If I had a penny for every time someone asked me for SUV recommendations I would be, well, not that rich because a penny isn’t worth much anymore is it? I also wouldn’t be living in South Africa. But I digress. The point is, SUVs are so popular that it makes sense that I put together a wee list of SUVs you should consider if your budget is less than R450 000. When I say SUVs, I mean compact SUVs as well. The whole bang shoot really.
RENAULT KOLEOS
Priced from R399 900
A part from what the name means in Greek, this spacious family car is such great value for money. The Renault Koleos comes with an array of standard features and the ride is as smooth as Zac Efron (my wildcard!). The engine might not be as punchy as you would like it to be, but the rest of this package should be enough to entice you.
VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN
Priced from R433 400
We already know just how popular this car is, one just has to look at how many grace our roads. There is good reason for this…it’s the same reason we see so many Polo’s and Polo Vivo’s on our roads. They are all-round excellent products. And if the standard Tiguan is just a bit too small for you, you can always opt for the Tiguan Allspace which comes in at under R500k but adds quite a bit more space.
KIA SPORTAGE
Priced from R386 995
I think we all know how much I love the Kia brand so it is no wonder the Kia Sportage makes this list. I have had the pleasure of driving all generations and can assure you, it just gets better and getter. It’s quiet, comfortable, spacious, fully-specced and just an absolute pleasure to drive. I want to own one!
MAZDA CX-5
Priced from R404 600
The Mazda CX-5 has only just received an upgrade. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard across the range as well as a few other interior and exterior nips and tucks. Basically, Mazda’s flagship model has just reached a new level and just when I thought it couldn’t get any better. As CAR magazine wrote about the previous CX-5, “[The CX-5] is one of the most dynamically engaging members of its segment, but manages to successfully marry that with a good degree of practicality, a raft of normally optional safety features and a standard equipment list that puts most of its rivals in the shade, not to mention a fairly competitive sticker price…”
FORD KUGA
Priced from R384 900
There is so much controversy around this car and its a shame because it only relates to one model of which is no longer available. The new Ford Kuga is a car worth considering. It is great value for money and is an “excellent example of what was once ground-breaking tech filtering into everyday family vehicles.”
LOOK OUT FOR
There are a few SUVs you may want to hold off for. These cars are due here in South Africa this year. One example is:
The new Toyota Rav4
It arrives middle of March, so you won’t have to wait long.
There are so many SUV options out there for you to choose from. Your best bet is to do as much research as possible and then test drive your top choices. If you have any questions, don’t be afraid to comment below or chat to me via Timon, Instagram, Twitter or Facebook. I am EVERYWHERE. Mooowahahhaha!
Keep an eye on my website for the others that will hit our shores soon.
