The 2018 Ford Explorer ranked #9 in Midsize SUVs. Currently the Ford Explorer has a score of 8.3 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 68 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Large cargo area behind third-row seat Meaty twin-turbo V6 available High predicted reliability rating
Cons Seats aren't as comfy or roomy as some Thirsty engines Feels massive to drive
The Explorer receives only minor changes for 2018, with subtle styling tweaks at the front and rear, an integrated 4G LTE hotspot and revised feature availability.
PROS Plenty of high-tech features that are easy to use Optional turbocharged V6 engine delivers plentiful power Cabin is quiet and comfortable on the highway Cargo space is generous behind the third row
CONS Legroom in the third row is subpar Depending on trim level, feels big and ponderous from behind the wheel
The 2018 Ford Explorer has pulled off a graceful transition from clumsy off-roader to genteel family wagon.
Pros A utility player, in the classic sense Very good handling Better fuel economy ratings Improved infotainment, now with 4G LTE Lovely Sport tuning
Cons The EPA’s optimistic with those turbo ratings Platinum content, platinum prices Second-row seat needs padding, less tilt Third-row seat needs more of everything
Feeling like a modern, but not as rugged incarnation of the classic '80s and '90s Jeep Cherokee, the Jeep Patriot is a simple crossover that makes a decent budget choice. It may look like the boxy, truck-like Cherokee of yore, but the Jeep Patriot is a very different animal. It's dated up against rivals—including the latest Cherokee and the pint-sized Renegade parked across the Jeep showroom—but the Patriot may be worth a look if value is one of your main priorities.
Pros Boxy exterior reminds us of the old Cherokee (in a good way) Pint-size dimensions are great in town Decent off road Strong value
Cons Interior is tight and dated Surprisingly mediocre fuel economy Awful CVT Lack of safety technology
The 2017 Jeep Patriot ranks 18 out of 18 Compact SUVs. If you're looking for a budget-friendly SUV that you can take off road, the 2017 Jeep Patriot is one of the more affordable choices. However, if you spend most of your time on-road, other compact SUVs will serve you better in terms of reliability, comfort, and safety.
Pros Skilled off road with available four-wheel drive Rugged, easy-to-clean cabin
Cons Few standard and available features Interior materials look cheap Engines are sluggish and thirsty Boorish optional CVT
You might be attracted to the 2017 Jeep Patriot because of its low price. But there's not much else about the Patriot to make it worthy of your consideration, especially because an all-new model is likely just around the corner.With a replacement likely coming next year, the Jeep Patriot carries forward unchanged for 2017.
Pros Optional flip-down tailgate speakers Above-average off-road capability with Freedom Drive II Attractively priced.
Cons Unrefined and sluggish base engine that's paired to a droning CVT Steering wheel doesn't telescope Subpar crash test scores Unsophisticated ride quality when going over bumps Minimal cargo space Chintzy cabin materials.
