Cons: Shifter isn’t intuitive; stingy levels of standard equipment, and options add up fast; some complicated audio controls[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: The 2021 BMW X3 gains standard Active Driving Assistant (forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, low-speed automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic warning), satellite radio, and Android Auto functionality. The X3 M Competition is no longer a model, but is now a package for the X3 M. Added late in 2020 was a Plug-in Hybrid xDrive30e that combines a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder gas engine with an electric motor for a total of 288 horsepower. The xDrive30e can travel an estimated 18 miles on electric power alone. The X3 slots above the X1 and X2 in BMW’s crossover lineup. BMW also sells an X4, a fastback-roofed version of the X3. The X3 was redesigned for 2018. The base 30i has a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 248 hp and the M40i has a turbo 3.0-liter 6-cylinder that is rated at 382 hp. The X3 M is power by a turbocharged 3.0-liter in-line six the develops 473 hp or 503 hp with the Competition Package. All models have an 8-speed automatic transmission. The 30i offers sDrive rear-wheel drive and xDrive all-wheel drive. All other models have standard all-wheel drive only. Available safety features include forward-collision warning and city collision mitigation, blind-spot alert, lane-keep assist, front and rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. Other available features include heated/ventilated front seats, tri-zone automatic climate controls, head-up instrument display, Wi-Fi hotspot, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. The X3 delivers the BMW brand’s trademark athletic handling and performance combined with the practical benefits of a crossover SUV, and those qualities were only heightened with the excellent 2018 redesign. However, standard equipment levels aren’t particularly generous, and you’ll pay plenty for options.[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][mk_content_box heading=”The Facts”][mk_table el_class=”new-review-specs”]
| Class | Premium Compact SUV |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | BMW |
| Nation of Manufacture | USA |
| Base Prices | sDrive 30i: $43,995 AWD xDrive 30i: $45,995 AWD xDrive M40i: $57,595 AWD M: $70,895 AWD Plug-in Hybrid xDrive30e: $50,595 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder (30i) |
| Horsepower 248 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 24-25 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 29 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 3.0-liter 6-cylinder (M40i, M, M Competition) |
| Horsepower 382 (473 in M and 503 w/M Competition Pkg.) |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 14-21 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 19-27 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylindere;ectric motor (30e) |
| Horsepower 288 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA Gas Engine Combined (mpg) NA |
| EPA Electric Engine Combined (MPGe) NA |
Guide to Electric Vehicle Charging[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Acura RDX
Jaguar F-Pace
Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”NHTSA Ratings” icon=”moon-signup” el_class=”ratings-box”][mk_skill_meter title=”Overall – 5″ percent=”100″][vc_column_text]
Cons: Sporty styling takes a toll on passenger/cargo room; more expensive than BMW X1, and options further drive up the bottom line[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: The 2021 BMW X2 gains standard SiriusXM radio, but deletes fog lights. The M35i will gain a new mesh grille midyear. BMW introduced this subcompact crossover SUV for 2018. The X2 shares its basic platform with BMW’s X1, but wears a sleeker body that is 3.2 inches shorter and 2.8 inches lower than its sibling. In terms of BMW’s crossover lineup, the X2 is to the X1 as the fastback-roof X4 and X6 are to their respective X3 and X5 counterparts. Though the X2 doesn’t have a true fastback rear roofline, it has less headroom and cargo room than the X1 as result of its shorter overall length and more rakish styling. The X2’s base 28i powertrain is a 228-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, while the M35i has a more powerful, 302-hp version of the 2.0-liter turbo. Both models have an 8-speed automatic transmission. The 28i is available with both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, while the M35i has standard all-wheel drive. An “M Sport X” special trim package includes racier bodywork, a quicker-shifting transmission, and performance options such as 20-inch wheels and sport suspension. Available features include front collision warning and mitigation, lane-departure warning, park assist, Apple CarPlay functionality, WiFi hotspot, wireless device charging, adaptive suspension, and a panoramic sunroof. The BMW X2 is essentially a sexier version of its X1 sibling; if the X2’s swoopier design appeals to you—and you’re willing to pay about $1200 more than the cost of a comparable X1 to get it—you’ll have a head-turning premium compact SUV with an engaging driving personality and excellent build quality. However, the BMW X1 is a mechanical twin to the X2, and it’s more affordable and a bit more practical as well.
2021 BMW X2
[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][mk_content_box heading=”The Facts”][mk_table el_class=”new-review-specs”]| Class | Premium Subcompact Crossover |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | BMW |
| Nation of Manufacture | Germany |
| Base Prices | sDrive 28i: $37,595 AWD xDrive28i: $39,395 AWD M35i: $47,445 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder (28i) |
| Horsepower 228 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 24 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 31-32 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder (M35i) |
| Horsepower 302 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 23 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 30 |
2020 BMW X2 Review[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Audi Q3
Jaguar E-Pace
Volvo XC40[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”NHTSA Ratings” icon=”moon-signup” el_class=”ratings-box”][mk_skill_meter title=”Overall – NA” percent=”0″][vc_column_text]
Cons: Fewer standard features than you might expect for a luxury-brand vehicle, and adding options drives up the sticker price considerably; tight door openings complicate entry and exit for large folks[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: The 2021 BMW X1 makes SiriusXM satellite radio standard, but otherwise is essentially unchanged. The X1 was redesigned for 2016 and is based on a front-wheel-drive platform shared with the Mini Cooper Clubman. All X1s come standard with a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive are available. Available features include a head-up display, hands-free power liftgate (which opens with the swipe of a foot under the rear bumper), a forward collision mitigation system with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Other available features include a panoramic sunroof, automated parallel-park system, and reclining rear seats that slide fore and aft to favor passenger or cargo room. BMW purists might balk at the X1’s front-wheel-drive platform, but most premium compact SUV shoppers will find the performance tradeoffs perfectly acceptable. The 2021 BMW X1 is still one of the more athletic SUVs in its class, plus it has good passenger and cargo room for its size.[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][mk_content_box heading=”The Facts”][mk_table el_class=”new-review-specs”]
| Class | Premium Subcompact Crossover/SUV |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | BMW |
| Nation of Manufacture | Germany |
| Base Prices | sDrive28i: $36,395 AWD xDrive28i: $38,395 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 228 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 23-24 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 31-33 |
2020 BMW X1 Review[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Audi Q3
Jaguar E-Pace
Volvo XC40[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”NHTSA Ratings” icon=”moon-signup” el_class=”ratings-box”][mk_skill_meter title=”Overall – 5″ percent=”100″][vc_column_text]
Cons: Relatively low body proportions make for a cozier interior than most compact SUVs, especially in the back seat; aging powertrain lineup[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: Mazda introduces a new compact SUV for 2023 that’s aimed at active-lifestyle customers with off-road-adventuring inclinations. The 2023 Mazda CX-50 slots just above the CX-5 in Mazda’s SUV lineup; it’s longer and wider than the CX-5, with a lower, more wagon-like roofline. It can tow up to 3500 pounds depending on configuration. Two different engines are available: a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder with 187 horsepower, or a turbocharged 2.5-liter producing up to 256 horsepower on 93-octane premium gas. All CX-50s get a 6-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.
The CX-50 is offered in several trim levels. The 2.5 S Package with the base engine includes 17-inch wheels, an 8.8-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration and an 8-speaker audio system. Moving up to the 2.5 S Select adds features such as dual-zone climate control and a 10.25-inch touchscreen. The 2.5 S Preferred Package gets a power liftgate, 8-way adjustable power driver’s seat and heated front seats. A panoramic moonroof comes with the 2.5 S Preferred Plus Package. The 2.5 Premium Package adds leather seating, 6-way power adjustable passenger seat and a 12-speaker audio system with satellite radio. Ventilated front seats, 20-inch wheels and head-up display are found on the 2.5 Premium Plus. Opting for the turbocharged engine, the 2.5 Turbo features a unique interior and badging, LED head- and taillights and a selectable towing mode. Rounding out the selection are 2.5 Turbo Premium and Premium Plus Packages similar to the 2.5 S’s. A turbocharged Meridian Edition with all-terrain tires and roof-mounted cargo platform, among other accessories, arrives later in the model year.
Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot monitoring, driver attention alert, lane departure warning and rear cross traffic alert. Mazda is targeting a new niche with the 2023 CX-50, offering a crossover SUV with off-road aspirations which retains Mazda’s signature sporty on-road handling and a level of refinement not found in most of the competitive set. For the most part, the CX-50 stacks up well against its class rivals, and offers a character that’s sufficiently distinct from the Mazda CX-5.[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][mk_content_box heading=”The Facts”][mk_table el_class=”new-review-specs”]
| Class | Compact SUV |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Mazda |
| Nation of Manufacture | USA |
| Base Prices | 2.5 S: $28,025 2.5 S Select: $29,425 2.5 S Preferred: $30,725 2.5 S Preferred Plus: $33,165 2.5 S Premium: $35,625 2.5 S Premium Plus: $37,625 2.5 Turbo: $37,625 2.5 Turbo Premium: $40,775 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus: $42,775 |
| Base Engine 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (2.5 S) |
| Horsepower 187 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 24 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 30 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (2.5 Turbo) |
| Horsepower 256 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 23 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 29 |
First Spin: 2023 Mazda CX-50[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Jeep Compass
Ford Bronco Sport
Subaru Crosstrek[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”NHTSA Ratings” icon=”moon-signup” el_class=”ratings-box”][mk_skill_meter title=”Overall – NA” percent=”0″][vc_column_text]
Cons: Extended center console blocks legroom for the middle-rear passenger; rear headroom is tight[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: The 2021 BMW 8-Series Gran Coupe now has standard lane-departure warning and satellite radio. The M8 Competition is now an option package instead of a separate mode. BMW’s sleek, style-focused midsize sedan got a name change and a redesign for 2020; what was the 6-Series Gran Coupe is now the 8-Series Gran Coupe. In spite of the “coupe” name, BMW’s Gran Coupes are actually 4-door sedans with flashy styling and low-slung, coupe-like rooflines. The 8-Series Gran Coupe shares its basic platform with the 8-Series 2-door coupe and convertible, which were new for 2019 (see separate report). The 8-Series Gran Coupe is 9.1 inches longer, 1.4 inches wider, and 2.3 inches taller than its 2-door coupe sibling, which benefits rear-seat legroom and headroom. Three powertrains are available. The base 840i has a 335-horsepower turbocharged 3.0-liter in-line 6-cylinder, while the M850i has a 523-hp twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8. The high-performance M8 is powered by the twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 tuned to produce 600 hp in the base M8, or 617 hp with the Competition Package; BMW says the M8 with Competition Package can accelerate 0 to 60 mph in 3.0 seconds. All engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission; BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive is standard on the V8s and available on the six. The AWD system includes 4-wheel steering for a reduced turning circle and increased stability at high speeds. Available safety features include automatic emergency braking, blind-spot alert, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and surround-view camera. The BMW 8-Series Gran Coupe costs a lot more than a BMW 5-Series sedan, and it doesn’t really offer more space or practicality—but that’s kind of beside the point. In any of its forms, the Gran Coupe offers the style, panache, and performance of its 8-Series coupe counterparts, with the added benefit of four doors and a usable back seat. It’s an exotic grand touring machine that’s a bit more versatile than the average two-door GT.[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][mk_content_box heading=”The Facts”][mk_table el_class=”new-review-specs”]
| Class | Premium Midsize Car |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door sedan |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | BMW |
| Nation of Manufacture | Germany |
| Base Prices | 840i: $85,995 AWD xDrive 840i: $88,895 AWD xDrive M850i: $109,895 AWD xDrive M8: $130,995 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 3.0-liter 6-cylinder (840i) |
| Horsepower 335 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 20-22 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 27-29 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 (M850i) |
| Horsepower 523 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 17 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 24 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 (M8) |
| Horsepower 600 (617 w/Competition Pkg.) |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 15 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 21 |
2020 BMW 8-Series Gran Coupe Review
Current BMW 8-Series Review[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Audi A7
Maserati Ghibli
Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”NHTSA Ratings” icon=”moon-signup” el_class=”ratings-box”][mk_skill_meter title=”Overall – NA” percent=”0″][vc_column_text]
Cons: Base engine has only adequate performance; turbo engine restricted to topline models; engine stop/start feature can feel abrupt[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: After last year’s redesign, the 2021 Subaru Legacy gains a few features. Steering-linked LED headlights, rear seat alert, and rear seatbelt reminder are now standard. Otherwise, the Legacy is unchanged.
The Subaru Legacy is a midsize sedan that shares its basic platform with Subaru’s SUV-flavored Outback wagon. The Legacy model lineup ascends through Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, Limited XT, and Touring XT models.
A 260-horsepower turbocharged 2.4-liter flat 4-cylinder engine powers topline XT models. The base engine is a 182-hp 2.5-liter flat four. Both engines are paired with a CVT automatic transmission and have standard all-wheel drive.
Available features include an 11.6-inch “tablet-style” vertically oriented touchscreen and Subaru’s DriverFocus distraction mitigation system, which sounds an alert if an instrument panel camera senses the driver isn’t looking at the road.
Standard on all models is Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, a head-up display, adaptive cruise control with a lane-centering function, and lane-keep assist.
The Legacy is a pleasant midsize sedan that offers a spacious interior with high-quality materials, a comfortable ride, predictable handling, and good fuel economy for an all-wheel-drive car. It has always lived in the shadow of Subaru’s far more popular Outback wagon, but the Legacy is nonetheless a good value overall—especially in northern climes where its standard all-wheel drive is appreciated.[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][mk_content_box heading=”The Facts”][mk_table el_class=”new-review-specs”]
| Class | Midsize car |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door sedan |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Subaru |
| Nation of Manufacture | USA |
| Base Prices | Base: $23,820 Premium: $26,070 Sport: $28,020 Limited: $30,820 Limited XT: $35,370 Touring XT: $37,070 |
| Base Engine 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (Base, Premium, Sport, Limited) |
| Horsepower 182 |
| Std. Transmission CVT |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 27 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 35 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder (Limited XT, Touring XT) |
| Horsepower 260 |
| Std. Transmission CVT |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 24 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 32 |
First Spin: 2020 Subaru Legacy
Current Subaru Legacy Review[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Chevrolet Malibu
Honda Accord
Toyota Camry[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”NHTSA Ratings” icon=”moon-signup” el_class=”ratings-box”][mk_skill_meter title=”Overall – 5″ percent=”100″][vc_column_text]
Cons: Acceleration is a bit slow from a stop; no optional engine available[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: The 2021 Subaru Impreza adds an SI-DRIVE feature that can switch between Normal and Sport modes of engine performance to the midrange Premium model. Otherwise, Impreza is little changed.
Impreza offers 4-door hatchback and sedan bodystyles and all-wheel drive—an unusual feature in the compact-car class—is standard. The sole engine is a 152-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with a 5-speed manual or continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
Available convenience features include keyless entry and starting and roof rails. Available safety features include autonomous emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot alert, rear-cross-traffic alert, and adaptive fog lights that turn with the steering wheel.
Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system has long been a key Impreza selling point, but the redesign for 2017 brought plenty of new strengths that made this compact contender a more compelling choice. The Impreza’s standout features include excellent visibility, a sensible control layout, and a full range of up-to-date safety and convenience features. Interior room, fuel economy and overall driving dynamics are also class competitive.
The Impreza is well worth a look—even if you don’t need all-wheel drive.[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][mk_content_box heading=”The Facts”][mk_table el_class=”new-review-specs”]
| Class | Compact Car |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door sedan, 4-door hatchback |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Subaru |
| Nation of Manufacture | USA |
| Base Prices | Base sedan: $19,720 Base hatchback: $20,220 Premium sedan: $23,120 Premium hatchback: $23,620 Sport sedan: $24,520 Sport hatchback: $23,920 Limited sedan: $26,820 Limited hatchback: $27,320 |
| Base Engine 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 152 |
| Std. Transmission 5-speed manual |
| Avail. Transmission CVT (Std. Premium, Limited) |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 22-28 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 30-36 |
Current Subaru Impreza Review[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Honda Civic
Nissan Versa
Toyota Corolla[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”NHTSA Ratings” icon=”moon-signup” el_class=”ratings-box”][mk_skill_meter title=”Overall – 5″ percent=”100″][vc_column_text]
Cons: Base engine power is only adequate; interior storage is only average[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek gains a new engine choice. Standard on Limited and the new Sport model is 182-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine. Base and Premium models retain the existing 152-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder that can be paired with a 6-speed manual or CVT automatic transmissions. The new 2.5-liter is only available with a CVT. Adaptive cruise control and lane centering are standard on cars with the CVT automatic. There is also new frontal styling. The Crosstrek was redesigned for 2018 and is based on the hatchback version of Subaru’s Impreza compact car (which itself was redesigned for 2017). To the basic Impreza platform, the Crosstrek adds SUV-esque styling touches (including rugged-looking lower-body cladding) and a raised ride height (Crosstrek has a generous 8.7 inches of ground clearance). Though it straddles the line between a compact car and a compact crossover SUV, we categorize it as the latter. Crosstrek also offers a plug-in hybrid that combines a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with an electric motor for a total of 148 hp. The Hybrid can travel an estimated 17 miles on electric power alone and is only offered with a CVT automatic. All-wheel drive is standard on all models. Available features include pre-collision braking, lane-departure warning and mitigation, blind-spot alert, rear cross-traffic alert, keyless access and starting, adaptive cruise control, and rear automatic braking. Crosstrek is a fine combination of car-like driving refinement and SUV versatility. It’s a little short on power, but it delivers respectable fuel economy. If you can’t decide between a compact SUV or a compact car—or you’re just looking for a sensibly sized, all-weather family vehicle that offers some light off-road capabilities—the Crosstrek is a good value that is well worth a look.[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][mk_content_box heading=”The Facts”][mk_table el_class=”new-review-specs”]
| Class | Compact SUV |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Subaru |
| Nation of Manufacture | Japan |
| Base Prices | Base: $23,295 Premium: $24,345 Sport: $27,545 Limited: $29,045 Hybrid: NA |
| Base Engine 2.0-liter 4-cylinder (Base, Premium) |
| Horsepower 152 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed manual |
| Avail. Transmission CVT |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 22-29 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 29-33 |
| Optional Engine 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (Sport, Limited) |
| Horsepower 182 |
| Std. Transmission CVT |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 27 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 34 |
| Optional Engine 2.0-liter 4-cylinder/electric motor (Hybrid) |
| Horsepower 148 |
| Std. Transmission CVT |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA Gas Engine Combined (mpg) NA |
| EPA Electric Engine Combined (MPGe) NA |
Current Subaru Crosstrek Review
Guide to Electric Vehicle Charging[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Jeep Cherokee
Mazda CX-5
Nissan Rogue[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”NHTSA Ratings” icon=”moon-signup” el_class=”ratings-box”][mk_skill_meter title=”Overall – 5″ percent=”100″][vc_column_text]
Cons: Nonlinear power delivery; some desirable features restricted to top trim levels[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: The 2021 Subaru Ascent adds standard adaptive cruise control, lane centering, lane-keep assist, automatic high-beam headlights, and steering-linked headlights. Subaru introduced an all-new three-row midsize crossover SUV for 2019. The Ascent is the largest passenger vehicle Subaru has ever sold and seats eight passengers when equipped with a second-row bench seat, or seven with the available second-row captain’s chairs. The sole powertrain is a 260-horsepower turbocharged 2.4-liter “flat” four mated to a CVT automatic transmission with standard all-wheel drive. Standard safety features include Subaru’s EyeSight suite of high-tech safety features (which includes forward collision warning and mitigation, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control). Also standard is a handy Lead Vehicle Alert feature that sounds a warning tone when the car ahead of you at a stoplight begins to move (so that you’re not left sitting there if your attention has been diverted). Standard on the top-line Touring model is a rearview mirror that displays a camera image that isn’t blocked by rear-seat passengers or cargo, and a Front View Monitor that displays a 180-degree view in front of the vehicle. Subaru’s family-friendly new SUV has generous passenger and cargo room, along with a decent ride/handling balance for a vehicle its size. The Ascent is packed with comfort and high-tech safety features that make it a compelling entry in the three-row SUV field.[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][mk_content_box heading=”The Facts”][mk_table el_class=”new-review-specs”]
| Class | Midsize SUV |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
| Passenger Count | 8 |
| Drive Wheels | all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Subaru |
| Nation of Manufacture | USA |
| Base Prices | Base: $33,345 Premium: $35,845 Limited: $40,645 Touring: $46,495 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 260 |
| Std. Transmission CVT |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 20-21 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 26-27 |
Current Subaru Ascent Review[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Chevrolet Traverse
Honda Pilot
Kia Telluride[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”NHTSA Ratings” icon=”moon-signup” el_class=”ratings-box”][mk_skill_meter title=”Overall – 5″ percent=”100″][vc_column_text]
Cons: Poor fuel economy in V8s; steep prices; limited back-seat room[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: The 2021 BMW 8-Series gains standard lane-departure warning and satellite radio. The M8 coupe and convertible are no longer available. For 2019, the 8-Series nameplate returned to BMW’s model lineup after an absence of 20 years. The 8-Series coupe and convertible took the place of the departed 6-Series coupe and convertible in BMW’s model lineup. Plus, there is an 8-Series Gran Coupe that is a 4-door sedan with a coupe-like roofline (see separate report). The rear-wheel-drive 840i and all-wheel-drive 840i xDrive are powered by a 335-horsepower turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six. The all-wheel-drive M850i xDrive packs a 523-horsepower twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8. All engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic. Both coupe and convertible seat four, although the back seat is of the “plus two” variety with little legroom. Available safety features include autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot alert, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, deployable roll bars (convertible), and surround-view camera. Other available features include a neck warmer (convertible), wireless cell-phone charging, Wi-Fi hotspot, 4-wheel steering, and park assist. The 8-Series is a large, comfortable touring machine that is also blindingly fast, with fine handling for its size. Prices are steep, but the 8-Series is a dual personality car that can waft along the boulevard or hustle down a curvy stretch of road with equal aplomb.[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][mk_content_box heading=”The Facts”][mk_table el_class=”new-review-specs”]
| Class | Premium Sporty/Performance Car |
| Body Style(s) | 2-door coupe, 2-door convertible |
| Passenger Count | 4 |
| Drive Wheels | rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | BMW |
| Nation of Manufacture | Germany |
| Base Prices | 840i coupe: $88,995 AWD 840i xDrive coupe: $91,895 840i convertible: $98,395 AWD 840i xDrive convertible: 101,295 AWD M850i xDrive coupe: $112,895 AWD M850i xDrive convertible: $122,395 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 3.0-liter six (840i) |
| Horsepower 335 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 20-23 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 27-30 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 (M850i) |
| Horsepower 523 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 17 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 24-25 |
Test Drive: 2020 BMW 840i Coupe
Consumer Guide Car Stuff Podcast, Episode 32: Self-Driving Cars, 2020 BMW 8-Series
Current BMW 8-Series Gran Coupe Review[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Audi A5
Lexus LC
Toyota Supra[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”NHTSA Ratings” icon=”moon-signup” el_class=”ratings-box”][mk_skill_meter title=”Overall – NA” percent=”0″][vc_column_text]
