A unique turbocharged five-cylinder engine with nearly 400 horses makes the redesigned-for-2020 RS Q3 an exotic performance SUV that we can't buy.
Pros Gutsy power delivery, quirky five-cylinder sound, impressively neutral handling for an SUV.
Cons The U.S. still can't have it, AMG and Porsche both offer more power in their competitors.
The RS Q3 might be exceedingly fast in a straight line, but it just isn’t that much fun. Numb steering and a tendency to wash wide at the front count against it, while many will find its ride a bit too firm for their liking. For this money, the Porsche Macan S feels plusher and is more enjoyable to drive, even if it isn’t as fast.
Pros Fast Well-equipped Sounds good
Cons Stiff ride Not that much fun Interior doesn’t feel that luxurious for a £50k SUV
Genuinely capable 4x4 can seat seven and tow big loads.
PROS Tough, rugged and reliable workhorse Far better than previous model Huge boot in five-seat mode Seven-seat version available CONS Ride can be choppy Not much engine/gearbox choice Relatively unknown brand Low fuel economy and high tax
The Rexton is a well-priced SUV that has a lot of boot space for the money and can carry seven people. Reviews are fairly poor though since it’s not good to drive, noisy and has a dull image. It is one of the cheapest ways to move large loads and more people than usual however, so if you’re in that market then it’s worth a look.
Pros Good off-road Practical Long warranty
Cons Poor ride Noisy Outdated
The Rexton’s four-wheel drive system spends most of its life driving the rear wheels only, diverting power to the front when conditions get more slippery. In most of the cars sold in the UK it will be controlled through a Mercedes-sourced seven-speed automatic transmission - but a six-speed manual is likely to be offered on entry-level editions. The dashboard has a clean look - again, with some cues from the Tivoli - but cross-stitched material panels and Nappa leather add a touch of luxury. The equipment on offer will include dual-zone climate control, a powered rear tailgate that opens automatically when the keyholder has been standing behind it for three seconds, and a new level of safety kit for SsangYong, including nine airbags and rear cross-traffic alert.
