The Renault Kadjar is a stylish crossover that's based on the same platform as the Nissan Qashqai. But, while the Qashqai took undisputed class honours when it arrived in early 2014, the game has moved on, and the Renault equivalent betters it in almost every area. However, the Renault just falls short of the all round appeal of the SEAT Ateca. There's a single body style for the Kadjar, and it slots into the Renault range above the Captur. Both of these models will be joined by the larger Koleos SUV later in 2017. There are four trim levels to choose from: the entry-level, air con-equipped Expression+, the mid-spec Dynamique and Dynamique S, while at the top of the range is Signature trim. Cars in top-spec trim are expensive, but they do boast a generous amount of kit, including a Bose stereo, 19-inch alloy wheels, and touchscreen nav is included on Dynamique models and above. The Kadjar earned a five-star rating when it was tested by Euro NCAP, just like the Nissan Qashqai. All but the entry-level model has lane departure warning and traffic sign recognition as standard. Autonomous emergency braking, which will automatically apply the brakes if a collision is imminent, is an option on all trim levels.
The Renault Kadjar is a family crossover that not only rivals the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5 and Volkswagen Tiguan, but is also a worthy alternative to best-selling hatchbacks such as the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf. The Kadjar shares many parts with the Nissan Qashqai, but its body is a bit bigger. This means you get slightly more passenger space and a larger boot. The Renault’s interior also packs a high-tech infotainment system and an eye-pleasing dashboard.
Pros Competitive price Practical cabin Excellent fuel economy
Cons Just one petrol engine High-end models are expensive Sunroof reduces rear headroom
As a small SUV, the Kadjar is also a rival to the Kia Sportage, Seat Ateca and Skoda Yeti, but it's the aforementioned Nissan that it has most in common with, because it uses the same platform and engines. This means Kadjar buyers can choose from turbocharged 1.2-litre petrol and 1.5- and 1.6-litre diesels, although the 1.6 is the only option if you want four-wheel drive. In terms of interior space, the Kadjar and Qashqai are closely matched, and both offer a high-riding driving postion that gives you a good view down the road. However, the Kadjar's styling is closer to that of its smaller SUV sibling, the Renault Captur.
Despite being the brand's smallest SUV, the 2017 Audi Q2 has some big shoes to fill, especially considering it costs nearly as much as its slightly bigger brother, the Q3. the new Audi Q2 is a pretty solid all-round package. It looks and (for the most part) feels premium, offers the company's latest infotainment and driver assist technologies, and can be personalised to a far greater extent than its stablemates thanks to the array of bright colours, contrasting body elements, and affordable option packages.
Pros Effortless performance Sporty dynamics Practical cabin All-round ability Quattro grip Bold design inside and out Decent equipment list
Cons Options can get pricey, some features should be standard Tyre roar at higher speeds Firm ride can be harsh over sharper bumps Stingy use of soft-touch plastics Limited cabin storage
Small SUVs have been a thing for a while now, so it seems odd that it's only now Audi has finally brought its take on the idea to market. The Q2 enters the fray in a segment occupied by a gaggle of (cheaper) French and Japanese cars, as well and the new Mini Countryman.
Pros Great looks Good chassis Decent spec list
Cons Rear storage, especially in the 1.4 Some cheap plastics 1.4's ride/handling (relative to 2.0 TDI)
The Audi Q2 is an upmarket crossover that shares its platform with the Audi A3. It is an obvious rival to the Mini Countryman, but the company also hopes its premium badge can tempt buyers away from the likes of the funkily styled Nissan Juke, Renault Captur and Citroen Cactus. An elephant in the room comes in the form of the Q3, which can’t match the Q2’s box-fresh appeal but is slightly bigger and also available with larger savings. Audi has given the Q2 distinctive looks that mark it out from the rest of the range, which tends to be conservatively styled.
Pros Great cabin Modern engines Spacious for its size
Cons Gets pricy with options Some rivals are more practical No fast version yet
