With more personality than most small crossovers, the Fiat 500X is definitely worth a look.Fiat has a real chance to win over American buyers with the 500X, which is certainly its most mainstream offering here—perhaps ever. With the 500X, Fiat finally has a mainstream vehicle with widespread appeal. It's a compact crossover SUV that shares running gear with the Jeep Renegade. Rivals include the Honda HR-V, Buick Encore and Chevy Trax, and the Mazda CX-3.
Pros Tidy exterior styling Just right proportions Above average ride and handling More characterful than most rivals
Cons Automatic gearbox can be touchy Sunroof steals head room, especially in back Small infotainment screens Not an off roader
The number of available trims has decreased from five to three, and options packages have been consolidated and renamed. Otherwise, the 2017 Fiat 500X is unchanged.
Pros Distinctive and well-made cabin with easy-to-use tech controls Reasonably priced Offers safety features not usually available in this class.
Cons So-so fuel economy Confused and clunky automatic transmission Meager cargo room.
The 2017 FIAT 500X ranks 10 out of 12 Subcompact SUVs. The 2017 Fiat 500X may have supermodel looks compared to its subcompact SUV rivals, but this chic SUV ranks toward the back of the pack for its unrefined engines, few standard features, and low predicted reliability rating.
Pros Upmarket interior Very maneuverable Easy-to-use infotainment system
Cons Lackluster engines Few standard features
The 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is an attractive option for budget buyers looking for a capable crossover, but doesn't come without compromises. The Outlander Sport manages a 4.5 out of 10 on our overall scale. Its features and fuel economy help where styling and performance leave it short.
Pros Attractive price Decent exterior styling Easy loading—people or cargo Did we mention the price?
Cons Middling fuel economy Poor interior Underwhelming powertrains No advanced safety options
The 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport ranks 11 out of 12 Subcompact SUVs. The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport finds itself at the back of the subcompact SUV pack, lagging the field in refinement, engine performance, and features.
Pros Roomy seats Long warranty coverage
Cons Below-average fuel economy Noisy, lackluster powertrains Outdated interior with low-quality materials
The small crossover SUV segment has surged in popularity over the last few years, with most automakers producing at least one that earns good fuel economy, is easy to drive and comes with all of today's tech gadgets. Over time, though, these models have bigger, more extensively equipped with features and, consequently, more expensive. If you desire a small SUV but don't want to spend a lot, the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport might seem like it's worthy of your consideration. After all, a well-equipped Outlander Sport costs as much as the base version of many competitors.
Pros Respectable fuel economy with 2.0-liter engine Well-equipped for the (very competitive) price Generous warranty coverage surpasses many rivals
Cons Ride quality is jarring on bumpy roads Many interior materials look and feel cheap CVT is aggravating due to slow responses Raucous drone while accelerating (especially with 2.0-liter engine)
