From the B-pillar forward, the XC60 could be mistaken for the bigger SUV. The upright fascia houses a similar grille, flanked by high-mounted headlights adorned with Volvo’s Thor’s Hammer sideways-T LED light graphic. The transverse-engine XC60 self-consciously sucks in its front overhang, and the hood traces a relatively straight line to the base of the windshield.
Pros Classy looks inside and out, roomier rear seat, improved handling, lots of standard equipment.
Cons Nervous steering, no front-drive model at launch.
The 2018 Volvo XC60 ranked #7 in Luxury Compact SUVs. Currently the Volvo XC60 has a score of 8.3 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 17 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Impressive list of standard and available safety features Smooth, comfortable ride Outstanding towing rating Generous overall cargo area
Cons Enthusiast drivers should look elsewhere Low predicted reliability
With the new 2018 XC60, Volvo has cached all the XC90’s good data, and trimmed some fat from its code.
Pros Superlative safety equipment Interior is achingly on-trend Eager turbo-4 performance Excellent packaging Plug-in hybrid option
Cons Exterior’s a little me-too Lifeless steering in most modes Hefty in most editions
There’s a lot to like about the sharp-handling, attractive 2018 Kia Sportage, even if its fuel economy doesn’t impress.
Pros Distinctive styling Great ride and handling Optional turbo power Quality feel inside Stellar infotainment
Cons Lousy fuel economy Styling not for everyone So-so visibility Limited configurability
The 2018 Kia Sportage ranked #4 in Compact SUVs. Currently the Kia Sportage has a score of 8.6 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 22 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Premium interior Two rows of spacious seats Agile handling and smooth ride Excellent warranty and predicted reliability rating
Cons Unimpressive engines Below-average fuel economy Smaller cargo hold than rivals
The Sportage stands pat with its unmistakable front-end styling and steadfast powertrain duo for 2018. Instead of changing those, Kia has extended some of its active safety features to lower trims, upgraded several standard features, and reshuffled the contents of option packages.
Pros Audi-like interior, long list of features, speedy turbo engine.
Cons Poor fuel economy, limited cargo space, love-it-or-hate-it styling.