Comparative test: seven urban crossovers

Together with Croatian colleagues from Auto motor i sport magazine, we have assembled the latest Mazda CX-3, Suzuki Vitaro and Fiat 500X and set high standards next to them in the form of Citroën C4 Cactus, Peugeot 2008, Renault Captur and Opel Mokka. . All had turbodiesel engines under the hoods, only Mazda was the only representative of the gasoline versions. It's okay, for a first impression it will also be good. There's no doubt that the latest Mazda CX-3 is a dummy among the competition, though it's not just beauty in this class of car, it's usability and trunk size as well. And, of course, the price. In a comparison test, we also noticed that some of them are already quite opaque, which certainly does not make it easier to navigate crowded city streets.

So don't forget parking sensors when buying, and even better is the combination of sensors and a good camera to help with the last inches. Another very interesting representative is the Suzuki Vitara, as it is not only the most off-road, but also one of the larger and more affordable. If the designers had paid a little more attention to the interior... And, of course, the Fiat 500X, which has been repeatedly recognized as the best Fiat in recent years. And this is really not bad, as it easily competes with French and German competitors. The Renault Captur, which has gained quite a few customers in Slovenia, and the prestigious Peugeot 2008 are already regulars, as is the proven Opel Mokka. Citroën C4 Cactus has not only an unusual name, but also an appearance and some interior solutions. Judging by the roominess of the rear seats, Suzuki and Citroën would be winners, but Renault and Peugeot are not far behind.

There is no dilemma with the trunk, Captur and Vitara dominate here, overtaking some competitors by about 25 liters. But in cars, fortunately, not only a set of technical data, dimensions and equipment, but also the feeling behind the wheel is also important. We were much more united with our Croatian colleagues than we thought. Obviously, it doesn't matter if you race more often: the Alps or Dalmatia, the conclusion was very similar. This time we visited the Smlednik castle, looked around Krvavec and agreed: this is really a beautiful view of our mountains. But the Croats have already promised that we will conduct the next comparative test in our beautiful country. But them. What can you say about Dalmatia, maybe on the islands - in the middle of summer? We are for it. You know, sometimes you have to be patient to work.

Citroën C4 Cactus 1.6 BlueHDi100

Combine new technologies and low cost? It's okay if the machine is already designed with this in mind. This is the Citroen C4 Cactus.

Not only because of the fully digital gauges (which, however, do not have a tachometer, which bothered quite a few drivers during the test), but also because of the Airbump, plastic-rubber door linings, which not only provide protection, but also a very distinctive look. . In addition, Cactus, unlike some of the participants in the test with its form, immediately makes it clear that he is not an athlete - and his interior confirms this. The seats are more chair-like than seats, so there's little to no lateral support, but you won't need that either, as the Cactus can let the driver know with its soft, swivel chassis that the sports track is the wrong route. Interestingly, with a Cactus on a bad road, you can often achieve even higher speeds than any of the competition, partly because, despite the soft chassis, it has even more cornering grip than some competitors, and partly because the driver feels (and worries)) less than more spring-loaded competitors. We were also outraged by the interior because the rear windows can only be opened a few inches outward (which can get on the nerves of kids in the back seats) and that the front ceiling is pretty close to their heads. The Stokon turbodiesel is indeed the right choice for the Cactus. They are also more powerful in the sales range, but since the Cactus is light, there is enough power and torque, and at the same time the consumption is very good. The fact that he has a five-speed gearbox does not even bother me in the end. The cactus is just different. With a classic look, we just compared the seven, it has a lot of flaws, but there is something else: charisma and comfort. It focuses on everyday and convenient transportation between two points, and if you only need a car for this (and it is certainly not expensive), this is an excellent and best choice for your circle of customers. “He didn't impress six riders, but I won't hesitate to take home seventh forever,” said his Croatian colleague Igor.

Fiat 500X 1.6 Mjet

We haven't even seen the new Fiat 500X in our test yet, but we are already comparing it to some rather demanding competitors. Fiat has definitely prepared a surprise for its regular customers who are ready to give their city SUV something more.

The exterior does not stand out, in the most important things the designers with its unimpeded curves were inspired by the smaller, regular Fiat 500. But it's only the appearance. Otherwise, the 500X is sort of a Jeep Renegade clone. Thus, we can say that the customer receives very high-quality equipment for his money, however, this time only with front-wheel drive. The turbo-diesel engine is convincing, its operation is also influenced in different ways by the driver. Not only by the way he presses the accelerator pedal, but a more or less abrupt driving mode can be selected by himself using a round button on the central ledge next to the gear lever. The positions are automatic, sporty and all-weather, and they change the way the engine works and the power is transferred to the front wheels. Even with the on-road position, the 500X boasts, and the all-weather driving position can handle even more slippery ground in light off-road conditions without additional all-wheel drive. In that regard, it definitely looks more like an SUV than a city car. The interior of the Fiat is no surprise, everything is pretty Americanized now. This means a solid look, but with a more plastic impression of coatings and materials. The seats in the front are very good, as far as space is concerned, passengers in the rear will be much less satisfied, as there is not enough space (for the legs, and for the taller ones also under the ceiling). Even the trunk is average, for all these more critical claims, it's a "faulty" rear end that had to be adapted to the look of the original 500 and is therefore fairly flat. In terms of equipment, it also offers a lot, the management and content of the infotainment system are commendable. In terms of costs, Fiat is one of those that will have to deduct more, since at a higher price you also have to reckon with slightly higher average fuel costs, making it difficult to drive really economically. But that is why the buyer receives a car at a slightly higher price, which in all respects gives the impression of a very solid and high-quality product.

Mazda CX-3 G120 – Price: + RUB XNUMX

If we say that Mazdas are the most beautiful Japanese cars, the vast majority will simply agree with us. The same is true of the latest CX-3, which is truly admired for its dynamic movements.

Although this dynamism also has a darker side, which is called poor visibility and less space inside. So know that the happier you are behind the wheel, the less excited your (older) children and wife will be. There is not enough head and knee room on the rear bench, and the boot is one of the most modest. But where will the wife put all the essentials that she always carries in the sea? Joking aside, front-seat passengers will appreciate the excellent ergonomics (including the center touchscreen and a head-up screen in front of the driver), the equipment (at least the test car also had leather upholstery along with the Revolution's rich equipment), and the feel-good feel. smaller Mazda2 platform). If said screen is too far away from the driver, the switch, which, together with a comfortable backrest, is located between the front seats, can help. The transmission is precise and short-stroke, the clutch action is predictable, and the engine is quiet and powerful enough that you won't miss it again. Interestingly, in the era of small turbocharged engines, Mazda is introducing a two-liter naturally aspirated engine - and it succeeds! Even with modest fuel consumption. We praised the sporty feel, whether it's the chassis, the high-compression engine (where there's no problem with low-end torque or high-end jumps), and the precise steering system, though it's even a bit too responsive for some. With the second most prestigious gear (only the Revolution Top is above the Revolution gear), you will get a lot of gear, but not from the list of active safety. There, the wallet will have to be opened even more. That the Mazda CX-3 is impressive is also confirmed by the scores at the end of this article. More than half of the journalists put her in first place, and they are all among the best. That, however, speaks volumes in a proposal as diverse as the government's in the urban hybrid class.

Opel Mokka 1.6 CDTI

It seems that we are already too used to the Opel Mokka, because it is no longer the youngest. But the trip with her became more convincing by the minute, and in the end we got pretty used to it.

Our editor Dusan consoled himself at the start of the day: "The Mocha always seemed like a sturdy car and good to drive." As I said, at the end of the day we might even agree with him. But you have to be honest. Mochas have known each other for many years. If she still hides them with a beautiful figure, then with her interior everything is different. Of course, you should not put all the blame on the car and Opel, because in a bad mood, developments and new technologies are “to blame”. The latter surprise us day by day, and now large touch screens reign supreme in low-end cars (including Opel). Through them we control the radio, air conditioning, connect to the Internet and listen to Internet radio. What about Mocha? Lots of buttons, switches and an old fashioned orange backlit display. But we do not judge a car only by its shape and interior. If we don't like (too) a lot of switches and buttons, then things are different with the above-average seats, and even more impressive is the engine, which is of course much younger than the Mokka itself. The 1,6-liter turbodiesel has 136 horsepower and 320 Newton meters of torque, and as a result, it is great for city traffic and off-road. At the same time, we must not forget that it is much quieter than its 1,7-liter predecessor. Of course, it not only impresses with its quiet operation and power, but it can also be economical with moderate driving. The latter may be of interest to many buyers, especially since Mokka is not among the cheap cars. But you know, no matter how much the car costs, it is important that then the trip is economical. Joking aside (or not), below the line, the Mokka is still an interesting enough car, with more positives than form, a good diesel engine, and last but not least, all-wheel drive capability. Without the latter, there were quite a few cars in our comparison test, and if all-wheel drive is a purchase condition, for many, the Opel Mokka will still be an equal candidate. As Dushan says - drive well!

Peugeot 2008 BlueHDi 120 Allure – Price: + RUB XNUMX

The Peugeot urban crossover is in many ways reminiscent of a crossover, in the designation of which there is one zero less, that is, 208. It is less noticeable in appearance, but represents a different solution compared to what Peugeot offered in the previous generation in the SW body version.

The 2008 interior is very similar to the 208, but offers more space. There is also more of it in the front seats, both in the backrest and in the trunk in general. But if 2008 turns out to be a good choice for those for whom the 208 is too small, that doesn't mean it can also do well against competitors from other brands that have tackled a new class of urban crossovers in various ways. Peugeot also put in an effort and in 2008 equipped it with quite a lot of equipment (in the case of the tagged Allure). It even offered a support system for semi-automatic parking, but it lacked some accessories that would make the car even more flexible (like a movable rear bench). The interior is very pleasant, the ergonomics are suitable. However, at least some will surely be outraged by the design of the layout and the size of the steering wheel. Like 208 and 308, it is smaller, the driver must look at the gauges above the steering wheel. The steering wheel is almost on the driver's lap. The rest of the interior is modern, but almost all of the control buttons have been removed, replaced by a central touchscreen. It is a city car with slightly more seating capacity and can offer most of the good performance by using common components from the group. One such example is the 2008 engine: the 1,6-liter turbodiesel satisfies both in terms of power and fuel economy. The engine is quiet and powerful, the driving position is comfortable. The 2008 Peugeot, like the Fiat 500X, has a rotary knob for selecting different driving modes next to the gear lever, but the program differences are much less noticeable than the aforementioned competitor. When choosing a Peugeot 2008, in addition to its invisibility, the corresponding price speaks for itself, but it depends on how the buyer can agree with it.

Renault Captur 1.5 dCi 90

Where do small hybrids spend the most time? Of course, in the city or on the roads outside them. Are you sure you need four-wheel drive, a sportier chassis or a set of equipment for this use?

Or is it more important that the car be alive and agile, that its interior be practical and, of course, affordable? The Renault Captur does all of the above perfectly and still looks really good. Renault's first foray into crossovers makes it clear that simplicity doesn't mean looks have to be boring. That Captur is a winner when you need to find yourself in narrow streets or commute to work in the city crowd, he told us this after a few meters. Soft seats, soft steering, soft foot movements, soft shifter movements. Everything is subordinated to comfort - and practicality. This is where the Captur excels: the movable rear bench is something that rivals can only dream of, but it's extremely useful. Think back to the first Twingo: thanks in large part to being a bestseller, there was a movable rear bench that allows you to adjust between the need to carry passengers in the rear or increase the luggage space. When the Twingo lost the movable rear bench, it wasn't a Twingo anymore. The Captura also has an extremely large box in front of the front passenger, which slides open and is thus effectively the only true box in the test, and is also the largest box in cars at the moment. There's plenty of room for small items, too, but there's plenty of room in the trunk too: pushing the rear bench all the way forward puts it at the top of the competition. The engine is colorful for a comfortable ride: with 90 "horsepower" it's not an athlete, and with only five gears it can be a bit loud in the country, but therefore it is flexible and calm. If speeds are higher, breathing becomes unbearable (so for those of you who drive more on the highway, a version with 110 “horses” and a six-speed gearbox will be welcome), but as a main choice, an undemanding driver will not disappoint. - even in terms of cost. In fact, among the vehicles tested, the Captur is one of the closest in character to classic station wagons. It's just a different, slightly taller Clio - but at the same time much bigger than it is, as it turns out (because of the taller seat), a more driver-friendly city car. And it's not expensive, just the opposite.

Suzuki Vitara 1.6D

Of the seven cars we tested, the Vitara is the second oldest after the Mazda CX-3. When we talk about the last generation, of course, otherwise Vitara is the grandmother or even great-grandmother of all the other six.

Its origins date back to 1988, now five generations have passed, and it has satisfied nearly three million customers. Taking off my hat. The current attack of the sixth generation with a rather bold design approach for a Japanese brand. However, it is not only the shape that is interesting, buyers can also choose between a black or white roof, a silver or black mask, and last but not least, you can also play with colors in the interior. Another advantage of Vitara is the favorable price. Maybe not quite basic, but when we add all-wheel drive, the competition disappears. The petrol engine is the most affordable, but we still vote for the diesel version. For example, the test one, which seems to be quite convincing, especially if you will use it for everyday use. A diesel engine is the same as a gasoline engine in terms of size and power, but of course with higher torque. The transmission also has a higher gear. And since the latest generation Vitara is not designed (just) for off-road driving, but also ideal for urban and relaxed driving, we are convinced that this is the right car for slightly older drivers. Maybe even younger, but definitely for those who want a car with a youthful look, but are not embarrassed by the typical Japanese (read all plastic) interior. But if plastic is a minus, then it is certainly a big plus of an interesting and useful seven-inch touch screen (through which we easily connect a mobile phone via Bluetooth), a rear-view camera, active cruise control, collision warning and an automatic braking system. at lower speeds. Will plastic still bother you?

	Citroen C4 Cactus 1.6 BlueHDi 100 Feel	Fiat 500X 1.6 Multijet Pop Star	Mazda CX-3 G120 – Price: + RUB XNUMX	Opel Mokka 1.6 CDTi Enjoy	Peugeot 2008 1.6 BlueHDi 120 Active	Renault Captur 1.5 dCi 90 Original	Suziki Vitara 1.6 DDiS Elegance
Marco Tomak	5	7	8	7	5	5	7
Christian Tichak	5	6	8	7	4	6	7
Igor Krech	9	8	8	5	7	7	8
Ante Radič	7	7	8	6	7	8	9
Dusan Lukic	4	7	8	7	5	7	6
Tomaž Porekar	6	7	8	9	9	6	7
Sebastian Plevnyak	5	7	8	6	6	6	7
Alyosha Mrak	5	8	9	6	6	6	6
GENERAL	46	57	65	53	49	51	57

* – green: best car in test, blue: best value for money (best buy)

Which one offers 4 x 4?

The first is the Fiat 500X (in the Off Road Look version), but only with a two-liter turbodiesel and a 140 or 170 horsepower turbocharged petrol engine. Unfortunately, at that time the price was quite high - 26.490 euros for both copies, or 25.490 euros with a discount. With the Mazda CX-3 AWD, you can also choose between a pop-up petrol (G150 with 150 horsepower) or turbodiesel (CD105, you're right, 105 horsepower) engine, but you'll have to deduct at least €22.390 or a thousand more for turbo diesel Opel offers an all-wheel drive Mokka 1.4 Turbo with 140 “horses” for at least 23.300 1.6 euros, but you can also check out the 136 CDTI version with a turbodiesel with 25 “sparks” for at least 1.6 thousand. The last one is the chubbiest SUV in this company - Suzuki Vitara. For fans of quieter operation, they offer a very affordable version of the 16.800 VVT AWD for only € 22.900, and for fans of a more economical engine, you will have to deduct € XNUMX, but then we are talking about the more complete Elegance package.

text: Alyosha Mrak, Dusan Lukic, Tomaz Porecar and Sebastian Plevnyak

Vitara 1.6 DDiS Elegance (2015)

Basic data

Sales:	Suzuki Odardoo
Base model price:	20.600 €
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Power:	88kW (120 KM)
Acceleration (0-100 km / h):	11,5 with
Maximum speed:	180 km / h
Mixed flow ECE:	4,2l / 100km

Technical information

engine:	4-cylinder - in-line - turbodiesel, 1.598
Energy transfer:	6-speed manual transmission, front-wheel drive
Mass:	1.305
Box:	375/1.120

Captur 1.5 dCi 90 Authentic (2015)

Basic data

Sales:	Renault Nissan Slovenia Ltd.
Base model price:	16.290 €
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Power:	66kW (90 KM)
Acceleration (0-100 km / h):	13,2 with
Maximum speed:	171 km / h
Mixed flow ECE:	3,6l / 100km

Technical information

engine:	4-cylinder - in-line - turbodiesel, 1.461
Energy transfer:	5-speed manual transmission, front-wheel drive
Mass:	1.283
Box:	377/1.235

2008 1.6 BlueHDi 120 Active (2015)

Basic data

Sales:	Peugeot Slovenia doo
Base model price:	19.194 €
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Power:	88kW (120 KM)
Acceleration (0-100 km / h):	10,4 with
Maximum speed:	192 km / h
Mixed flow ECE:	3,7l / 100km

Technical information

engine:	4-cylinder - in-line - turbodiesel, 1.560
Energy transfer:	6-speed manual transmission, front-wheel drive
Mass:	1.180
Box:	360/1.194

Mocha 1.6 CDTi Enjoy (2015)

Basic data

Sales:	Opel Southeast Europe Ltd.
Base model price:	23.00 €
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Power:	100kW (136 KM)
Acceleration (0-100 km / h):	9,9 with
Maximum speed:	191 km / h
Mixed flow ECE:	4,3l / 100km

Technical information

engine:	4-cylinder - in-line - turbodiesel, 1.598
Energy transfer:	6-speed manual transmission, front-wheel drive
Mass:	1.424
Box:	356/1.372

CX-3 G120 Emotion (2015)

Basic data

Sales:	Mazda Motor Slovenia Ltd.
Base model price:	15.490 €
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Power:	88kW (120 KM)
Acceleration (0-100 km / h):	9,0 with
Maximum speed:	192 km / h
Mixed flow ECE:	5,9l / 100km

Technical information

engine:	4-cylinder - in-line - petrol, 1.998
Energy transfer:	6-speed manual transmission, front-wheel drive
Mass:	1.205
Box:	350/1.260

500X City Look 1.6 Multijet 16V Lounge (2015)

Basic data

Sales:	Avto Triglav doo
Base model price:	20.990 €
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Power:	88kW (120 KM)
Acceleration (0-100 km / h):	10,5 with
Maximum speed:	186 km / h
Mixed flow ECE:	4,1l / 100km

Technical information

engine:	4-cylinder - in-line - turbodiesel, 1.598
Energy transfer:	6-speed manual transmission, front-wheel drive
Mass:	1.395
Box:	350/1.000

C4 Cactus 1.6 BlueHDi 100 Feel (2015)

Basic data

Sales:	Citroën Slovenia
Base model price:	17.920 €
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Power:	73kW (99 KM)
Acceleration (0-100 km / h):	12,2 with
Maximum speed:	184 km / h
Mixed flow ECE:	3,4l / 100km

Technical information

engine:	4-cylinder - in-line - turbodiesel, 1.560
Energy transfer:	5-speed manual transmission, front-wheel drive
Mass:	1.176
Box:	358/1.170