It doesn’t really do sharp handling, it’s not quite big enough to match the best in class for practicality, nor does it come with seven seats. Yet don’t overlook the C5 Aircross if those limitations don’t worry you, because it has a lot of other things going for it; its ride is superb on most roads, it cruises along supremely quietly, it has a reasonable purchase price and very reasonable running costs.
Pros Mostly a super-smooth ride Quiet inside at speed Frugal engines
Cons Wallowy handling No seven-seat option Question marks of Citroën's reliability
The C5 Aircross is Citroen's (late) leap onto the family-crossover bandwagon.A plug-in hybrid arrives early in 2020. The big draw with that one will be better fuel economy for commuting, and lower tax. Interestingly Citroen elected to make its PHEV front-drive only to keep the price down. Whereas Peugeot, which sells 3008s at a higher price, went for a more expensive PHEV system with 4WD via an extra rear-mounted motor.
Pros Very comfortable in all sorts of ways. Looks different. No sporty pretence
Cons No sporty actuality. Ride not as consistent as billed. Occasionally irritating screen system
Pros Eye-catching looks Generous boot space Comfortable to drive
Cons Some low-rent interior bits Awkward infotainment system Rear space is tight
The Q2 is pleasingly bold on the surface, but plays with a very safe bat beneath it
Pros Bold styling (for Audi), should be a doddle to live with
Cons Not especially fun to drive, few real benefits over an A3
Pros Huge scope for personalisation Stylish, high-quality interior Great range of engines
Cons Many rivals are cheaper Limited kit on entry-level model Large wheels affect ride comfort
Pros Spacious interior Impressive safety kit Good build quality
Cons High price Firm ride on larger wheels Best features are optional
It can rumble with hot hatches, but does Audi's youth-focussed compact SUV warrant its $50K-plus price tag?
Pros Performance aplenty Nice road manners... ... and adroit handling Silky smooth dual-clutch auto
Cons Asks for Q3 money Misses key safety tech Second row not the last word in comfort