Though not perfect, the 2021 Fiat 500X is a characterful, stylish choice that is often discounted.
Pros Italian fashion Composed ride Standard AWD Good tech
Cons Can get expensive with options Active safety tech costs extra Rivals are roomier Gearbox can fumble
The 500X undergoes few changes for 2021. The base Pop trim and the midrange Trekking both receive updated seat upholstery and dashboard trim while the Sport model can now be ordered with the Sport Value package. The optional package adds a panoramic sunroof, 19-inch wheels, a Beats stereo system, LED headlamps, front and rear parking sensors, in-dash navigation, and heated front seats.
Pros Cute appearance, gutsy powertrain, plentiful amenities.
Cons Puny cargo space, tight rear seat legroom, high starting price.
Sport Value package adds a panoramic sunroof, LED headlights and other premium features.Pop and Trekking models receive upgraded interior trim for 2021.
Pros Distinctive and well-made cabin Standard all-wheel drive More character and style than many competing small crossovers
Cons Limited cargo and passenger space Small touchscreen can be tough to use Starting price is high Several available driving aids, but few work well
The 2008's identity crisis is partly solved, but as this is a mild update rather than ground-up rebuild, it was never going to be the CX-3 killer product planners dream about. With the new engine and transmission, though, the range is more appealing and easier to make sense of. It retains what made the car so original at launch, with the polarising i-Cockpit, clever-on-a-budget interior detailing and, as it turns out, it's a tough customer loved by rural folk. All of this won't rocket the Frenchie to market leadership, but it puts it in the mix where it was previously too confusing an idea for many buyers.
Pros New engine and trans combo Interior still cool CarPlay across the range
Cons Tight rear seats Grumbly engine at low revs Some cheap plastics
Previously overlooked small SUV gets a dose of credible performance from its new drivetrain.One of the legacy products from PSA (Peugeot and Citroen), the 2008 has been hamstrung since its local launch in 2013 by a poor selection of drivetrains. That is now resolved with the introduction of a facelifted model powered by the sparkling 1.2-litre turbo three-cylinder, driving through a six-speed automatic transmission. A reversing camera and new connectivity technology further enhance the 2008 package, all for no more than $1000 extra at entry level. In the 2008 the new engine is quieter still than it was in the light hatch. The engine rarely made its presence felt in the SUV unless it was under load, accelerating up hill, for instance – when its distinctive three-cylinder warble could be clearly heard.
The new-look 2017 Peugeot 2008 has arrived,with the more muscled looking mini SUV axing its diesel engine offering and adding new safety and technology equipment. The new model range is a petrol only affair, with the brand’s 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo engine and six-speed automatic transmission aimed at appealing squarely at the majority of front-wheel-drive SUV buyers. Styling wise, the revised 2008 sees the adoption of the brand’s family look, with a more pronounced grille, more angular bumper and revised headlights and tail-lights. The GT-Line model stands out from the other models with extra body cladding, black exterior highlights and more.