SsangYongs have been on sale in the UK since the ’90s – the company usually offers big SUVs for less than the majority of their competitors. Sadly, most of their models have proved to be lacklustre alternatives to the likes of the Kia Sportage, Suzuki Vitara and Nissan Qashqai. To drive, the Korando isn’t much fun, but most people buy one because they need an SUV either for tackling rough terrain or towing – two roles the SsangYong is perfectly suited to.
Pros Lots of space Relatively economical Generous standard kit
Cons Fast depreciation Dull styling Cheap feeling interior
The SsangYong Korando gives you a lot of car for your money – but nowhere near as much as a Dacia Duster.The SsangYong Korando is the brand’s mid-size SUV, pitched as a low-cost rival to the Nissan Qashqai, Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage. On the move, the Korando isn’t as stable as a lot of its rivals, either – it tends to wallow about when going around corners and has an uncomfortable ride.
Pros Good value for money Spacious interior Low emissions
Cons Noisy diesel engine Poor-quality plastics Uncomfortable suspension
Not only was it a handsome addition to the compact crossover market, it was also the firm’s very first monocoque model – meaning it delivered a far better approximation of a car’s handling characteristics than any of the body-on-frame SUVs that continue to fill out the firm’s modest lineup. On the plus side, the Korando gets large storage bins, reach and rake adjustment for the steering wheel and generous equipment levels on higher-spec models. It is also competitive on interior space; offering decent leg and headroom for rear passengers, and acceptable luggage space. The interior is slightly less forgettable, but only because it comes partly clad in the kind of cheap plastic which cannot otherwise find a home in this class. The redesigned dashboard makes ergonomic sense, although it hasn’t lost any of its brittleness.
The 2019 Subaru Outback makes a sensible crossover SUV alternative.
Pros Like a crossover SUV, but better No shortage of safety gear Spacious, refined interior Rides and handles well Better off-road than many SUVs
Cons 6-cylinder engine guzzles fuel… … but 4-cylinder can feel pokey Starting to show its age here and there Touring needs roof rack cross bars
The 2019 Subaru Outback ranked #3 in Wagons. Currently the Subaru Outback has a score of 8.4 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 42 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Standard all-wheel drive Roomy seats and great visibility Class-leading amount of cargo space Impressive set of standard tech and safety features
Cons Acceleration is slow with the base engine Throttle for base engine is overly sensitive at times
The 2019 Subaru Outback is both wagon and SUV. It has the profile of a wagon, yet its traction-enhancing all-wheel-drive system and extra ground clearance make it more capable off-road than most other SUVs. Like other modern Subarus, it's also packed with the latest safety features.Subaru's EyeSight driver assist suite is now standard on all Outbacks.Base 2.5i trim gets additional USB ports.
PROS Spacious and comfortable cabin Roof and cargo-loading heights are lower than those of most SUVs Excellent visibility in all directions Off-road ability is above average
CONS Acceleration is lackluster, especially with four-cylinder engine Sensitive gas pedal at low speeds Modest handling capabilities
