The 2019 Subaru Outback makes a sensible crossover SUV alternative.
Pros Like a crossover SUV, but better No shortage of safety gear Spacious, refined interior Rides and handles well Better off-road than many SUVs
Cons 6-cylinder engine guzzles fuel… … but 4-cylinder can feel pokey Starting to show its age here and there Touring needs roof rack cross bars
The 2019 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 42 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Standard all-wheel drive Roomy seats and great visibility Class-leading amount of cargo space Impressive set of standard tech and safety features
Cons Acceleration is slow with the base engine Throttle for base engine is overly sensitive at times
The 2019 Subaru Outback is both wagon and SUV. It has the profile of a wagon, yet its traction-enhancing all-wheel-drive system and extra ground clearance make it more capable off-road than most other SUVs. Like other modern Subarus, it's also packed with the latest safety features.Subaru's EyeSight driver assist suite is now standard on all Outbacks.Base 2.5i trim gets additional USB ports.
PROS Spacious and comfortable cabin Roof and cargo-loading heights are lower than those of most SUVs Excellent visibility in all directions Off-road ability is above average
CONS Acceleration is lackluster, especially with four-cylinder engine Sensitive gas pedal at low speeds Modest handling capabilities
The big news for the 2021 Wrangler is the introduction of two new powertrains: The plug-in hybrid 4xe and the fire-breathing, 470-hp V-8 in the new Rubicon 392. The electrified setup pairs a turbocharged four-cylinder with an electric motor for a stout 375-hp combined output. In addition to the extra electric power, the 4xe powertrain is also set to deliver up to 25 miles of electric-only driving and a claimed zero-to-60-mph time of 6.0 seconds. The 4xe system will be available only on four-door Unlimited models, and the battery pack's positioning under the rear seat allows the plug-in Wrangler to retain the same ground clearance and capability as nonhybrid models.
PROS Iconic design, legendary off-road capability, removable doors and roof.
CONS Snug passenger space, noisy cabin when cruising, rougher ride than more carlike rivals.
The 2021 Jeep Wrangler comes with New Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid version; new Islander and 80th Anniversary special editions,Optional forward-facing camera for off-roading,Available full-time four-wheel drive for Rubicon and Rubicon 392 introduced with a 470-horsepower V8.
PROS Unrelentingly capable off-road Extensive customization options Available diesel engine Removable top and doors
CONS Steering is slow and feels loose, especially on the Rubicon trim Lots of wind and tire noise at highway speeds Less cargo space than some conventional SUVs
The 2021 Jeep Wrangler's #13 ranking is based on its score within the Compact SUVs category.Plug-in-hybrid Wrangler 4xe joins the lineup and forward-facing off-road camera is available.
PROS Incredible off-road ability User-friendly infotainment system Spacious seats Potent turbocharged engine available
CONS Lowest-possible predicted reliability rating Poor gas mileage Rougher ride than many competitors Subpar safety score
