The Mercedes-Benz EQC is all new for the 2020 model year.
Pros Plush cabin, refined handling, costs less than some competitors.
Cons Some rivals offer quicker acceleration, shorter driving range than some competing models, infotainment system's touchpad comes with a learning curve.
Pros All-electric powertrain Familiar and handsome styling Impressive performance Spacious interior Customizable regen
Cons Is 200 miles enough range? May be too conservative for some Too late?
The first Mercedes-Benz EV is deliberately free of revolutionary tendencies, but for many of its SUV customers it could be an introduction to a new world of motoring.The first Mercedes-Benz fully electric vehicle (EV) to be sold in Australia has arrived. It's called the EQC and is targeted at the Jaguar I-Pace, Tesla Model X, and imminent Audi e-tron.
Pros Quiet, wafting driving experience Loaded with cabin tech Outstanding safety credentials Understated design a genuine point of difference
Cons Moderate driving range Back seats and boot nothing special Front suspension can get crashy Supply appears to be quite limited
Pros Striking exterior design Lots of standard kit and space Very low PCP monthly payments Plenty of personalisation Good to drive
Cons Plain interior design Ride just okay on rough roads Boot smaller than some rivals Entry-level 95hp petrol a little underpowered No Cupra planned (yet)
The five-door All-New Arona, a front-wheel-drive only SUV, is well placed in this highly popular sector of the car market.It’s available with a choice of six engines, with both the diesel and petrol variants offered in either 95PS or 115 PS form, and the sporty FR 1.5 TSI EVO leaping up to 150 PS.
Pros Very smart looking inside and out Good choice of engines Well equipped and overall good value
Cons No SatNav on basic model
The Seat Arona is quite possibly the best compact SUV of the moment. Good practicality, economy and solid driving manners are all Arona staples.It lacks the visual creativity of a Hyundai Kona or the customisation of a Citroen C3 Aircross, but its real-world strengths far outweigh having orange door mirrors. It’s a level-headed car for level-headed people.
Pros Refined 1.0-litre petrol Ergonomic infotainment system Good ride
Cons Humdrum looks Narrow middle seat Trim levels that dictate engine choice
