No small city car has as much charm or is as much fun to drive as the 2021 Mini Cooper.
Pros Adorbs Quirky fun interior Fun to drive Customization comes easy Manual is back
Cons Cramped cargo area Cramped rear seats Dwarfed by other cars Can be kitschy Can be expensive
The 2021 MINI Cooper's #5 ranking is based on its score within the Subcompact Cars category. Currently the MINI Cooper has a score of 7.7 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 36 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Nimble handling Energetic engines Stylish cabin Good predicted reliability rating
Cons Significantly more expensive than its classmates Below-average cargo capacity Worse fuel economy than rivals
Manual-transmission Minis took a hiatus recently, but the six-speed stick is once again available for 2021 Cooper and Cooper S models, including the three- and five-door Hardtop models in addition to the convertible.
Pros Fun handling, distinctive design, lots of customization possibilities.
Cons Cramped interior, costly options, uncomfortable ride.
The 2019 Subaru Outback makes a sensible crossover SUV alternative.
Pros Like a crossover SUV, but better No shortage of safety gear Spacious, refined interior Rides and handles well Better off-road than many SUVs
Cons 6-cylinder engine guzzles fuel… … but 4-cylinder can feel pokey Starting to show its age here and there Touring needs roof rack cross bars
The 2019 Subaru Outback ranked #3 in Wagons. Currently the Subaru Outback has a score of 8.4 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 42 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Standard all-wheel drive Roomy seats and great visibility Class-leading amount of cargo space Impressive set of standard tech and safety features
Cons Acceleration is slow with the base engine Throttle for base engine is overly sensitive at times
The 2019 Subaru Outback is both wagon and SUV. It has the profile of a wagon, yet its traction-enhancing all-wheel-drive system and extra ground clearance make it more capable off-road than most other SUVs. Like other modern Subarus, it's also packed with the latest safety features.Subaru's EyeSight driver assist suite is now standard on all Outbacks.Base 2.5i trim gets additional USB ports.
PROS Spacious and comfortable cabin Roof and cargo-loading heights are lower than those of most SUVs Excellent visibility in all directions Off-road ability is above average
CONS Acceleration is lackluster, especially with four-cylinder engine Sensitive gas pedal at low speeds Modest handling capabilities