The 2018 Ford Edge has an eager feel and crisp design; safety scores and Sport ride quality give pause.The Edge satisfies more than a few needs. It’s sleeker than the truck-infused Expedition, even the Explorer. It’s more spacious than the Escape. It’s also devoid of any off-road pretense, any faux-SUV ruggedness.
Pros Quick steering Cabin’s muted details Wide range of engines Composed ride on small-tire models Edge Sport lives up to name
Cons Seats are a big letdown Real-world fuel economy Stiff Sport ride
The Ford Endura is Ford Australia’s first large soft-road SUV since it stopped producing the Territory. It is powered by a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel that’s both powerful and relatively economical. It is good to steer, with polished cornering manners for a large SUV. There are front-drive and all-wheel-drive versions, and auto-braking is standard.
Pros Punchy engine; roadholding, cabin space, standard features.
Cons Dated dashboard, no petrol option.
Many Australians sorely miss the locally built Ford Territory. We’ve had our first local drive of the imported Endura to discover whether that large-SUV product gap has been adequately filled…
Pros Spacious rear seat and big boot Good steering Ride comfort and secure handling on country roads Smooth and quiet turbo diesel Lots of technology/features from entry model upwards
Cons No third-row seating despite vehicle’s size Performance only adequate Urban ride quality still an unknown Cabin presentation a bit underwhelming $4000 charge for AWD
The 2018 BMW X4 ranked #10 in Luxury Compact SUVs. Currently the BMW X4 has a score of 8.0 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 19 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Powerful engines Agile handling Standard all-wheel drive User-friendly infotainment system
Cons Small rear seats Poor cargo capacity
The 2018 BMW X4 xDrive28i is already a potent little performer and will satisfy the majority of drivers. Almost all of the features from the range-topping M40i are available as options, so you won't be missing much other than the overabundance of power.
PROS Powerful yet efficient engine choices Interior quality well represents the luxury class Ride quality is smooth yet handling is sporty
CONS Rearward visibility is compromised Cargo capacity is much smaller than rivals Limited rear-seat space
The 2018 BMW X4 takes today’s trend toward swoopier SUVs and packages it with a roundel up front. It’s entertaining and a looker, but not all that practical.
Pros Compelling shape Exciting performance from M40i Well-equipped at base trim level Excellent 8-speed automatic
Cons Pricey at more than $48,000 to start $2,000 for CarPlay? Really? Rear seat head room is compromised Cargo area is oddly shaped
