The new Kuga is safer and roomier than before. Less fun, but a better family car
Pros Safer, more affordable, more spacious and more convenient than before
Cons Not as fun as it used to be. It's grown up and got some proper trousers...
The Ford Kuga has recently been facelifted to keep it competitive, but its dashboard still lags behind some rivals.With attractive styling, decent practicality and an impressive safety record, the Kuga is a convincing family SUV. It can't quite match the extremely high all-round standards of some of its latest rivals – the SEAT Ateca in particular – but for the right deal it's worth considering.
PROS Good value and well equipped Economical diesel engines Spacious interior
CONS Too many buttons inside Outshone by several rivals Inferior automatic gearboxes
Amongst other family SUVs, the previous Ford Kuga was a good looking car. Now, though, it’s even more distinctive to look at and its engine choices are bang up to date.
Pros Good fun to drive for an SUV Keen price and generous equipment Plug-in hybrid has a decent electric range
Cons Alternatives have plusher interiors Smaller boot than alternatives Poor tow rating for plug-in hybrid
Everything. The new Mercedes-AMG GLA35 and GLA45 are based on the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-class, which is a ground-up redesign.The Mercedes-AMG GLA-class is offered in both GLA35 and GLA45 guise, and both come standard with a host of performance features that turn up the heat on the Benz-branded GLA250. All-wheel drive is standard, as is a sport-tuned suspension. Pricing and option packages haven't yet been officially released, so we aren't sure which one represents the best value. But, that 382-hp version of the GLA's turbo-four makes the GLA45 model the most compelling from a performance standpoint.
AMG waves its wand over the new baby SUV from Benz.
PROS Fierce package Second row fits adults, hurrah Will become the most popular baby AMG for a reason
CONS Front seat is uncomfortable Noisy cabin is far from premium Some will write you off as a wannabe
The GLA has been fully redesigned for 2021.
PROS Smooth ride and comfortable seats Features one of today's best, most advanced infotainment systems Mercedes badge at an affordable price
CONS Most of the GLA's advanced safety features are optional Too much road noise for a luxury SUV Cargo capacity is small compared to Mercedes' GLB
