Modern cars are designed with mass appeal in mind as global models need to be attractive to motorists from all walks of life in many, sometimes hundreds of different markets across the globe. This means that no models are designed from the outset to suit men or women better.
However, women do very often look for different qualities in a car than what men do. Women tend to prioritise factors such as space and safety as their vehicles are often used for the school run. Woman also tend to have a keen eye for design and will be drawn to beautifully designed cars with unique features. These five cars tick those boxes, making them more attractive for women.
Volvo EX30
Volvos latest models encompass two of the major factors that woman prioritise. Safety and good design. The Volvo EX30 takes this one step further by combining good design and safety with the latest in powertrain technology.
The recently launched Volvo EX30 is one of the most accessible fully electric cars available in South Africa at the moment.
The 315kW Twin Motor Performance derivative is the fastest-accelerating Volvo ever, completing the 0-100 km/h sprint in just 3.6 seconds. On the other hand, the 200kW Single Motor Extended Range powertrain can cover up to 476 km on the WLTP cycle. It charges fast, too, with DC charging capacities of up to 153kW, translating to a 10-80 percent charge in a little over 25 minutes.
The EX30’s revolutionary yet minimalistic cabin, features natural and recycled leather-free materials, is fitted with a new contextual single-screen UX, complete with Google core services built-in and runs the latest version of Volvo’s infotainment system that is powered by a Qualcomm snapdragon processor which ensures that the Volvo EX30 will appeal to tech savvy motorists too.
The Volvo EX30 is offered in multiple configurations, which allows customers to choose the powertrain options, battery types and trim levels that suit their budget and requirements.
Hyundai Staria
The Hyundai Staria’s futuristic, space age like design ensures that it looks like so much more than a minivan. The front end features horizontal daytime running lights and a positioning lamp that runs across the entire width of the vehicle. A wide radiator grill with unique pattern and low-set headlamps are designed in such a way that they continue the clean silhouette. The same body colour for all the parts upfront maximises the vehicle’s premium and modern look. The result is a vehicle that looks like nothing else and is able to carry passengers in the utmost comfort. What more could you want from a mom’s taxi.
The interior is designed especially for carrying people, making it ideal for women who need to move passengers like children around on a daily basis. Low beltlines and panoramic side windows ensure excellent visibility and add to the feeling of spaciousness. The seven-seater premium model is equipped with premium relaxation seats in the second row that recline electronically and have sliding capabilities for easy reach or to maximise cargo space. In the nine-seater Luxury model, the individual seats in the second row can swivel 180 degrees to face passengers in the third row.
The Staria is powered by a frugal yet well performing R2.2-litre VGT turbodiesel engine, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. It delivers 130kW and 430Nm ensuring that the Staria is ready for long road trips or the daily grind, with space for the whole family and more.
Citroën C3 Aircross
The French are well known for designing quirky cars that incorporate unique design elements and the recently launched Citroën C3 Aircross is another example of that.
The C3 Aircross offers SUV versatility along with a muscular design and a modern, turbocharged drivetrain resulting in an offering that represents excellent value for money in this segment.
The Citroën C3 Aircross is a unique package that families will appreciate, as it combines distinctive signature Citroën brand design markers with pure SUV attributes into a muscular and eye-catching design.
The Citroën C3 Aircross is a B-SUV contender that offers space for seven-occupants making it unique in that aspect. The 5+2 seating configuration offers increased versatility, while also allowing the additional seating to be easily removed.
Both the C3 Aircross MAX and MAX7 are powered by Citroën’s acclaimed 1.2-litre turbocharged PureTech three-cylinder engine which delivers 81kW at 5 500rpm and 205Nm from 1 750rpm. Unique to this segment is the fact that these models are mated to a six-speed torque convertor automatic transmission which does a great job of keeping the engine in the sweet spot in a seamless manner. Citroën claim that the C3 Aircross will use just 6,3 litres per 100km on the combined cycle. That combined with a purchase price of around R350 000 makes this a great value for money option.
Kia Seltos
Kia recently introduced the new Seltos to the South African market and at the same time the model offering was revised and repositioned in the competitive crossover segment of the market, with its established quality and reliability enhanced by an even greater value proposition.
One of the most noticeable changes to the new Kia Seltos is its exterior design, which represents an evolution of the original design while incorporating elements of Kia’s latest ‘Opposites United’ design language. With generous dimensions, the Seltos not only looks much bigger than its closest competitors thanks to a long bonnet, the strong character line on the front bumper and the sharp lines pressed into the bodywork, but it is easily one of the largest and most practical compact SUVs available in SA today.
The new Seltos range retains the powerful and exceptionally frugal 1.5-litre CRDi engine which offers 85kW and 250Nm and introduces two new petrol-powered options to the range, along with a new transmission option.
Ensuring continued peace of mind and value for money long after the initial purchase is the fact that all Seltos models are sold with an unlimited kilometre/five-year warranty inclusive of roadside assistance as well as a pre-paid five-year/9 000km service plan.
Mini
Woman can’t resist a Mini and their modern range includes a variety of models including the Mini Convertible, Mini Countryman and Mini hatch, allowing motorists to scratch their British chic itch no matter their space or body style requirements.
Funky British design results in a car that is cute and which oozes character. Well sorted BMW underpinnings and engines ensure a premium driving experience that balances performance and fuel economy.
For example, the recently launched Mini Countryman features a design that is quintessentially Mini but impresses with clear aesthetics. The basic vehicle design can be accentuated by four trims, Essential, Classic, Favoured and John Cooper Works for the interior and exterior allowing motorists to tailor the finishing touches to their taste.
The interior is characterised by clear shapes and a new design language, while high quality materials, innovative technology and individually adjustable lighting combine to create an immersive driving experience that is sure to appeal to those that appreciate good, funky design. Enlarged exterior proportions mean that the interior has grown in size too and it can now accommodate up to five adults in comfort.
Engines that prioritise performance alongside fuel economy, good ground clearance and the option of all-wheel drive mean that the Mini Countryman is good for light off-road adventures too.
If you are a fashion-conscious individual looking for an SUV that offers German engineering, but which also stands out from the norm, the Countryman might just be the one for you.
