Top 10 best crossover hatchbacks 2018

2. Volkswagen T-Roc

Volkswagen’s first attempt at a crossover hatchback is a very impressive one. The T-Roc offers sharp, interesting styling, a well-made interior and handling characteristics that are more akin to those of a small hatchback than a proper SUV.

It’s not quite as good to drive as the Ateca and isn't quite as practical, but it wouldn’t be hard to recommend one.

The mid-spec model isn’t unreasonably priced, but like-for-like versions of the Skoda Karoq and Ateca are still slightly cheaper.

3. Nissan Qashqai

A mid-life refresh has helped to keep the Qashqai - the original and definitive crossover - incredibly close to the top of the pile.

It champions refinement, fuel efficiency and interior comfort but loses out to the Ateca as far as dynamic abilities are concerned, and to the T-Roc on style and desirability.

The Qashqai's steering is overly light in its regular setting, and noticeable body roll discourages properly spirited driving. Nissan's infotainment system is also starting to fall behind. On the whole, though, the Qashqai is still hugely competitive in this segment and thoroughly recommendable.

4. BMW X1

BMW's SUV range is growing all the time, but its smallest is one of our top picks. Among all the premium crossovers, it's relatively practical, handles well and is plush inside. It's far less pricey than the Range Rover Evoque, thoughm despite being several thousand up on the more mass-market offerings in this list.

It's among the firmer-riding SUVs in this bracket, and rather disappointingly is one of the less fuel efficient in the real world. It's more practical than the more expensive Audi Q3, though, and feels more premium than the Mercedes-Benz GLA.

5. Renault Kadjar

While it doesn’t rank quite as highly as the Nissan Qashqai, to which it's closely related, the Renault Kadjar is still a competent and likeable contender.

It’s comparatively less expensive than its Nissan sibling across the range, and with plenty of interior space, it’s well suited to family life. It rides comfortably, too.

However, the Kadjar's interior isn’t quite up to the same standard as the Qashqai's in terms of material richness, and nor is it as refined. Performance from the 1.5-litre diesel engine is also somewhat short.

6. Toyota C-HR

Gone are the days of dull, boring-looking crossovers. Stylistically, the Toyota C-HR is a breath of fresh air in the segment. Even next to more athletic rivals such as the Ateca, it stands out. It has the handling to back those sporty looks up, too.

However, its hybrid powertrain is a bit gutless, particularly for a car of this size; a diesel offering would have done well here. And while that sloping roofline may look great, it eats into rear head room. Toyota's infotainment system is also left wanting when compared with rivals.

7. Skoda Karoq

As is the case with all Skoda cars, the Karoq brings affordability, value for money and practicality to its market - all good things for family buyers.

It’s also a handsome looking thing, if a little hard to distinguish from its Spanish cousin, the Ateca. The Karoq is comfortable out on the open road, if a little unremarkable dynamically.

It’s a very competent replacement for the Yeti, although it lacks the character and flair of its predecessor – which is a bit of shame, really.

8. Hyundai Tucson

This smart-looking South Korean crossover offers a great deal of space and standard kit and a solid five-year/unlimited-mile warranty for a reasonable outlay.

However, it falls down next to its more refined European rivals in the ride and handling departments. Hyundai's 2.0-litre diesel engine is decently refined but could do with a bit more punch. We also found its real-world economy to be a fair way off the claimed figure.

Plus, he interior materials are a bit pedestrian when compared with those found in the likes of the Karoq and Qashqai.

9. Kia Sportage

Like the Tucson, the Kia Sportage majors on value for money, offering an excellent seven-year/100,000-mile warranty and lots of standard equipment.

However, while you might get a lot of bang for your buck as far as kit is concerned, the Sportage doesn’t drive as well as its European rivals, with a firm, noisy ride and inconsistent steering.

Its relatively uninspiring appearance may not be to everyone’s tastes, either, particularly when compared with funky rivals such as the C-HR, T-Roc and Ateca. Still, it provides plenty of space inside - a trait that families will no doubt love.