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 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
