The 2018 Kia Sorento ranked #2 in Midsize SUVs. Currently the Kia Sorento has a score of 8.6 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 26 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Spacious interior with high-quality materials User-friendly infotainment system and controls Above-average fuel economy from four-cylinder engines Quiet, comfortable ride
Cons Less cargo space than most
If you’re looking for a capable, convenient, and comfortable two- or three-row-crossover conveyance, the Kia Sorento is a solid choice. Once you’ve settled on the Sorento, however, the choices don’t end there. Seating for either five or seven, three engines, and both front- and all-wheel-drive variants mean there’s a Sorento for every taste.
Pros Competent road manners, Competent road manners, attractive packaging.
Cons Limited third-row access, lifeless steering, pricey.
The 2018 Kia Sorento ticks all the crossover-SUV boxes, especially in turbo-4 form.
Pros Upscale feel Cabin is solid, quiet Turbo-4’s responsive tune Well-controlled ride
Cons Second-row seats need more support Turbo-4? No third row Third-row seat has slim space
The 2017 Escape gets revised exterior styling, some minor interior improvements, a newly available 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a modified 2.0-liter engine with a bit more power. Models with Sync 3 also provide an ownership app (FordPass with Sync Connect) and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. Safety features now include lane departure prevention, a drowsy driver warning system, and adaptive cruise control with forward collision alert.
Pros Optional 2.0-liter turbocharged engine accelerates quickly New tech interface features advanced voice control, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto Steering and handling feel more like that of a car than SUV More room for small stuff, and more power plugs
Cons New base engine lacks punch Dashboard design looks dated with many small, similar-looking buttons Base-model S trim available only with older, less efficient 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine
The 2017 Ford Escape ranks 4 out of 18 Compact SUVs. The 2017 Ford Escape has a solid ranking in the top third of the very competitive compact SUV class. A well-balanced ride, an upscale interior, potent optional engines, and a long list of available features help the Escape outperform many rivals.
Pros Quality interior Lots of cool, user-friendly tech features Nimble handling Peppy and fuel-efficient turbocharged engine options
Cons Below-average fuel economy with base engine
Strategically updated for 2017, the Ford Escape becomes an even more attractive alternative in the popular compact-SUV segment that includes the Honda CR-V, Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson, Mazda CX-5, Mitsubishi Outlander Sport and Toyota RAV4. Tasteful but effective exterior restyling enhances the Escape’s curb appeal while a comprehensive remake of its roomy, comfortable 5-passenger cabin elevates both visual sophistication and user-friendliness. Available in S/SE/Titanium trims and front- or all-wheel drive, the 2017 Escape also introduces a host of advanced tech touches including Ford’s Sync 3 infotainment system with Sync Connect along with support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. This versatile Ford offers three engines -- including two new, more powerful and more efficient EcoBoost 4-cylinders -- that help the Escape retain its best-in-class tow ratings.
Pros Buyers in the market for a stylish compact SUV that’s roomy, comfortable and capable with state-of-the-art infotainment features and class-leading tow ratings will find an ideal travel mate in the 2017 Escape.
Cons Save for personal styling preferences, there’s not a great deal to ding in this latest iteration of the Escape. The Mazda CX-5 has more sporting character and the Honda CR-V offers marginally more cargo space, but Ford’s highly adaptable hauler makes an impressive case for itself on every functional front.
