Kia Sportage
Kia Sportage
SUVs have soared in popularity in recent years, with UK sales volumes increasing by over 400% between 2008 and 2017. Manufacturers have been quick to jump on the trend, meaning car buyers can now choose from a much wider selection, from rugged off-roaders to compact crossovers. With new models arriving every year, SUVs have become much more affordable, too. Let’s take a look at some of the best options available now for less than £300 per month.
Best for: Fuel efficiency
The all-new Compass is the latest in Jeep’s range of capable off-roaders. It’s a compact SUV that sits comfortably in between the nippy 4.2m Renegade and the roomier 4.6m Cherokee. The popular Longitude trim is packed with innovative features such as a reversing camera, keyless entry, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality and an 8.4-inch infotainment screen. It benefits from sporty looks, too, with 17-inch alloy wheels, body coloured mirrors, LED rear lights and chrome grille. The 1.6-litre Multijet diesel engine is quiet and economical, offering 64.2mpg with CO2 emissions of 117g/km.
Best for: Families
This spacious SUV has a comfy interior and a high ride height, giving you a great view of the road ahead. There’s loads of room in the back and a huge boot with an adjustable load lip that makes transporting bulky items a doddle. It scored a full five stars in Euro NCAP’s safety test and Kia’s seven-year warranty gives you added peace of mind. Inside, you’ll find some neat touches such as a leather-wrapped steering wheel and touchscreen infotainment system. But the best part has to be soaking up the rays underneath the luxurious panoramic sunroof.
Best for: Practicality
If you’re looking for an SUV, chances are practicality is going to be high on your list of priorities, and in that, the Tucson excels. There’s 513 litres of boot space (expanding to 1,503 litres with rear seats folded), loads of storage and passenger legroom. There’s plenty of equipment such as DAB digital radio and Bluetooth connectivity, and the interior layout is simple and intuitive. You’ll enjoy more miles for your money with the 1.7-litre CRDi diesel engine, which is capable of reaching an impressive 61.7mpg with 119g/km of CO2 emissions.
Best for: Value for money
Dacia updated its Duster line-up earlier this year, and the mid-range Air trim is one of the latest arrivals. It provides a few more frills than the entry-level option, without breaking the bank. The exterior has been given a little more oomph with 16-inch wheels and body coloured bumpers. Inside, there’s plenty to keep you entertained on the road with DAB radio, Bluetooth connectivity and auxiliary sockets. A height adjustable driver’s seat and electric front windows are welcome extras too. The Duster is great fun to drive with smooth ride quality and a capable 115bhp 1.6-litre engine. At this price, the Duster’s rugged charm is hard to ignore.
Best for: Traditionalists
The Mitsubishi Outlander is a straight-up SUV that’s perfect for anyone looking for solid build quality, off-road capability and a practical interior. The entry-level model has plenty of standard equipment such as 16-inch wheels, cruise control, 4WD mode and silver roof rails. The 2.2-litre diesel engine provides surprisingly good fuel efficiency for its size, achieving 53.3mpg with 139g/km of CO2 emissions. The Outlander’s high ride height and four-wheel drive provides a commanding view of the road and ensures a smooth drive no matter what the terrain.
Prices correct at time of publishing and may be subject to change. Calls may be recorded for quality or training purposes. Models shown for illustrative purposes. Cars advertised are available at branches listed or from group stock and are subject to availability. Arnold Clark Automobiles Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and acts as a credit broker sourcing credit to assist with your purchase from a carefully selected panel of lenders (listed on our website). Lenders may pay us a fee for these introductions. A guarantor may be required. Applicants must be 18 years or over. All offers and credit subject to status, terms and conditions.
