The 2018 Ford Escape ranked #2 in Compact SUVs. Currently the Ford Escape has a score of 8.7 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 56 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Sporty handling Premium interior with user-friendly tech Good safety score and great predicted reliability rating Above-average cargo space
Cons Unimpressive fuel economy
The Escape is fundamentally unchanged for 2018, but there are some tweaks to the lineup and to its standard-equipment offerings.The SEL comes standard with leather-trimmed seating, a power liftgate, heated exterior mirrors, an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and LED running lights.
Pros Graceful turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, smooth ride, attractive and intuitive infotainment system.
Cons Less rear-seat and cargo space than the class leaders, turbo engines return mediocre fuel economy.
The 2018 Ford Escape has the road manners of another kind of car—but don't worry, it still works well as a crossover.
Pros Tough-hatch lines Ample cargo bin Wonderfully taut handling Tech options aplenty Brisk 2.0-liter acceleration
Cons Busy, space-robbing dash Firm seats, if you’re not into that Not much SUV, if you’re into that Optimistic EPA ratings
The 2018 Cadillac XT5 ranked #19 in Luxury Midsize SUVs. Currently the Cadillac XT5 has a score of 7.9 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 30 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros High-class cabin styling and materials Composed highway cruiser Extensive list of advanced safety features available
Cons No meaty engines available Dull handling
Cadillac has changed next to nothing for 2018, introducing only a new optional exterior color: Harbor Blue Metallic (all of the XT5’s available paint colors, save for Radiant Silver Metallic, cost an additional $625 to $1225). The EPA has reduced highway fuel-efficiency ratings for both front- and all-wheel-drive variants, but there have been no actual mechanical updates. On the warranty front, last year’s four-year or 50,000-mile complimentary scheduled maintenance plan has been reduced to three years or 36,000 miles of coverage.
Pros Quiet interior, distinctive exterior styling, spacious cargo bay.
Cons Somewhat gruff V-6 powertrain, muddled driving dynamics, busy interior design.
The 2018 Cadillac XT5 is a solid luxury crossover, but so are its rivals. Shop carefully.
Pros Luxurious ride Strong V-6 engine Quality feel inside and out Good value at low end
Cons Gets expensive fast Forgettable personality Front-wheel-drive dynamics occasionally show through Some frustrating controls
