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 Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace looks to be better aligned with the demands of American buyers than its pricey, cramped predecessor.
Pros More aligned with buyer tastes? Clean styling inside and out High-tech dashboard Lots of available safety tech
Cons Will it be underpowered? Awfully small for a three-row crossover Third row required for FWD Looks are too conservative for some
The 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan ranked #8 in Compact SUVs. Currently the Volkswagen Tiguan has a score of 8.2 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 26 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Lots of user-friendly tech features Good cargo space Smooth ride Roomy first- and second-row seats
Cons Postage-stamp third row Unimpressive engine Subpar fuel economy
The Volkswagen Tiguan is fully redesigned for 2018. Compared to its predecessor, it offers more legroom, more cargo space and a standard third row.
PROS Lots of space for passengers and cargo Third-row seating can be useful in a pinch Now offers comprehensive driver safety features Revised tech interface is sharp, intuitive and quick to respond
CONS Optional larger wheels make for a bumpy ride Still ranks low in fuel economy, despite revised engine
