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 2020 MINI Cooper Countryman's #4 ranking is based on its score within the Subcompact SUVs category. Currently the MINI Cooper Countryman has a score of 7.8 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 29 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Upscale cabin Robust optional engines Athletic handling
Cons Meager base engine Below-average cargo space
The 2020 Mini Countryman packs British charm and driving fun in a high-quality package that’s priced like a true luxury crossover SUV.
Pros Attractive styling Premium quality Room for passengers and cargo Active safety now standard More powerful JCW
Cons Gets very expensive, very fast Overmatched base engine Strange packaging decisions Plug-in hybrid range still lacking
For the 2020 model year, the Mini Cooper Countryman JCW gets a new engine that generates 301 horsepower. This powerplant offers significantly more muscle than the outgoing 228-hp engine. Also, the six-speed manual transmission has been discontinued; an eight-speed automatic with paddle shifters is the sole transmission.
Pros Athletic performance, snazzy sheetmetal, premium cabin.
Cons Provides less cargo space than some rivals, no Android Auto, not available with blind-spot monitoring.
