Unless you really need three rows of seats, the 2018 Subaru Outback is the sensible SUV alternative.
Pros Swiss Army knife utility More refined than ever Lots of safety tech Comfortable, roomy interior Good ride and handling
Cons Optional 6-cylinder is thirsty Short on high-end luxuries No EyeSight on base Outback Touring’s roof rack lacks cross bars
The 2018 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 41 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Standard all-wheel drive Spacious seats Lots of cargo space
Cons Unimpressive base engine
The 2018 Subaru Outback receives a variety of changes. On the outside, the grille and front and rear fascias have been updated for a more aggressive look, and there are new headlights that feature LED daytime running lights. A new side mirror design reduces interior cabin noise. On the inside, the Outback features a new infotainment system that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a new center console and steering wheel design. Premium and higher trims receive contrast stitching on the doors, seats and dash.
PROS A more spacious and comfortable cabin than those of many rivals Roof and cargo-loading heights are lower than those of most SUVs Excellent visibility in all directions Off-road ability is above average
CONS Gas and brake pedal feel make it hard to drive four-cylinder smoothly Acceleration is lackluster, especially with four-cylinder engine
The 2018 Mazda CX-5 ranked #2 in Compact SUVs. Currently the Mazda CX-5 has a score of 8.7 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 27 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Excellent handling Comfortable, supportive seats Upscale interior
Cons Cumbersome infotainment system Unimpressive cargo capacity
As long as cargo space isn’t your main reason for buying a compact crossover, the 2018 Mazda CX-5 is an excellent, fun-to-drive choice.
Pros Attractive styling inside and out Poised chassis, communicative steering Engine changes bode well for mpg Good value, especially considering high spec level Rear seats fold flat
Cons Frustrating infotainment setup Light cargo volume Short on refinement
The 2018 Mazda CX-5 largely carries over from the previous model year, when it was extensively redesigned. New for 2018 are such standard features as a leather-wrapped steering wheel and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Also new is cylinder-deactivation technology intended to improve fuel economy slightly. The 2.5-liter engine automatically shuts down the two outside cylinders at cruising speeds to maximize efficiency. Last year's Grand Select trim level has been discontinued for 2018.
PROS Keen handling and steering make the CX-5 enjoyable to drive Attractive and upscale cabin for a premium ownership experience Stays quiet at highway speeds
CONS Not as powerful as some rivals