The 2018 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid ranked #8 in Compact SUVs. Currently the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has a score of 8.3 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 25 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Terrific mpg ratings Lots of cargo space Comfortable, spacious seats Lots of standard driver assistance features
Cons Uninspiring cabin materials Lower safety ratings than some rivals
The Hybrid can now be had in a new LE base trim level, further lowering its point of entry. The SE also gains 0.4 inch of ground clearance.
PROS Great fuel economy for a compact crossover Small price premium over standard RAV4 One of the biggest, more useful cargo areas of any compact crossover Advanced safety and driver aids come standard
CONS Real leather seating is not available Noticeable shudder when gas engine kicks in Less useful interior storage as well Interior more utilitarian in look and feel than those of competitors
Its angled headlamps and sharply creased bodywork give the RAV4 an assertive presence, but don’t be fooled—under the skin, it’s a practical, comfortable, and easygoing ute. A 176-hp 2.5-liter four and a six-speed automatic are standard with either front- or all-wheel drive. The all-wheel-drive hybrid returned 31 mpg in our testing. A 6.1-inch infotainment system is standard on LE, SE, and XLE trims; Limited models get a 7.0-inch unit. An all-new RAV4 hits showrooms before the end of 2018.
Pros Standard active-safety features, supremely practical, impressive towing ability.
Cons Subpar fuel economy, inferior infotainment, all-new model is imminent.
The subcompact crossover SUV class is gaining in popularity and the latest entrant, the 2018 Hyundai Kona, has a lot of potential to take the lead. Its exterior style may be somewhat polarizing, but it drives better than the competition. It also delivers a lot for the money and checks all of the boxes that shoppers want in this type of vehicle. PROS Optional turbocharged engine provides quick acceleration Nimble handling makes it enjoyable to drive Lots of features for your money
CONS Weak base engine
The 2018 Hyundai Kona ranked #1 in Subcompact SUVs. Currently the Hyundai Kona has a score of 8.8 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 14 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Agile handling Potent available turbo-four engine Intuitive infotainment system
Cons Lower maximum cargo capacity than rivals Uninspiring base engine
With its quirky styling, the Kona is set to perk up some fun. Choose from a 147-hp 2.0-liter inline-four with a six-speed automatic transmission or a 175-hp turbo 1.6-liter inline-four with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive is optional with both engines.
Pros Tight build and rattle-free cabin, well-tuned dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Cons Some interior plastics not up to par, penalty-box rear seat.
