The Best Japanese Small Suv’S From Mhh Japanese Cars
Looking to import a crossover or small SUV? Then let our review of the best Japanese small SUVs help you decide.
First there was the original four-wheel drive mud-pluggers. Over time these morphed into more prestigious cars like Range Rovers; still as versatile but much more passenger friendly. Soon all manufacturers got in on the act and everyone had SUV’s, although now not all of them had four-wheel drive. In an attempt to breathe new life into the sector, the smaller SUV or crossover was spawned as a kind of junior relative. These cars, some of which have all-wheel drive whilst many have not, have proved to be very successful with buyers who like their high-riding stance on the road and it is the Japanese brands that have shown the way. Here are some of our MHH choices:
Honda CR-V
The attractive Honda CR-V is a five-seat compact SUV that has been in production since 1995 and has proven incredibly popular for the Japanese manufacturer. Indeed, five million CR-V owners can’t be wrong. This crossover-style vehicle offers a blend of practicality, reliability and efficiency that has stood it in good stead, with Honda making sure the model is regularly updated to maintain its share of the market. The Honda CR-V is offered with both two or four-wheel drive and a choice of six-speed manual or five-speed automatic gearboxes with a variety of diesel and petrol engines depending upon region.
Suzuki Escudo
Also known as the Vitara or Sidekick depending upon the global market, the Escudo was once a far more rough-and-ready off-roader but now it is a much more fashionable compact crossover that nevertheless still retains a bit of that rugged character, distancing itself from the rest of its class with some real four-by-four ability. It offers a lot of interior space in a compact body and is considered to be very good value for money. Build materials are hard-wearing rather than plush which means the Escudo doesn’t feel that luxurious inside but the point is it really is built to last. A car that will hold its value.
Nissan Juke
Despite having been around for a while now the unusual styling of the Juke still looks eye-catching. One of the most appealing aspects of this car and something that is important to most who are considering a compact SUV, is the high-set driving position. Not only does it allow the driver to feel as though they are lording it over other traffic, it aids forward visibility too. It can also can make it easier, thanks to a high hip point on the supportive seats, to get into and out of the car. With a variety of engines there are models to suit most needs and don’t forget the fiery NISMO version!
Subaru Outback
Is it an estate car or is it an SUV? The height suggests the latter and this is an ideal vehicle for those looking for a capable semi-off-road high-rider. With bags of character, this is a rugged car that is well worth considering, representing a genuinely strong proposition especially where robustness is called for. With gas or hybrid options and permanent four-wheel drive, this is the one that can go where the others featured here probably cannot manage being unstoppable when the weather gets rough.
Small SUV’s or crossovers get the job done when there is a need for a useful family car. Check out our ever-changing MHH stock for these great cars or other options from Europe and elsewhere. Or contact the team and we shall be delighted to help you import your next car.
