They are literally and figuratively on every street corner: compact SUVs. In 2021 almost every popular car brand will be present in this ‘trending’ market segment. The few manufacturers who are not yet represented are rushing to market a car with attractive design, equipment and price in this busy but very lucrative breeding ground.
The brands that have been active in the compact SUV class for some time now consider the time ripe for renewal. For example, the Audi Q2, the Kia Stonic and the (second generation of the) Mini Countryman have recently undergone a facelift. However, you have to look very closely to discover the outer changes. Apparently an external upgrade was not necessary.
Audi Q2 and Mini Countryman: up to 40 thousand euros!
What you do need for these cars is a generous budget. This is especially true for the Audi and the Mini. As we have tested the Q2 30 TFSI – with 110 hp three-cylinder turbo engine – the car costs 37,445 euros. Well, then you have paid 280 euros for Audi Drive Select and 1,820 euros for an upgrade to the Business Edition (with 17-inch alloy wheels and sports seats) on top of the basic price of the Audi Q2 at 35,345 euros.
The Mini Cooper Countryman – with 110 hp 1.5 three-cylinder – is in the price list for 36,341 euros. Our test car was equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels (1730 euros extra) and sports seats with extendable seat (1120 euros), which brings the counter to 39,191 euros. Almost 40 thousand euros!
With the Kia Stonic you are the buyer
No, then the Kia Stonic. In terms of size, it is not inferior to the Audi Q2 and Mini Countryman, but in terms of price, the compact SUV from South Korea is a much friendlier offer. Basically, the Stonic 1.0 T-GDI 48V with 120 hp one-liter three-cylinder costs 24,795 euros. Look, at least that is an amount that you can call bridgeable. If the budget allows it, the car is equipped with the GT Line equipment for 3,500 euros, including 17-inch light alloy, climate control and navigation with Kia Live services on top of the already modest standard version.
Without all the premium pretensions, the Kia is therefore just 11,000 euros cheaper than the Audi Q2. And even if you opt for the fully equipped GT Line, you are still 7,000 euros cheaper than for a bare base Q2. In addition, the Kia outperforms its opponents in terms of price with a more favorable depreciation and lower road tax. Add to that lower fuel consumption and a seven-year full manufacturer’s warranty with unlimited breakdown assistance, and the conclusion is clear: if your budget does not reach stratospheric heights, Kia is the one for you.
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