The 2017 Land Rover Discovery Sport ranks 13 out of 14 Luxury Compact SUVs. The 2017 Land Rover Discovery Sport is the most capable off-road vehicle in its class. It also has plenty of cargo space, and it's the only luxury compact SUV to offer a third row of seats. However, the engine feels a little weak, and it gets worse fuel economy than many competitors.
Pros Excellent off-road ability Ample cargo room Only SUV in the class available with a third row
Cons Underpowered engine Low fuel economy Low predicted reliability rating
Although it's not a working implement like the classic Land Rover Discovery, the quirky Discovery Sport has plenty of merits up against rivals in the entry-level luxury class. Anchoring the Land Rover lineup should be a cakewalk of a job, especially given that there is routinely a waiting list to order the brand's Range Rover models. But it hasn't always been that easy, which is why Land Rover started from scratch with its Discovery Sport.
Pros Comfortable, quiet ride Roomy interior for five Decently off-road capable Land Rover style inside and out
Cons Too softly styled for a Land Rover? Third-row seat is a tease Active safety features are optional Gets expensive fast
There are some new, noteworthy options for the 2017 Discovery Sport. A new interface known as InControl Touch Pro boasts a larger screen, better graphics and faster responses. The new Intelligent Dynamics pack includes an adaptive suspension and an active all-wheel-drive system that can power only two wheels for improved fuel economy. The new Dynamic Design package includes a variety of special interior and exterior design elements. A new low-speed, off-road cruise control system is also now standard.
Pros More passenger and cargo space than most competitors offer Above-average capabilities off-road and in bad weather conditions Available third-row seating is unique to the segment.
Cons Mediocre acceleration and fuel economy for the segment Only one engine choice Transmission is slow to downshift Cabin is well-made but less luxurious in appearance than rival
The 2017 Jeep Renegade is the smallest Jeep you can buy, appealing both to commuters and off-roaders, but its design can outshine its performance. The 2017 Jeep Renegade, the smallest crossover you can buy from Fiat Chrysler's fabled off-road brand, continues for its third model year with only minor changes. It's the smallest Jeep sold since the Willys Jeep launched as a post-war civilian vehicle, but it's a modern utility vehicle with features GIs never dreamed of. Trim levels for the little Renegade run from Sport through Latitude and Limited, and include the tougher off-road Trailhawk version as well.
Pros Genuine Jeep Mostly quiet Off-road ability if needed Neat design touches Clever removable roof
Cons Styling borders on cute Cramped rear seat Fuel economy so-so
The 2017 Jeep Renegade ranks 3 out of 12 Subcompact SUVs. The 2017 Jeep Renegade ranks high on our list of subcompact SUVs for its balanced on- and off-road performance – which is an exceedingly rare combination in any SUV, much less the subcompact SUV class – and its quality interior.
Pros Incredible off-road abilities Upscale cabin Lithe yet comfortable handling
Cons Very few standard features Poor fuel economy compared to rivals
The Jeep Renegade certainly isn't the first carlike Jeep, but it's the first one to prove that Jeep styling and playfulness can translate successfully to a subcompact crossover. It's rewarding to drive yet still practical. The 2017 Jeep Renegade essentially carries over from the previous year. Xenon headlights (delayed availability), automatic high beams, and keyless ignition and entry are new features this year.
Pros Lots of character with a classic Jeep look Agile handling when going around turns Plenty of easy-to-use technology features Best-in-class off-road capability with Trailhawk model
Cons Middling fuel economy Confused and clunky nine-speed automatic transmission Tight rear seat legroom for adults Limited cargo capacity compared to rivals Boxy shape makes for lots of wind noise on the highway.
