(MENAFN – Khaleej Times)

Posted: Thu 9 Jun 2022, 05:30 PM

Perhaps the fastest growing segment is crossover SUVs. This marriage of car and SUV has become the go-to for many people around the world for many reasons, including having a better vantage point from the driver’s seat, being able to cross shallow sands with ease, and the kachcha parking, the extra space for luggage and finally, the perception of increased safety compared to the equivalent of the similarly sized sedan. Crossovers don’t just dominate the market, there’s also a wide variety to choose from, which can make the exercise of buying a car daunting for some. In an effort to ease your grief, we’ve listed some of the newest and most affordable crossovers – in no particular order – those with a starting price of around Dh50,000.

Mazda CX-3

The CX-3 is the hidden gem. The minimalist yet classy design inside and out, combined with quality materials and a larger than average 2.0-litre engine, make this a pretty good buy. If you like to drive and like a look that’s close to luxury, the CX-3 might be the way to go.

>> Powertrain: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder 148 hp; 6-speed automatic; Front-wheel Drive

>> Fuel economy: 15.3 km/l

>> Price: 72,500 DH

Nissan Kicks

The current generation of Kicks got a facelift in 2021 and is a much more powerful proposition. He now has some of the most beautiful cheekbones in the league. And with that 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine, list of functional features and available Bose sound system, it’s a decent way to show up in some places. Some say if you ignore some of the hard plastics, it’s a keeper.

>> Powertrain: 118 hp 1.6 liter 4-cylinder; CVT; Front-wheel Drive

>> Fuel economy: 15.4 km/l

>> Price: 61,900 Dhs – 82,900

Chevy Groove

For 2022, the Groove is the new face of the bow-tie brand. The avant-garde style and a comfortable interior (a Chevrolet trait) make it a competent racing vehicle. Traditionally, the residual value of American vehicles, including Chevrolets, has not been spectacular, but thanks to strong brand loyalty that drives motorists to own it longer, this effect is negated.

>> Powertrain: 110 hp 1.5 liter 4-cylinder; 6-speed automatic; Front-wheel Drive

>> Fuel economy: 15.9 km/l

>> Price: 59,700 Dhs – 67,000

Toyota Raize

Raize is the new entrant for 2022 from the world’s largest automaker. Like its siblings, it’s hard to pass. Power comes from either a 1.0-litre turbocharged engine or a naturally aspirated 1.2-litre engine. We even gave him a beating around the Dubai Autodrome track and even though he couldn’t keep up with the rest of the field, he certainly got us through the finish line, without turning into spare parts. Yes, it rests on the laurels of world-renowned reliability and residual value, but only time will prove its worth in this respect.

>> Powertrain: 87 hp 1.2-litre 4-cylinder or 97 hp 1.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder; CVT; Front-wheel Drive

>> Fuel economy:

20.2 – 19.3 km/l

>> Price:

57,500 MAD – 62,500

BAIC X35

On average, the X35 is the cheapest car here. Yet it doesn’t shy away from the spotlight, whether judged for exterior aesthetics or cabin style. And so, it begs to be pre-selected, especially if your priority is price. Chinese vehicles have been

questionable in the past, but they also make the iPhone. Therefore, they are also capable of magic. The 4-speed automatic, however, is an artifact, technologically speaking.

>> Powertrain: 116 hp 1.5 liter 4-cylinder; 4-speed automatic; Front-wheel Drive

>> Fuel economy: 14.7 km/l

Price:

50,000 MAD – 55,000

Fiat 500X Cross

The 500X is the Italian alternative to the MINI Countryman at a reduced price. It’s also the most powerful of the pack and also has a tough look to go with the optional 18-inch wheels and all-wheel drive. If you are looking for something to stand out from the crowd, this is your answer. A Beats audio system is also part of the package. Reliability is not the strong point of the brand, but it climbs the ladder.

>> Powertrain: 140 hp / 170 hp turbocharged 1.4-litre 4-cylinder; 6-speed dual-clutch automatic; front-wheel drive / all-wheel drive.

>> Fuel economy: 14.9 – 13.5 km/l

>> Price: 69,000 Dhs – 99,000

Suzuki Jimny

There’s nothing quite like the Jimny, especially at this price. This next-generation vehicle, now in its fourth year, is equipped with the basics of a good off-roader out of the box, such as an old-school ladder frame chassis, approach/departure angles commendable starts, a limited-slip differential and a low-end gear. Add a few mods and it becomes a real desert ship. No wonder it’s always been a favorite among off-road enthusiasts who have to work on a budget. Granted, it’s not the fastest and there’s a whole lot of plastic inside, but you get what you pay for.

>> Powertrain: 102 hp 1.5 liter 4 cylinder; 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic; four wheel drive

>> Fuel economy: 114.5 – 13.3 km/l

>> Price: 72,000 Dhs – 78,000

Hyundai Crete

It is acquired, the Korean manufacturers have now built their kingdom and are on the attack with cars like the Creta. The first generation was a very decent vehicle and the sales show it. The contemporary body, feature list and improved reliability of the second-generation vehicle are sure to make their way into many homes. The cargo capacity of 433 liters and the Bose speakers are also a plus!

>> Powertrain: 1.5-litre 4-cylinder 115 hp / 1.4-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder 140 hp; 7-speed CVT/automatic; Front-wheel Drive

>> Fuel economy: 16.9 km/l

>>Price: 66,000 Dh – 78,000 Dh

Other notable mentions include Renault Duster, Suzuki Vitara, Opel Crossland X, Peugeot 2008, MG ZS, MG RX5, Kia Seltos, Ford EcoSport, Haval Jolion, Hyundai Kona, Chevrolet Captiva, Borgward BX5, Changan CS35 and Chery Tiggo 4.

For exact pricing and availability, please check with the local distributor for those respective models.

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