2018 Subaru Crosstrek
It’s one of the very few vehicle models that have all-wheel drive as a standard-equipment feature on all trim levels. The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek has a fresh face for this model year, albeit not very different than the outgoing model. It gains a little over an inch in length from the 2017 model and some nifty features along the way.
It’s more of a station wagon, however its Symmetrical AWD system and 8.7 inches of ground clearance bump it up with the other SUV crossovers. The liftgate is wider this year for easier access to cargo space. A Harmon Kardon sound system is available, as is perforated leather seating the Limited trim. Steering Responsive LED headlights are a great option, also on the upper trim. Come to think of it, almost all the good stuff requires the 2.0i Limited trim level.
The only engine option is the 2.0-liter BOXER flat-plane four-cylinder with 152 horsepower. You can choose a 6-speed manual transmission or a Lineartronic CVT gearbox. Pricing for the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek starts at $21,795.
2018 Mazda CX-5
A personal fave for 2018 is the Mazda CX-5. It was all-new for the 2017 model year and comes with an amazing selection of comforts. Most noteworthy is the style. It’s gone from bland to vivacious in a single redesign.
The body is sexy with curves in all the right places. The grill remains the recognizable Mazda shape, whilst the thin headlights are available as either projector-style or LED. The interior is well equipped with the dash-top infotainment screen, beautifully textured materials and the power options you expect. Upper trim levels can add Active Driving Display and leather heated seats, power liftgate and more.
The beef I’ve had in the past is the engine option, or lack thereof. The 187-horsepower 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G four-cylinder isn’t all that hot, while the I-ACTIV AWD does a good job of keeping traction. Finally a diesel engine option is coming for 2018, although we don’t know its exact specs yet.
2018 Audi Q3
It’s a compact crossover SUV, since not everyone needs the extra bulk. The 2018 Audi Q3 is definitely one of which to take note. It has premium equipment available without the astronomical pricing.
On the outside, the body lines are straighter and a little sharper than you might expect, but it helps the Q3 command the road. In addition, brilliant LED headlights and a nifty wraparound tailgate design are sharp. You’ll get a panoramic sunroof, leather seating, front and rear parking sensors, and the usual interior power options in the Premium trim. Upgrade to the Premium Plus trim to add heated seats, power liftgate and the Audi Advanced Key.
Under the hood is the same for both trims, a 2.0-liter TFSI four-cylinder with 200 horsepower and an EPA-rated combined fuel efficiency of 28 mpg. Quattro AWD is optional on either trim as well. This crossover SUV starts at just $32,900.
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