7 SUV who underhood

The offer in SUV (for "Sport Utility Vehicle") has never been more abundant. Demo 7 points.

Mitsubishi Outlander

Behrman over by the former importer of Saab, Mitsubishi representation in US sees boost by the arrival of a brand new Outlander. On the less sporty, but more futuristic than the previous generation, this large vehicle can accommodate up to seven passengers. Good news for families: two additional folding seats, put in the trunk, are much more comfortable than in the past. Pending the plug-in hybrid variant planned for next summer, fans will appreciate the great force of 2.2 l diesel. The Outlander is available - with two or four wheel drive - for only 25 990 $. An excellent price / quality ratio.

Nissan Juke Nismo

The Japanese automaker relies on the agenda the name Nismo, a name linked to the history of the Japanese firm, this more sports names "Z" and "GT-R". The Juke starts with a declination muscular powered by a 1.6 liter turbocharged 200 hp. This little ball of nerves will be available both in traction (manual transmission) in four-wheel drive (continuously variable transmission) and displays outstanding performance with a 0 to 100 km / h shot in less than 8 seconds. Side look, we obviously find the usual appendages claiming the sporty type, both outside and inside.

Volvo V40 Cross-Country

The Volvo plant in Ghent has officially launched production of the new V40 Cross Country. With a taste for adventure, the Volvo Compact incorporates the classic aesthetic attributes of the models of the "all-road" Volvo XC: various plastic reinforcements running along the body, a raised base 4 cm and adding all-wheel drive. In the case of the V40, it remains however reserved for the upscale engine 2.5-liter turbo gasoline 254 hp. Needless to say, the V40 Cross Country cross our paths and roads should therefore generally be content with a front wheel drive.

Hyundai Santa Fe

Since the first generation launched in 2000, the Santa Fe is an absolute bestseller at Hyundai with over 2.5 million units produced (including 350,000 just for Europe). Its large grille surrounded by chrome hexagonal stretched headlights and clearly marked wheel arches give the big SUV Hyundai a sportier image than in the past. Which is reflected in its new dimensions: a little longer, a little wider and a little lower. In a few months a unique variation of the Great Santa Fe, to the elongated wheelbase and proposed only seven seats, will expand the catalog.

Ford Kuga

Displaying hitherto relatively contained dimensions, the Ford Kuga is poised to grow. Based on the recent American Ford Escape, the second-generation Kuga actually stretches of 15 cm from the current model. If the congestion appears more important to develop into town (4.60 m), trunk volume, it becomes much more generous (80 + l). Engine side, the European Kuga will team 2.0L TDCi available in two power levels (136 or 163 hp). The recent four-cylinder 1.6 liter turbo gasoline 170 hp complete the range. A 4X4 transmission may also be chosen.

Opel Mokka

4.28 m long, 13 cm less than Astra, the Mokka is practical in its urban developments. For this fairly demanding environment, it can also be content with two-wheel drive. To cope with more aplomb slippery roads, the Mokka can enjoy - on demand - all-wheel drive. The range is built around the 1.6 l atmospheric 115 hp and the more modern 1.4 liter turbocharged petrol 140 hp and 130 hp 1.7 CDTI diesel. This small SUV also benefits from the latest technological innovations for Opel. Including for example the camera deciphering the speed limit signs or lines crossing warning. Or the bicycle attachment embedded system integrated into the rear bumper.

Mazda CX-5

Mazda now, too, entered the compact SUV in its program. Alongside his big CX-7, and is a more compact CX-5. In addition to being equipped with the new mechanics "SKYACTIV", the latter model introduces a new design language called "Kodo" (Soul of Motion). Offered in both front-wheel drive in four-wheel drive, the CX-5 is available with a 2.0 liter gasoline 160/165 hp and a 2.2 liter diesel of 150 or 175 hp. Despite its power "comfortable", the cleanest diesel variant, equipped with Stop & Start system, displays CO² emissions below 120 g / km.