Audi Q3
Price: from $43,800
If the quality of execution is always a reference, this Q3 is in tow of the Alfa Romeo from a dynamic point of view. Especially if the buyer chooses the entry-level model with the designation 40. This suffers from a significant power and torque deficit and does not quite correspond to the motto “Vorsprung durch Technik (advance through technology) promulgated by the brand with the rings. Better to move towards the declination 45, more expensive and which would undoubtedly be faster, had it not been for the staggering of its automatic transmission which promotes economy to the detriment of performance.
BMW X1
Price: from $45,800
PHOTO PROVIDED BY BMW
BMW X1
Long before becoming a master in the art of multiplying forms and flushing out new market niches, BMW had a reputation for producing fabulous engines and chassis capable of exploiting them. Honor is safe. The X1’s powertrain responds eagerly to accelerator pedal input. The X1 is pure BMW. Easy to handle and exciting to drive, this compact crossover makes you want to press harder on the accelerator. Agile despite its surprisingly large turning circle, the X1 gives confidence and invites us to devour the turns with relish. Like the Alfa Romeo. The dynamic qualities of the Bavarian darken, however, as soon as he puts his wheels on a bumpy road.
Volvo XC40
Price: from $45,484
PHOTO PROVIDED BY VOLVO
Volvo XC40
Undoubtedly the most atypical luxury urban utility vehicle in the category, the XC40 from Volvo offers more cushioned ride comfort, a more clever interior (storage) and now proven reliability. On the other hand, its mechanics are hardly playful (B-4 and B-5) and the driving pleasure of the Chinese-Swedish is much less noted. Failing to offer rechargeable hybrid engines, the XC40 has the advantage of offering a fully electric version (Recharge).