Cool crossovers
These crossovers offer rugged looks in a compact package. But which is the best used buy?
Is Mazda CX-3, Audi Q2 or Peugeot 2008 the best buy?
Audi Q2
Q2 1.0 TFSI SE Years: 2016 to date Engine: 1.0-litre 3cyl, 114bhp Ins grp: 13 Official econ/co2: 55.4mpg/117g/km Why? Badge appeal and an upmarket cabin single out the Q2 as the premium choice of this trio. Prices from: £16,700
AUDI’S smallest SUV serves as a premium foil to the various affordable options in this competitive segment. The Q2 is pricey to buy when new, and that is reflected in the extra you’ll have to pay to secure one second-hand.
It’s good to drive and the 1.0-litre engine is refined, although the car lacks the composure of the Mazda CX-3 in bends and over rough surfaces. Still, a respectable finish of 26th in our Driver Power 2018 new car satisfaction survey suggests owners are pleased enough.
Peugeot 2008
2008 Puretech 130 GT Line Years: 2013 to date Engine: 1.2-litre 3cyl, 129bhp Ins grp: 19 Official econ/co2: 58.9mpg/110g/km Why? The Peugeot 2008 is a practical buy, and it scores strongly on efficiency as well. Prices from: £13,399
WITH its 410-litre boot, the Peugeot 2008 is the most practical option here.
It’s also the most powerful; the 1.2-litre Puretech petrol engine outguns those of the Audi and Mazda for both power and torque. It’s the least refined, however, and the 2008’s chassis fails to convince in this company, because it can’t match the Q2 or CX-3 for ride quality.
A 31st-place finish in Driver Power 2018 means owners rank the Peugeot behind the Audi, but not by much, plus it’s much cheaper to buy second-hand.
Mazda CX-3
CX-3 2.0 120 Sport Nav Years: 2015 to date Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl, 118bhp Ins grp: 17 Official econ/co2: 47.9mpg/137g/km Why? A driver-focused set-up marks out the CX-3, plus it has an extensive list of standard equipment. Prices from: £12,000
THE Mazda CX-3 stands out in this class with its naturally aspirated engine. It’s undoubtedly the best driver’s car here, with sweet steering, a slick six-speed gearbox and a relatively playful chassis, plus that power unit revs out freely.
But it’s also the least economical model of this trio and has the smallest boot. Still, you’ll find that the Mazda is the cheapest used choice, giving it a distinct advantage in this company. A ranking of 48th in our latest Driver Power survey places it towards the middle of the pack.