The 2018 Hyundai Sonata receives a much-needed injection of style.
Pros More stylish than before Relaxing, comfortable ride quality Flexible engines Android or Apple, your interface is OK Roomy interior
Cons Light on personality Sport isn’t all that sporty Limited customization options Interior a little downmarket
one might consider Hyundai’s refreshed 2018 Sonata the brand’s rerelease of its seventh-generation mid-size sedan that was launched for the 2015 model year. That Sonata was a nice enough family four-door that failed to catch on with the buying public in the same way that its slinkier predecessor did; Hyundai is hoping this updated version will climb higher up the sales charts.
Pros Quiet cabin, easy-to-use infotainment system, standard blind-spot monitor.
Cons Dynamically dull, 1.6T engine limited to Eco trim, active-safety features not available on all models.
The 2018 Hyundai Sonata had been restyled inside and out and receives updates to its suspension and steering aimed at improving ride quality, response and feel.
PROS Solid list of standard features and tons of available tech Spacious interior accommodations and generous trunk space Excellent user interface receives a more upscale redesign 10-year powertrain warranty offers peace of mind
CONS No options available on Edmunds' recommended Eco model Slightly less rear legroom than the segment leaders Top turbocharged engine trails performance of its competitors Lackluster power from base engine
The 2018 Jeep Wrangler skips over the on-road part of the driving test, and heads straight for the hills.
Pros The undisputed off-road champion Singular style Smooth and strong V-6 A few concessions to modernity inside
Cons Rough-and-tumble ride Poor on-road handling Expensive high-end editions Remarkably poor safety scores Soft tops are fussy to use
The Jeep Wrangler is completely redesigned for 2018. Note that this review covers the new Wrangler. The previous-generation model, the Wrangler JK, is covered separately.
PROS Unrelentingly capable off-road Maintains the rugged Jeep character Increased capability and comfort compared to old models Extensive customization options from the factory and aftermarket
CONS Mild towing capability for an otherwise highly capable rig Less cargo space than some conventional crossovers Standard V6 engine is a little underwhelming
Pros There are few vehicles more capable off-road than the Wrangler JK. Equipped with removable doors, a removable roof, and a fold-down windshield, the four-wheel-drive Wrangler JK is one of the most fun and proficient ways to explore off the beaten path or to feel the wind in your hair. It’s also hard not to fall for the Wrangler JK’s charming and simple design, which can trace its roots back to the Willys MB Jeep of World War II fame.
Cons The Wrangler JK’s off-road capability comes at the cost of its on-road manners. Live front and rear axles do the Wrangler JK’s ride quality no favors. The body also rolls precariously in turns, and the stability-control system regularly cuts in to prevent the droptop SUV from actually rolling over. Wind noise is exceptionally loud at highway speeds, and this Jeep drinks gas like it’s at an open bar. The available touchscreen infotainment system also is slow to respond to inputs and suffers from poor ergonomics.
