HONDA CR-V

More space, that's how you're going to capture the families in 2017: give them more room to expand. But how else do you improve on the world's bestselling SUV? More than nine million units in 150 countries is no small feat. And that space in reality translates into a 65 mm increase in second-row knee clearance.

The pick of the line-up is by far the 1,5-litre V-tec Turbo, which is good for 140 kw and 240 N.m. Honda also made some adjustments to the all-wheel-drive system, which sees 10 per cent more power heading to the rear wheels. Further enhancements come via dual pinion electronic power steering and an innovative floating subframe. Fluid-filled bushes and a frequency response damper that adjusts for rate as well as stroke keep the drive very smooth.

Staying competitive in a now very crowded market comes down to minor differences and using 780 grade high tensile material in 28 per cent of the vehicle body will add enough rigidity to the body and keep the drive exciting. The company is leading the way with standard Apple Carplay and Android Auto support, which adds more weight to the company's “most advanced compact SUV” claim.

All new Hondas come with a 5-year/ 200 000 km warranty and the CR-V is no different. Two engine variants fill out the range with the naturally aspirated twolitre bringing forgettable performance to the table.

Price: from R422 900