Another day, another SUV

Another week, and another avalanche of SUVs is launched or revealed. The swing from traditional fourdoor sedans to the higher SUVs and utes is already obvious on the roads, and it is reflected in the monthly sales statistics.

The trend is set to become even more pronounced as premium brands fall over themselves to release large, medium and compact SUVs.

Mass market brands such as Mazda ( see the new CX- 5 revealed at the LA Motor Show online at Driven. co. nz ) are updating and defending their share of the market.

Premium makes such as Audi, Mercedes- Benz, BMW, Jaguar and Porsche are rapidly broadening their SUV range offerings.

Even Alfa Romeo joined the rush in Los Angeles.

Looking down on the Audi range at an Auckland dealership this week at the unveiling of the new Q2 model, brought home the realisation of how agile manufacturers are moving into TONY VERDON what once was considered a niche market.

It’s all good news for those wanting choice, especially with the vast array of customisation options most of the brands are offering on their vehicles.

The manufacturers are responding to the demand for a higher- riding but agile vehicle, even if most buyers will never take them beyond their urban surroundings.

Those of us who prefer a lower and sportier drive needn’t dispair because the current and future SUVs have been developed with driving pleasure and ease clearly in mind.

Thank goodness the manufacturers are also making them more driver- friendly as technology and other advances improve the SUV driver experience. ABOUT US Editor Tony Verdon Editor at Large Liz Dobson Contributors Jacqui Madelin, Bob McMurray, Cameron Officer, Donna McIntyre, David Kavermann Cover design Jennifer Adams Advertising Todd Fuller 021 986027 todd. fuller@ nzme. co. nz Cover photo Supplied