The Niro isn't our favorite car to drive, but it's perfect for drivers who care as much about fuel efficiency as they do about their budget.
Pros Efficiently rated up to 52 mpg, affordable, practicality of a crossover.
Cons Some trims lack basic amenities, uninspiring performance, plug-in hybrid has limited EV range.
The 2020 Kia Niro's #5 ranking is based on its score within the Hybrid and Electric SUVs category. It was a finalist for our 2020 Best Hybrid or Electric SUV for the Money award. Currently the Kia Niro has a score of 7.7 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 16 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Excellent fuel economy Spacious interior when compared with subcompact SUVs Intuitive infotainment system
Cons Not available with all-wheel drive Interior not as upscale as rivals’ Unimpressive acceleration
The 2020 Kia Niro is a compelling eco-friendly car for those opposed to Prius-like looks.
Pros Oh so frugal Comfortable, roomy interior Excellent value SUV-ish looks
Cons No AWD option Light on thrills High-trim version uses more fuel Automatic emergency braking should be standard
A blind-spot monitor and auto-dimming exterior mirrors are now standard.Part of the first NX generation, originally introduced for 2015 as the NX 200t.
PROS Cabin is very quiet at highway speeds Supremely comfortable ride and seats Lots of standard high-tech safety features
CONS Remote Touchpad interface is frustrating to use Limited cargo volume Not much fun to drive
The 2021 Lexus NX's #7 ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Compact SUVs category. Currently the Lexus NX has a score of 7.6 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 31 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.The 2021 Lexus NX 300 ranks in the lower half of the luxury compact SUV class.
Pros Roomy seating Smooth, quiet ride Many standard safety features Great predicted reliability rating
Cons Frustrating infotainment controls Relatively small cargo area
Even though the subcompact NX is on the far side of the age curve, Lexus hasn't made any major changes to it for 2021. Blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is now standard, as are power-folding exterior mirrors with an auto-dimming function. Inside, Lexus has tweaked the NX's steering wheel and tachometer designs. Opting for the upgraded Mark Levinson stereo system now includes a Mark Levinson-branded amplifier. And a new color joins the options sheet: Nori Green Pearl.
Pros Chiseled styling, proper SUV seating height, spacious interior.
Cons Fussy infotainment controller, middle-of-the-pack acceleration, starting to show its age.
