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
The 2017 Infiniti QX60 has a rich look and excellent interior space, but it doesn't deliver the driving polish that it should. Infiniti was fairly early to the three-row luxury crossover game with its JX, which has been continuously updated—and renamed—to become the 2017 QX60. Sharing its underpinnings with the Nissan Pathfinder, the QX60, like its less-luxurious counterpart, offers front- or all-wheel drive and a hybrid variant.
Pros Elegant styling Excellent third-row access Comfortable for a family Rear Collision Intervention safety system
Cons Less polished on road than it should be Infotainment lags rivals Costly, ineffective hybrid
The 2017 Infiniti QX60 ranks 20 out of 22 Luxury Midsize SUVs. The 2017 Infiniti QX60 is the blue light special for luxury midsize 3-row SUVs, delivering a pretty good package for less money than most. It has great safety scores, an inviting list of included and optional amenities, and one of the most agreeable third-row seats you can find. But uninspiring performance and a few other hiccups cut into the QX60’s overall appeal.
Pros Easy-to-use infotainment system Adult-friendly third-row seats Outstanding fuel economy
Cons Steering feels vague
For 2017, the QX60 receives a revised engine with more power with no reduction in fuel efficiency. A larger multimedia screen, a hands-free liftgate and automatic high beams are now available.
Pros Quiet, comfortable cabin makes for a soothing ride Easy access to third-row seats Smooth transmission operation adds to luxurious feel Plush ride quality that makes long trips enjoyable
Cons Not as sporty as some other large luxury SUVs Desirable features are all extra and bundled into packages Off-road capability not part of its formula Tight third-row legroom for adults