The 2018 Fiat 500X finishes in the bottom third of our subcompact SUV rankings. Despite its bold styling, this Fiat is less exciting and less practical than many crossover rivals.
Pros User-friendly infotainment system Upscale interior styling
Cons Shorter warranty than many competitors Very small cargo area Jittery ride quality Bland engines and clunky automatic transmission
The 2019 Fiat 500X is a stylish crossover SUV that’s outclassed in some ways.
Pros Cheeky looks Promising engine Comfortable ride
Cons No FWD model for sun states Not a great value Active safety tech is optional
New, more powerful 1.3-liter turbocharged engine with new nine-speed automatic.All-wheel drive is now standard.Updated exterior styling and gauge cluster design.
Pros Distinctive and well-made cabin with easy-to-use tech controls More character and style than many competing small crossovers New engine is one of the most powerful in the class Standard all-wheel drive
Cons Limited cargo and passenger space High starting price
Subaru has made adaptive LED headlamps and automatic high beams standard across the Forester lineup for 2021 while the Limited model now comes with a seven-speed manual mode for the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). A new rear center-console storage tray has been added to all but the base model.
Pros Thoroughly practical, roomy interior, comfortable cruiser.
Cons Slow acceleration times, boring exterior styling, base model is quite basic.
Automatic high beams and turn-swiveling headlights are now standard.Other minor revisions to standard feature availability.
Pros Standard all-wheel drive A full complement of driver assist features are standard Enhanced off-road capability thanks to better-than-average ground clearance Generous cargo capacity
Cons Engine is underpowered Modest tow rating limits maximum utility
A recent Best Car To Buy winner, the 2021 Subaru Forester notches big wins in utility and safety as one of our most recommended crossover SUVs.
Pros Remarkable value Remarkable efficiency Remarkable space Remarkable capability
Cons Not especially powerful Looks haven’t changed much It’s not free... ...and one’s not in our driveway now.
