Three best entry-level crossovers

Crossover has recently become the most-wanted category of cars all over the world. With almost every automaker from all parts of the world offering at least one or two cars in this segment, crossovers have, undoubtedly, turned out to be a very competitive segment. 

However, given Bangladesh's engine displacement-based tax structure, options available in the category of entry level crossovers might not match with that of other countries. 

This week, Team Wheels takes a deeper look into the three best options available within the entry level subcompact crossover SUV segment in Bangladesh, all of which are priced around Tk30 lakh. 

We will not be ranking the selections.

Toyota C-HR

In 2016, Toyota unveiled the C-HR at the Geneva Motor Show. With sleek body lines, aggressive styling, funky headlights and taillights, and a wide variety of colour options, this entry level subcompact crossover SUV aims to attract millennials willing to buy their first car. 

The 1.8L hybrid drivetrain borrowed from the Toyota Prius makes the C-HR surprisingly pocket friendly and practical while retaining a unique style. However, there is a 1.2L petrol powered turbo variant available for people who just want a slightly higher punch to make the boring old city drives a bit more fun. 

One of the issues with this car, however, is the poor design of the interior which can make the car look smaller than it really is and may lead to claustrophobia among passengers in some cases. 

Honda Vezel

The Honda Vezel has been greeted by the Bangladeshi consumers with open arms ever since it entered the country back in 2014-15. Despite not having an almost unnecessarily overdone styling like the C-HR, the Vezel still looks good, is subtle, and can be appealing to many consumers. 

Since its initial launch, the second generation Vezel or HR-V has been offered in both hybrid and petrol only variants with both variants being 1.5L and paired to either a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or a dual clutch transmission (DCT). 

Having ample legroom and amazing ergonomics, the Vezel has been a popular choice among many consumers for the last five years. However, it did end up receiving some backlash because of a heating issue with its transmission. 

The root of the problem seems to be the continuous acceleration and braking done every now and then when driving in Bangladesh. The poor fuel quality also adds to this problem. Despite that, it is still a worthy option to check out if one is looking for better options in the subcompact crossover SUV segment. 

Haval H2 Jolion

This is probably the latest addition to this segment of cars in Bangladesh. Officially launched in Bangladesh in April 2021, this subcompact crossover from the Chinese automaker Haval packs a tonne more features compared to the other two we have mentioned above. For example, modern heads-up display, wireless charging, and parking assist, to name a few. 

This crossover is the only one among the three offering a fully functioning panoramic sunroof. The Jolion also comes with either a three years or 70,000km warranty along with free registration. However, the 1.5L H2 Jolion does not have a hybrid variant unlike the other two crossovers and the automaker – Haval - has the lowest brand value as well. 

Despite the negatives, the Haval may still be a worthy option given the good after sales service and facilities one will get when buying this car. Besides, the advance income tax imposed on the Jolion as well as the Vezel is only half the amount of that of the 1.8L Toyota C-HR. So it could be taken into consideration as well.