Owing to their ever-increasing popularity in South Africa, local manufacturers often introduce new compact SUVs to our market. As a result, choosing which one suits your lifestyle and pocket can become a strenuous task. To make this task easier, we recommend three compact SUVs, ranging from a more budget-friendly offering to a premium-badged product.
Since its introduction to South African shores, the Vitara Brezza has gained immense popularity in our market, thanks to its SUV-like styling and tall ride height (the Vitara Brezza boasts a ground clearance of 198 mm), a generous amount of standard specification and nippy driving characteristics. All models ship with an Apple CarPlay and Android Auto-enabled 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control and a reverse-view camera, the latter supplemented by rear parking sensors. Although the Vitara Brezza’s 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol motor offers only 77 kW and 138 N.m of torque, it’s an ample amount as the Suzuki weighs only 1 130 kg. And, thanks to the lightweight construction, the claimed fuel consumption figure of 6.2 L/100 km should be achievable. The pocket-friendly option, the Suzuki Vitara Brezza range, is priced from R244 900 for the entry-level GL five-speed manual model to R309 900 for the GLX derivative equipped with a four-speed self-shifter. All models feature a four-year/60 000 km service plan and five-year/200 000 km warranty.
Slotting in between Mazda’s popular CX-3 and CX-5 offerings, the CX-30 is the third addition to the Japanese firm’s local CX line-up. Arguably one of the most stylish products in the segment, the CX-30 is available with the choice of three trim levels, entry-level Active, mid-tier Dynamic and top-of-the-line Individual. As standard, all models feature an 8.8-inch infotainment screen, replete with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a head-up display, LED headlamps and seven airbags, among others. Mazda’s SkyActiv-G engine and six-speed automatic transmission are employed across the range. The naturally aspirated 2-litre four-cylinder produces 121 kW and 213 N.m. Mazda claims an average fuel consumption of 6.6 L/100 km. The three-strong CX-30 range is priced from R469 000 for the Active variant to R540 000 for the flagship derivative and is sold with a three-year/unlimited km service plan and a three-year/unlimited km warranty.
The entry point to Audi’s Q range, the recently facelifted Q2 features bolder exterior design cues and an upgraded cabin which, in true Audi fashion, is minimalistic, well-built and brimming with tech. The local Q2 line-up comprises three derivatives: Standard, Advanced and S line, all sporting a 1.4-litre turbocharged inline-four-cylinder engine. Now mated to an eight-speed Tiptronic transmission, the 35 TFSI-badged engine produces 110 kW and 250 N.m. Four equipment packages are on offer: Comfort, Technology Black styling and S line interior. Priced from R545 500 for the base model to R581 500 for the flagship variant, what you get for your money is an upmarket cabin and punchy yet frugal TFSI powertrain, all wrapped in a stylish exterior package. A five-year/100 000 km maintenance plan and one-year/unlimited km warranty are standard.