When it comes to Japanese crossovers today, no model is more popular in Singapore than the Honda HR-V (or its evil twin, the Vezel).
Recently upgraded, the HR-V now has a stronger and more efficient motor that enables it to qualify for a $5000 CEVS rebate. Unchanged, however, is the Honda’s roomy and comfy cabin.
Like the HR-V, the Nissan Qashqai is also one of the most popular crossovers in Singapore. The Qashqai aims to impress buyers with its suite of technologies, such as Active Trace Control and Active Ride Control, which enhance both safety and handling.
Ready to display its handling attributes, too, is the Suzuki Vitara – the only contender here with all-wheel-drive. Apart from its ability to go off-road away from the concrete jungle, the Vitara can also turn a few heads with its snazzy styling.
The newest competitor in this segment is the Mazda CX-3, essentially the crossover version of the 2 hatchback. But the CX-3 has a more potent powertrain of 2-litre capacity, which will definitely appeal to petrolheads.
Which of these samurai crossovers would Singapore’s urbanites find the most appealing? Keep reading to find out.
Qashqai’s cockpit is the most upmarket, with the softest plastics and the cushiest seats. It’s also the only car here with dual climate zones and an electrically adjustable driver’s seat.
Vitara’s cockpit is the most stylish, with dashboard panels in the same hue as the paintwork, plus a cool analogue clock. All-round visibility here is best, with the large windows by the C-pillars helping to reduce blind spots.
HR-V’s cockpit is the most driver-friendly, with the most intuitive infotainment, the nearest gearlever and an additional kerbside mirror to assist with parallel parking. The air-conditioning is also the most effective.
CX-3’s cockpit is the most driver-oriented, with the sportiest driving position, most accurate helm and a gearshift lever with manual override points in the “correct” positions (forward to downshift, backward to upshift).
