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 Dodge Durango ranked #8 in Midsize SUVs. Currently the Dodge Durango has a score of 8.4 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 58 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Brawny optional V8 engines Intuitive infotainment system Above-average cargo capacity
Cons Slightly below-average safety scores Pricey upper trims
The 2018 Dodge Durango gets a high-performance SRT model, an updated infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, a new steering wheel with paddle shifters, and two new exterior colors: B5 Blue and In Violet Metallic. All models get a 7.0-inch touchscreen and rearview camera as standard equipment.
Pros Powerful engines Comfortable ride Roomy interior with a usable third row
Cons Not very efficient Active safety features not standard Gets expensive with options
The new Durango SRT is powered by a 475-hp, 6.4-liter V-8 engine that can accelerate the SUV to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds and through the quarter-mile in 12.9 seconds. Maximum towing capacity for the Durango SRT is 8,600 pounds.
Pros SRT model's quickness Stylish interior design Comfortable, supportive front seats 8.4-inch touchscreen available 8,600-pound maximum towing capacity (SRT)
Cons Hefty curb weight Second row doesn't slide fore or aft No physical buttons for available heated front seats