Unless you really need three rows of seats, the 2018 Subaru Outback is the sensible SUV alternative.
Pros Swiss Army knife utility More refined than ever Lots of safety tech Comfortable, roomy interior Good ride and handling
Cons Optional 6-cylinder is thirsty Short on high-end luxuries No EyeSight on base Outback Touring’s roof rack lacks cross bars
The 2018 Subaru Outback ranked #3 in Wagons. Currently the Subaru Outback has a score of 8.4 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 41 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Standard all-wheel drive Spacious seats Lots of cargo space
Cons Unimpressive base engine
The 2018 Subaru Outback receives a variety of changes. On the outside, the grille and front and rear fascias have been updated for a more aggressive look, and there are new headlights that feature LED daytime running lights. A new side mirror design reduces interior cabin noise. On the inside, the Outback features a new infotainment system that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a new center console and steering wheel design. Premium and higher trims receive contrast stitching on the doors, seats and dash.
PROS A more spacious and comfortable cabin than those of many rivals Roof and cargo-loading heights are lower than those of most SUVs Excellent visibility in all directions Off-road ability is above average
CONS Gas and brake pedal feel make it hard to drive four-cylinder smoothly Acceleration is lackluster, especially with four-cylinder engine
The entire Edge lineup receives new wheel designs, and two new gray colors join the palette. All models also receive acoustic-laminated glass on the front side windows for extra sound deadening as well as standard rear parking sensors. The infotainment system gets upgraded to the Sync 4 interface and gains a 12-inch display. The top-level ST model adds a six-way power-adjustable passenger's seat and a heated steering wheel as standard.
Pros Accommodating interior, smooth and quiet ride, well-equipped even at the base level.
Cons Cabin fit-and-finish needs polish, nondescript handling, rival SUVs look and feel fresher.
For 2021 New 12-inch touchscreen replaces previous 8-inch screen.Ford's upgraded Sync 4 infotainment system now standard,Reverse parking sensors added to all trims.New seven-speed transmission for Edge ST.
Pros Plush, well-padded seats Plenty of space for passengers and luggage Fuel-efficient and performance-oriented engines Quiet cabin at highway speeds
Cons Interior design and control layout are dated and bland Visibility hampered by thick roof pillars and blind spots Transmission responses are a little slow Rides uncomfortably over small bumps and dips
The 2021 Ford Edge's #11 ranking is based on its score within the Midsize SUVs category. It is a finalist for our 2021 Best 2-Row SUV for Families award. Currently the Ford Edge has a score of 8.0 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 46 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Energetic turbocharged engine choices Many standard safety features Spacious interior
Cons Subpar cabin materials Poor rear and side visibility
