MOTORING FEATURE: Upcoming compact SUVs
By: Jason Woosey
One day you might bore your grandkids with nostalgic stories about how when you were a lad (or lass), not everyone drove SUVs and you could still spot sedans and hatchbacks on the road.
Sure, we might not (yet) be at the point where SUVs can't tower above traffic because every other vehicle on the road is also an SUV, but we do seem to be getting there, quickly.
The compact SUV market is where much of the action is and there is much more on the horizon too.
Here are seven forthcoming contenders that could be worth waiting for if you're in the market for a B- or C-segment SUV.
Audi Q2
The new Q2 will become Audi's smallest and most affordable SUV when it lands on South African shores during the first quarter of 2017.
Nonetheless, it'll still be available with a wide array of modern electronics. Audi's MMI infotainment system is standard, while those braving the options list can opt for Audi's 'virtual cockpit' digital instrument panel, heads-up display and much more, while also giving customers much scope to personalise the styling.
South African prices and specifications will only be finalised closer to launch, but overseas versions offer a wide range of turbocharged petrol and diesel engines, ranging from 85kW to 140kW, and including the import-duty-beating 1.0 TFSI.
Ford Kuga
Ford's popular C-segment SUV is getting a facelift that ups its game with a more muscular face, cleaner-looking rear styling and more gizmos.
In Europe, the new Kuga is available with Ford's new Sync3 connectivity system, which can reputedly follow commands in the most conversational of tones. Say “I need coffee” and it'll find you some nearby coffee shops, for instance. Not sure how kindly it'll take to “Ek soek koeksisters” though.
Most of the engines carry over, in the form of 1.5T and 2.0T petrol and 2.0T diesel units, but some markets will get a new 88kW turbodiesel. The new Kuga is coming to South Africa, but the timing and other specifics have yet to be confirmed.
Kia Sportage
The all-new Sportage, due in August, embodies Kia's latest design language, while also providing occupants with a more upscale look and feel inside and some extra room thanks to its increased dimensions.
While the local engine line-up has yet to be confirmed, overseas models are available with a powerful new 1.6-litre direct injection turbopetrol engine, rated at 130kW and 265Nm.
Kia has also put considerable effort into suppressing noise, vibration and harshness, and claims that its new SUV is among the most refined in its class. It's also available with modern touch-screen infotainment systems and a wireless smartphone charging pad, among other gadgets.
Opel Mokka X
Opel's compact crossover has been given a comprehensive makeover inside and out, with a fresh face featuring a 'wing-shaped' grille and a completely redesigned dashboard inspired by that in the new Astra hatch.
Opel also found time to slot in a brand new engine, in the form of GM's latest direct injection 1.4-litre turbopetrol, good for 112kW, and this version is also available with all-wheel drive.
Depending on the market in question, the new Mokka X will be available with two versions of the new generation IntelliLink infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. The local line-up will be finalised closer to the late-2016 on-sale date.
Peugeot 3008
Dubbed the most advanced Peugeot ever created, the new 3008 looks like a proper modern crossover this time around, but the big drawcard is likely to be its futuristic looking cabin.
The advanced 'flight deck' is based around a completely customisable 31.2cm 'i-Cockpit' display, which has four standard modes and a 'Personal' mode that can display navigation instructions, driver aids, engine parameters and trip data in just about any combination you can dream up.
Due in South Africa during the first quarter of next year, the new crossover is also up to 100kg lighter than its predecessor and comes with the latest range of turbocharged petrol and diesel engines, offering outputs of between 96kW and 132kW.
Toyota C-HR
Toyota's answer to the Juke is arguably even more outlandishly styled, with a design that stays reasonably faithful to the recent concept car of the same name.
The C-HR is set to reach local shores in early 2017 and the most likely power source is Toyota's new 1.2-litre turbopetrol engine, which pushes 85kW and 185Nm, mated to either a six-speed manual or CVT gearbox, driving the front wheels in both cases.
No all wheel drive versions have been announced as yet, but it's not like the target buyer is busy planning an overland expedition.
Volkswagen Tiguan
Longer, wider, lower and of course even classier than its predecessor, Volkswagen's second attempt at a Rav4 rival slots onto the company's weight-saving MQB platform and offers the latest array of powertrains and gadgets.
VWSA recently confirmed that the new Tiguan will be available towards the end of 2016 and while the engine line-up has yet to be confirmed, you can expect a good spread of TSI and TDI units.
VW claims this newcomer will bring “previously unseen levels of quality and refinement” to the segment and if today's Golf is anything to go by then that might well be the case.
MORE ON THE HORIZON
While we've limited this list to vehicles that are due here in less than a year from now, there are many more potentially exciting new SUV options on the horizon further down the line.
One that should be particularly enticing is Volvo's forthcoming XC40, which has yet to be revealed in production form, although this recent concept vehicle is likely to give you a very good idea of how the finished product will appear.
For those seeking more affordable style, Nissan has confirmed that its new Kicks crossover will land on local shores in 2018 for those prepared to wait that long. It will slot beneath the Qashqai but will not replace the Juke.