Not only that, but thanks to is new hybrid tech – courtesy of one electric motor in the turbocharger and another housed within a new eight speed dual-clutch transmission – the Power delivery from the 3.6-litre flat six engine is easier to modulate than ever. Of course, once the snow eventually clears, it’s searingly fast, too.
Nissan Qashqai
Prices from £30,100
The original Nissan Qashqai was a game changer; 18 years on Nissan is selling a facelifted third-generation car, and as you’d expect it’s a sophisticated small SUV that’s packed with safety kit and high-tech software to keep you out of trouble in poor conditions.
Nissan has turned its back on diesel, so you have to choose between petrol and mild hybrid powertrains. Only the latter comes with four-wheel drive and there’s no manual option. With a starting price of £36,410 for the mid-spec N-Connecta, the Qashqai is decent value. It isn’t as roomy as some rivals, but it’s comfortable, refined, eye-catching and well equipped. It’s also easy to drive, if rather dull – but it’ll be just the job when the going gets icy.
Subaru Forester
Prices from £38,000
If you don’t want to follow the herd, the Subaru Forester might be right up your street. Subaru has quite a low profile now compared with its glory days when it was dominating rallying, and an all-new Forester will be with us next year. For now we have the Mk5 that was introduced in 2019, with a 2.0-litre petrol mild hybrid engine that drives all four wheels via a continuously variable automatic transmission.
The Forester appeals with its impressive build quality, generous levels of safety kit and reasonable pricing; the range starts at around £38,000. Reliability can also be taken as a given, but fuel economy is poor, and the Subaru isn’t as engaging to drive as many of its rivals.
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