Citroen C-Crosser
Citroen has entered the four-wheel-drive market with its C-Crosser, which arrived in the UK last month.

Making much of its environmental credentials, Citroen is presenting the C-Crosser as the acceptable face of four-wheel drive ownership.

It boasts a 2.2l common rail diesel engine achieving 40mpg on average and 191g/km of carbon dioxide emissions – although this will still cost £205/year in road tax.

Available in standard VTR+ or luxury exclusive trim, the C-Crosser has been designed to appeal to families – the back seats fold flat to allow the occasional third row seating to be added or removed. Prices start from £22,790

Seat Altea Freetrack
Seat’s Altea Freetrack has been given a sporty finish to attract buyers looking to bounce along the odd track but without the bulk and cost of a proper 4×4. It is based on the MPV Altea but ground clearance has been raised by 40mm.

Black bumpers and extended wheel-arches add to the effect. This is an experiment in the 4×4 market from a manufacturer that has stuck to road cars.

The 197bhp, 2.0 petrol machine will climb from 0-60mph in 7.5 seconds while its 170bhp, 2.0 diesel cousin manages 8.7 seconds, achieving 30mpg and 41mpg respectively. It’s due to hit UK dealers’ showrooms next month, priced from £20,000.

Volvo XC70
FW tested Volvo’s XC70 earlier this year and found it an impressive country-biased estate. Volvo has since unveiled a refined and improved version with a 3.2-l straight-six-cylinder petrol engine and a 2.5-l, five-cylinder turbo diesel powerbase.

Handling and ride have also been improved by new chassis architecture, including Volvo’s DSTC (dynamic stability and traction control) system that enhances cornering stability and prevents skidding.

The XC70 has an effective ground clearance of 210mm and a wading depth of 300m. It also features a hill-descent control system. Prices start at £33,600.