We're torn between the EX and the EX-L. The latter has desirable luxury features such as leather upholstery, a programmable power liftgate and a premium audio system. We liked it enough to buy one for our long-term test fleet.
PROS Turbocharged engine delivers a rare combination of thrift and zest Roomy interior with cavernous cargo capacity for this class Rides comfortably yet handles corners athletically Plentiful and thoughtful storage areas
CONS Optional navigation system isn't as reliable as expected Base LX's engine is weaker and thirstier than the turbo Touchscreen can be finicky to use and lacks a separate tuning knob
The 2018 Honda CR-V ranked #1 in Compact SUVs. Currently the Honda CR-V has a score of 8.8 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 30 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Cavernous cargo area High-quality cabin Supple ride Good crash test scores
Cons Few standard features
The 2018 Honda CR-V may be light on personality, but this compact crossover checks off every other box. It’s a very smart choice.
Pros Does nearly everything right Exceptionally roomy interior Good value Lots of safety gear Upscale feel
Cons Odd styling LX lacks important features Hardly fun to drive No high-performance version, if that matters
The 2018 Lexus GX ranked #21 in Luxury Midsize SUVs. Currently the Lexus GX has a score of 7.3 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 40 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Outstanding off-road capability Good towing capacity
Cons Poor fuel economy Unexceptional cabin comfort and features Small, inconvenient cargo area Weak acceleration
There are only a few minor changes in available features for the 2018 Lexus GX 460.If you're seriously considering the GX 460, you probably want to venture off-road in it. But if that's the case, you'll want the added ground clearance the Luxury trim's adaptive air suspension provides. Without it, the GX 460's ground clearance is worse than some crossovers.
PROS Impressive off-road capability in a segment largely without it High view out Easy-to-use interior controls
CONS Rough ride on broken pavement Poor fuel economy and acceleration Seats are uncomfortable Compromised cargo space and third-row seat
The Lexus GX 460 pairs scads of off-road hardware with lots of luxury trim, but most drivers will be better off with a crossover.
Pros Solid truck feel Strong, smooth V-8 Smothering ride Comfortable cabin Lots of off-road tech
Cons Tailgate opens sideways Light steering Poor fuel economy Brake feel Shallow, narrow cargo area
