Brian Byrne Eddie Cunningham
And Motoring Editor look at the latest crossover and SUV options for farm families
THE switch from traditional family saloon/hatchback to Crossover and SUV is one of the most dramatic developments in motoring over the past few years.
And it shows no sign of abating with analysts forecasting even greater numbers buying — especially compact SUVs — next year and beyond.
SUVs may be particularly relevant to farm families, as they provide not just carrying flexibility, but varying degrees of ruggedness and, often, impressive 4x4 traction.
At the same time 2WD versions of SUVs and Crossovers can suit families whose demands are mostly on, rather than off, the road.
Here’s a quick run-through, with succinct verdicts, of what’s out there.
Just to note that although new VRT rules mean ‘commercial’ SUVs no longer benefit from lower VRT rates, many brands are still advertising them. That’s most likely because vehicles were pre-registered and there is a continued supply for a period. Prices here reflect that where applicable.
1. WORKHORSES
First up there are the
2. LARGE SUVs
Then there are the large SUVs, including the LWB versions of the above, which have offered ‘business’ versions with 5-passenger accommodation.
They include:
Mitsubishi Pajero
Real rugged vehicle. SWB and LWB versions (longer one in Executive grade trim). Price from €30,891+VAT. A powerhouse on or off the road.
Toyota Land Cruiser
Powered by a 2.8 diesel. Price from €43,950 inc VAT. Probably the best all-rounder of its kind.
VW Touareg
Power comes from two versions of a 3.0 diesel, all with 4WD. Prices from €65,395 inc VAT. Promoted as a premium option. Impressive motor. New one imminent.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
This brand-topper is loaded with technology and has three 4x4 systems. Power is from 3.0 diesels. Price €71,750 inc
Ford Edge
Large SUV from Ford. Four grades. Powered by 180hp and 210hp versions of a 2.0 diesel. Price from €47,995 inc VAT is pushing it a bit. Too expensive, we reckon.
Land Rover Discovery 5
Aluminium structure makes it lighter and more nimble. Four grades, 2.0 and 3.0 diesels including a 340hp powerhouse. Automatic (€POA). Massive performer off road. Seven seats a big plus with families.
Volvo XC90
High level of technology and luxury. Three spec levels. Engines: 190hp/235hp diesels and powerful hybrid. Prices from €74,250 inc VAT. Seven seats, great drive.
KIA Sorento
One of those big comfortable SUVs with a bit of style presence that doesn’t overwhelm. Quality interior. Power is a 2.2 diesel, with an auto option. In FWD and AWD versions. Price from €37,790. Often overlooked but has seven seats and good price.
3. ‘COMPACT SUVs/ CROSSOVERS
Ford Kuga
Available in 2WD and 4WD. Durable, stylish, comfortable. Power from 1.5 EcoBoost petrol, 1.5 and 2.0 diesels. Prices from €33,395. Roomy, effective operator.
Hyundai Tucson
Hyundai’s SUV commercial comes with lots of technology; 1.7 and 2.0 diesel engines. Price from €24,222+VAT. The country’s best seller for several years now — for good reason.
Hyundai Santa Fe
The larger Santa Fe SUV has
Honda CR-V
More a soft roader. Engine currently a 1.6 diesel. Automatic option. Price from €32,575 inc VAT. Diesel going from new model (next year) so it will be hybrid or petrol.
Jeep Compass Jeep Cherokee
Plenty of room, nice interior, 2WD and AWD versions. Power from 2.0 and 2.2 diesels (140hp-200hp); there are 9spd auto options. Prices from €41,350 inc VAT. Hasn’t set the world on fire.
Kia Sportage
Looks and feels like a bigger car. A 1.7 diesel powers the FWDs and a 2.0 diesel the AWD. Prices from €27,995 inc VAT. Popular with families. Regular Top 10 seller.
Mitsubishi Outlander
Powered by a 2.2 diesel or a plug-in hybrid. Price from €26,260+VAT. You lose two of the seven seats with the plug-in (from €39,900). Nice package on the road.
Nissan Qashqai/ Nissan X-Trail
The Qashqai and X-Trail SUV commercials are both based on the 5-and-