Meet the 3 finalists in the Entry-Level Crossover category of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa. The winner of this #CarsAwards category will be announced on 29 February 2024.
The 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa is the 7th iteration of SA’s definitive consumer-driven automotive awards programme that aims to identify the best new vehicles on sale in Mzansi across 13 categories.
Judges first compiled a list of 65 semi-finalists – then trimmed it to 39 finalists. Following that, all #CarsAwards finalist vehicles were subjected to a rigorous 2-day test at Gerotek at the beginning of November 2023, after which they starred in the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards Roadshow at the Mall of Africa where, for the first time, the public could experience the cars – and meet the judges – in the flesh.
See the complete list: 2023/24 CarsAwards – The 39 finalists
Read more about the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards
The Entry-Level Crossover category
South African new-vehicle buyers now prefer crossovers over hatchbacks, sedans and MPVs. This category represents the entry point to SUV-inspired vehicles with a modicum of raised ride height. Besides additional body cladding and ground clearance (‘kerb-hopping capability’), practicality and spaciousness are important considerations, but so are safety, technology, fuel efficiency and flexibility.
This category is guided by both eligibility factors and pillars of success.
Eligibility factors for this category include a list price between R300 000 and R400 000 at the time of semi-finalist voting (September 1, 2023), ABS, electronic stability control (ESC), a minimum of 4 airbags, split-folding rear seats, air conditioning and a service plan.
Pillars of success for this category include engine flexibility, fuel economy, space and practicality, comfort and safety.
Best Entry-Level Crossovers: CarsAwards Finalists
Chery Tiggo 4 Pro 1.5 Elite Auto
Chery hopes to emulate fellow Chinese brand Haval’s rapid ascent up the new-vehicle sales charts and, based on the strengths of its Tiggo lineup, it’s well on the way to doing that. The distinctively styled Tiggo 4 Pro comes well-appointed at the price, features a punchy 1.5-litre turbopetrol engine and quality materials abound in the cabin. The Chery is positioned as an affordable car, but it doesn’t feel like one.
Read a review of the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro
Find a Chery Tiggo 4 Pro for sale on Cars.co.za
Haval Jolion 1.5T Premium
When the Haval brand arrived in South Africa in 2017, it made an immediate impact with the feature-packed H2 compact family car and its successor – the Jolion – ticks even more boxes as a modern, connected, practical and well-thought-out entry-level crossover. The 1.5T Premium offers a plethora of features at the price, stands out in a segment known for cars that lack a bit of flair, and feels upmarket.
Read a review of the Haval Jolion
Find a Haval Jolion for sale on Cars.co.za
Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.5 GLX manual
Suzuki is renowned for offering great value for money at the budget end of the market. While some may feel that the Grand Vitara name was better suited to the last model that wore it (which had notable off-road ability), the 2023 Grand Vitara is undeniably a much more accomplished offering than its successor, the good – if rather basic – Vitara Brezza. It has a “bulletproof” engine that balances willing performance with admirable efficiency, a spacious cabin and, in GLX trim, comes generously specced with features.
Watch a Video Review of the Suzuki Grand Vitara
Find a Suzuki Grand Vitara for sale on Cars.co.za
More about the #CarsAwards
The winners of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa (as well as the recipient of the prestigious Brand of the Year title) will be named on 29 February 2024.
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