How Does the Focus Active Compare to the Golf Alltrack and Subaru XV?

The Subaru XV is already in its second generation, a jacked-up version of the impressive new Impreza hatchback. It's also made by a Japanese company that's almost synonymous with off-roading, SUVs and reliability. If you want something German, there's also the Volkswagen Golf Alltrack, derived from the Golf Variant/Sportwagen.

While technically still a compact car, the Gould is bigger than its two rivals, as the Impreza doesn't have a wagon body, and the Focus Active forgot its Touring bodywork at home. Yes, this review comes from Australia, as North America doesn't get a Focus and will say goodbye to the Golf at the end of the current model year.

That's important because depending on where you live, prices will be different. But Volkswagen models are usually some of the most expensive in their class anyway. With the Alltrack, it's partly justified by the combination of AWD, a DSG gearbox and 180 horsepower 1.8-liter turbo. The Subaru's 2-liter CVT setup is going to be slower, while the Focus Active hatchback is cheaper but lacks AWD.

We think the Focus is the best looking car here, especially since the Golf is six years old (with updates). But Ford didn't actually make an SUV-inspired car here. Yes, it has the body kit, but the seating position and suspension don't feel different to a regular Focus. It's actually more like a hot hatch with a rugged body kit.

The Golf is something else entirely, offering an on-demand AWD system, the most luxurious interior here and a bit of that commanding view of the road. It's a shame that it also costs a lot of money.