The best cars of 2021

With COVID lockdowns putting a crimp in our car review schedule, we select our most memorable drives of the previous 12 months.

This has been a wacky year for Sydney motoring journalists. With the outbreak of the Delta variant in June, everything went from business as usual to complete lockdown faster than our road-testers Kris Ashton and Tim Pomroy could prepare for.

When Kris’ area was deemed an ‘LGA of concern’, he had a Mazda MX-30 EV in his driveway – and there it would remain for weeks. He couldn’t return it because the press car holding facility was in a different LGA and he wasn’t legally permitted to go there. Mazda eventually had to send a tow truck to retrieve its vehicle. 

Tim Pomroy, meanwhile, had barely arrived in the Apple Isle for his Sydney to Hobart EV road trip when lockdown was declared and he received a text from the Tasmanian Department of Health demanding he front up for a COVID test. It was negative, but of course he ended up locked down with everyone else when he returned to Sydney a week or so later.

Fortunately, they had both completed enough road tests to last a few months, but Open Road and mynrma readers will have noticed the absence of new car reviews recently.

We hope to be back behind the wheel and road-testing again by the end of 2021, but for now we’ve compiled a list of cars that most impressed us during the period between lockdowns – July 2020 to June 2021. Fingers crossed we can make this an annual event and use a calendar year instead next time.

Best small SUV of 2021

Ford Puma GT-Line

Unlike Holden, which began a steady and ultimately fateful decline after closing its local manufacturing business, Ford Australia powered ahead in 2016 with its perennially popular Ford Ranger and smash-hit Mustang. As the years wore on, however, its fortunes wobbled. 

The updated 2018 Mustang saw a spike in sales but tailed off to more modest numbers, likely because everyone who wanted a Mustang already had one. The all-new Ford Escape plunged into a market overstocked with quality mid-sized SUVs and was never heard from again. The Focus, once among Ford’s biggest-selling vehicles, barely raised a ripple. There was nothing really wrong with Ford’s offerings, but too often they were also-rans in their respective segments.

That was until the Puma compact SUV sprang onto the scene. It makes a fine first impression, with looks that find a sweet spot between cute and striking. The sleek and cohesive interior is a vast improvement on the parts-bin feel that made the Focus such a disappointment.

The 12-inch digital driver’s display, not so long ago found only in luxury marques, gives the GT-Line model we tested a high-tech feel, and the interior layout and ergonomics are almost beyond reproach (notwithstanding Ford’s baffling decision to include a manual handbrake).

One area in which Ford’s vehicles never disappoint is performance and the Puma’s diminutive 1.0-litre three-cylinder powerplant is another turbocharged marvel, producing a smooth and quiet 92kW and 170Nm. In admirable support is Ford’s seven-speed auto, which provides snappy responses to throttle input.

While the Puma hasn’t troubled the top-sellers in its segment, perhaps due to its steep $29,990 starting price, it has emulated the Mustang and caught the attention of the motoring press and car-buying public alike. – Kris Ashton

Best light commercial vehicle of 2021

Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain

Dual-cab ute owners are a tribal bunch. They stick to a brand like barnacles to the hull of a ship – and Isuzu’s D-Max is a perfect example. Although the previous model soldiered on well past its use-by date and was outpointed by the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux, it remained a solid performer for Isuzu.

The all-new D-Max rewards loyalists and builds on the foundations laid by the earlier model. While the segment trend is towards smaller capacity turbo-diesels, Isuzu opted to re-engineer its existing 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine and six-speed auto, increasing power and torque to 140kw and 450Nm.

Caravaners and those hauling recreational boats love pulling power, making the D-Max an ideal choice. It produces maximum torque from between 1600rpm and 2600rpm and has a 3500kg braked towing rating for added reassurance.

The old-school engine clatter was resolved and it’s now a much quieter and refined unit. The longer wheelbase, improved approach and departure angles, extra wading depth, and electronic rear differential lock (in the top X-Terrain variant) allow it to reach destinations that would stop others in their tracks.

While the old model’s off-roading ability was never in question, it was an ordinary performer on-road and this is where Isuzu engineers focused improvements. New electric power steering replaces the hydraulic setup, reducing the turning circle to 12.5 metres and making the steering feel more connected to the road.

The revised springs and longer wheelbase reduce body roll through corners without unduly affecting the compliant ride in the cabin, aided by comfortable front seats with more bolstering and adjustment.

Practicality remains a strong point, with lots of storage binnacles in the cabin and neat touches like grab handles to aid entry to the seats. These attributes are cloaked within a fresh external design and the X-Terrain’s sharper lines have undoubtably broadened its appeal.

If the D-Max isn’t to your tastes, Mazda’s BT-50 could be just the ticket. Mechanically identical, the only things separating the pair are Mazda’s more premium interior treatment and less rugged exterior design. – Tim Pomroy

Best electric vehicle of 2021

Hyundai Kona EV

Over the last 12 months I’ve spent more time behind the wheel of the Kona EV than any other vehicle. It’s a perfectly-sized package, better looking than the Ioniq EV and with the practicality of an SUV body shape.

Internal combustion engine (ICE) versions of the Kona, particularly the N Line, have been engineered to provide sporty driving dynamics – and the Kona EV carries that DNA. While it’s not fitted with the grippy tyres used on the N Line, having the battery mass under the floor keeps the EV nicely balanced.

On a recent road trip, I drove it over roads used for some Targa Tasmania rally stages. The 150kW/395Nm electric motor delivers maximum torque instantly, a sensation that amps up the sporty drive experience, and the Kona keeps a pace that would embarrass many hot hatches.

With a claimed range of 484km around town, range anxiety isn’t an issue, nor is the need to seek out a fast charger – most days I simply plugged into the 240-volt outlet in my garage and left the Kona overnight. A greater degree of trip planning is involved out from the urban fringes, but with charging infrastructure coming online more urgently, long distance trips are becoming less stressful to plan.

The driving position feels higher than a regular Kona, but the sensation disappears after a few kays behind the wheel. The only other point of difference is the regenerative braking system, which can be dialled up or down and makes one-pedal driving an option in most scenarios.

Price remains an issue, as it does for all EVs. At $64,000 for the Highlander, it’s a premium of almost $22,000 over the high-spec petrol N Line Premium.

To address this, Hyundai now offers the Kona EV with a smaller 39.2kWh battery and 100kW electric motor. It has a shorter 305km range but costs nearly $10,000 less at $54,500. – Tim Pomroy

Best luxury sports car of 2021

Audi RS5 Sportback

Late last year, Audi ran a car launch in the Hunter Valley. We were in the RS5 Sportback on the northward leg and behind the wheel of the hulking RS Q8 SUV heading south to Sydney. The latter runs a 441kW/800Nm V8 petrol engine and, as a lifelong devotee to eight cylinders, I was looking forward to the return journey most. A strange thing happened though: I liked the RS5 more. A lot more.

The RS5 delivers knee-weakening looks inside and out, a 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 engine with gobs of low-down grunt, and a 0-100km/h figure that puts many larger engines to shame. Now don’t misunderstand, the RS Q8 is also a superb drive that oozes luxury, but the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT offers much the same driving experience and practicality for $100,000 less.

I tried to think of another car that could match everything the RS5 delivered and drew a blank. In addition to on-road performance, it offers ride comfort and tractability. I’m a big fan of the Ford Mustang’s looks, naturally-aspirated V8 and muscle car attitude, but its noise, vibration and general heaviness became wearing after chugging one around the suburbs for a week.

The RS5, however, serves as a comfortable town car, a quiet cruiser that dispenses with highway miles, and a physics-defying monster that chews up winding mountain passes.

When slightly firm seats are your biggest quibble with a car, you know you’re onto something special. – Kris Ashton

Best large SUV of 2021

Subaru Outback Touring

Based on the Liberty station wagon but with 35mm extra ground clearance, the Subaru Outback was plying its trade long before the term ‘sports utility vehicle’ (SUV) came into the automotive lexicon. When it launched in 1994, the Outback was simply known as a recreational vehicle.

Two-tone paintwork distinguished those early Outbacks and the current generation follows its predecessors with grey plastic ‘body armour’ around the wheel arches, lower sills and front and rear bumpers, providing some added protection for those off-road excursions.

If you’re after a vehicle that’s competent on a fire trail, the latest Outback is head and shoulders above most SUVs, many of which are front-wheel-drive and utilise on-demand AWD systems. Subaru’s constant AWD differs as engine torque is directed to the centre differential first for a more even distribution to all wheels. The Outback also has hill descent control and X-mode, which tailors throttle inputs and torque distribution for either dirt, snow, or mud.

The new body style ushers in a raft of safety and tech features, maintaining the Outback’s five-star ANCAP safety score, and interior dimensions and cargo volume are among the best in class. Subaru is known for its more conservative approach to interior design, so the iPad-sized infotainment screen comes as a surprise and adds a point of difference. Front and second row seat comfort is excellent, aided by generous leg and foot space, while the cabin is as quiet as they come thanks to thickened windscreen glass.

Competent off-road, it’s on the bitumen where the Outback does some of its best work. It feels more like a traditional wagon, and is secure and predictable over any road surface, with the plush ride a standout. While the 2.5-litre boxer engine isn’t the most powerful in its class, it and the CVT work nicely once you’re up to speed.

Rather than throw out a good concept in the face of an expanding SUV market, Subaru has honed the Outback. For those who want to venture off-road but don’t want a galumphing 4WD, it has few peers. – Tim Pomroy

Best sports car of 2021

Ford Mustang R-Spec

The Ford Mustang is one of the last cars left in our market that elicits memories of ‘the good old days’ – a time when a V8 was the must-have engine for any serious enthusiast. Rear-wheel drive, dual exhausts, and lairy paint were non-negotiable, too. A huge aftermarket performance industry exists both here and overseas, and Ford Australia has long had skin in the game, producing Tickford Falcon V8s and Ford Performance Vehicles (FPV) in the 1990s and 2000s.

In collaboration with local company Herrod Performance, Ford developed the R-SPEC, a beefed-up Mustang limited to just 500 units. The 5.0-litre V8, already a lusty performer in standard guise, received a serious makeover, and a supercharger mounted in the valley of the engine boosted performance to outrageous levels.

While Ford didn’t advertise engine output for the R-SPEC, similarly modified versions in the United States were pushing 577kW and 900Nm, helping explain why it’s only offered with a six-speed manual – an automatic probably couldn’t handle the performance.

To cope with the extra power and torque, the chassis has stiffer springs, a 20mm lower ride height, recalibrated dampers, and larger diameter stabiliser bars. Unique 19-inch alloy wheels keep the Mustang anchored to terra firma without compromising its ride quality.

While the standard version is a blunt instrument by today’s standards and the retro dash design is a dog’s breakfast ergonomically, hip-hugging Recaro seats and adjustable exhaust modes elevate the drive experience. Any quibbles become secondary once you prod the engine into life. Hitting the accelerator, listening to the exhaust’s guttural bark, and sampling the awesome power and torque on a quiet stretch of road adds up to a truly unforgettable experience.

Priced at $99,890, it’s a hefty premium compared to the standard range, but unlike some modified performance cars, Ford and Herrod Performance built a cohesive package with a bold colour palette that you’re unlikely to miss. – Tim Pomroy

Best large luxury SUV of 2021

Kia Sorento Sport+

The NRMA has tracked the Kia Sorento’s journey for almost 20 years. From inauspicious beginnings, its range has progressed from strength to strength and is now a consistent frontrunner in the large SUV category.

The recently launched fourth-generation built on these foundations with practicality, safety and standard features at the forefront. The line-up caters to a wide range of budgets: the entry-level 2WD petrol version is priced at $46,990 drive away, the diesel AWD GT-Line is $64,990, and the Sport+ Diesel hits the sweet spot at $57,390.

A new 2.2-litre diesel engine delivers similar numbers to the previous generation (now 148kW and 440Nm) and is matched to a new eight-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT). Claimed fuel consumption figures have improved markedly and we saw real world returns as low as 6.5L/100km and an average of 8.6L/100km – not too shabby for an SUV weighing just under 2000kg. The engine is quieter and more refined and the DCT is precise, adding up to a package that’s a far cry from the rattly, slow-shifting iterations doing the rounds a decade ago.

The Sorento now sits on a longer wheelbase and is taller and wider than its predecessor, creating additional cabin space for all seating positions. A decent cargo area remains if you’re carrying a full complement of troops. The overall interior design is well executed with superb attention to detail. Second and third row passengers, often treated as second-class citizens, get their own air-con vents and USB outlets. Entry into the third row has improved, although it’s still best left to youngsters.

The extensive Sorento safety kit incorporates blind spot collision avoidance, cross traffic collision avoidance, lane keeping assistance, lane following assistance, and autonomous emergency braking. The whole Sorento range has a five-star ANCAP rating.

SUVs like the Sorento have become de facto station wagons (albeit on stilts with more ground clearance), so it’s no surprise Kia engineers have come up with a package focusing on bitumen, rather than rugged off-road trails.

The new mechanical platform underpins a revised suspension setup and an improved electric power steering system that delivers a taut feel, without too much body roll or swaying.

Observing the Sorento’s journey from the beginning, it’s pleasing to see how it has matured to become one of the best SUVs in its segment. – Tim Pomroy

Best luxury sedan of 2021

Genesis G70 3.3T V6 Sport

If vehicle purchases were made purely from spreadsheets, the Genesis G70 sedan would be selling faster than a sausage sanger at Bunnings. The problem is more emotive factors come into the equation, especially in the premium car market, and not everyone has an accountant’s discipline. Genesis’ predicament today is one Lexus faced 20 years ago. Based on current product and what’s coming through the pipeline, however, Genesis looks to be here for the long haul.

The G70 3.3T V6 Sport was launched only a couple of years ago and has already undergone a minor makeover. Quad-design front and rear lights bring the G70 in line with the just-launched GV70 and GV80 SUVs, while staggered-size 19-inch alloys fitted with Michelin Pilot sport tyres enhance the visual presence.

Priced at $76,000, adding in the luxury pack (another $10,000) will likely make prospective buyers squirm, but if you stick to spreadsheet maths, the Genesis is competitive against its peers. The standard features list is commensurately extensive, including a 15-speaker Lexicon audio system enhanced by front acoustic laminated glass (which reduces NVH).

Once you drive the G70 and explore its capabilities, any badge-related trepidation will diminish. It’s a well-engineered package and a powerful 274kW/510Nm twin-turbo V6, Australian-tuned adaptive dampers, and a Brembo brake package further strengthen its case. Sealing the deal is five-year/50,000km complimentary scheduled servicing, 24/7 roadside assistance and valet service.

The G70 deserves a much wider audience than just those accountant types who pore over the numbers every day. – Tim Pomroy

Best sports SUV of 2021

Audi SQ2

What defines a small performance vehicle? Is it as simple as taking a standard hatchback and shoehorning in a more powerful engine, or adding a few stripes and alloy wheels? Perhaps it’s a balancing act of all the above and then some. Getting the mix right has been hit and miss for some and we’ve driven plenty of misses over the years. But Audi is one brand that continues to nail the brief and its latest foray into the genre is the SQ2.

Given Audi’s performance heritage, such as the much-loved S3 Sportback, it was inevitable the Q2 would get the same treatment. That it blurs the line between small SUVs and hatchbacks makes it an even more interesting choice.

Devotees know much of the go-fast componentry is shared across the vast portfolio of Audi’s parent company, VW. Under the Q2’s bonnet is a revised version of the venerable 2.0 TFSI turbocharged engine, the most powerful to date, making 221kW and 400Nm from 2000rpm to 5200rpm. A seven-speed DCT and Audi’s Quattro AWD system deliver power to the pavement via 19-inch alloy wheels, and the SQ2 covers the 0-100km/h sprint in a mere 4.9 seconds. To liven up the drive experience even further, the SQ2 is fitted with a bi-modal exhaust and quad outlets.

The cabin encapsulates the performance brief with superbly bolstered front sports seats that, finished in contrasting black and red diamond-stitched leather, make a big statement. Audi’s fat-rimmed steering wheel accentuates the sporty feel.

With double the power of the standard 35TFSI, the SQ2 should be a handful, but it’s balanced and easy to live with. Well-thought-out suspension settings provide sharpness through corners while maintaining ride quality. The SQ2 is exhilarating to drive and, while it arguably lacks the pure point to point fleetness of the old S3 Sportback, the added practicality of the design is a real bonus. Priced at $64,400, it’s a big jump from the base Q2, but well worth it. – Tim Pomroy

Runners up

Peugeot 3008

Though pricey, the Peugeot 3008 is one of the best lookers in the mid-sized SUV segment, with the choice of two excellent engine options. 

Toyota Yaris Cross

It lost out on luxury and refinement to the Ford Puma, but the Yaris Cross is a clever and characterful reimagining of Toyota’s popular budget car. 

Toyota Kluger Hybrid

There’s finally a Kluger with a more bowser-friendly alternative to the V6. Sharper on-road dynamics are a bonus, too. 

Kia Niro EV

The Kia Niro EV is essentially a Hyundai Kona EV with different skin, but one that’s prettier inside and out. Kia also conjured up some extra interior space.

Kia Stonic

Released in Australia towards the end of its model cycle, the Stonic nevertheless overcame its age deficit to present as a genuine contender, with good looks and performance.

Kia Carnival diesel

A toss-up between the Carnival and Sorento could have easily gone the Carnival’s way with its excellent seating configuration and ease of access.