Easy to drive compact crossovers for newbie drivers (Part 2)

In Part 1 of this story, we showcased some of the most popular compact crossovers available to buyers.

This time around, we're highlighting some models that we feel deserve more attention than they're currently receiving. Some drivers feel that going with the flow (getting what everyone else is buying) poses less of a risk, and to a certain extent, this is true.

But if you only consider such cars, you could miss out on models that might be better suited to your lifestyle, skill level, and/or design preferences. Here's what else you should check out.


Peugeot 2008

The 2008 and its 'fanged' design may not appeal to all, but what will win over most drivers is its sporty and high-tech interior, which features a compact steering wheel and 3D i-Cockpit, which has a hologram-like display.

Beneath the 2008's bonnet is a turbocharged 1.2-litre three-pot that puts out 129bhp and 230Nm of torque. Paired to an eight-speed automatic gearbox, it'll propel the crossover from a standstill to 100km/h in 9.1 seconds.

However, what's even more fun about the 2008 is its agile handling. You'll soon find yourself chucking this Peugeot around corners with gusto, as the car lends itself well to such manoeuvres.


Renault Captur

The Captur is larger, roomier and more refined than the previous model, which should make it easier to er, capture more buyers shopping in this segment.

Apart from its handsome exterior, which can be had with two-tone paintwork, the Captur also has an impressive interior. The cockpit features a 10.25-inch instrument panel and a tablet-like 9.3-inch infotainment display.

On the go, the Captur offers a well-sorted ride, neat handling and good performance from its turbocharged 1.3-litre in-line four, which produces 128bhp and 240Nm of torque. The motor is paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission that delivers swift and seamless shifts.


Seat Arona

The Arona is one of those crossovers that feels more like a compact hatchback to drive, which bodes well for newbie drivers seeking a car that won't intimidate them.

Inside, the sombre interior is livened up with some pops of colour and available ambient lighting. And though the instrument panel is still analogue, this makes it easy to read at-a-glance.

For practicality, the Arona offers a sizeable 400-litre boot - larger than the one in the VW Golf. For lower running costs, the Arona has a punchy 1.0-litre engine that's mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.


Skoda Kamiq

The Kamiq is the only Cat B model on this list, and is thus aimed at drivers who want a crossover that's well-equipped and has more oomph to boot.

The muscle is courtesy of a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine capable of 148bhp and 250Nm of torque, which give the Kamiq a century sprint time of 8.3 seconds. The top-spec Monte Carlo variant features nifty sports seats, and a 400-litre luggage compartment accessed via an electric tailgate, which is rare in this segment.

Safety features inside include Side Assist, Front Assist with Pedestrian Protection, and Lane Assist, which helps the car stay in its lane. The latter should be useful for road trips with lots of expressway stretches.


Suzuki Ignis Mild Hybrid

Previously a sporty hatchback, the Ignis has been transformed into a crossover to broaden its appeal. The Ignis is ideal for those who want something easy to drive in downtown areas - measuring just 3,700mm from tip-to-tip, it should be a cinch to park.

The interior is user-friendly, too, with controls that are laid out in a neat and functional manner. Amenities include digital climate control, a pre-collision system, and Dual Camera Brake System (DCBS) that can detect vehicles and pedestrians.

Motivating the Ignis is a 1.2-litre four-cylinder with a 12-volt mild hybrid system. Producing a modest 82bhp and 107Nm of torque, it gets the car from zero to 100km/h in a leisurely 12.7 seconds. That's ideal for a newbie driver who is still gaining confidence behind the wheel.


Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid

If petrol costs are a worry, then one of the best ways to reduce this expense is to drive a car like the Yaris Cross Hybrid. Toyota's hybrid expertise is on display here, with the crossover's 1.5-litre petrol-electric powertrain able to cover up to 26.3km/L.

Efficiency aside, the Yaris Cross Hybrid also boasts a distinct, insect-like design and a sporty-looking cockpit. It's not for the fussy, though. That's because despite feeling robust, the materials used in here are quite plasticky as well.

Materials aside, the Yaris Cross Hybrid does have convincing safety features. The standard Toyota Safety Sense suite of functions includes Lane Tracing Assist, which works even when you're driving around a bend, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control for convenience.


Volkswagen T-Cross

If you're seeking a compact crossover that looks good and punches above its weight, then the T-Cross is a contender to consider. It is handsomely styled and offered in a range of attractive colours, such as Energetic Orange Metallic and Makena Turquoise Metallic (seen here).

Behind the wheel, the T-Cross impresses with its well-equipped space. Standard equipment includes a digital instrument cluster, 8.0-inch infotainment display, dual-zone climate control and two USB-C ports.

The T-Cross is powered by a turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder that pumps out 114bhp and a healthy 200Nm of torque. With a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, it propels the crossover from rest to 100km/h in a respectable 10.2 seconds.


Want more car advice for newbies? These stories may interest you

6 easy to drive crossovers for newbie drivers (Part 1)

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9 things that new car owners should have in their car

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