SsangYongs have been on sale in the UK since the ’90s – the company usually offers big SUVs for less than the majority of their competitors. Sadly, most of their models have proved to be lacklustre alternatives to the likes of the Kia Sportage, Suzuki Vitara and Nissan Qashqai. To drive, the Korando isn’t much fun, but most people buy one because they need an SUV either for tackling rough terrain or towing – two roles the SsangYong is perfectly suited to.
Pros Lots of space Relatively economical Generous standard kit
Cons Fast depreciation Dull styling Cheap feeling interior
The SsangYong Korando gives you a lot of car for your money – but nowhere near as much as a Dacia Duster.The SsangYong Korando is the brand’s mid-size SUV, pitched as a low-cost rival to the Nissan Qashqai, Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage. On the move, the Korando isn’t as stable as a lot of its rivals, either – it tends to wallow about when going around corners and has an uncomfortable ride.
Pros Good value for money Spacious interior Low emissions
Cons Noisy diesel engine Poor-quality plastics Uncomfortable suspension
Not only was it a handsome addition to the compact crossover market, it was also the firm’s very first monocoque model – meaning it delivered a far better approximation of a car’s handling characteristics than any of the body-on-frame SUVs that continue to fill out the firm’s modest lineup. On the plus side, the Korando gets large storage bins, reach and rake adjustment for the steering wheel and generous equipment levels on higher-spec models. It is also competitive on interior space; offering decent leg and headroom for rear passengers, and acceptable luggage space. The interior is slightly less forgettable, but only because it comes partly clad in the kind of cheap plastic which cannot otherwise find a home in this class. The redesigned dashboard makes ergonomic sense, although it hasn’t lost any of its brittleness.
The Ford EcoSport looks to be a worthwhile offering in the subcompact segment.Although the Ford EcoSport is just now arriving in the United States, the automaker was actually one of the first to get in on the pint-size crossover game.
Pros Cheeky style Clean-looking interior Choice of powertrains Tailgate door could be useful
Cons No AWD with 3-cylinder Has been on sale globally for a long time Tailgate may also be inconvenien
The EcoSport truly embraces the tiny ethos. It’s 16.8 inches shorter in length than an Escape and rides on a 6.7-inch-shorter wheelbase. Even within its competitive set—which includes the Jeep Renegade, the Honda HR-V, and the Chevrolet Trax, among others—the EcoSport is the runt of the litter. The Ford’s wheelbase is the shortest of the group, and most of its competitors are at least a half-foot longer overall.
Pros User-friendly tech, park it anywhere, all-wheel drive is available.
Cons Tight back seat, modest power, drinks gas like a bigger SUV.
Pros Cute-ute styling fits with Ford showroom Very nice interior materials Lots of headroom Large cargo area with seats folded Sync3, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto available Sync3, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto available
Cons Side-hinged rear swing gate not good for urban parking Unknown horsepower figures Lesser trim models won’t have 8-inch screen Cargo room is tight with seats up Unknown fuel economy ratings
