Like every year, the Car Guide publishes its best buys in all vehicle categories.
Among them, luxury subcompact SUVs remain very popular vehicles in Quebec. A segment where the Europeans are kings, the Japanese and American competition struggling to display the same commercial success.
The Audi Q3 continues to dominate
In 2022, it is once again the Audi Q3 that takes the top step of the podium. The years pass, but its domination continues, the latter already occupying first place in 2021. As usual at Audi, the quality of the cabin is one of the strong points. Whether thanks to the quality of materials or execution, the German manufacturer sits at the top of its category on this point.
Photo: Audi AG
Behind the wheel, the driver will appreciate the efficient handling, precise steering and well-calibrated damping, which represents a very good compromise between comfort and dynamism.
There is only one engine retained by Audi: a 4-cylinder 2-litre turbocharged. With 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, acceleration and pickup are well suited to the chassis. As of this writing, the Sportback (with the more sloping roof) and plug-in hybrid versions are still not available in Canada. It’s a shame, because these two variations would certainly appeal to Quebec customers.
Photo: Audi
The finalists
Second place is once again occupied by the Volvo XC40, an interesting model for those who wish to move away from the age-old Audi/BMW/Mercedes-Benz triad. Thanks to a rather comfortable ride and its typically Scandinavian design, it is pleasant to drive and also benefits from a great mechanical diversity.
Photo: Volvo
In addition to the T4 and T5 gasoline versions, whose power ranges from 187 to 248 horsepower, there is the Recharge model. A 100% electric SUV with 402 horsepower that catapults you in less time than it takes to say. Its overall driveability is also a step above models using unleaded fuel. Only its autonomy (335 km), lower than the best electric vehicles, penalizes it.
Finally, the last step of the podium goes to the BMW X1 and X2. Two utilities that share certain components, but which differ from each other in order to appeal to different customers.
Photo: BMW AG
The X1, whose redesign arrives for the 2023 model year, is the more spacious and practical SUV of the two. The X2, which will have to wait a little longer before its own redesign, is more sporty. This is especially noticeable in the M35i variant whose 301 horsepower engine and firmer ride make it sportier, but also less pleasant to live on our roads.