Pros Great-looking, smart inside, refined, easy to use and with a great overall dynamic package
Cons A little of the sparkle has gone, a few options should be standard, while some cabin trim still under par
The Ford Fiesta is superb to drive, smart inside and well equipped, plus it offers a broad range of trim levels – from the affordable Trend to the SUV-inspired Active – to cater for many tastes and budgets. It’s one of the very best small cars you can buy, but the rival Volkswagen Polo just has the edge for ride comfort, standard safety and rear seat space.
Pros Brilliant to drive Punchy Ecoboost engines Good fuel economy
Cons Some rivals are better value Decent but not class-leading practicality Important safety kit not standard
The official line is that the Mokka is a traditional SUV, with butch looks and the option of four-wheel drive, whereas the Crossland X is intended to be a more family-friendly choice. To that end, all versions are front-wheel drive, which means there isn’t a driveshaft to the rear that robs the interior of usable space. The Crossland X also has deeper side windows than the Mokka to help create an airier feel inside, and it has smaller wheels, which have the potential to improve space, ride comfort and fuel efficiency.
The Vauxhall Crossland X is practical and comfortable, but it’s let down by an underwhelming driving experience.
Pros Spacious and comfortable Eager 1.2-litre petrol engine Plenty of standard safety kit
Cons Is it a genuine SUV? Steering too sensitive Wind noise at speed
Crossland X is not at all, an off-roader and is aimed, quite simply, at two markets: one is the young family and the other is the older couple whose children have left home and who might want to downsize to a sensible, smaller, yet still practical vehicle.
Pros Sensible and practical family car A range of customisation options Large choice of engines
Cons Tough competition, but will come out fighting
