DS7 Crossback will be the brand’s largest SUV This flagship model will boast bold styling and high-tech kit New DS Pilot autonomous driving features will be offered Advanced suspension promises excellent refinement. The DS7 Crossback’s bold, angular styling should come as no great surprise considering DS’ extensive back catalogue of wild concept cars. From the intricate headlights with swivelling LED modules to its vast chrome-framed grille, this new car makes every attempt to stand out from the usual sea of restrained, business-like SUVs.
DS promises a luxurious interior and generous standard kit for the 7 Crossback. On the exterior, it has a large, stylish front grille, wide air intakes and LED lights, all of which help to give the car an aggressive, sporty look, while it's full of tech inside, with a 12.0in infotainment touchscreen and a customisable digital instrument display. It should be practical, too, with seats for five with the promise of good head and leg room and a large boot. DS is a very new name to the car industry, having been launched as Citroën's premium sister brand two years ago. Until now, though, it has only sold cars that were previously badged as Citroëns, so this mid-sized SUV will be the first true DS car.
The 2018 Ford Edge has an eager feel and crisp design; safety scores and Sport ride quality give pause.The Edge satisfies more than a few needs. It’s sleeker than the truck-infused Expedition, even the Explorer. It’s more spacious than the Escape. It’s also devoid of any off-road pretense, any faux-SUV ruggedness.
Pros Quick steering Cabin’s muted details Wide range of engines Composed ride on small-tire models Edge Sport lives up to name
Cons Seats are a big letdown Real-world fuel economy Stiff Sport ride
The Ford Endura is Ford Australia’s first large soft-road SUV since it stopped producing the Territory. It is powered by a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel that’s both powerful and relatively economical. It is good to steer, with polished cornering manners for a large SUV. There are front-drive and all-wheel-drive versions, and auto-braking is standard.
Pros Punchy engine; roadholding, cabin space, standard features.
Cons Dated dashboard, no petrol option.
Many Australians sorely miss the locally built Ford Territory. We’ve had our first local drive of the imported Endura to discover whether that large-SUV product gap has been adequately filled…
Pros Spacious rear seat and big boot Good steering Ride comfort and secure handling on country roads Smooth and quiet turbo diesel Lots of technology/features from entry model upwards
Cons No third-row seating despite vehicle’s size Performance only adequate Urban ride quality still an unknown Cabin presentation a bit underwhelming $4000 charge for AWD
