Subaru's popular subcompact crossover gains a host of new features for 2020, starting with an auto stop-start system for models equipped with the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Automatic climate control, Subaru's Intelligent Drive (SI-DRIVE) selectable driving modes, and a new collision-detection automatic door-unlock system are also standard across the range. The mid-range Premium model now can be equipped with a six-way power-adjustable driver's seat and keyless entry with push-button start. Limited models get new LED fog lamps and both the Limited and the Hybrid come with rear-seat USB charging ports.
Pros Rugged styling, carlike ride and handling, available plug-in hybrid.
Cons Mediocre acceleration, boring interior appearance, cramped cargo area.
The 2020 Subaru Crosstrek comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed manual, continuously variable-speed automatic.Some previously optional features are now standard.New LED exterior lighting, engine stop-start and rear-seat reminder features.
Pros Spacious interior for a hatchback of its size Offers optional safety features not typically found in the class High ground clearance for enhanced off-road capability Comfortable ride quality
Cons Slow acceleration on the highway Handling isn't as precise as that of some rival cars Lower EPA mileage numbers compared to typical crossovers
The 2020 Subaru Crosstrek puts safety first, with capability a close second.
Pros A total-package small crossover Off-road capable, rugged looks Standard AWD Plug-in hybrid Standard safety tech
Cons Pokey acceleration Limited release hybrid Manual transmission adds nothing Limited trim not a value
Pros • Cabin, load space • Fuel economy • Dash presentation
Cons • Noisy suspension • Flat seats • CVT characteristics The Koleos did what it was intended to do. It gave Renault a foothold in a hitherto unrepresented segment and, more importantly in Australia, it quickly became Renault’s biggest-selling model.If there was a major shortcoming with the second generation Koleos it was the lack of a diesel engine. The newcomer was exclusively powered by a hard-working 2.5-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine producing a reasonable 126kW/226Nm and returning, in AWD form, a combined fuel consumption average of 8.3L/100km.But that’s all changed now. The long-awaited turbo-diesel option arrived in August 2017 to immediately bring more power and (a lot more) torque. At 130kW/380Nm it’s a true grunter which, at 6.1L/100km, also offers better fuel consumption, plus lower exhaust emissions (150g/km against the petrol version’s 192g/km).
Pros Noticeably more torque and better fuel economy from the diesel engine Big size equals excellent second-row space inside Competitively priced Good ownership credentials
Cons Powertrain not as seamless and effortless as the numbers suggest No quicker than cheaper front-drive petrol Koleos variants Wieldy SUV to manoeuvre and park Ho-hum infotainment system Lower braked towing rating than petrol versions The diesel clatter is also quite noticeable, though nothing like a deal-breaker, but it does harness the on-demand all-wheel-drive system's tractive talents better and more noticeably than the petrol engine does. And by maintaining fuel economy within a ballpark of its maker’s 6.1 combined cycle claim, it’s markedly more efficient by a couple of litres per hundred, particularly around town.
Pros Great exterior looks Nice enough to drive Good level of equipment
Cons Doesn't come with a seven-seat option Prices are a bit high Manual gearbox isn't the smoothest
