Three Cat B SUVs challenge one another for this category’s crown.
How Does ACOTY Define This Class?
Each contender must be a Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) and sold with a Category B Certificate of Entitlement (Cat B COE). At the same time, they should remain relatively affordable Cat B models and not creep into the “premium” territory of pricing. Those cars are saved for another category.
Let’s have a look.
Meet The Contenders
Clockwise from top left are the Mazda CX-60, Audi Q3 and Subaru Forester e-Boxer. Two Japanese and a German going toe-to-toe in this competition.
The Mazda CX-60 comes into this competition with a clean, premium-looking Jinba-Ittai-inspired design language. The inside is trimmed with premium-feeling materials and offers ample space for five along with their carry-ons. Coupled with useful driver aids and a suspension setup keen to take corners enthusiastically, the CX-60 is pretty likeable.
The Audi Q3 brings with it Audi’s renowned build quality and solidity, along with a clean and premium design aesthetic. It’s got ample easy-to-use technology, and the interior will take five occupants without too much bother. Frugal in fuel consumption and easy and comfortable to drive, the Q3 is a compelling package from a premium manufacturer.
The Subaru Forester e-Boxer is arguably the most SUV-like SUV of the trio, if you know what I mean. Subarus are utilitarian vehicles, and this theme continues with the Forester. Everything is simple and straightforward, and visibility from inside the cabin is excellent.
Add to that a comfortable ride aided by adaptive cruise control and Subaru’s legendary safety record, and you have an SUV here that can keep your family safe during all journeys.
Three great choices here. Which to choose? Decisions, decisions…
AutoApp Car Of The Year Best Cat B SUV
Audi Q3
| Vehicle | Points Tally | Price Percentile |
| Audi Q3 | 319 | 43 |
| Subaru Forester E-Boxer | 312 | 36 |
| Mazda CX-60 | 307 | 59 |
The winner with 319 points is the Audi Q3. This feels like the most grown-up and well-put-together SUV of the trio to the judging panel.
More on the scoring categories used to derive points here.
Congratulations to the Audi Q3 for winning the AutoApp Car of the Year 2024 Best Cat B SUV!
