Although based on an existing design, the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is an all-new plug-in hybrid vehicle.We think it's worth springing for the GT trim once you figure in a standard federal tax rebate for plug-in hybrid vehicles.
PROS Delivers plug-in SUV utility without luxury SUV price Offers a generous list of standard features Sophisticated all-wheel drive offers stability on slippery surfaces Generous warranty coverage
CONS Limited Mitsubishi dealer network Lower ground clearance hinders off-road ability Regular fuel economy is underwhelming Small gas tank limits overall range
Mitsubishi’s technology flagship, the Outlander plug-in hybrid, has arrived in the United States nearly five years after it was originally due. The vehicle itself might look rather dated (as does the rest of the Outlander lineup), but the technology within is most definitely not.
Pros Drives electric (mostly), speedy fast charging, two AC outlets comfortable ride, quiet cabin.
Cons Antiquated design, queasy on the back roads, cheap-feeling cabin materials, off-canter engine revs.
The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a roomy SUV that’s very economical for short journeys if you can plug it in to charge the battery – it’s just a shame it looks a bit drab and doesn’t drive that well
Pros Cheap to run on short journeys Quiet around town Roomy back seats
Cons Terrible infotainment system Unsettled on bumpy roads Drab interior
BMW has rearranged the X1’s lineup for 2018 and now offers five distinct trims—base, Convenience, M Sport, Premium, and M Sport Premium—each with more features than the last. Only a few features are still offered as standalone options on non-Premium trims, including front and rear parking sensors ($800), LED headlamps ($950), Navigation ($950), and heated seats and steering wheel ($550). Some new features join the party for 2018; a backup camera is now standard, as is BMW’s ConnectedDrive in-car concierge service. Apple CarPlay is now optional ($300) as is onboard Wi-Fi with wireless device charging ($500). A new color—Sunset Orange Metallic—replaces Chestnut Bronze.
Pros Sweetheart engine and transmission, athletic chassis, capacious cargo hold.
Cons Unsupportive standard seats, slow infotainment system, subtle exterior styling.
The 2018 BMW X1 is a compelling crossover pick for a budget BMW buyer who can’t do without a roundel.
pros Subtle but good looks Responsive turbo-4 Good 8-speed automatic Relatively good value in base guise Spacious cargo area
Cons Options add up quickly Front seats aren’t the best seats Pricey advanced safety package No manual transmission?
The 2018 BMW X1 is a five-seat compact SUV in the luxury segment. It comes in two versions: the front-wheel-drive X1 sDrive28i and the all-wheel-drive X1 xDrive28i. From there, you have two directions to go: xLine Design or the sportier M Sport Design. After that, you can add various option groups that BMW calls tiers. The M Sport Design already comes with the Convenience group, which is optional on the xLine Design. Afterward, packages and stand-alone options are available based on which initial design and group you select.
PROS Strong and responsive turbo engine Sharp handling makes it fun to drive Plenty of rear passenger and cargo room High-quality materials and fit-and-finish
CONS Not particularly quiet on the highway Standard sport suspension may be jarring on rough roads
