WINNER - SSANGYONG KORANDO:
The latest Korean SUV slayer after the iX and Sportage ranges, yet cheaper than both with the same soft-road credentials.
Where Ssangyong once sent women and children running for cover with its insane body styles (Stavic and Actyon Sports come to mind), the new Korando is a genuine runner for the best-looking small SUV.
But it's much more than skin-deep beauty with a generous spec sheet which includes leather, cruise control, steering controls, radio with MP3/USB/iPod compatibility, and an impressive interior with soft-to-touch materials everywhere.
Its 2-litre turbodiesel engine also feels nice and torquey.
PRICING: R294 995 - R324 995
*This contest was judged by the motoring journalists of the Independent Newspapers group, representing IOL, Star Motoring, Drive Times, Pretoria News and Mercury Motoring.