Best New Cars 2018: Small SUVs

21 December 2017

The fastest growing vehicle sector of recent years has undoubtedly been small SUVs. Last year saw a glut of new vehicles released to an increasingly saturated market and 2018 will be no different with plenty more on the way. Below you'll find our pick of the bunch, the best new compact crossovers coming soon.

Volkswagen T-Roc

Volkswagen's all new compact crossover is set to bring a bit of that Golf utilitarian style to a sector that hasn't always spawned the most conventionally good-looking cars. A smart, wide grille and sharp fold lines give the T-Roc a handsome but unassuming look, this car is a subtle statement of cool. It's not bad on the road either, this is one of the most fun and engaging small SUVs to drive, and with decent fuel economy thrown in there is much to recommend about VW's new machine.

 

BMW X2

2018 will see the addition of another model to BMW's already extensive range of SUVs. The coupe-styled X2 is aiming to be the svelte and athletic member of the family, targeting younger buyers, and with that sleek low roofline and smart LED lighting it certainly seems to fit the bill. Some practicality has been sacrificed in adopting that sporty body, in fact the boot is actually 35 litres smaller the X1's, but we're guessing with those brawny good looks this car will prove very popular.

 

Volvo XC40

After a spate of handsome releases of late, Volvo appear to have got their mojo back. Next up from the premium Swedish brand is their first foray in to the small SUV sector with the all new XC40, and we think it looks fantastic. The front end is defined by those recent Volvo trademark features, the Thor's hammer headlights and wide concave grille, whilst round the back chunky D-pillars dominate. On the inside things are equally refined with a real premium feel, the XC40 is undoubtedly a very desirable proposition.

 

Jaguar E-Pace

After the success of the F-Pace, Jaguar have created a smaller SUV which will likely overtake its big brother and become the brand's bestseller. This stunning new Jag is based on the same platform as the Land Rover Discovery Sport, the F-Pace has genuine off-road capabilities- unlike many compact crossovers. On the road it's great fun too, delivering best in class handling despite tipping the scales at a weighty 1,775kg.

 

Citroen C5 Aircross

This could well be Citroen's coolest car in years. A futuristic looking grille that stretches across the front of the vehicle, incorporating the chevron logo along the way, and a floating roof-line reminiscent of the Evoque give the C5 Aircross an irrefutable air of confidence. Citroen's signature Airbumps have been shifted down to the sills too, smartening things somewhat and giving the vehicle a more conventional appearance.

 

Jeep Wrangler

Is there another brand of SUV that's as instantly recognisable as a Jeep? The iconic American manufacturer has produced some of the most legendary vehicles of all time, but does the all-new Wrangler live up to that heritage? Unsurprisingly this Jeep is as rugged as they come, bags of low end torque make it tough to compete with off-road- if you're looking for a genuine four-wheel drive this is could be the car for you.