The New Year has just begun and car buyers can look forward to another exciting year ahead. Crossovers are one of the fastest growing segments in Europe right now and it is easy to see why – city folk love them for their ease of driving, especially in our tight cities, the added sense of security accorded by their high seating position, minus the hulk and fuel bills of their larger SUV counterparts.
This is a segment that has traditionally been dominated by the Nissan Juke, but the Juke is going to see quite a far bit of competition this year, which is all the better for car buyers.
Here are three eagerly anticipated crossovers coming soon this year:
Honda HR-V
Already previewed in US and in Asia, this Jazz-based crossover promises more of the same attributes that car owners have come to love in the Jazz. Honda’s signature centrally-mounted fuel tank and clever Ultra Seats features are likely to make the HR-V’s cabin the most practical and spacious in its class.
While its engine line-up has yet to be announced, a frugal 1.6-litre DTEC diesel similar to that used in the CR-V is rumoured to be among available options.
Mazda CX-3
Just as the HR-V is a raised Jazz, the CX-3 is Mazda’s crossover derivative of the award-winning Mazda 2. A 1.5-litre SkyActiv-D engine is most likely offered.
While the HR-V sells on its practical attributes, the Mazda aims to stir the soul with its more emotional styling and a more premium-looking interior, along with its signature MZD Connect infotainment system.
Hyundai ix35
The aging Hyundai ix35 will finally be retired later this year. Hyundai’s answer to the Nissan Qashqai has always appealed to customers by offering superior value and good practicality. For the next ix35, Hyundai is expected to up the ante by addressing key weaknesses of the current ix35 – namely ride and comfort, refinement and interior quality.
The all-new ix35 is likely to make its debut in late-2015 but sales are only expected to begin in 2016.
Author bio
Hans Cheong loves cars and regularly develops content for the automotive industry for blogs around the web. You can find many of his published works that cover the developments of some of the biggest brands in the world like Audi, BMW and others, including Mazda and its all-new Mazda2, one of the best hatchbacks in its class.
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