Looking good is one thing, but staying entertained and informed is another. All three of these compact SUVs offer a substantial amount of tech in their standard trims with a world of opportunities available if one ticks the right boxes when ordering.
Related: Volkswagen T-Roc test drive: make sure to check these features out.
We took a look at the systems in these three compact SUVs to ascertain which one offers you the most in the way of tech, features and usability.
VW T-Roc
Our rating: 3.5/5
Volkswagen's latest foray into the world of compact SUVs sees the T-Roc joining the lineup that includes the T-Cross and Tiguan. The T-Roc is fitted with the Composition Media system, a system that is shared with numerous other VW products. This unit features an 8-inch colour touchscreen with pressure-sensitive touch capabilities.
This powerful system contains a host of features for both entertainment and information. The two facets are interwoven with VW App-Connect that allows for tethering of smartphones for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allowing you to access suitable apps such as navigation, audio streaming and messaging services amongst others. The system also ties into the optional Active Info Display ahead of the driver with infotainment information displayed in the driver's chosen format.
This system will allow for AM/FM reception and will also accept USB input, with the one caveat being that all the USB ports are Type-C ports, necessitating adapters for standard male USB connectors. Control comes in the way of the touchscreen or the selection of buttons and knobs alongside the screen. Driver's have basic control from the multi-function steering wheel as well.
The menu system uses a tile-based layout and most settings are easily found with only a few obscurities. Upgrading to the Discover Media system includes wireless App-Connect and native navigation.
Audi Q2
Our Rating: 3.5/5
Positioned as a 'boutique compact SUV', the Audi Q2 is equipped with the MMI Radio Plus system with an 8.3-inch infotainment system. While not retractable or touch-equipped, the MMI Radio plus system offers a simplified way of getting your entertainment and information.
The system will accept inputs for Bluetooth and USB and supports smartphone tethering for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. AM/FM reception is standard fare and the system is controlled through the MMI Touch controller in the centre console. This system allows you to scroll through the rotary design home menu with colour-coded sections for ease of use and instantly access various modes by the push of one of the shortcut buttons.
One is also able to make use of the multifunction steering wheel or use voice commands to control certain aspects of the system. Audi Connect allows for online functions to be used such as Google Maps and Google Street View and is able to turn the car into a mobile WiFi hotspot for up to 8 devices.
When paired with the Audi Virtual Cockpit, the information can be displayed in outstanding clarity ahead of the driver with customisable views allowing for the preferred information to be displayed in a prominent fashion.
Volvo XC40
Our rating: 4/5
The Volvo XC40 is widely regarded as one of the most technologically advanced vehicles in this class and the Sensus infotainment system backs that sentiment up. This powerhouse system has more features than we have space for sadly but you will not be disappointed with it.
Opting to go for a portrait layout, the XC40 is able to offer a large, 9-inch touchscreen interface that replicates the functions and usability of a smart tablet. Swiping to either side reveals either the home screen, vehicle settings or a combination of your most frequently accessed functions. Swiping down reveals a further settings menu with settings for the system itself. The ventilation system readout is also displayed permanently in the lower section of the screen.
This unit will allow for AM/FM reception, Bluetooth, USB and AUX connectivity and is equipped with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It can be controlled through the touch interface or the multifunction steering wheel. A single volume knob with a central play/pause button is flanked by forward and reverse skip buttons for easier control while driving.
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