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 2019 Lexus RX Hybrid ranked #10 in Luxury Midsize SUVs. Currently the Lexus RX Hybrid has a score of 8.4 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 23 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Posh interior Comfortable, roomy seats Good gas mileage Smooth ride
Cons Exasperating infotainment system Subpar cargo capacity
Integration with Lexus Enform Connect smartphone app.The 2019 Lexus RX 450hL comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: continuously variable-speed automatic.
PROS Impeccable cabin finished with top-quality materials and construction Advanced safety features come standard Excellent fuel economy for a luxury crossover Wide cargo bay makes it easy to load luggage and groceries
CONS Third-row space is tight for anyone other than small kids Less overall cargo capacity than competitors Optional tech interface is distracting to use
The RX 450h hybrid has a lower output V-6 with battery assistance and motors that power the rear wheels for standard all-wheel drive. The RX is more intriguing on a curvy road than before, but still can’t quite hang with more sprightly competition.
Pros Bold, brash design Good acceleration Safety record Comfortable ride Hybrid’s thrift
Cons Polarizing design Price escalates Head-scratching F-Sport Laughable third row option
