Nissan Qashqai (Winner)

However you pronounce Nissan’s Qashqai, there’s no mistaking the all-round appeal of a vehicle that does so many things so well. It may have started life as a high-riding, five-seater front-driver, but the addition of 4WD models and more recently the seven-seater +2 version has amplified the appeal. It offers families all the people-carrying ability and flexibility of a traditional MPV within a tougher-looking crossover package. What’s more, a handsome facelift has fixed the car’s slightly awkward front end. The Qashqai majors on comfort (especially its seats), rides with authority, is well built, displays uncanny refinement for the segment and handles like a regular hatchback. The two petrol engines are both more than competitive units, but the 102kW/320Nm diesel mill is a gem. The only real negatives are the lack of a factory fitted leather option and the dated style of the dashboard, highlighted by the arrival of Korea’s fresh and funky Sportage and ix35. Both newcomers were strong contenders for overall victory, but in the end, the Qashqai’s all-round brilliance, strong build quality, better ground clearance and seven-seat option tipped the scale.    

NEED TO KNOW

PRICE | R232 000-R339 200

RANGE | Five-seat hatch and LWB seven-seater

ENGINES | 1.6 and 2.0-litre petrol, 2.0-litre turbodiesel

TRANSMISSION | 5- and 6-speed manual, CVT

NCAP RATING | *****

Finalists



Kia Sportage

Super-stylish new Sportage backs up the exterior panache with an equally compelling cabin. Engines are quite peaky, but massively improved dynamics, brilliant value and an excellent warranty make a very strong case.



Hyundai ix35

The Tucson-replacing ix35 has clearly struck a chord with buyers. Handsome, well-equipped and great value for money – a mobile billboard for Hyundai’s increased car-building prowess.  



Toyota Verso

The best seat-folding system around, allied to a range of sweet-revving petrol engines, much-improved driver appeal and Toyota’s brand equity make the Verso the obvious standalone MPV choice.



BMW X1

Get past the looks and get into the driver’s seat for a proper 3 Series wagon-on-stilts driving sensation. Sensible RWD Sdrive membership may be expensive, but it’s the least expensive ticket into the BMW X-club.