An automotive reviewer evaluated the FAW Besturn X80 and outlined a set of drawbacks for this Chinese crossover. The assessment centers on practical ownership, durability, and value over time rather than flashy first impressions. While the X80 offers generous footprint in the compact-SUV segment, several recurring issues touch daily usability, maintenance planning, and long‑term ownership costs. The notes emphasize balance—strong points paired with questions buyers commonly raise about refinement and reliability. In this light, the X80’s appeal is tempered by practical concerns that prospective buyers should weigh when comparing it to more mainstream rivals.
In terms of size, the FAW Besturn X8 sits in the same class as the Toyota RAV4, with a footprint that resembles the benchmark model. It provides a ground clearance of 190 millimeters and a trunk capacity near 398 liters, figures that align with many contemporary compact crossovers in markets across North America and Europe. Some units were assembled in Kaliningrad, pointing to shared production lines that can influence parts availability and service networks. The redesigned version launched with little delay, and a manual transmission option appeared in 2018, appealing to buyers who value a more direct, engaged driving experience. The 2.0-liter engine is noted for its potential longevity, with a target life spanning several hundred thousand kilometers under proper maintenance, a benchmark not always common among competing Chinese offerings. Yet routine ownership reveals that oil consumption tends to rise after about 100,000 kilometers, often linked to piston-ring wear, and some examples show a clogged EGR valve requiring attention. The Aisin TF-60SN automatic transmission, while generally reliable, relies on a standard heat exchanger that can become a weak point in hotter climates or with high-mileage use.
The suspension behavior is another point of discussion. The ride can feel firm and occasionally noisy on rough pavement, and some interior trim pieces may rattle or loosen, contributing to a cabin atmosphere that some describe as coarse. Plastic coverings and fittings can detach over time, creating a sense of lower quality in daily use. Electrical reliability also comes into play for a subset of owners, with fuses that blow or contacts failing occasionally, interrupting typical vehicle functions. These issues are not universal, but when they occur they reinforce the importance of proactive maintenance and inspections to minimize inconvenient downtime during ownership.
Earlier crossovers notes addressed drawbacks of another popular model. One minor issue is the tailgate gas strut’s tendency to fail, which can cause the liftgate to drop unexpectedly. Other electronic-related concerns involve the head unit performance, wireless phone charging, and the operation of safety systems such as collision avoidance and lane departure warning. When these electronic features do not operate as expected, daily driving can feel hampered by unresolved software or component concerns rather than major mechanical faults. The overall takeaway is that while the Mazda CX-3 can be enjoyable to drive and stylish inside a compact footprint, the ownership experience often centers on electronics reliability and the need for periodic updates or replacements to maintain confidence behind the wheel.
Another set of observations focuses on the Suzuki S-Cross, with notable features highlighted to guide potential buyers. The crossover earns praise for its compact footprint that suits urban driving while still offering versatile interior space for everyday cargo. It is valued for efficient fuel economy and a practical balance of performance for daily commuting. Ownership costs tend to stay reasonable thanks to straightforward maintenance and solid parts availability, helping keep running expenses predictable. The cabin layout aims for comfort and practicality, and ride quality remains accommodating for most city streets and light highway use. Together, these advantages position the S-Cross as a pragmatic choice in markets where cost, reliability, and usability matter as much as style.