The 2018 Fiat 500X finishes in the bottom third of our subcompact SUV rankings. Despite its bold styling, this Fiat is less exciting and less practical than many crossover rivals.
Pros User-friendly infotainment system Upscale interior styling
Cons Shorter warranty than many competitors Very small cargo area Jittery ride quality Bland engines and clunky automatic transmission
The 2018 Fiat 500X comes with more built-in personality than most other small SUVs, though it’s an urban warrior rather than an off-roader.
Pros Neat, tidy lines and proportions Ride, handling above average More character than most small utilities
Cons Automatic transmission can be touchy Sunroof hurts rear head room Far from an off-roader
The Ford EcoSport looks to be a worthwhile offering in the subcompact segment.Although the Ford EcoSport is just now arriving in the United States, the automaker was actually one of the first to get in on the pint-size crossover game.
Pros Cheeky style Clean-looking interior Choice of powertrains Tailgate door could be useful
Cons No AWD with 3-cylinder Has been on sale globally for a long time Tailgate may also be inconvenien
The EcoSport truly embraces the tiny ethos. It’s 16.8 inches shorter in length than an Escape and rides on a 6.7-inch-shorter wheelbase. Even within its competitive set—which includes the Jeep Renegade, the Honda HR-V, and the Chevrolet Trax, among others—the EcoSport is the runt of the litter. The Ford’s wheelbase is the shortest of the group, and most of its competitors are at least a half-foot longer overall.
Pros User-friendly tech, park it anywhere, all-wheel drive is available.
Cons Tight back seat, modest power, drinks gas like a bigger SUV.
Pros Cute-ute styling fits with Ford showroom Very nice interior materials Lots of headroom Large cargo area with seats folded Sync3, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto available Sync3, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto available
Cons Side-hinged rear swing gate not good for urban parking Unknown horsepower figures Lesser trim models won’t have 8-inch screen Cargo room is tight with seats up Unknown fuel economy ratings
