There’s a lot to like about the sharp-handling, attractive 2018 Kia Sportage, even if its fuel economy doesn’t impress.
Pros Distinctive styling Great ride and handling Optional turbo power Quality feel inside Stellar infotainment
Cons Lousy fuel economy Styling not for everyone So-so visibility Limited configurability
The 2018 Kia Sportage ranked #4 in Compact SUVs. Currently the Kia Sportage has a score of 8.6 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 22 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Premium interior Two rows of spacious seats Agile handling and smooth ride Excellent warranty and predicted reliability rating
Cons Unimpressive engines Below-average fuel economy Smaller cargo hold than rivals
The Sportage stands pat with its unmistakable front-end styling and steadfast powertrain duo for 2018. Instead of changing those, Kia has extended some of its active safety features to lower trims, upgraded several standard features, and reshuffled the contents of option packages.
Pros Audi-like interior, long list of features, speedy turbo engine.
Cons Poor fuel economy, limited cargo space, love-it-or-hate-it styling.
The 2018 BMW X4 ranked #10 in Luxury Compact SUVs. Currently the BMW X4 has a score of 8.0 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 19 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Powerful engines Agile handling Standard all-wheel drive User-friendly infotainment system
Cons Small rear seats Poor cargo capacity
The 2018 BMW X4 xDrive28i is already a potent little performer and will satisfy the majority of drivers. Almost all of the features from the range-topping M40i are available as options, so you won't be missing much other than the overabundance of power.
PROS Powerful yet efficient engine choices Interior quality well represents the luxury class Ride quality is smooth yet handling is sporty
CONS Rearward visibility is compromised Cargo capacity is much smaller than rivals Limited rear-seat space
The 2018 BMW X4 takes today’s trend toward swoopier SUVs and packages it with a roundel up front. It’s entertaining and a looker, but not all that practical.
Pros Compelling shape Exciting performance from M40i Well-equipped at base trim level Excellent 8-speed automatic
Cons Pricey at more than $48,000 to start $2,000 for CarPlay? Really? Rear seat head room is compromised Cargo area is oddly shaped
