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.
The official line is that the Mokka is a traditional SUV, with butch looks and the option of four-wheel drive, whereas the Crossland X is intended to be a more family-friendly choice. To that end, all versions are front-wheel drive, which means there isn’t a driveshaft to the rear that robs the interior of usable space. The Crossland X also has deeper side windows than the Mokka to help create an airier feel inside, and it has smaller wheels, which have the potential to improve space, ride comfort and fuel efficiency.
The Vauxhall Crossland X is practical and comfortable, but it’s let down by an underwhelming driving experience.
Pros Spacious and comfortable Eager 1.2-litre petrol engine Plenty of standard safety kit
Cons Is it a genuine SUV? Steering too sensitive Wind noise at speed
Crossland X is not at all, an off-roader and is aimed, quite simply, at two markets: one is the young family and the other is the older couple whose children have left home and who might want to downsize to a sensible, smaller, yet still practical vehicle.
Pros Sensible and practical family car A range of customisation options Large choice of engines
Cons Tough competition, but will come out fighting
