The best small SUV on sale in the UK has been named by a panel of motoring journalists from the renowned publication WhatCar? The verdict is that the Volkswagen T-Roc, a small SUV from the popular German brand, takes the top spot.
Volkswagen T-Roc: The Winner
With prices starting from around £31,635, the T-Roc was praised for being "comfortable" and "quiet on the motorway", as well as for its high driving position and good boot space. However, it lost marks for "fiddly" touch-sensitive controls, being expensive in upper trim levels, and not being as "sharp" to drive as some rivals. Nevertheless, it came out on top.
Of the car, the reviewers said: "The previous Volkswagen T-Roc was one of our favourite options in the small SUV class, so this latest version had quite the challenge to live up to it. Fortunately, it does so and then some, resulting in what we think is the best small SUV you can buy."
Second Place: Kia EV3
Coming in second behind the Volkswagen was the all-electric Kia EV3, named WhatCar? Small Electric SUV of the Year. It was praised for being "well-equipped for the price", having a long range, and being comfortable. The EV3 lost marks, however, for not being as versatile or agile as rivals, and for its price of £33,055. Discussing the car, the reviewers said: "If going electric fits in with your lifestyle and budget, it's absolutely the car you should choose. The EV3 benefits from a full five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP, and just like the rest of Kia's road cars, it's covered by a seven-year warranty as standard."
Third Place: Lexus LBX
In third place was the £29,995 Lexus LBX. The car was praised for its high-quality interior, efficiency, and being "very well equipped". However, it lost marks for an unsettled low-speed ride, lack of rear space, and rivals having "more intuitive" infotainment systems. Despite this, the reviewers agreed that it struck "a good balance between agility and comfort".
Expert Review
Meanwhile, the Volkswagen T-Roc was also reviewed by Reach Plc's Luke Chillingsworth. Writing in the Express, he concluded: "The successor to the highly popular VW T-Roc is a standout product that could challenge the very best China has to offer. The Jaecoo 7 is also priced around £30,000, and given the two, I'd take the T-Roc for its smoother suspension and better handling. Is this the model that finally breaks China's hold over the UK car market?"
