The 2019 Jeep Renegade’s new engine should help this likable crossover SUV use less fuel.
Pros Looks like it wants to off-road Logical control layout Good optional infotainment Real off-road ability Removable roof panels
Cons Tight squeeze for four adults Base engine is noisy, underpowered Lack of standard active safety tech Spartan Sport trim level
The Jeep Renegade receives only minor changes for 2020. All versions come with a new telematics unit and one year of free subscription service that allows owners to remotely lock, unlock, or start the Renegade with the Uconnect smartphone app. Several options, such as 19-inch wheels, the LED Lighting package, the Safety and Security package, and the Advanced Tech package, are now available on lower trim levels.
Pros Lovable design, comfortable ride, capable off-roading with the Trailhawk.
Cons Painfully slow, lousy fuel economy, limited storage.
The 2020 Jeep Renegade comes with four wheel drive, and front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 9-speed automatic.Some options and packages are now available on less expensive trim levels.1.3-liter engine receives mild power increase.New remote smartphone app becomes standard later in the model year.
PROS Trailhawk model's best-in-class off-road capability Agile handling when going around turns Plenty of easy-to-use technology features Lots of character with a classic Jeep look
CONS Unresponsive throttle and easily confused nine-speed automatic Base engine fuel economy is middling for the segment Small cargo area and tight backseat legroom for adults Boxy shape makes for lots of highway wind noise
The 2018 Ford Edge has an eager feel and crisp design; safety scores and Sport ride quality give pause.The Edge satisfies more than a few needs. It’s sleeker than the truck-infused Expedition, even the Explorer. It’s more spacious than the Escape. It’s also devoid of any off-road pretense, any faux-SUV ruggedness.
Pros Quick steering Cabin’s muted details Wide range of engines Composed ride on small-tire models Edge Sport lives up to name
Cons Seats are a big letdown Real-world fuel economy Stiff Sport ride
The Ford Endura is Ford Australia’s first large soft-road SUV since it stopped producing the Territory. It is powered by a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel that’s both powerful and relatively economical. It is good to steer, with polished cornering manners for a large SUV. There are front-drive and all-wheel-drive versions, and auto-braking is standard.
Pros Punchy engine; roadholding, cabin space, standard features.
Cons Dated dashboard, no petrol option.
Many Australians sorely miss the locally built Ford Territory. We’ve had our first local drive of the imported Endura to discover whether that large-SUV product gap has been adequately filled…
Pros Spacious rear seat and big boot Good steering Ride comfort and secure handling on country roads Smooth and quiet turbo diesel Lots of technology/features from entry model upwards
Cons No third-row seating despite vehicle’s size Performance only adequate Urban ride quality still an unknown Cabin presentation a bit underwhelming $4000 charge for AWD
