Keen on a crossover but your budget's looking skinny? These three standout models in this category are the Kia Sonet, Suzuki Fronx, and Toyota Starlet Cross – all offering entry-level variants just below the R300 000 mark.
Related: Best affordable used SUVs for moms
| Model | Price | Engine | Power | Torque | Fuel Consumption* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Sonet 1.5 LS Manual | R299 995 | 1.5L petrol | 85kW @ 6300rpm | 144Nm @ 4500r/min | 6.6 L/100km |
| Suzuki Fronx 1.5 GL Manual | R298 900 | 1.5L petrol | 77kW @ 6000rpm | 138Nm @ 4400r/min | 5.5 L/100km |
| Toyota Starlet Cross 1.5 XS Manual | R299 900 | 1.5L petrol | 77kW @ 6000rpm | 138Nm @ 4400r/min | 5.6 L/100km |
*Note: These are the manufacturers' claimed consumption figures. Real-world consumption may be 15-20% higher, depending on driving conditions and style.
1. Kia Sonet 1.5 LS Manual
Performance and efficiency
The Sonet leads with its 1.5-litre engine producing 85kW and 144Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. Fuel consumption is a claimed 6.6L/100km, with a theoretical range of 682km from its 45-litre tank.
Design and dimensions
With a 2 500mm wheelbase and short rear overhang, the Sonet offers one of the roomiest cabins in its class. It features 385 litres of boot space – among the largest in the segment. Ride comfort comes from a MacPherson strut front suspension and a coupled torsion axle rear setup.
Key features
- 8-inch colour touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Black cloth and synthetic leather upholstery
- Air conditioning
- Front and rear electric windows
- Electric adjustable mirrors
- Multi-function steering wheel
- Central locking with immobiliser
- 15-inch steel wheels with stylish wheel covers
Safety features
- Dual front airbags
- Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)
- Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Hill-start Assist Control (HAC)
- ISOFIX child seat anchors
Warranty and service plan
5-year/unlimited km warranty with a 3-year/45,000km service plan (15 000km intervals).
The automatic Sonet LS is pitted against the Hyundai Exter and Suzuki Fronx here.
2. Suzuki Fronx 1.5 GL Manual
Performance and efficiency
The Fronx's K15B 1.5-litre engine delivers 77kW and 138Nm of torque, with a claimed fuel efficiency of 5.5L/100km. At just 1 010kg, it offers a great power-to-weight ratio. Its 37-litre fuel tank provides an approximately 673km range.
Design and dimensions
Measuring 3 995mm long, 1 765mm wide, and riding on a 2 520mm wheelbase, the Fronx features a unique coupé SUV body style with a striking front grille, sloping roofline, and a striking front end. Ground clearance is 170mm, with 304 litres of luggage space expandable to 605 litres with the 60:40 split rear seats folded.
Key features
- 7.0-inch infotainment system with reverse camera
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity
- Leather-clad multi-function steering wheel
- Cruise control
- Automatic climate control with rear-seat ventilation
- Electric windows front and rear
- Dual rear USB charging points
- Front 12V charging socket
- Centre console box/armrest
- 16-inch alloy wheels
- Roof rails
- Rear roof-mounted spoiler with shark fin antenna
- LED daytime running lights
Safety features
- Dual airbags
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- Hill Hold Control (HHC)
- ABS brakes with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
- ISOFIX child seat anchors
- Digital immobiliser and security alarm
Warranty and service plan
5-year/200 000km warranty with a 4-year/60 000km service plan (15 000km intervals).
The Fronx goes up against the Exter and the Mahindra XUV 3X0 in this shootout.
Toyota Starlet Cross 1.5 XS Manual
Performance and efficiency
The Starlet Cross (read our launch report) features the same 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 77kW and 138Nm of torque paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. Its claimed fuel economy is 5.6L/100km. It's the mechanical twin of the Suzuki Fronx.
Design and dimensions
At 3,995mm long, 1 765mm wide, and 1 550mm tall with a 2 520mm wheelbase, the Starlet Cross offers a ground clearance of 170mm (+30mm versus regular Starlet). It features a striking front grille with chrome garnish, LED headlamps, twin LED Daytime Running Lights, and connected LED taillights.
Key features
- 7.0-inch infotainment system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity
- Built-in Wifi (optional)
- Leather multi-function steering wheel
- High-quality cloth upholstery
- 3 USB chargers
- Cruise control
- 4 speakers
- 16-inch black-painted alloy wheels
- Electric demister
Safety features
- Driver and passenger airbags
- Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
- Hill Assist Control (HAC)
- ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
- ISOFIX points for child seats
Warranty and service plan
3-year/100 000km warranty with a 4-services/60 000km service plan (15 000km intervals).
Toyota Starlet Cross vs Mahindra XUV 3X0 vs Nissan Magnite
Which one should you choose?
Kia Sonet: Best for performance, tech, cabin space, and quality, as well as an unlimited kilometre warranty. Read all our Sonet reviews here.
Suzuki Fronx: Excellent for value, fuel efficiency, comprehensive warranty coverage, and unique coupé SUV styling. Check out our Fronx reviews here.
Toyota Starlet Cross: Great to drive with excellent resale value, with the added reliability of Toyota's renowned dealer network. Check out our Starlet Cross reviews here.
All three offer excellent value just under R300 000, with each catering to different priorities.
But you would have to drive them first to make up your mind!
