The 2018 Jeep Cherokee’s weak base engine power, below-average cargo volume, and low predicted reliability rating contribute to its place in the bottom half of our rankings. However, it does have some positives, such as a comfortable ride and admirable off-road abilities.
Pros Comfortable, upscale cabin Easy-to-use infotainment system Remarkable off-road capabilities in this price range
Cons Less cargo space than most compact SUVs Underpowered base engine Below-average fuel economy Low predicted reliability rating
The 2018 Jeep Cherokee performs its crossover chores as asked, but loves the off-road tasks more.
Pros Lovely cabin trim Very good front seats Trailhawk off-road skills Lots of active-safety options Good infotainment
Cons Styling alternates from odd to derivative Fuel economy is just okay 9-speed’s occasional hiccups Interior space arrangement
Go with the Trailhawk if your budget allows. While it's more expensive than most of the other Cherokee trim levels, its exclusive feature set makes the most of the Cherokee's off-road abilities, and that's the main reason to buy a Cherokee instead of another crossover in the first place.
PROS Available V6 engine provides smooth and assertive power Absorbent suspension smooths out rough surfaces Capable and user-friendly 8.4-inch touchscreen on many models Trailhawk offers unique off-road capability for a small crossover
CONS Less cargo capacity than other small crossovers Sluggish acceleration with four-cylinder engine
The 2018 Mazda CX-5 ranked #2 in Compact SUVs. Currently the Mazda CX-5 has a score of 8.7 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 27 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Excellent handling Comfortable, supportive seats Upscale interior
Cons Cumbersome infotainment system Unimpressive cargo capacity
As long as cargo space isn’t your main reason for buying a compact crossover, the 2018 Mazda CX-5 is an excellent, fun-to-drive choice.
Pros Attractive styling inside and out Poised chassis, communicative steering Engine changes bode well for mpg Good value, especially considering high spec level Rear seats fold flat
Cons Frustrating infotainment setup Light cargo volume Short on refinement
The 2018 Mazda CX-5 largely carries over from the previous model year, when it was extensively redesigned. New for 2018 are such standard features as a leather-wrapped steering wheel and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Also new is cylinder-deactivation technology intended to improve fuel economy slightly. The 2.5-liter engine automatically shuts down the two outside cylinders at cruising speeds to maximize efficiency. Last year's Grand Select trim level has been discontinued for 2018.
PROS Keen handling and steering make the CX-5 enjoyable to drive Attractive and upscale cabin for a premium ownership experience Stays quiet at highway speeds
CONS Not as powerful as some rivals
