It’s easy to see why buyers increasingly pick luxury compact crossovers like the 2019 Audi Q5; it’s comfortable and quick with plenty of room.
Pros Good powertrains Useful technology Standard active safety features Comfortable interior…
Cons …but it’s a little boring Ditto on the exterior Pricey top trims
Audi has made a number of features standard for 2019, including heated front seats, a seven-inch gauge-cluster display, rear electric child locks, the Audi Connect CARE telematics system, and aluminum trim around the windows. The mid-range Premium Plus model now offers navigation as standard, a wireless smartphone charging pad, and rear-seat USB ports. The Black Optics package is now available on Premium Plus and Prestige models and includes 20-inch dark gray wheels and blacked-out exterior trim.
Pros Gutsy and efficient powertrain, high-tech features, expensively tailored looks.
Cons Not a cargo-hauling leader, LATCH anchors difficult to access, awkward cupholder location.
A few more features are standard this year.New 7-inch driver information display.Premium Plus trim adds standard navigation and wireless phone charging.The 2019 Q5 now offers a few more standard luxuries, including heated front seats and an upgraded driver display and gauge cluster. The midtrim model now includes navigation and wireless phone charging (previously it was an option). They are small changes, but they're enough to keep the Q5 fresh.
PROS Recent chassis changes deliver a smoother ride than before Quiet, comfortable cabin features top-notch interior craftsmanship All-wheel drive comes standard Wide array of technology options
CONS Only one engine offered Diminished space for luggage behind rear seats
The 2019 Subaru Forester is a well thought-out crossover SUV with exceptional space, a great ride, and standard AWD without a fuel-economy penalty.
Pros Fantastic utility Comfortable ride Great safety tech Thrifty for a crossover Good value
Cons Sun Belters might want FWD Manual and turbo gone Sport trim about looks only Dowdy styling
Completely redesigned for 2019 More powerful 2.5-liter flat four-cylinder engine Subaru's EyeSight system is standard on all models Increased passenger and cargo space 2.0-liter turbocharged engine has been discontinued
Pros Standard all-wheel drive A full complement of driver assists is standard equipment Off-road ability with better-than-average ground clearance Generous cargo capacity
Cons Handling isn't as composed as it is in some competitors CVT automatic feels less responsive than a conventional automatic Modest tow rating limits overall utility Only available engine is underpowered
It looks visually similar to the last model, so has enough changed to entice buyers into the all-new Subaru Forester?
Pros Loaded with safety and convenience features Ultra-wide passenger door opening aperture Full-time all-wheel drive system Fuel efficient four-cylinder petrol engine
Cons Archaic three-year warranty 12,500km service intervals Higher starting price
