Crossovers compared: Nissan Qashqai, Peugeot 3008 and Volvo XC40

It’s no surprise why compact SUVs and crossovers are hugely popular. They fit into a just-right size and price range that appeals to just about everybody. Adventurous thrill-seeker? Get a small crossover. A homeowner who needs to haul stuff? Get a small SUV. Need a roomy but compact vehicle for a growing family? Bingo! With carlike handling, decent fuel economy, a tall seating position, and wagon-like utility, it’s easy to see why a compact SUV is a perfect vehicle for any lifestyle. So, to help you choose the “just right” SUV for you, here are three of our favorites that offer a wide array of trim levels and span the affordability spectrum.

Nissan Qashqai

The original gets better

Nissan pretty much invented the crossover with its 2007 Qashqai. More ‘tall hatch’ than ‘short SUV’, it provided as much space as the bigger vehicle but for little sacrifice in economy and dynamics. The idea was a hit and has since sprouted many rivals. So, Nissan’s latest, third-generation Qashqai improves over its predecessor, with more space, better onboard tech, and useful practical touches to beat the competition. Robust, reliable, with good carrying capacity, the Qashqai is built for urban family life. The back doors open uncommonly wide for wrestling toddlers into child seats and the boot is big, versatile, and buggy-friendly. The Qashqai is available with a 1.3-litre, 12V mild-hybrid petrol unit in 138bhp or 156bhp form, and e-power variants will arrive later in 2022.

Nissan Qashqai AcentaTransmission: CVT Xtronic - Automatic 2WD Engine: 1.3 L Power: 116 (158) kW (pk) / 5.500 /tr/min Fuel type: Mild Hybrid / Petrol Drive type: FWD Emission level: Euro 6D Full

Source: Nissan.co.uk

Peugeot 3008 Hybrid4

Drive it both ways

If you’re looking for a perfect family car with a dash of style, the 4-wheel drive plug-in Peugeot 3008 Hybrid4 SUV has a lot to offer. It’s well built, well equipped and combines technology with elegance to display strength and character. Its distinctive style balances perfectly between bold and smooth, pushing the boundaries of the established SUV. The unrivalled Peugeot i-Cockpit® and range of innovative technologies enhance your well-being and safety. Experience agile and intuitive driving with the compact multifunction steering wheel, with 300hp of combined power from its petrol engine and electric powertrain. Peugeot 3008 Hybrid4 is comfortable, economical, and relaxing to drive so you can enjoy every curve of the road.

Peugeot 3008 Hybrid4Transmission:EAT8 Automatic Electric range: 59 km - WLTP **Power: ** 222 PS / 219 bhp / 163 kW 0 - 100 km/h, sec: 9,5 Fuel type: PHEV / Petrol Drive type: FWD Emission level: Euro 6D ISC-FCM

Source: Peugeot.co.uk

Volvo XC40

Fun and funky family SUV

The Volvo XC40 is a comfortable and stylish small SUV with some pleasing practical touches and a lot of Swedish cool. Fun and funky, the XC40 blends the best of the brand's large SUVs with a more youthful appearance. And thanks to its characterful design and charming driving demeanor, it stands out in a crowd in more ways than one. The XC40 brings an impressive level of design quality to the game inside, too, with a high-tech feel, digital instrument cluster and excellent portrait Sensus touchscreen system. With an 7-speed automatic gearbox fitted in the T3, B4 and B5 versions, you can happily tootle around town with ease. Plenty powerful, stylish, and spritely, this well-equipped Volvo is just the right size, and fun to drive.

Volvo XC40 Recharge PHEV InscriptionTransmission: 7-speed Dual Clutch Automatic Electric range: 45 km - WLTP Fuel type: PHEV / Petrol Drive type: AWD Emission level: Euro 6

Source: Volvo.com

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