Date Published: 17th December 2010
The latest generation of ‘real’ 4x4s is showing much-improved fuel economy, but the sleek 9-3X is as car-like as they come and it shows. ‘First thing I did was look at its mpg,’ said one tester, ‘and how many others here are better than 50?’
For that reason alone, this is a promising prospect. Priced in the mid-twenties, at least until the options list comes to get you, it’s cheaper than its main rivals, but without looking it.
There’s a few flimsy bits of trim in the cabin, but the dash feels well made and the seats are very comfortable. The glovebox is nice and big, but the cubby and door pockets are neither, though there’s a couple of useful console bins with grippy rubber bases.
Headroom is surprisingly good, but legroom in the back is awful if you’re behind a tall driver. The rear seat backs drop down on to fixed squabs, leaving a sloping end to a cargo bay that’s at least fairly long. Our testers weren’t impressed by the tailgate, which didn’t open on its gas strut the way it surely should.
Next - To Drive Jump: 1. To Live With 2. To Drive 3. Verdict
