Top Small SUVs

Small SUVs are proving a popular compromise between the standard family car and the large SUV, so it is not just the ability of the car to perform well under rough conditions that is important. Good looks, a stylish and practical interior, excellent on-road driving capabilities, and economy are all important factors. Here is our choice of the top small SUVs for 2013.

Range Rover Evoque
The Range Rover Evoque, the smallest Range Rover ever produced, won the Auto Express car of the year award. Available in three and five-door versions, it is strikingly good looking in a head turning fashion. It is one of the most stylish small SUVs on the road, but there is far more to it than good looks. Inside it is spacious and well finished; five adults can be accommodated comfortably. It handles very well on twisty roads and it has a comfortable ride.  Off road the 4 wheel drive version is highly capable. There are several options including a 2.2 litre diesel, a 2 litre turbocharged petrol (which provides a healthy 237 bhp) and an economical eD4 which is available only on the two wheel drive version. The entry level model costs just under £30,000.

BMW X3
BMW describes its cars with the tagline “The Ultimate Driving Machine” and anyone who has owned one is forced to agree. BMWs are fun to drive, and the new X3 is no exception.  It handles very well, it is almost as comfortable as a saloon car and has excellent grip both on and off road; it is perfect on snow and ice too. Currently there are a number of engine options: a 2.0 litre diesel which is available as an 184bhp or 143 bhp unit and a 3.0 litre turbo-diesel which is available as a 258 bhp or 313 bhp unit, making it the most powerful small SUV on the road and will hit 62 mph from rest in just 5.8 seconds. There is a six speed manual gearbox or an eight speed automatic. Prices start at around £31,440.

Audi Q3
The Audi Q3 builds on the reputation of its larger siblings the Q5 and Q7. It has excellent handling in all conditions, though it is not quite as serious as the BMW X3 in its attitude to real off-roading. The emphasis has been placed on comfort and all-round performance. Available in two and four wheel drive versions, there are a number of engine options. These include a 2.0 litre petrol available as 168 bhp or 208 bhp units; a 2.0 litre diesel which delivers 175 bhp and which is also available as an economical 138 bhp for the two wheel drive version only. There is the choice of a six speed manual gearbox or a seven speed S-Tronic automatic. The car is equipped with Audi Drive Select which allows the driver to choose between three acceleration and steering set-up options.  Prices start at around £24,600.

Vauxhall Mokka
The Vauxhall Mokka is an all-new small SUV. It is a neat looking and highly practical car. The four-wheel drive version uses what is called a smart 4×4 system. All the engine power is directed to the front wheels while the car is in normal driving mode, but as soon as any slip is detected or the car goes into a tight corner up to 50% of the drive is re-directed to the rear wheels. Engine options include a 1.6 litre conventionally aspirated petrol, a turbocharged 1.4 litre petrol, and a 1.7 litre diesel unit. With prices starting at just £16,000, Vauxhall can expect a big market for this little SUV.