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 2020 Ford Escape's #7 ranking is based on its score within the Compact SUVs category. Currently the Ford Escape has a score of 7.9 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 20 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Optional infotainment system is user-friendly Lots of standard driver assistance features Two rows of adult-friendly seats Adept handling and comfortable ride
Cons Unimpressive interior materials Eight-speed transmission sometimes hunts for the correct gear
The 2020 Ford Escape takes a more refined tack, and brings its hybrid edition back into vogue.
Pros Three powertrain choices Shapely exterior Good standard safety gear Sliding second-row seat Hybrid priced below $30k
Cons Smaller than big rivals Interior trim needs an upgrade Top model? Top dollar Seats lack support
The 2020 Ford Escape comes with all wheel drive, and front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic, 8-speed automatic.The Ford Escape is fully redesigned.Hybrid version is back after a prolonged absence.Improved power and acceleration.
Pros Updated style and interior design Powertrain options range from sporty performance to efficient hybrid Sliding second-row seats improve passenger room and cargo utility
Cons Sleek, new rear liftgate design compromises some cargo capacity