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Apr 30, 2023

Best used crossovers for under R200 000

The new Indian-sourced Citroen C3 has launched in SA for R230 000. But we got a

The new Indian-sourced Citroen C3 has launched in SA for R230 000.

But we got a bead on three used crossovers from cars.co.za for less than R200 000 that offer incredible quality and value for money.

They’re just perfect for those wanting to upgrade from a small hatch but who can't afford a midsize SUV.

Opel's popularity has waxed and waned in recent years based on its ownership status. Now under control of Stellantis – they’re responsible for the Citroen C3 – the latest Opel Mokka is more of a niche player in our market. We drove it earlier in the year and you can read our review here. Nevertheless, models sold from 2015-2018 were offered in six model ranges and they are all very good. The Mokka X was built in South Korea.

Two trim levels are offered – Enjoy and Cosmo – and both can be had either with a six-manual gearbox, or an automatic transmission with the same number of gears. The more affordable Enjoy has 17-inch rims while the Cosmo uses 18-inch wheels (and later models had 19-inchers).

ALSO READ: Best fun budget hatches for less than R200 000

The standard spec level on Cosmo models is high and includes heated seats, sat-nav and reverse camera. Rear legroom is a bit cramped and the rear seats fold almost flat to provide decent utility space of 952 litres.

The ride quality is good on Cosmo models and excellent on Enjoys, while the 1.4-litre turbo petrol provides punchy in-gear performance and is nicely frugal.

Because the Opel was sold with a five-year service plan (or 90 000 km) most would have been well looked after, too.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW USED OPEL MOKKAS

The punchy Mazda is surprisingly sporty and feels more like a conventional hatchback than the other used crossovers. On the downside, there isn't much space in the back seats and the ground clearance is relatively meagre at 160 mm. These are our only criticisms.

The 2.0-litre naturally aspirated engine produces a stout 115 kW for lively performance, but not to the detriment of fuel consumption. Living up to Mazda's SkyActiv technology promises, it uses slightly more than 7.0 l/100 km.

ALSO READ: Best used Executive Sedans for less than R500 000

The range consists of Active, Dynamic and Individual variants and you’re likely to find more Active options at this price point. The first two use sensible 16-inch wheels on plump tyres and the entry-level version is acceptably equipped.

Dynamic is where it gets interesting, though, with such items as foglamps, auto lighting and wipers, a seven-inch display, parking sensors and leather steering wheel standard. The Individual spec goes further with 18-inch wheels, a sunroof, head-up display, sat-nav, Bose speakers and leather upholstery. Automatic models include a stability control system.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW USED MAZDA CX-3S

A very cool crossover as long as you like the opinion-splitting styling; it certainly made a splash when it was unveiled in 2011.

The Juke was facelifted in 2015 and gained our engine of choice in the place of the naturally aspirated 1.6-litre; the newer turbocharged 1.2-litre unit is smooth and frugal (it's the lightest on fuel of these three, but only if, like all units with forced-induction, you make moderate use of the throttle). There is enough torque to maintain momentum easily and it works a charm with the six-speed manual gearbox.

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While the boot looks small, it is much bigger than that of the CX-3. In fact, Nissan redesigned the boot on the facelifted model to up the luggage capacity to 248 litres, which is sufficient for a weekend away's luggage. Legroom in the rear is in shorter supply, but four adults can fit into the cabin in decent comfort. Standard specification is generous across the various Acenta, Acenta+ and Tekna grades. The mid-tier Acenta+ as our favourite.

If you’d like more punch, Nissan also offers a 1.5-litre turbodiesel with 260 N.m, plus a all-wheel-driven 140 kW/240 Nm 1.6-litre turbo coupled with a CVT. Be wary of the latter transmission, though, as the drive isn't great and some owners have reported problems, specifically heavy oil consumption.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW USED NISSAN JUKES

Three other interesting options include the Renault Captur and Duster, plus the Ford EcoSport. Did you enjoy this comparison of three used crossovers for less than R200 000? If so, you can …

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE USED CAR COMPARISONS

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