1. Audi Q3 Sportback 35 TFSI Black Edition
The Q3 remains one of our favourites in the segment thanks to Audi's beautifully crafted, driver-oriented interiors and excellent driving dynamics.
The Audi Q3 35TFSI has a 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 110 kW of power and 250 Nm of torque. This engine is paired with a 6-speed S tronic dual-clutch gearbox that sends power to the front wheels. With this combination, the Q3 35TFSI can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.3 seconds.
The entry-level model is priced at R729 100 while the top-spec Black Edition will cost you R839 650. Here's what the Black Edition model offers:
- Black styling Plus and black mirrors
- Panoramic glass sunroof
- Parking aid Plus
- Door armrests in leatherette
- Comfort key
- Comfort package
- Electric tailgate
- Electrically adjustable front seats
- Front seat heaters
- 4-way lumbar support
- Sports package
- Sports seats
- Black headlining
- Flat-bottom steering wheel
- 19-inch alloy wheels
2. Volvo XC40
You don't have to go the all-electric route, however. The XC40 B3 and B4 both have 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engines with 110kW and 145kW respectively.
From a tech perspective, the Volvo offers the most user-friendly infotainment system with built-in Google, and Volvo's semi-autonomous Pilot Assist system is top-notch, and ultra-intuitive. Pricing for the entry-level XC40 B3 Essential starts at R719 000.
3. Lexus UX
Thanks to the hybrid powertrain, the UX offers a claimed fuel consumption of just 4.5 L/100 km from its 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol hybrid powertrain, when driven in Eco Mode.
"Power figures from the engine and motor combined make a total of 135 kW and 180 Nm of torque and there’s a standard Drive Mode Select dial above the instrument binnacle which allows for your ideal driving mode between Eco, Normal and Sport (with Sport Plus in the F Sport model)." - Lexus UX 2023 First Drive Review
Related: Alfa Romeo Stelvio vs Lexus NX vs Volvo XC60 - Running cost comparison
4. Kia Sportage
Kia is traditionally not seen as a premium brand, but thanks to the Sportage's beautiful design, luxurious, solidly built and spacious cabin, massive curved touchscreen and other advanced on-board features, it deserves to be on this list. Kias aren't expensive to service, maintain and repair either, and scores highly from a dependability and running costs perspective, plus the diesel models are super frugal, making it the full package.
The pricing kicks off at R662 995 for the entry level 1.6 CRDi LX (diesel) model, but if you want all the bells and whistles, the top-tier GT Line Plus (from R766 995) and GT Line S model (topping the range at R823 995) might be more to your liking. Read my review of the Sportage 1.6 CRDi EX review here.
Diesel models have 100kW and 320 Nm (0-100 in 11.4 seconds) while the petrol models have 132 kW with 265 Nm (0-100 in 8.8 seconds).
5. Alfa Romeo Tonale
Do you want a car that looks unlike anything else in the segment and is truly noticeable? If you have a taste for Italian styling and design, the Tonale can't be overlooked.
The Tonale also benefits from mild-hybridisation for better fuel economy and performance, while the smart-looking cabin focuses on driver engagement and performance.The Tonale is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine which is complemented by a small, (48-Volt) 15kW, 55Nm electric motor for a total output of 113 kW and 240 Nm. The Tonale has a top speed of 210 km/h and a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 8.8 seconds.The most affordable model is the Tonale 1.5T Hybrid Ti at R787 900. Read our shootout of the Tonale vs the Audi Q3 and BMW X2 here.
