Stay away from the Audi 1.4T DSG (S Tronic). That DQ200 dry clutch gearbox is known for issues. Even if the car is on plan, Audi will do a software adaptation instead of replacing the gearbox.
Reagrding slightly new SUVs, a slightly used CX5 2.2 diesel Akera is all the SUV you need. Better build quality than my GO1 X3 and the boot is more practical too. Don't be phased by the 3 year warranty and service plan, these can be extended and the Mazdas are generally reliable. Because you sit up high and the windows are large and it has cameras all round, parking is simple. My wife has eyesight issues and she managed fine with our old CX5. Also, it is a properly entertaining car to handle the bends - much better than a FWD X1 I would say.
The CX5 feels like an Audi inside. Everything is solid and the controls feel expensive to use.
Here is the review of my CX5 2.0 petrol auto. The petrol needs revs to move along. If you happy to save some money and just rev the car a bit harder, then a used 2.0 is fine enough. Though, at your budget you can get a nice used diesel 2.2 (which has more torque than a G01 X3 20d).
Hi, I have a 2016 facelifted (previous generation) CX5 2.0 Active Auto. I bought it with only 7,000km in the clock back in 2016 for a very reasonable R300k (including aftermarket nappa leather). The car rides and handles brilliantly. I would rate it as a much better (read sportier and more...
www.bmwfanatics.co.za
On the other hand, your budget is pretty generous. Why not consider a 2018 X3 20d with under 45,000km? The only negative is that they are a bit bigger than an CX5...
I would stay away from the X1. I tested a base X1 2018 20d and the suspension felt like it was jumping around too much on my gravel roads. The CX5 (and any non M sport X3) have better suspension setups that deal with bumps better.
Last point: Avoid a very small SUV like a CX3, CX30, EcoSport, Creta, etc. The boots are too small
