENTAYGA FROM $420,600

BMWX1 FROM $49,500

The second-generation BMW X1 shares much of its core technology, including its basic structure, with the latest versions of the Mini (a brand that is owned by BMW) as well as BMW’s 2 Series Active Tourer. The range opens with the sDrive 18d at $49,500. The sDrive20i is $51,600, the xDrive20d is $56,500 and the xDrive25i is $59,900. Popular sDrive versions are now front-wheel drive instead of rear-wheel drive. xDrive variants still use an all-wheel drivetrain. So the latest X1 may be technically heretical in the eyes of long-term BMW loyalists, but it’s likely that compact SUV buyers will embrace it. The advantages of the new direction are plain to see, especially inside the car. Penned by young, Sydney-born designer Calvin Luk, the second-generation X1 is better proportioned and with…

BMWX1 FROM $49,500

BMW X3 FROM $62,200

BMW’s X3, introduced in early 2011, is now much closer in size to the X5 and unless you need seven seats, it’s a great-value alternative. The X3 lineup opens with the xDrive 20i, priced at a very attractive $62,200. It runs BMW’s 2.0-litre direct-injection turbopetrol four-cylinder with a standard eight-speed automatic. The engine produces 135kW of power, 270Nm of torque and averages 7.5L/100km. The xDrive20d is priced at $65,800. As is often the case with BMW, it’s this model that looks like the pick of the range. It runs a 2.0-litre turbodiesel with 140kW and 400Nm. Average fuel consumption is just 5.4L/100km and it will reach the 100km/h mark in a claimed time of 8.1 seconds. The xDrive30d, at $79,100, runs the 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbodiesel with 190kW and 560Nm. It’s…

BMW X3 FROM $62,200

BMWX6 FROM $117,455

Since 2008, BMW’s controversially styled X6 has set class standards in performance and handling. What it loses out to the closely related X5 in space and practicality, the divisive design icon makes up for in attitude and individuality. The cheapest X6 is the $117,455 xDrive30d, powered by a 190kW 3.0-litre turbodiesel driving all four wheels — like the rest of the range — via an eight-speed automatic transmission. Priced from $122,615, the xDrive35i uses a 225kW 3.0-litre turbopetrol powerplant, while the $130,455 xDrive40d produces 230kW from its 3.0-litre twin-turbo six-cylinder diesel. Switching back to petrol, the $152,215 xDrive50i features a 330kW 4.4-litre twin-turbo, with the $159,455 M50d extracting 280kW (and a remarkable 740Nm) from a triple-turbo iteration of the 3.0-litre diesel unit. Top of the heap is the $194,025 M…

BMWX6 FROM $117,455

BMW X5 FROM $86,155

HOW MUCH? The rear-wheel-drive X5 sDrive25d four-cylinder turbodiesel costs $86,155, while the all-wheel-drive xDrive25d is priced at $91,155. The 3.0-litre xDrive30d turbodiesel costs $102,855, the 35i turbopetrol is $109,855, the 40d twin turbodiesel is $118,855 and the 4.4-litre twin turbopetrol V8 50i is $135,615. The xDrive40e petrol/electric hybrid is also priced at $118,855. The xDrive M50d, with a 3.0-litre triple turbodiesel, is priced at $149,855. The X5M, with the 4.4-litre turbopetrol V8 tuned for 423kW and 750Nm, is $185,225. NUTS AND BOLTS • The X5 is made in the USA. • The 2.0-litre four cylinder turbodiesel in the 25d produces 160kW at 4400rpm and 450Nm from 1500–2500rpm. • The 30d’s 3.0-litre turbodiesel straight-six produces 190kW of power at 4000rpm and 560Nm of torque from 1500–3000rpm. • Its twin-turbo counterpart in…

BMW X5 FROM $86,155

CITROEN C4 CACTUS FROM $26,990

Citroen seems to have rediscovered its flair for the bizarre with the C4 Cactus — a strikingly styled high-riding small-car crossover that has taken Europe by storm. For Australia, it is pitched as a generously equipped small SUV, either as a manual petrol or semi-automatic diesel. Both are front-drive only. The base Exclusive model, priced from $26,990, is powered by a 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbopetrol engine, driving the front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox. The $29,990 Exclusive HDi runs a 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel mated to a six-speed automated manual gearbox with paddle shifters. Dubbed the EGS in Citroen-speak, it basically works like a regular auto but is a bit slower with the ratio changes, and there is no ‘P’ for Park setting — just an ‘N’ for Neutral. The distinctive…

CITROEN C4 CACTUS FROM $26,990

DODGE RAM FROM $139,500

Super-sized American “pickups” have made a comeback on Australian roads in the form of the Dodge Ram Laramie, with a local right-hand drive conversion done by American Special Vehicles. The Ram Laramie 2500 is $139,500 and the Ram Laramie 3500 is $146,500. Both are powered by a 6.7-litre straight-six Cummins turbodiesel engine with a six-speed automatic and part-time, dual-range 4WD. The last factory-backed US pick-ups sold here, the Ford F-250 and F-350, were discontinued locally in 2007. American Special Vehicles is a joint venture between Walkinshaw Automotive Group (which owns Holden Special Vehicles) and veteran distributor Neville Crichton of Ateco (previously the distributor for such brands as Ferrari, Kia, Suzuki and Great Wall utes). ASV has the factory backing of Dodge Ram USA and the vehicles are shipped with Australian…

DODGE RAM FROM $139,500

FIAT 500X FROM $26,000

Fiat’s 500X is a long-wheelbase, five-door version of its cute-as, retro-look 500 small car. Prices start at $26,000 for the 103kW 1.4-litre turbopetrol/six-speed manual front-wheel-drive Pop. A six-speed dual-clutch automated manual adds $2000; in Pop Star specification, priced at $32,000, it’s standard. The same engine, with 125kW of power, a nine-speed automatic and all-wheel drive are featured in the Lounge, priced at $37,000, and the Cross Plus, at $38,000. These prices are ambitious for what is a pretty mediocre compact SUV. The 1.4-litre engine, in both states of tune, has reasonable torque but also a fair bit of turbo lag, so it takes a while to wind up and get busy, even in Sport mode. The 125kW version’s cause is not helped by the overactive, indecisive nine-speed automatic. Perhaps with…

FIAT 500X FROM $26,000

FORD EVEREST FROM $54,990

The Ford Everest is basically a reskinned workhorse one-tonner ute, in this case the Ford Ranger. The Ranger is a good thing in the one-tonner context, but it’s difficult to disguise the primitive chassis engineering and workhorse origins of any one-tonner-based wagon — a breed that includes Toyota's Fortuner and the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport — and therefore they come with some tradeoffs. Before we get to those, though, there is the vexed issue of price. Most of the Ford Everest’s rivals can be had for less than $45,000 drive away. The Everest starts at an ambitious $54,990 plus on-road costs for the base Ambiente. The Trend is $60,990 and the Titanium is a pretty breathtaking $76,705. Ford has now added a rear-wheel-drive Trend variant, priced at $55,990, but it's clear…

FORD EVEREST FROM $54,990

FORD RANGER FROM $39,065

HOW MUCH? The Ranger 4x4 lineup opens with the 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel XL six-speed manual single cab-chassis at $39,065. The 3.2-litre five-cylinder turbodiesel XL manual cab-chassis is $41,565. XL Plus is $46,755. Double cab-chassis models start with the 2.2-litre XL manual at $43,565. 3.2-litre XL manual is $46,065 and XL Plus is $52,235. Single-cab pickups start with the 3.2-litre Super XL manual at $45,565. Double-cab pickups include the 2.2 XL at $45,065, the 3.2 XL at $47,565, XL Plus at $53,235, the XLS at $48,865, the XLT at $55,415 and the Wildtrak at $59,590. A six-speed auto adds $2200 to all models except XL 2.2 cab-chassis, XL Plus and 3.2 XL Super cab pick-up. NUTS AND BOLTS • The Ranger is built in Thailand. • The 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel produces…

FORD RANGER FROM $39,065

FORD ECOSPORT FROM $20,790

The compact SUV class isn’t new but in the last couple of years or so it has taken off with a boatload of new models. Many of them — from the Ford EcoSport to the Holden Trax, Peugeot 2008, Nissan Juke and Suzuki S-Cross — spring from their respective Fiesta, Barina, 208, Micra and Swift hatchback siblings. The Ford EcoSport kicks off from $20,790 for the 1.5-litre petrol Ambiente manual. Other variants include the mid-range Trend (from $22,290) and range-topping Titanium (from $27,790). Like others in the class, the front-wheel-drive EcoSport has no off-road pretensions at all, though it should be pretty handy on most dirt roads with 200mm ground clearance (allowing a 550mm wading depth) and 4x4-style tailgate-mounted full-size spare. Two petrol engines are available: Ford’s high-tech 1.0-litre three-cylinder…

FORD ECOSPORT FROM $20,790

FORD ESCAPE FROM $28,490

Ford’s Kuga has just been renamed the Escape, the name it carries in most other world markets. The 2017 range range opens with the 110kW 1.5-litre turbopetrol/six-speedmanual/front-wheel-drive Ambiente, priced at $28,490. The six-speed auto is $29,990. All-wheel-drive models begin with the 134kW 1.5-litre turbopetrol Ambiente, with a six-speed automatic, at $32,990. Trend specification opens with the 110kW 1.5-litre/six-speedauto/front-wheel-drive variant at $32,990. A 178kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol/six-speed auto/ all-wheel drive is $35,990, and a 132kW 2.0-litre turbodiesel/ six-speed dual-clutch automated manual is $38,490. Top-of-the-range Titanium is available with the same 2.0-litre drivetrains and is priced at $44,990 and $47,490. Escape brings a European design and drive to a segment dominated by Japanese and Korean brands. It’s certainly something different. The fuel-efficient 1.5-litre turbopetrol engine, in both 110kW and 134kW tunes, produces the…

FORD ESCAPE FROM $28,490

HOLDEN TRAX FROM $23,990

Holden’s Trax is a small SUV based on the Barina hatchback. It’s only available as a front-wheel drive, so think of it as an interesting take on the compact hatch with an SUV’s easy access and high, comfortable seating position. The base LS 1.8-litre, five-speed manual is $23,990. The 1.4-litre turbopetrol six-speed auto 1.4T LS is $26,490. LT 1.4T is $28,890 and LTZ 1.4T is $30,490. GM’s 103kW/175Nm 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine is an ageing slugger but in this application it’s OK, offering reasonable mid-range pulling power (assisted by quite short gearing), reasonable fuel economy on regular unleaded and greater refinement than expected. The 103kW/200Nm 1.4-litre turbopetrol is a sweet little engine, much more refined, tractable and responsive than the 1.8, but it’s also thirsty in town and requires premium…

HOLDEN TRAX FROM $23,990

HOLDEN CAPTIVA FROM $26,490

The South Korean-built Captiva’s success is based on the fact that it’s a good-value family SUV, especially the seven-seaters. Regularly advertised drive-away offers further strengthen its appeal. The five-seater Captiva 5 LS with front-wheel drive is available with a 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, with 123kW of power and 230Nm of torque. Transmission choices are six-speed manual at $26,490 or automatic at $28,690. The Captiva 5 also offers a 2.2-litre turbodiesel option with 135kW and 400Nm, only with the automatic all-wheel drivetrain, priced at $31,690 for LS. Both of these engines, plus the 3.0-litre direct-injection petrol V6 as used in the Commodore, are also offered in the seven-seater Captiva 7. The base Captiva 7 LS is front-wheel drive with either the 2.4-litre petrol ($30,490) or 2.2-litre turbodiesel ($33,490), both with the…

HOLDEN CAPTIVA FROM $26,490

HOLDEN VFII UTE FROM $33,490

The VFII reinforces the Holden ute’s position as the world’s most sophisticated, capable and safe pickup truck. It’s a unique vehicle that, when Holden ceases local manufacture in October, will surely become a collectable — as evidenced by strong resale values already. The VFII ute, particularly the SV6 and SS variants, is Holden’s two-door sports car. It just happens to have a very big boot. VFII ute prices start at $33,490 for the 210kW 3.6-litre V6/six-speed automatic Evoke. The 3.6-litre SV6 six-speed auto is $37,190. The 304kW 6.2-litre naturally-aspirated LS3 V8 SS manual is $43,990 and SS-V Redline is $52,490. The auto adds $2200. HSV’s Maloo R8 LSA, priced at $79,990 with the manual and $82,490 with the automatic transmission, gets the supercharged 6.2-litre LSA engine with 410kW and 691Nm.…

HOLDEN VFII UTE FROM $33,490

HOLDEN TRAILBLAZER FROM $47,990

Holden’s Trailblazer is a seven-seater wagon built on the Colorado one-tonner chassis. The trailblazer LT costs $47,990. The LT-Z, tested here, with the same mechanicals and more equipment, is $52,490. Up front in the LT-Z, it’s all Colorado Z71, including the anti-chic, industrial-look dash, MyLink infotainment system with eight-inch colour touchscreen and leather-faced, heated front seats. So similar pluses and minuses apply. The driving position, for example, is cramped and uncomfortable for taller people because there’s no reach adjustment for the steering wheel. Access is also quite tight for those with long legs. I’ve tested three Holdens recently and each has had connectivity problems with MyLink, requiring rebooting the system from the Settings menu. Our car had other issues. Holding the lock button on the remote will also automatically close…

HOLDEN TRAILBLAZER FROM $47,990

HOLDEN COLORADO FROM $37,490

Holden’s 2017 4x4 Colorado range opens with the 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel/six-speed manual LS single cab chassis, priced at $37,490. LS Space cab chassis is $40,990, Crew cab chassis is $43,490 and Crew cab pickup is priced at $44,990. LT Crew cab pickup is $46,990 and LTZ is $50,490. LTZ Space cab pickup is $48,990. Z71 Crew cab chassis is $54,490. A six-speed automatic adds $2200 to all models. Holden overhauled the Colorado in 2016 with a facelift, upgraded infotainment and safety systems and suspension revisions aimed at softening what was a pretty harsh and lumpy ride on rough roads. The VM Motori 2.8-litre turbodiesel remains unchanged. It’s one of the strongest engines in the class, producing 147kW at 3800rpm and 440Nm of torque from 1600–2800rpm. Take the six-speed auto option…

HOLDEN COLORADO FROM $37,490

HONDA HR-V FROM $24,990

Honda’s HRV, a compact five-door SUV, combines extraordinary interior flexibility with a punchy drivetrain and handsome styling inside and out. The base 1.8-litre petrol/ continuously variable automatic (CVT) VTi model costs $24,990. Then it’s the same drivetrain with more fruit as you move up to the VTi-S (from $27,990), followed by the VT-L (from $33,340) and then the VTi-L with ADAS flagship (from $34.340). The latter is Honda-speak for Advanced Driver Assist System and brings brand-first forward collision and lane-departure warning technology as well as an automatic high-beam headlight dipping system. While the 1799cc single-cam i-VTEC unit has seen dependable service in the Civic for years, its pairing with the latest-generation CVT has given the 1.8 a fresh lease on life. The HR-V is unexpectedly perky off the line and…

HONDA HR-V FROM $24,990

HONDA CRV FROM $27,490

The CRV range starts with the 114kW/190Nm 2.0-litre six-speed manual front-wheel-drive VTi, at $27,490. The five-speed automatic is $29,790, the VTi-S is $32,290 and the VTi-L is $39,290. The 140kW/222Nm 2.4-litre five-speed automatic all-wheel-drive VTi is $32,790. The VTi-S is $35,290 and the VTi-L, as tested, is $42,290. The 2.4-litre is one of the most powerful in this class, but as is often the case with Honda engines, it doesn’t feel like it’s got as much power as the specification says. This is probably because the full 140kW kicks in only at 7000rpm, where the engine is screaming its head off. If the concept of torque is foreign to you, you’re probably not going to get an understanding of it here either. Econ mode slows things right down and the…

HONDA CRV FROM $27,490

HYUNDAI TUCSON FROM $28,590

Hyundai’s Tucson mid-size SUV range opens with the 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol/ six-speed manual front-wheel-drive Active at $28,590. With a six-speed auto, it’s $31,090. Elite is $35,990. The 2.0-litre direct-injection engine, with 121kW/203Nm and the same transmission choices, is fitted to Tucson ActiveX, priced at $31,150 and $33,650, as tested here. All-wheel-drive variants kick off with the 130kW/265Nm 1.6-litre turbopetrol/seven-speed dual-clutch-automated manual Elite at $39,750. In top-of-the-range Highlander specification, it’s $45,450. The 135kW/400Nm 2.0-litre turbodiesel/six-speed automatic all-wheel-drive Active is $35,090. Elite is $41,750 and Highlander is $47,450. Hyundai is pitching Tucson ActiveX as the value-for-money variant, with 18-inch alloy wheels, leather-faced seats, dynamic parking guidelines on the rear camera and a big touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay connectivity and Google Android Auto. Strangely, neither is available on Elite and Highlander…

HYUNDAI TUCSON FROM $28,590

HYUNDAI SANTA FE FROM $39,350

The Hyundai Santa Fe Series II features seven seats in all models. The lineup opens with the front-wheel-drive 138kW 2.4-litre direct-injection four-cylinder petrol/six-speed manual Active at $39,350. The six-speed auto is $41,850. The 147kW 2.2-litre turbodiesel/six-speed manual Active is $42,350. A six-speed auto adds $2500. Elite 2.2 turbodiesel automatic is $50,990, Highlander is $57,090 and SR is $64,250. The 2.2 turbodiesel produces hefty outputs for its size, especially its impressive 440Nm of torque from 1750–2750rpm. The same engine is also used in the Santa Fe’s twin under the skin, the Kia Sorento. Its numbers are superior to any Japanese rival, including Toyota’s new 2.8-litre turbodiesel in the LandCruiser, Prado and Fortuner. The Hyundai pulls easily from low revs, is exceptionally smooth and strong in the midrange and pulls hard across…

HYUNDAI SANTA FE FROM $39,350

ISUZU D-MAX FROM $31,363

The 2017 Isuzu DMax 4x4 range opens with the single cab-chassis Hi-Ride EX at $31,363. Double-cab pickups start at $39,909 for the Hi Ride SX, with the top-of-the-range LS-T priced at $49,273. All models run a 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel with 130kW of power and 430Nm of torque. A six-speed manual is standard; a six-speed automatic adds $2100 to most variants; it’s standard on LS-T. While these outputs are still less than most rivals, they’re comparable with the top-selling Toyota HiLux, which has 130kW of power and 420Nm (manual) and 450Nm (auto) from its 2.8-litre turbodiesel. Isuzu says the D-Max’s power and torque numbers are conservative by industry standards and are the maximum after the engine uses its energy to run other ancillaries. The same engine is also used in a…

ISUZU D-MAX FROM $31,363

ISUZU MU-X FROM $41,800

Isuzu’s MU-X seven-seater wagon uses the same body-on-ladder chassis construction as the D-Max ute but the wheelbase is shortened by 250mm, the ute’s rear leaf springs are replaced by coils, and discs replace drums at the rear. It’s also a twin under the skin with the Holden Trailblazer, apart from different drivetrains. All variants run a 130kW 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel with six-speed manual or automatic transmissions. The range opens with the rear-wheel-drive LS-M auto at $41,800; the LS-U auto is $43,800 and LS-T is $47,500. 4x4 models, all with a dual-range transfer case and selectable four-wheel drive, start at $47,000 for the LS-M manual, with the auto at $49,100. LS-U specification costs $49,000/$51,100 and the top-of-the-range LS-T auto is $54,800. Acceleration in the MU-X is leisurely no matter how deeply…

ISUZU MU-X FROM $41,800

JAGUAR F-PACE FROM $74,340

Jaguar’s new F-Pace is the first-ever SUV to wear the leaping cat badge. Its mostly aluminium body draws on the basic elements of Jaguar’s XE and XF sedans. Size-wise, the F-Pace is something of an in-betweenie. It’s larger than a BMW X3, for example, but not as big as an X5. It’s certainly spacious enough to be a very useful family wagon. The 650-litre cargo compartment is a whopper and the rear seat, which features a three-piece folding backrest, is roomy. Considering its size and equipment, F-Pace prices aren’t outrageous. They begin at $74,340 for the 2.0-litre turbodiesel four in Prestige grade. The 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel range opens at $84,590 for the Prestige. The sole petrol engine for now is a supercharged 3.0-litre V6. It’s priced from $84,030 for the…

JAGUAR F-PACE FROM $74,340

JEEP CHEROKEE FROM $36,000

HOW MUCH? The Cherokee range starts at $36,000 for the front-wheel-drive (FWD) 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol Sport. At $42,000, the Longitude (called Latitude in northern hemisphere markets), swaps the four-cylinder for a 3.2-litre V6 petrol and adds four-wheel drive. The Limited variant shares the Longitude’s drivetrain and weighs in at $49,000. The off-road-focused Trailhawk is $52,000. A 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbodiesel Limited is $49,000. All models are equipped with a nine-speed auto transmission. NUTS AND BOLTS • Cherokee is made in the USA. • It sits on a version of the lightweight CUS-wide platform shared with its Fiat Chrysler stablemate, the Alfa Romeo Giulietta hatchback. • The all-alloy Tigershark 2.4-litre petrol four-cylinder, powering the entry-level Sport, develops 130kW of power at 6400rpm and 229Nm of torque at 4600rpm. • The 3.2-litre Pentastar…

JEEP CHEROKEE FROM $36,000

JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE FROM $47,000

HOW MUCH? The Grand Cherokee Laredo 3.6-litre V6 petrol, offered with rear-wheel drive as a base model, is $47,000. The 3.6-litre V6 Laredo 4x4 is $52,000. The Blackhawk is $54,000, Limited is $62,000 and the Overland is $72,000. The 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel Laredo is $59,000, Blackhawk is $61,000, Limited is $69,000, Overland is $79,000 and Summit is $87,000. The 6.4-litre Hemi V8 SRT-8 monster is $90,000. An eight-speed automatic is standard. The pimped, primed and fully-blinged SRT-8 Night Edition is priced at $97,000. NUTS AND BOLTS • The Grand Cherokee is made in the USA. • The WK body is unitary construction. Chrysler claims it’s stiffer than the BMW X5. It is also used in the current Mercedes-Benz GLE Class as it was developed during parent Chrysler’s time under Daimler…

JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE FROM $47,000

JEEP WRANGLER FROM $38,990

HOW MUCH? The Sport 3.6 V6 petrol two-door soft-top costs $38,990 with a six-speed manual or $40,990 with a five-speed automatic. The Overland two-door hardtop, with the auto transmission as standard, is $49,990. Unlimited four-door Sport soft-top 3.6 V6 and 2.8 four-cylinder turbodiesel CRD, both with the auto, cost $44,990 and $49,990 respectively. The 3.6 V6 Unlimited Overland hardtop is $53,990, as is the Unlimited Rubicon soft-top. NUTS AND BOLTS • The Wrangler is built on a separate steel chassis in short and long wheelbase (Unlimited) configurations. • It’s made in the USA. • The 3.6-litre V6 petrol engine produces 209kW of power at 6350rpm and 347Nm of torque at 4300rpm. • The 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel is a VM Motori engine that produces 147kW at 3600rpm and 410Nm between 2200…

JEEP WRANGLER FROM $38,990

JEEP RENEGADE FROM $26,000

The Renegade, Jeep’s smallest SUV, is made in Italy and shares architecture and many components with the Fiat 500X. Entry point is the $26,000 Sport, powered by the 81kW/152Nm 1.6-litre ‘E-TorQ’ four used in numerous Fiat models, matched with a five-speed manual gearbox driving the front wheels only. Sport is also available with a 103kW/230Nm 1.4-litre ‘MultiAir’ turbopetrol four and a six-speed dual-clutch gearbox, priced at $28,000. The same drivetrain in Longitude specification is $32,000. That’s followed by the Limited, packing the same 1.4-litre engine and a more premium fitout, at $35,000. This leaves the 4x4 Trailhawk at the top of the heap, equipped with the 130kW/230Nm 2.4-litre, naturally aspirated ‘MultiAir2 Tigershark’ four with a nine-speed auto as standard. It’s priced at $39,000. Weighing in around 1.4 tonnes and with…

JEEP RENEGADE FROM $26,000

KIA SPORTAGE FROM $28,990

Kia’s Sportage SUV, which shares architecture with Hyundai’s Tucson and, size-wise, bridges the gap between compact and medium wagons, starts at $28,990 for the Si front-wheel drive. This model is powered by a 2.0-litre petrol engine with a modest 114kW of power and an even more modest 192Nm of torque. The base drivetrain is also offered in the SLi, priced at $34,690. A 2.0-litre turbodiesel (with 136kW and 400Nm) with on-demand all-wheel drive is available across all grades at $33,990 for the Si, $39,690 for the SLi and $45,990 for the GT Line, while a 2.4-litre petrol (with 135kW and 237Nm) all-wheel drivetrain is available only in the top-end GT Line at $43,490. A six-speed auto is standard. The attraction of the 2.0-litre turbodiesel is impossible to dismiss. It is…

KIA SPORTAGE FROM $28,990

KIA SORENTO FROM $40,990

Kia’s Sorento is comparable in size with Toyota’s Kluger and the Nissan Pathfinder, with vast interior space for seven. Petrol-powered models are front-wheel drive. The range opens with the 199kW 3.3-litre V6/six-speed automatic Si at $40,990; SLi petrol is $45,990. Sorento’s 147kW 2.2-litre turbodiesel is a superb engine, as strong, frugal and refined as any German equivalent. It’s also matched with a six-speed automatic. The all-wheel drivetrain includes a lockable centre differential. Prices start at $44,490 for the Si, tested here. SLi is $49,490 and Platinum, with a suite of driver aids including lane departure warning, radar cruise control and blind spot detection, is priced at $56,590. Top of the range GT Line, at $58,490, adds automatic emergency braking and a bunch of bling. Sorento’s 2.2-litre turbodiesel is so refined…

KIA SORENTO FROM $40,990

LAND ROVER DISCOVERY SPORT FROM $56,355

Land Rover’s Discovery Sport is a premium-priced mid-size SUV that goes up against the Audi Q5, BMW X3 and Mercedes GLC. A new 2.0-litre Ingenium turbodiesel, in two states of tune, was fitted in mid-2016, with a nine-speed automatic standard in all variants. It’s priced to tempt buyers away from its German rivals. The range opens with the TD4 150 (as in horsepower, or 110kW) SE at $56,355. The TD4 150 HSE is priced at $61,000. TD4 180 (as in 132kW) models open with the SE at $59,995. The HSE is $64,635 and the HSE Luxury is $70,690. The sole petrol variant, the 177kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol Si4 SE, is $59,990. Despite the name, there’s no relationship between Land Rover’s latest and the larger Discovery. The Discovery Sport has monocoque construction…

LAND ROVER DISCOVERY SPORT FROM $56,355

LAND ROVER DISCOVERY FROM $69,360

HOW MUCH? The Discovery 4 range opens with the 3.0 TDV6 at $69,360. The 3.0 SDV6 SE is $84,880 and the HSE is $96,290. NUTS AND BOLTS • The Discovery is made in England. • It uses separate body-on-frame architecture. • The 3.0-litre TDV6 twin turbodiesel produces 155kW of power at 4000rpm and 520Nm of torque at 2000rpm. • The 3.0-litre SDV6 engine, which uses exactly the same mechanicals and differs only in its software, is tuned for 183kW at 4000rpm and 600Nm at 2000rpm. The two turbos work both in parallel and sequentially. • Diesels are matched with a ZF eight-speed automatic. • Drive goes to four wheels, in high or low range, via an electronically controlled centre differential. • Air suspension, standard on all models, features adjustable ride…

LAND ROVER DISCOVERY FROM $69,360

LEXUS NX FROM $53,550

The NX is Lexus’ smallest SUV yet and like many modern SUVs it targets urban buyers. Entry models are front-wheel drive rather than all-wheel drive because, according to research, many buyers really don’t know or care which wheels put the power to the road. NX’s aggressive, exaggerated proportions suggest an attempt to appeal to younger buyers — and there are pleasing details in its lights and garnish — but the result seems too tall for its width and too big for its wheels. In official sales charts, NX sits in the compact SUV category alongside the BMW X1, Audi Q3 and Mercedes GLA. However, at 4.6m long, it’s actually a whole size larger and a more realistic rival for the Audi Q5, BMW X3/X4, Jaguar F-Pace, Mercedes GLC and the…

LEXUS NX FROM $53,550

LEXUS RX FROM $74,540

The Lexus RX range opens with the 2.0-litre turbopetrol four-cylinder/six-speedautomatic/front-wheel-drive RX200t, priced at $74,540. F Sport is $86,840 and Sports Luxury is $92,990. The RX350, with a 221kW 3.5-litre V6 petrol/eight-speed auto and all-wheel drive, costs $81,710 in Luxury specification, $94,010 for F Sport and $100,160 for Sports Luxury. RX450h petrol/electric hybrid, with a combined 230kW system output from its 3.5-litre V6/twin electric motor/Ni-MH battery/CVT all-wheel drivetrain, costs an extra $8450 over its RX350 counterparts in the same three model grades. RX is a much smaller wagon than its ostensible (according to industry statistician VFACTS) Q7/X5/GLE rivals. Its wheelbase is actually shorter than the Audi Q5, BMW X3 and Mercedes GLC mid-sizers, all of which are five seaters, like the Lexus, with comparably-sized cargo bays. These are RX’s closest competitors,…

LEXUS RX FROM $74,540

LEXUS LX 570 FROM $143,030

The LX 570, which is a rebadged Toyota 200 Series LandCruiser with a bespoke V8 and air suspension, costs $143,030. Its 5.7-litre long-stroke V8 engine produces 270kW of power — 43kW more than the 4.6-litre engine in the LandCruiser — at 5600rpm and 530Nm of torque — 91Nm more than the 4.6 in the LandCruiser — at 3200rpm. Given that it’s shifting more than 2.7 tonnes, the V8 does pretty well to get the LX to 100km/h in a claimed 7.7 seconds. Even with an eight-speed automatic, it’s hideously thirsty, with a claimed combined average of 14.4L/100km. In real-world driving, expect 12–13L/100km on the highway and 20-plus L/100km in town. The eight-speed is a sweet match with the V8 and on steeper highway hills it can get busy as it…

LEXUS LX 570 FROM $143,030

MASERATI LEVANTE FROM $139,990

Until the Levante, no SUV had ever worn the trident badge of Maserati. But you would never guess from the way this weighty Italian drives. Equipped as standard with air springs and variable dampers, the Levante is more agile on a curvy road than a high-riding 2.2-tonne five-seater has any right to be. The Maserati also has a very comfortable, bump-blotting ride and, thanks to a little help from Jeep, more off-road ability than any customer is ever likely to exploit. Maserati’s starting point for development was the Ghibli sedan, and the new SUV’s overall length and wheelbase are almost the same. Major changes for the Levante include suspension hardware designed to deliver greater wheel travel, plus the adoption of standard pneumatic suspension that can hoist the vehicle up to…

MASERATI LEVANTE FROM $139,990

MAZDA BT50 FROM $36,850

HOW MUCH? The BT50 4×4 range, powered exclusively by a 3.2-litre five-cylinder turbodiesel, opens with the single-cab chassis XT six-speed manual (with no auto option) at $36,850. The Freestyle XT cab chassis, in manual only with a rear-hinged back door arrangement, is $40,815 and the Dual Cab XT, also manual only, is $42,815. Pickup bodies include XT Dual Cab at $44,615, XTR Freestyle at $47,675, XTR Dual Cab (as tested) at $49,700, and the top-of-the-range GT Dual Cab at $51,790. A six-speed automatic is a $2000 option on pickups. NUTS AND BOLTS • The Mazda BT50 is made in Thailand in the same plant as Ford’s Ranger. • It’s a conventional body on a steel frame chassis design. • The 3.2-litre five-cylinder turbodiesel engine produces 147kW of power at 3000rpm…

MAZDA BT50 FROM $36,850

MAZDA CX-3 FROM $19,990

The CX-3 gives Mazda an offering in the hotly contested compact SUV segment. With a choice of two four-cylinder engines — 77kW/250Nm 1.5-litre turbodiesel or 109kW/ 192Nm 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol — the CX-3 is up against more than 20 contenders including Honda’s HRV, Nissan’s Qashqai and the Renault Captur. Depending on spec, the CX-3 also offers the option of front- or all-wheel drive (the latter being a true rarity at this end of the market), as well as the choice of six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmissions. There are four spec levels — base Neo, next-step Maxx, premium sTouring and top-shelf Akari. As expected, pricing is sharp, with the entry-point of $19,990 (Neo petrol FWD manual) running across a close-to-$18K spread up to the top-spec Akari diesel AWD auto…

MAZDA CX-3 FROM $19,990

MAZDA CX-5 FROM $27,890

Mazda’s CX-5 shot straight to the top of the class on sales charts on its introduction in 2012. It’s built to the best “Made in Japan” quality standards, has rock-solid resale values, a very strong safety résumé, plenty of standard equipment, and a choice of fuel-efficient petrol and turbodiesel engines. The 2.0-litre petrol front-wheel-drive CX-5 range opens with the Maxx six-speed manual at $27,890. A six-speed auto adds $2000 and is standard on all other models. The 2.0-litre Maxx Sport is $33,490. All-wheel-drive CX-5s get the 2.5-litre engine and a six-speed auto. The Maxx is $32,890, Maxx Sport is $36,490, Grand Touring is $44,090 and Akera is $47,410. The 2.2-litre turbodiesel AWD Maxx Sport is $39,490, while the Grand Touring is $47,090 and Akera is $50,410. The 2.0-litre and 2.5-litre…

MAZDA CX-5 FROM $27,890

MAZDA CX-9 FROM $42,490

Mazda’s CX-9 range starts at $42,490 for the 170kW 2.5-litre four-cylinder turbopetrol/six-speed automatic/ front-wheel-drive Sport. CX9 Touring, with the same drivetrain, is $48,490. All-wheel-drive models include the GT at $61,390 and the Azami at $63,390. We’re testing the base-model CX-9 Sport. It’s hardly what you would call loaded, but Mazda has thought about what parents really want and delivered it. Safety is the obvious priority and here the Mazda excels, with five-star ANCAP, a rear camera, low-speed (below 30km/h) obstacle detection/ automatic emergency braking that also works in reverse (at driveway speeds of 2–8km/h), rear cross traffic alert, blind spot monitoring, full-length curtain airbags, four Australian Standard/two Isofix restraint anchors and seat belt indicators for all positions. The spacious, comfortable 60/40-split middle seat slides on either side to adjust legroom…

MAZDA CX-9 FROM $42,490

MERCEDES GLA CLASS FROM $43,600

The Mercedes GLA SUV range starts at $43,600 for the 90kW 1.6-litre turbopetrol front-wheel-drive GLA180. The 100kW 2.1-litre turbodiesel front-wheel-drive GLA220d is $50,400. Opt for the sportier performance and all-wheel-drive grip of the 155kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol GLA250 and the price rises to $60,700. The 280kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol all-wheel-drive GLA45 AMG hotrod costs $84,315. The performance spread ranges from sedate to sensational. The diesel-powered GLA220 reaches triple figures in a claimed 7.7 seconds, so it’s quicker than BMW’s X1 18d and Audi’s Q3 2.0 TDI and, officially at least, more frugal too. The GLA 250 clips the 0–100km/h ticket in 7.1 seconds. It is an impressive number put into perspective by responsive idle to redline real-world performance. The GLA45 AMG hits 100km/h just 4.8 seconds after take-off — the same claimed…

MERCEDES GLA CLASS FROM $43,600

MERCEDES-BENZ GLC CLASS FROM $65,990

Mercedes-Benz was the last mainstream German maker to join the booming medium-sized luxury SUV segment. As the last in, it needs to be best dressed. That it certainly is. The GLC, so named because it is based on the Mercedes-Benz C Class sedan (which is made in South Africa; the GLC is made in Germany) is available with Mercedes’ 2.1-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel in two states of tune: the base model 220d with 125kW of power and 400Nm of torque, priced at $65,990, and the range-topping 250d with 150kW and 500Nm, priced at $70,990. The GLC250, priced at $68,990, runs a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbopetrol engine with 155kW and 350Nm. The twin-turbopetrol 3.0-litre V6 AMG GLC43, with 270kW/520Nm, is $101,400. Coupes include the 220d at $77,100, the 250 at $80,100, the 250d…

MERCEDES-BENZ GLC CLASS FROM $65,990

MERCEDES-BENZ GLE CLASS FROM $89,455

Rather than a new Mercedes-Benz, what we have here is a new Mercedes-Benz name. There’s little more than a simple badge swap involved in the transition from M Class to GLE. The basic virtues of the line-up — comfort, capable handling, formidable safety credentials and strong drivetrains — remain unchanged. The two diesel models get a nine-speed automatic in place of the seven-speed still used in the petrol-powered versions. While the $89,455 150kW 2.1-litre four-cylinder turbopetrol GLE 250d has all the performance and equipment most buyers will ever need, a majority of Australian customers, for some strange reason, instead choose the $105,855 190kW 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel GLE 350d. Next in line is the $124,900 GLE 500 Hybrid, followed by the 270kW 3.0-litre twin turbopetrol AMG GLE43 at $133,616. Topping the…

MERCEDES-BENZ GLE CLASS FROM $89,455

MERCEDES-BENZ GLS FROM $116,900

The Mercedes GLS Class is an often overlooked and underrated luxury 4WD. It’s a well-designed, spacious seven-seater and unlike BMW’s X5 and Audi’s Q7, the GL is also equipped to go off-road. Think of it as Germany’s answer to the Range Rover. The 190kW 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel GLS 350d costs $116,900, or $135,900 for the very optimistically named Sport. The 335kW 4.7-litre V8 twin turbopetrol GLS 500 costs $161,615 and the AMG GLS 63, with a 430kW 5.5-litre twin turbopetrol V8, is $217,615. Mercedes’ 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel in the GLS350 is a smooth, quiet engine which returns excellent fuel numbers in the real world. It’s slightly dulled here by the GLS’s mass but we are at the Brobdignagian end of the automotive spectrum and its 0–100km/h time of 7.8 seconds…

MERCEDES-BENZ GLS FROM $116,900

MERCEDES-BENZ G CLASS FROM $119,900

The Mercedes G Class, range opens with the G-Professional cab-chassis, priced at $119,900, with a 135kW 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel/ five speed automatic transmission. That is truly bizarre money ofr a ute that is really no more capable that a Toyota 70 Series Landcruiser. Two wagons are available. The 180kW 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel G350 Bluetec, tested here, is $163,615. The 420kW 5.5-litre supercharged V8 G63 AMG is priced at $233,615. It’s a serious bit of off-road gear. Drive goes to four wheels in high and low range. Three locking differentials are standard inclusions along with adaptive traction control, crawler low-range first ratio and elevated drivetrain breathers. Live axles with coil springs are also fitted at both ends. Mercedes’ 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel is a perfect fit in the G Glass. It’s loaded…

MERCEDES-BENZ G CLASS FROM $119,900

MINI COUNTRYMAN FROM $39,900

Mini’s 2017 SUV range, powered by BMW drivetrains, opens with the 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbopetrol/six-speedautomatic/front-wheel-drive Countryman, priced at $39,900. The 2.0-litre turbodiesel/eight-speed automatic/all-wheel-drive Cooper D is $43,900, the 2.0-litre turbopetrol/eight-speed auto Cooper S is $46,500, and the 2.0-litre turbodiesel/eight-speed automatic/all-wheel-drive Cooper SD is $51,500. Countryman, already the maxi of the Mini lineup, has gained extra length, wheelbase and width, so the second-generation model has more room inside. Self-appointed experts gave the original Countryman a hostile reception when it was launched in 2010. Too big to wear a Mini badge, they huffed. Too long. Too many doors. Customers couldn’t have cared less. The Countryman at times accounted for more than 20 per cent of Mini’s Australian sales. The Countryman was the first family-size Mini. It won new customers and retained owners who…

MINI COUNTRYMAN FROM $39,900

MITSUBISHI ASX FROM $25,000

The base ASX 110kW 2.0-litre petrol/five-speed manual front-wheel-drive LS is $25,000. With a continuously variable automatic (CVT) transmission it’s $27,000, while in XLS specification it’s $31,500. The 110kW 2.2-litre turbodiesel all-wheel-drive LS, with a six-speed automatic, is $32,500. XLS is $37,000. The ASX is also available as the Peugeot 4008. They are built on the same production line in Japan but for some strange reason the Peugeot doesn’t get the diesel engine option. The ASX is quite light and the 2.2-litre turbodiesel has a deep well of accessible torque so responsiveness and acceleration will be pretty brisk, while its official fuel consumption numbers are excellent. I haven’t driven the 2.0-litre petrol engine/CVT drivetrain in the ASX but in the Peugeot 4008 it’s as slow as a wet week. Given that…

MITSUBISHI ASX FROM $25,000

MITSUBISHI TRITON FROM $32,500

HOW MUCH? The Triton 4x4 range, powered by a 133kW/430Nm 2.4-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine, opens with the GLX single cab chassis six-speed manual at $32,500. The GLX Club cab chassis is $35,300. Double cabs start with the GLX at $37,000; a five-speed automatic adds $2500. GLS is $41,500, or $44,000 with the auto. The auto-only Exceed is $48,000. That’s several-thousand dollars less than the top-spec models from any of Triton’s main rivals. NUTS AND BOLTS • The Triton is built in Thailand. • It sits on the same wheelbase as the previous model, so as far as the double-cab variants go it remains one of the smaller onetonners around. However, the body is the longest in the class, with Mitsubishi claiming class-leading rear-seat legroom. • The 2.4-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine…

MITSUBISHI TRITON FROM $32,500

MITSUBISHI PAJERO SPORT FROM $45,000

Like Toyota’s Fortuner, Mitsubishi’s Pajero Sport is built on a one-tonner ute chassis — in this case the Triton — topped with a stylish, bespoke body to create a family wagon that, unlike the SUVs that now dominate the market, also has considerable off-road ability. Prices open at $45,000 for GLX specification, making the Pajero Sport the cheapest family-sized five-seater 4WD on the market. Seven-seat GLS is $48,500 and Exceed is $52,750 — also great value for money. All models have the same drivetrain, featuring the Triton’s 2.4-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel matched with an eight-speed automatic. Pajero Sport can operate as rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive in high range on the bitumen, with a locking centre diff for slippery surfaces and a low-range transfer case as well. Four driving modes —…

MITSUBISHI PAJERO SPORT FROM $45,000

MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER FROM $28,750

The base front-wheel-drive 2.0-litre petrol/five-speed manual Outlander LS five-seater is $28,750, while a continuously variable automatic (CVT) transmission and two extra seats adds $1750. The all-wheel-drive 2.4-litre petrol CVT LS seven-seater is $33,500. Each of these models is also available with a Safety Pack, comprising automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, radar cruise and automatic high beam. It adds $2500–$3250. It’s standard on the 2.2-litre turbodiesel AWD six-speed automatic seven-seater XLS DiD, priced at $39,500. Exceed seven-seaters cost $44,000 (2.4/CVT) and $47,500 (2.2 DiD/six-speed auto) respectively. The CVT transmission tries as hard as it can to flatter the 2.4-litre petrol engine but it’s a struggle at times. In normal drive mode the Outlander is sluggish off the line and slow to reach your chosen speed unless you use a lot of…

MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER FROM $28,750

MITSUBISHI PAJERO FROM $53,990

HOW MUCH? The NT Pajero 3.2-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel range opens with the five-speed auto, seven-seat GLX for $53,990. The seven-seat auto GLS is $58,990 and the Exceed is $65,990. These manufacturer’s list prices are pretty meaningless. Mitsubishi regularly advertises drive-away discount deals on the Pajero to keep the old banger moving through the showrooms. GLX auto was recently offered, for example, at $54,990 drive-away. NUTS AND BOLTS • The Pajero’s body dates from 2001 when Mitsubishi introduced a monocoque design with independent suspension at both ends. • A 2008 NT upgrade focused on the 3.2-litre turbodiesel, which produces 147kW of power at 3800rpm and 441Nm of torque from 2000rpm. • The Pajero’s 4WD system has a centre differential and a viscous centre coupling. High range is available in 2WD and…

MITSUBISHI PAJERO FROM $53,990

NISSAN NAVARA FROM $39,990

The 4WD dual-cab pickup NP300 Navara range opens with the 120kW/403Nm 2.3-litre turbodiesel/six-speed manual RX at $39,990. A seven-speed automatic adds $2500 to the price tag. The ST manual, which runs the same engine with two turbochargers and 140kW/450Nm, is $46,990 while the top-of-the-range ST-X, tested here with the same drivetrain, is $51,990. The 2.3-litre twin turbo’s outputs are par for the class but it’s noisy, gravelly and a little sluggish in the initial stage of a standing start. In part, though, this is due to the low first and second in the seven-speed box; once past those it does the job easily and with a 1.2-tonne trailer on the back, performance was unaffected. Fuel economy is outstanding, due in large part to the efficiency dividend of seven ratios. Unladen…

NISSAN NAVARA FROM $39,990

NISSAN JUKE FROM $23,490

The Nissan Juke range starts at $23,490 for the front-wheel-drive ST, with an 85kW 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbopetrol engine matched with a six-speed manual. A naturally-aspirated 86kW 1.6-litre petrol engine, matched with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), costs $24,490 in ST specification. Top-of-the-range Juke Ti-S, priced at $33,490 (as tested), has all-wheel drive and runs a 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbopetrol, with 140kW of power and 240Nm of torque matched with a CVT transmission. The six-speed manual/front-wheel-drive Ti-S is $29,790. Automotive technology, design and engineering move forward at a pretty rapid rate these days and it’s clear from the moment you hop into the Juke that it’s slightly dated, having been launched to most markets in 2010 but not making it here until late 2013. There’s no reach adjustment for the steering…

NISSAN JUKE FROM $23,490

NISSAN QASHQAI FROM $25,990

Anthropologists know it refers to a nomadic people of Middle Eastern origin but Nissan hopes Qashqai (pronounced “kash-kai”) becomes the byword for compact SUVs in Australia. Like the successful Dualis it replaced, the five-seater crossover is designed, engineered and built in Britain. Despite sharing similar styling and engine choices with its predecessor, the Qashqai improves in key areas. For starters, it is longer and wider, with a wheelbase stretch aimed at significantly boosting rear-seat legroom and cargo space — two Dualis weaknesses. Progress is also evident in the dash design thanks to crisp and comprehensive instruments, excellent ventilation, logical and easy-to-use touchscreen switchgear and ample storage spaces. Yet the appealingly snug ambience of old has been retained despite the very welcome space increases, backed up by supportive seats and quality…

NISSAN QASHQAI FROM $25,990

NISSAN PATHFINDER FROM $41,990

The base Pathfinder ST front-wheel drive is $41,990, the ST-L is $53,690 and the Ti is $62,190. All-wheel drive variants are $45,490, $57,690 and $66,190 respectively. A 3.5-litre V6 petrol/ CVT (continuously variable automatic transmission) drivetrain is standard. Like its closest rivals, the Toyota Kluger and Mazda CX-9, the Pathfinder offers no turbodiesel option. Instead there’s a hybrid, in keeping with the Pathfinder’s American market brief. A 2.5-litre supercharged petrol four is mated to a small electric motor and CVT transmission. Combined outputs are 188kW and 330Nm, with a claimed fuel consumption average of 8.6L/100km for the base front-wheel-drive ST, which costs $44,490. The all-wheel-drive ST-L is $60,690 and Ti is $69,190. The 3.5-litre V6 has been overhauled for 2017, with a new direct injection system. We haven’t yet driven…

NISSAN PATHFINDER FROM $41,990

NISSAN X-TRAIL FROM $27,990

The base Nissan X-Trail ST, at $27,990, is front-wheel drive (dubbed 2WD) and uses a 106kW 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with a six-speed manual. The $30,490 ST gains the gutsy 126kW 2.5-litre unit that has served the series since its 2001 inception, with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT, or Xtronic in Nissan-speak), a combination that also powers the rest of the petrol-engined X-Trail range. An all-wheel-drive (4WD) ST is $33,980, while the mid-spec ST-L Xtronic 2WD is $36,590. 4WD bumps that to $39,590. Finally there’s the flagship $45,190 Ti Xtronic 4WD. Seven-seater choices are limited for now to the ST Xtronic 2WD from $31,580 and the $37,590 ST-L. The 96kW/320Nm 1.6-litre turbodiesel X-Trail range opens with the front-wheel-drive CVT TS at $35,380. The AWD TS (manual only) is $35,680. The…

NISSAN X-TRAIL FROM $27,990

NISSAN PATROL FROM $69,990

HOW MUCH? The Y62 Patrol Ti is $69,990 and the Ti-L, tested, is $86,990. Nissan cut Patrol prices in 2015 to accommodate the Infiniti QX80, which costs $110,900 and is the same vehicle with extra bling. NUTS AND BOLTS • The Y62 Patrol is made in Japan. • It uses a separate body on steel frame chassis design but it’s much larger than the GU with a 225mm longer wheelbase (now 3075mm) and an overall length of 5140mm — so it’s the biggest 4WD on the market. • Nissan’s 5.6-litre direct-injection petrol V8 produces 298kW of power at 5800rpm and 560Nm of torque at 4000rpm. • It’s matched with a seven-speed automatic gearbox. • Nissan’s all-wheel-drive system sends drive to the rear wheels in normal conditions, with up to 50…

NISSAN PATROL FROM $69,990

PEUGEOT 4008 FROM $27,990

Peugeot’s 4008 range opens with the 100kW 2.0-litre petrol/five-speed manual Active, featuring front-wheel drive, at $27,990. A continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) adds $2000 to the price. The all-wheel-drive Active costs $33,490 with CVT, as tested. The 4008 is actually made in Japan. It’s a rebadged Mitsubishi ASX and the Peugeot’s 2.0-litre petrol engine is also used in the Mitsubishi Lancer. It produces reasonable power and torque numbers for an engine of this type but it’s hardly cutting-edge in its technology compared with today’s direct-injection and/ or turbocharged petrol engines, and this shows in sluggish performance plus a hefty thirst. The CVT transmission should flatter it, as it does in rivals such as Subaru’s XV, but you have to stick the right foot deep into it to get decent acceleration,…

PEUGEOT 4008 FROM $27,990

PORSCHE CAYENNE FROM $107,855

The sharper and cleaner looking 2017 Cayenne range has expanded to include base petrol and diesel versions, a high-performance S turbodiesel and GTS turbopetrol, a plug-in petrol-electric S E-Hybrid and the monstrous Turbo S flagship. The S Petrol ($143,200) runs a twin-turbo 3.6-litre V6, which is also fitted to the $156,100 GTS. The six produces 309kW and 550Nm, while in GTS tune this increases to 324kW and 600Nm. Of humbler (natural) aspiration is the base petrol model, priced at $109,100, with 220kW and 400Nm of torque from its 3.6-litre V6. It’s only marginally pricier than the most affordable, the most popular and, arguably, the pick of the stable, the base Diesel, which costs $107,855. With 193kW and 580Nm from its 3.0-litre V6 oiler, it’s no slouch — except at the…

PORSCHE CAYENNE FROM $107,855

PORSCHE MACAN FROM $76,610

HOW MUCH? The 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbopetrol Macan costs $76,610. The 3.0-litre V6 turbodieselpowered Macan S is $91,855, the 3.0-litre V6 turbopetrol version is $92,800, the GTS is $109,200 and the Turbo is $130,000. Also new for 2017 is the Macan Turbo Performance Package, priced at $143,500. NUTS AND BOLTS • The Macan is built in Leipzig, Germany. • It shares around 30 per cent commonality with Audi’s Q5 mid-sized SUV, mostly in body structure. Both cars share an identical 2807mm wheelbase. • The 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbopetrol, an Audi engine, produces 185kW of power from 5500–6800rpm and 370Nm of torque from 1600–4500rpm. • The 3.0-litre turbodiesel V6 (an engine used in Touareg and Audi’s Q5/Q7) Macan S produces 190kW at 4000–4250rpm and 580Nm from 1750–2500rpm. • Both petrol engines are from…

PORSCHE MACAN FROM $76,610

RANGE ROVER EVOQUE FROM $56,050

HOW MUCH? The base five-door wagon, the eD4 Pure, with a 110kW 2.0-litre turbodiesel and a six-speed manual is $56,050.This is the only model with a manual gearbox. The Td4 150 Pure, with a nine-speed auto and all-wheel drive, is $58,627. The SE is $63,120. The Td4 180 SE, with the same engine tuned for 132kW of power and all-wheel drive, is $67,551. HSE specification is $75,089 and Dynamic is $78,881. Evoque Si4 SE, with a 177kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol and all-wheel drive, is $68,788. HSE Dynamic is $82,526. Convertibles start at $85,343 for TD4 180 SE and HSE Dynamic is $93,195. Si4 SE is $84,948 and HSE Dynamic is $92,800 The three-door body, called the Coupe, is available in Td4 180 and Si4 HSE and Dynamic specification at the same…

RANGE ROVER EVOQUE FROM $56,050

RANGE ROVER SPORT FROM $90.900

HOW MUCH? The 177kW 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel/eight-speed automatic SD4 S is $90,900. The 190kW 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel TDV6 SE is $103,900. The same engine, chipped for 215kW, is fitted to the SDV6 SE at $114,800, HSE at $132,000 (as tested), HSE Dynamic at $138,600 and Autobiography at $169,800. The 250kW 3.0-litre supercharged V6 petrol HSE is $130,300. The 375kW 5.0-litre supercharged V8 petrol HSE Dynamic is $169,100, the Autobiography is $196,800 and the 405kW SVR is $233,500. The 250kW 4.4-litre turbodiesel V8 SDV8 HSE is $147,300 and the HSE Dynamic is $153,600. The 250kW 3.0-litre turbodiesel V6/ electric Range Rover Sport Hybrid HEV Autobiography is $187,900. NUTS AND BOLTS • The Range Rover Sport is made in England. • It has an aluminium monocoque body which is largely responsible for…

RANGE ROVER SPORT FROM $90.900

RANGE ROVER FROM $183,300

HOW MUCH? The 3.0-litre twin turbodiesel TDV6 Vogue is $183,300. The 3.0-litre supercharged petrol V6 Vogue is $193,500. The 4.4-litre V8 turbodiesel SDV8 Vogue is $204,300, the Vogue SE is $226,500 and the Autobiography is $244,400. The 5.0-litre supercharged petrol V8 Autobiography is $257,300 and the SV Autobiography is $316,000.Long-wheelbase variants are also available, starting at $192,700 for the TDV6 Vogue and rising to $373,900 for the 5.0-litre Supercharged V8 SV Autobiography. The SDV6 Hybrid Vogue SE is $230,900. NUTS AND BOLTS • The Range Rover is made in England. • It uses a unitary construction, all-aluminium body. • The 3.0 V6 turbodiesel, also used in the Land Rover Discovery and Range Rover Sport, produces 190kW of power at 4000rpm and 600Nm of torque at 2000rpm. • The 3.0-litre turbodiesel…

RANGE ROVER FROM $183,300

RENAULT CAPTUR FROM $23,500

Renault’s stylish Captur is arguably its most competitive model for many years, fusing a number of appealing attributes into a surprisingly spacious yet fun-to-drive package. That it is also one of the least expensive compact SUVs is perhaps the French car’s strongest attribute. The Captur kicks off from $23,500 for the five-speed manual TCe 90 (with a three-cylinder 900cc turbopetrol engine) Expression. The 1.2-litre four-cylinder turbopetrol TCe 120 Expression, from $26,500, is equipped with a six-speed automated manual transmission (dubbed EDC in Renault-speak). So is the $30,000 TCe 120 EDC Dynamique, the range flagship. Renault is also looking at introducing a diesel version if enough people demand one. One of the Captur’s key styling cues is its unique two-tone paintwork. With flat paint, it adds $1000 to the price, or…

RENAULT CAPTUR FROM $23,500

RENAULT KOLEOS FROM $29,990

French car maker Renault is vying for the hearts and wallets of SUV-obsessed Australia with the stylish, spacious, keenly priced second-generation Koleos. Kicking things off is the Life 4x2 (for front-wheel drive) from $29,990, with all the usual gear like a reverse camera, rear parking sensors, Bluetooth phone and audio streaming, as well as unexpected items such as climate-control air-conditioning, automatic on/off headlights and wipers, tyre-pressure monitors and a five-year warranty. Next up is the Zen (yes, they’re serious ...) CVT 4x2 from $33,990, with vinyl upholstery, heated front seats (electric adjustability for the driver), keyless entry/start, walkaway self-locking, navigation and 18-inch alloys. All-wheel drive is available for an extra $2500. Top-of-the-range Intens 4x4, from $43,490, includes a driver-assistance package consisting of Lane Departure, Blind Spot and Forward Collision warnings,…

RENAULT KOLEOS FROM $29,990

SUBARU FORESTER FROM $30,240

Subaru’s Forester now has the drivetrain that arguably suits it best: the 2.0-litre turbodiesel matched with a CVT transmission. The $30,240 base Forester 2.0i-L uses a 100kW 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with a six-speed manual. The 126kW 2.5-litre petrol Forester 2.5i-L, starting from $33,240, has a continuously variable auto (CVT) transmission as standard. It’s also available in 2.5i-S ($39,740) specification. The 108kW 2.0-litre turbodiesel Forester 2.0D is also available with a six-speed manual in 2.0D-L and 2.0D-S specification, at $33,740 and $39,740 respectively. The CVT adds $2000 to both. Forester XT uses a 177kW 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbopetrol engine with a CVT transmission, priced from $41,240, or $48,240 in Premium specification. The 2.5-litre petrol engine is a better bet than the asthmatic 2.0-litre and is worth the extra $3000 which includes…

SUBARU FORESTER FROM $30,240

SUBARU XV FROM $26,740

Subaru’s XV basically follows the Outback formula in that it’s a modified variant of a road car, in this case the Impreza, with higher ground clearance, longer-travel suspension, all-terrain tyres and Subaru’s signature all-wheel drive. Prices for the XV start at $26,740 for the base-model six-speed manual 20i, while the 2.0iL is $30,240 and the 2.0iS is $33,040. A CVT adds $2500 to all variants. It’s powered by a long-stroke 110kW 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine in Subaru’s classic boxer layout. The engine is a refined device that’s lacking midrange torque, particularly when compared with the turbocharged engines in rivals like VW’s Tiguan. This creates problems in the manual where ambitious gearing in the pursuit of low fuel consumption often sees it struggling a little in the higher gears, especially when…

SUBARU XV FROM $26,740

SUBARU OUTBACK FROM $36,240

Subaru cut prices on its fifth-generation Outback, launched in 2015, by up to $10,000. The Outback has always been one of the best mid-sized SUVs on the market, so big discounts and more equipment have made it a compelling proposition, especially against several European-brand SUVs. The petrol-powered range opens with the familiar 2.5-litre four-cylinder/CVT transmission Outback 2.5i at $36,240, or in Premium specification at $42,240. Outback 3.6R, with a 3.6-litre flat six/CVT drivetrain, is $48,740. Outback diesel models use the 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine. The base model six-speed manual Outback 2.0D is $35,740; with the CVT, it’s $38,740. Premium spec adds $6500. Twenty-one years after its introduction, Outback remains the SUV you should consider if you hate SUVs. You’ll find its light weight, fine balance, disciplined body control and outstanding…

SUBARU OUTBACK FROM $36,240

SUZUKI IGNIS FROM $15,990

Don’t laugh. With a generous 180mm of ground clearance, Suzuki has somehow convinced the powers-that-be that the Ignis is no longer the name of a very small car, but rather Australia’s dinkiest SUV. Kicking off from a tempting $15,990, the GL is nonetheless decently equipped, offering a tablet-style central touchscreen for the standard-fitment reverse camera, navigation and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, cruise control with a speed limiter, fog lights, and a leather-bound steering wheel. These come on top of six airbags, stability and traction control, Bluetooth phone/audio streaming, ISOFIX child-seat anchorages, power windows, remote central locking and a trip computer. Strangely, though, the driver’s seat lacks a height adjuster. For that you’ll need the $18,990 GLX, which also ushers in automatic transmission, dusk-sensing LED headlights, pushbutton ignition, climate control, privacy glass,…

SUZUKI IGNIS FROM $15,990

SUZUKI VITARA FROM $21,990

Suzuki’s Vitara is a simple, affordable SUV that works nicely as transport for a young family. Think of it as a spacious, practical alternative to a small hatch such as a Toyota Corolla and you get the idea. Speaking of which, prices start at just $21,990 for the Vitara RT-S, with a 1.6-litre petrol four, six-speed manual and front-wheel drive. A six-speed automatic (tested here) adds $2000. At this price you get plenty of standard equipment, including navigation, automatic air, 17-inch alloy wheels, Bluetooth and seven airbags. Vitara S Turbo, with a 103kW 1.4-litre turbopetrol/six-speed automatic, is $28,990 with front-wheel drive or $32,990 with all-wheel drive. All-wheel-drive RT-X, with an 88kW/320NM 1.6-litre turbodiesel/six-speed dual clutch transmission, is $35,990. The base 1.6 produces pretty humble power and torque numbers, and overall…

SUZUKI VITARA FROM $21,990

SUZUKI GRAND VITARA FROM $25,990

The 2.4-litre 4x4 Grand Vitara petrol models kick off with the three-door Navigator Hardtop manual, priced at $25,990. The five-door range opens with the 2.4-litre Navigator Wagon, which drives the rear wheels only via a five-speed manual and starts at $27,490, or four-speed auto at $29,490. The 4x4 five-door Sport is $30,990. The auto, as tested, is priced at $32,990. The 2.4-litre petrol engine, hooked up to the optional four-speed auto in our test car, is surprisingly tractable and has no problem shifting the Suzuki. It has a decent midrange, but like any four-cylinder petrol motor in this class the fact that it’s powering a hefty mass does push fuel consumption towards six-cylinder levels at times. The 2.4-litre petrol auto takes 12.7 seconds to hit 100km/h, which by class standards…

SUZUKI GRAND VITARA FROM $25,990

TOYOTA HILUX FROM $43,990

Toyota’s double-cab 4x4 HiLux pickup range opens with the 110kW/400Nm 2.4-litre turbodiesel/six-speed manual Workmate at $43,990, or $45,990 with a six-speed automatic, as tested here. SR grade, with the 130kW/450Nm 2.8-litre turbodiesel, is $46,490/$48,490 and SR5 is $54,390/$56,390. A 4.0-litre petrol V6 with 175kW/376Nm is $48,490 in SR specification and $56,390 as SR5, both with the auto as standard. In top SR5 specification, eighth-generation HiLux is thousands of dollars cheaper than its Ford Ranger and the VW Amarok equivalents, but also much pricier than the Mitsubishi Triton and Holden Colorado, both of which are regularly offered at deep drive-away discounts. While Toyota typically doesn’t over-deliver on value or technology, this HiLux has the same “can’t kill it with an axe” character that has made the badge so bankable in the…

TOYOTA HILUX FROM $43,990

TOYOTA FORTUNER FROM $47,990

Think of Toyota’s Fortuner as a seven-seater HiLux wagon and you’re on the money. All models run the 130kW 2.8-litre turbodiesel used in SR HiLux models, matched to six-speed manual and automatic transmissions and a part-time, dual-range 4x4 drivetrain with a standard locking rear diff. So it’s a serious bush-capable Toyota 4x4 straight out of the box, just like the Prado and LandCruiser. Price and size-wise, Fortuner goes up against Mitsubishi’s Pajero Sport, the Holden Trailblazer, Isuzu MU-X and Ford Everest. Pricing is aggressive, kicking off at $47,990 for GX specification. GXL is $52,990 and Crusade is $59,990. The auto adds $2000. Although it sits on a HiLux chassis, Fortuner gets coil springs instead of leaf springs at the rear, and rear disc brakes replace the HiLux’s drums. The Fortuner…

TOYOTA FORTUNER FROM $47,990

TOYOTA LANDCRUISER PRADO FROM $54,050

HOW MUCH? LandCruiser Prado wagons with the 4.0-litre V6 petrol engine/six-speed auto start with the GXL at $62,210. The VX auto is $74,170 and the Kakadu auto is $84,880. The 2.8-litre turbodiesel wagons include the GX six-speed manual at $54,050, GXL manual at $61,190, the VX auto at $75,190 and the Kakadu auto at $85,900. The six-speed auto is a $2040 option on GX and GXL. Two extra rear seats add $2500 to the price of the GX. NUTS AND BOLTS • The Prado is made in Japan. • The GX wagon is a five-seater model. Other wagons are seven-seaters. • The 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel produces 130kW at 3400rpm. Peak torque is 420Nm from 1400–2600rpm with the manual and 450Nm from 1600-2400rpm with the automatic. • The 4.0-litre petrol V6…

TOYOTA LANDCRUISER PRADO FROM $54,050

TOYOTA RAV4 FROM $28,550

Toyota RAV4 prices start at $28,550 for the base 102kW 2.0-litre petrol/six-speed manual front-wheel-drive GX. A CVT transmission, as used in the Corolla, adds $2040. GXL with CVT is $35,390. The all-wheel-drive GX, with the Camry’s 132kW 2.5-litre petrol four/six-speed automatic, is $33,650. The AWD GXL is $38,450 and the Cruiser is $45,400. A 110kW 2.2-litre turbodiesel, standard with a six-speed manual, is priced at $36,710 for GX, $38,750 for GX auto, $43,550 for GXL auto and $50,500 for Cruiser auto. The RAV4 is one of the biggest wagons in the class and easily able to accommodate four. The 2.2-litre turbodiesel is a long-stroke engine with plenty of low-down and midrange pulling power. There’s Eco and Sport modes for the drivetrain. To be honest, I could hardly pick the difference…

TOYOTA RAV4 FROM $28,550

TOYOTA KLUGER FROM $43,550

The Toyota Kluger dominates its seven-seater SUV segment with a combination of pricing, packaging, performance, ease of operation and long-term peace of mind. It isn’t difficult to imagine the 2017 Series II version continuing to do so. It’s more of the same. Priced from $43,550, the entry GX, which accounts for the lion’s share of sales, includes seven airbags, stability and traction control with hill-start assist, a reverse camera, rear parking sensors, a central touchscreen featuring Bluetooth-activated connected mobility known as Toyota Link, cruise control, phone and audio streaming, front fog lights, privacy glass, and 18-inch alloy wheels. Stepping up to the $53,550 GXL nets you niceties such as a larger central screen, satellite navigation, digital radio, a powered tailgate with separate flip-up glass, three-zone climate control, keyless entry and…

TOYOTA KLUGER FROM $43,550

TOYOTA 70 SERIES LANDCRUISER FROM $62,490

HOW MUCH? The base LC79 cab-chassis Workmate costs $62,490, the GX is $64,490 and the GXL is $66,490. The double-cab-chassis Workmate is $64,990; GXL is $68,990. The four-door, five-seater Workmate LC76 wagon is $60,990 and the GXL, tested here, is $64,990. The three-door Workmate LC78 Troop Carrier wagon is $64,890 and the five-seater GXL is $67,990. NUTS AND BOLTS • The 70 Series is made in Japan. • Wheelbases are 2730mm (wagon), 2980mm (Troopy) and 3180mm (cab-chassis). • Occupational health and safety policies now dictate the purchase of five-star ANCAP-rated vehicles by many government and industry users, so in mid-2016 Toyota upgraded the 79 Series single cab chassis model to five-star ANCAP standard, with a stronger ladder frame, thicker body panels, curtain and driver’s knee airbags, additional under-dash padding, new…

TOYOTA 70 SERIES LANDCRUISER FROM $62,490

TOYOTA 200 SERIES LANDCRUISER FROM $77,750

HOW MUCH? The LandCruiser 200 Series base 4.6-litre V8 petrol GXL eight-seater costs $83,360, the eight-seater VX is $94,070 and the eight-seater Sahara is $115,490. The 4.5-litre twin-turbodiesel V8 five-seater GX is $77,750, eight-seater GXL is $88,460, seven-seater VX is $99,170 and seven-seater Sahara is $120,590. NUTS AND BOLTS • The 200 Series LandCruiser is made in Japan. • The 4.5-litre direct-injection twin turbodiesel engine produces 200kW of power at 3400rpm and 650Nm of torque from 1600–2600rpm. • A six-speed auto is standard. • The 4.6-litre petrol V8 produces 227kW at 5500rpm. Torque is 439Nm at 3500. A six-speed automatic is also standard. • High and low range are selected electronically via a switch on the dash. A Torsen centre differential varies the front/rear torque split depending on grip. •…

TOYOTA 200 SERIES LANDCRUISER FROM $77,750

TOYOTA C-HR FROM $26,990

Toyota has come late to the compact SUV party, a growing and eclectic class where many contenders are basically just high-riding hatchbacks. You could say that about the C-HR, an all-new design from Toyota which will inevitably argue for top spot on the sales charts. It’s a bold-looking machine by Toyota’s usual conservative standards, and C-HR breaks new ground under the bonnet, too, introducing a new 1.2-litre four-cylinder turbopetrol engine to a class where naturally aspirated 1.6-2.0-litre engines dominate. The range kicks off at $26,990 for the front-wheel drive, six-speed manual C-HR. A continuously variable automatic (CVT) transmission adds $2000, while all-wheel drive adds another $2000. Equipment levels are exceptionally generous by Toyota’s usual tight standards. Navigation, 17-inch alloys and dual-zone air are included, but it’s in the area of…

TOYOTA C-HR FROM $26,990

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