The all-new 2017 Kia Niro is classified as a compact hybrid crossover SUV, though it really functions more like a hatchback. Your view of the road is marginally higher because of the Niro's elevated stance, but Kia doesn't offer the Niro with all-wheel drive, so don't expect to be a snow-busting trailblazer in bad weather. The Niro's core appeal comes from its traditional exterior design (no "hybrid!" shouting here) as well as a new powertrain that is capable of returning up to an EPA-estimated 50 mpg in combined city/highway driving.
Pros: Impressive fuel economy from the base trim model Six-speed transmission shifts like a conventional car's One of the more affordable hybrids in the segment Batteries are hidden under the rear seat and don't affect cargo space
Cons: All-wheel drive isn't offered despite the crossover styling Smaller cargo space compared to some rival models The Niro's Touring trim sacrifices some fuel efficiency
By calling it a crossover, the Korean brand also wants to get in the minds of the consumer wanting more utility. We all know crossover sales are booming, and part of their likeability is their higher ride height and boxy, useable interior space. But after spending a full day driving the Niro in Texas Hill Country, the question stuck in my head was whether it is really a crossover. The Niro is just 3.3 inches taller and has the same ground clearance as the Hyundai Ioniq, which it shares its platform with. And in terms of passenger volume, the Niro has only a small advantage, encasing 97.1 cubic feet versus the Ioniq’s 96.2 cubic feet. Although its two-box design might help its case for being a crossover, I suspect most will just see it as a lifted hatchback.
You shouldn’t have any nasty surprises, either. Kia was rated as above average in our most recent reliability survey and the Niro also gets a seven-year/100,000-mile warranty – a class-leading feature.
Pros: Low CO2 emissions Spacious interior Long warranty
Cons: More conventional rivals are cheaper Not much fun to drive Firm low speed ride
You don't have to buy a three-row crossover just to get a roomy interior. Take the 2017 Ford Edge, for instance. It'll fit your family of five with room to spare and still fit into your garage with ease. It also boasts the latest technology, a smooth ride and a wide range of engines. The 2017 Ford Edge is essentially unchanged from last year.
Pros Ride quality is smoother than many of its competitors Plenty of space for passengers and luggage Fuel-efficient and performance-oriented engines Many available tech and luxury features.
Cons Base engine may be too sluggish for some drivers Transmission is occasionally slow to react.
The 2017 Ford Edge skips third-row seats for better road manners, but it could stand a round of comfort and safety upgrades. Middle children don't always have it so rough. The Ford Edge was nothing a decade ago--it literally didn't exist until 2007. In just 10 years, it's become one of Ford's big hits, splitting the crossover lineup down the middle and giving well-heeled shoppers a way to spend almost fifty grand on a Ford that doesn't have a payload rating.
Pros Precise steering Focused Sport model Nicely detailed cabin Improved EcoBoost engine lineup
Cons No third-row seat Flat seat cushions Real-world mpg concerns
The 2017 Ford Edge ranks 6 out of 18 Midsize SUVs. The 2017 Ford Edge ranks near the top of our midsize SUV class because it has ample cabin room, high safety scores, and multiple powertrains that enable you to choose the model that best meets your needs.
Pros Sedanlike ride and handling Fuel-efficient base engine Strong engine lineup
Cons Some hard plastics detract from cabin appearance
