Recently there have been some fantastic new family friendly vehicles launched in New Zealand. Whether you need something frugal or have a craving for something with capacity for towing, here are some great models to choose from that may suit your lifestyle needs.
All New Mitsubishi Outlander
The new Mitsubishi Outlander is built on an entirely new platform and arrived in 2021. It starts at a very attractive entry price point of just $41,990 + (ORC), this will get you behind the wheel of the five-seat entry-level petrol 2WD LS, which has a great suite of standard features. Features including, Mitsubishi’s full ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems) Safety Suite, wireless Apple Carplay connectivity and embedded sat nav, all in all great value for the money.
If you can stretch your budget by an extra $3,000, you can upsize your SUV to the seven-seat XLS, which includes stylish synthetic suede and leather upholstery, heated front seats, 20” alloy wheels, and larger front and rear disc brakes. This model also includes a family favourite - wireless smartphone charging. All new Outlanders are powered by a 2.5-litre petrol engine and there is also the choice of 4WD if you sometimes find yourself heading off the beaten trail.
Isuzu MU-X
It’s been seven years, and finally Isuzu’s seven-seat large SUV has undergone a major revamp making the all-new Isuzu MU-X the most advanced Isuzu ever built. It now boasts 3500kg towing capacity, making it perfect for towing the boat or caravan, but probably one of the most notable improvements has been in safety.
MU-X has just been awarded the maximum 5-star safety rating from the independent vehicle safety authority ANCAP. Not surprising, with the inclusion of a host of impressive safety features including eight airbags, and Isuzu's Intelligent Driver Assistance System (IDAS).
The latest MU-X is powered by Isuzu's new 4JJ3-TCX, 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine, which is more powerful than before with 140kW of power and 450Nm of torque. THE MU-X also has an Aisin six-speed automatic transmission; Aisin make some of the best automatics around, so they have chosen well. As for fuel economy it consumes 8.3L/100km and has a CO2 output of 220g/km.
The price is not the cheapest at $80,990 + (ORC) as this model is only currently available in the top spec. However, if you need a spacious seven-seater model with a ladder chassis that can both tow and pamper the family in style, then this model is well worth a look.
Frugal MG HS PHEV
If you are looking for ways to reduce your carbon footprint, and concerned about the rising fuel prices, then the new MG HS Plug-In Hybrid is the perfect choice. This model combines impressive performance and technology together with low emissions.
Electrically powered by a liquid-cooled Lithium-ion battery, this SUV has a useful pure electric driving range of 63km from a single charge, perfect for the school run or a trip to the local shop.
The MG HS Plug-In Hybrid’s total output from the electric motor with the 1.5-litre turbo combustion engine has a respectable 189kW of power and 370Nm of torque. Fuel consumption is enviable at 1.7L/100km combined and 39g/km CO2 emissions.
As a PHEV it has the flexibility of longer journeys too, so that family trip away is no problem. The MG HS Plug-In Hybrid is an enticing option, and it won’t break the bank starting from just $52,990 + (ORC). It is also backed with a 7-year, unlimited kilometre battery warranty. Added icing on the cake is that it is eligible for the clean car rebate too that a handy $5,750 back.
All New Octavia iV Wagon
In the past station wagons and families went hand in hand, now it’s all about SUVs. The OCTAVIA has been at the heart of the ŠKODA brand for more than six decades and bucks the trend, now this stylish European wagon is available in an eco-friendlier option as a PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle).
The new OCTAVIA iV is equipped with a 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine, delivering 110kW. The electric motor generates up to 85kW, with a combined system power of 150kW and maximum torque output of 350Nm. The battery has a capacity of 13kWh, and this Octavia will travel approximately 60km, similar to the MG HS with the battery capacity available. The fuel consumption is only 1.3L/100km and the CO2 output is just 30g/km, making it an incredibly efficient wagon.
As you would expect with ŠKODA, they include their “Simply Clever features” including the umbrella located in the driver’s door, the hook and cargo fasteners to hold boot luggage securely. Speaking of luggage, there is a huge 490L of cargo space available with the seats up in this wagon, making it the perfect wagon for a getaway. Another gem is the variable boot floor, which gives additional storage space or concealing your valuables, such as laptops and iPad.
The OCTAVIA iV is available in both the Style and RS models and has just arrived at dealerships. Its range starts with the Style 150kW variant $65,990 + (ORC), and like the MG is also eligible for the clean car rebate of $5,750.
Find out more on how the AA can help you when buying a car
- AA Money - aa.co.nz/money
- AA Insurance - aa.co.nz/insurance
- AA Car Reviews - aa.co.nz/car-reviews
- AA Running Cost Reports - aa.co.nz/runningcosts
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