Pros: Audi A4 boasts impressive interior design with top-notch cabin materials; peppy acceleration; excellent mix of ride quality and handling sharpness
Cons: Acceleration can be non-linear from a stop; small door openings[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: The 2021 Audi A4 gains horsepower and drops its base front-wheel-drive model. All A4s now have all-wheel drive. The base engine formerly used on the front-wheel-drive A4 sees horsepower rise from 188 to 201 and is labelled 40 TFSI. The step-up TFSI 45 engine formerly powered the all-wheel-drive A4 and has horsepower increased from 248 to 261. Both engines now have a mild hybrid system.
The A4 is a premium compact sedan that was redesigned for 2017 and is powered by a turbo 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. A 7-speed automated-manual is the sole transmission. The performance S4 is powered by a 349-horsepower turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive.
Notable standard features include a forward collision mitigation system with automatic braking, leather upholstery, sunroof, heated mirrors, LED ambient interior lighting, rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality.
Options include Audi’s “Virtual Cockpit” digital gauge cluster, Google Earth satellite navigation display, adaptive cruise control, adaptive suspension, a rear collision mitigation system, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning and intervention, rear cross-traffic alert, and traffic-sign recognition.
A dazzling-yet-understated interior and a long list of cutting-edge technology features are chief among the A4’s highlights. Plus, the A4’s sticker prices and standard-equipment lists compare very favorably with its traditional BMW and Mercedes-Benz competitors. If you’re looking for a well-rounded premium compact sedan, the A4 should be on your list.[/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 Car |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door sedan |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Audi |
| Nation of Manufacture | Germany |
| Base Prices | A4 40 TFSI quattro Premium: $40,145 A4 40 TFSI quattro Premium Plus: $44,845 A4 40 TFSI quattro Prestige: $50,445 A4 45 TFSI quattro Premium: $42,540 A4 45 TFSI quattro Premium Plus: $46,740 A4 45 TFSI quattro Prestige: $51,440 S4 quattro Premium: $50,945 S4 quattro Premium Plus: $54,545 S4 quattro Prestige: $59,245 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder/electric motor (A4) |
| Horsepower 201 (40 TFSI) 261 (45 TFSI) |
| Std. Transmission 7-speed automated manual |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 24-25 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 30-34 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 (S4) |
| Horsepower 349 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 20 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 28 |
5 Ways Hybrids are Different[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]BMW 3-Series
Cadillac CT4
Mercedes-Benz C-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: High prices; minuscule cargo room; high-tech personality might not be a sensually exciting as other high-dollar exotics[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: The 2021 Acura NSX adds Long Beach Blue to its list of optional colors, but is otherwise unchanged. The second-generation Acura NSX was introduced for 2017. The first generation of Acura’s “Ferrari fighter” was sold from 1991 to 2005. Both the original and current NSX are two-seat exotic sports cars with a mid-mounted V6 engine. But the current one is something different: an all-wheel-drive hybrid with a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 and three electric motors. One motor is integrated with a 9-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, joining the gas engine in powering the rear wheels, while the other two motors drive the front wheels. The combined output of all motors is 573 horsepower. The base price is $159,495 (including destination charge), but Acura offers a long list of personalization options that can drive the price past $190,000. The original NSX was an exotic that was refined, reliable and boasted surprisingly hospitable ergonomics for a car of its type. The current model follows the same formula, with the added bonus of respectable fuel economy from its hybrid drivetrain.[/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 |
| Passenger Count | 2 |
| Drive Wheels | all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Acura |
| Nation of Manufacture | USA |
| Base Prices | Base: $159,495 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 3.5-liter V6/electric |
| Horsepower 573 |
| Std. Transmission 9-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 21 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 22 |
Touring the Place Where NSXs are Born: Honda’s Perfromance Manufacturing Center
Acura: The Racing in its Blood[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Chevrolet Corvette
Jaguar F-Type
Porsche 911[/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: Only one powertrain available; cabin ambiance and materials a bit drab for the class; engine occasionally feels coarse to some testers[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: The 2021 Acura ILX is unchanged. The ILX is a premium compact sedan that is positioned between regular compact cars and the majority of premium compacts. A 201-horsepower 2.4-liter cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed automated-manual transmission is the sole powertrain. Available features include collision-mitigation braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, road-departure mitigation, blind-spot alert, and rear cross-traffic alert.
The numerous improvements for 2016 made ILX a more credible contender in its segment and the 2019 refresh upped the game further still. This junior Acura still doesn’t quite match the premium ambiance of some of its class rivals, but competitive pricing and a long list of desirable available features make it a worthwhile choice.[/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 Car |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door sedan |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Acura |
| Nation of Manufacture | USA |
| Base Prices | ILX: $26,975 ILX w/Premium Pkg: $28,975 ILX A-Spec w/Premium Pkg: $30,975 ILX A-Spec w/Technology Pkg: $32,875 |
| Base Engine 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine |
| Horsepower 201 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automated manual |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 24 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 34 |
2020 Acura ILX Review[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Audi A4
BMW 3-Series
Cadillac CT4[/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 rather sluggish; cargo van origins are apparent, both in looks and cargo flexibility[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: The 2021 Ford Transit Connect is essentially unchanged. Previous-generation Transit Connects were typically intended primarily for light commercial use; they were usually sold as 2-passenger cargo vans with no side windows. The 2014 redesign brought a much more “civilian-friendly” Transit Connect that included a long-wheelbase 7-passenger version with side windows along with a host of convenience features, such as a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and heated leather seats. The sole powertrain is a 162-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. All Transit Connects are front-wheel drive. Available safety features include blind-spot alert, lane-keep assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. For some off-the-beaten-path shoppers, this unconventional, space-efficient people mover could be a compelling alternative to the traditional minivan or compact/midsize SUV.[/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 | Minivan/Van |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door van |
| Passenger Count | 5-7 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Ford |
| Nation of Manufacture | Spain |
| Base Prices | XL: $28,795 XLT: $30,910 Titanium: $32,995 |
| Base Engine 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 150 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 24 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 29 |
2020 Ford Transit Connect Review[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Chrysler Pacifica
Honda Odyssey
Kia Sedona[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”NHTSA Ratings” icon=”moon-signup” el_class=”ratings-box”][mk_skill_meter title=”Overall – 4″ percent=”80″][vc_column_text]
Cons: Only one engine/transmission choice; full-time 4WD not available[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: The 2021 Ford Ranger adds a new Black Appearance Package and a Tremor Off-Road Package with off-road suspension and tires and unique trim. Otherwise, Ranger is relatively unchanged. Ford returned to compact/midsize pickup market with the long-awaited reintroduction of the Ford Ranger for the 2019 model year. (The previous Ranger was dropped from the U.S. after 2011.) Although the model was absent from America, Ford continued selling Rangers in international markets, and the current model is based on a global platform. The Ranger is a traditional body-on-frame pickup truck and is built at Ford’s Michigan Assembly Plant. Two body styles are offered: a SuperCab (extended cab) with rear-hinged rear doors and a 6-foot bed or a SuperCrew with conventional front-hinged rear doors and a 5-foot bed. A regular cab is not available. The sole powertrain (at least for now) is a 270-horsepower turbocharged 2.3-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard and part-time 4-wheel drive is available, along with off-road aids such as locking rear differential and Terrain Management System with driver-selectable drive modes. Full-time 4-wheel drive that can be used on dry pavement is not available. Standard on all Rangers are front-collision warning and automatic emergency braking; other available safety features include lane-keep assist, blind-spot alert with trailer coverage, rear parking sensors, and adaptive cruise control. Midsize-pickup sales have been growing, and the Ranger’s return seemed long overdue. Ranger offers a more maneuverable and less expensive alternative to Ford’s popular F-150. With its lone powertrain choice, the Ranger lineup isn’t as broad as its GM and Toyota rivals’, but it’s still an impressive midsize truck.[/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 Pickup Truck |
| Body Style(s) | extended cab, crew cab |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Ford |
| Nation of Manufacture | USA |
| Base Prices | XL SuperCab: $26,015 4WD XL SuperCab: $29,870 XLT SuperCab: $30,065 4WD XLT SuperCab: $33,765 Lariat SuperCab: $34,105 4WD Lariat SuperCab: $37,805 XL SuperCrew: $28,415 4WD XL SuperCrew: $32,270 XLT SuperCrew: $32,240 4WD XLT SuperCrew: $35,940 Lariat SuperCrew: $36,280 4WD Lariat SuperCrew: $39,980 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 2.3-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 270 |
| Std. Transmission 10-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 19-21 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 19-26 |
2020 Ford Ranger Review[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Chevrolet Colorado
Honda Ridgeline
Toyota Tacoma[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”NHTSA Ratings” icon=”moon-signup” el_class=”ratings-box”][mk_skill_meter title=”Overall – 4″ percent=”80″][vc_column_text]
Cons: Third-row room is not among the best in class; top models get very expensive[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: The 2021 Ford Explorer added a new off-road oriented Timberline model midyear. Timberline has standard all-wheel drive, unique trim, and raised, off-road suspension. Otherwise, Explorer has few changes after last year’s redesign. Ford reduced prices on all models even though XLT models gain standard heated front seats. The Explorer is Ford’s three-row midsize SUV with rear-wheel-drive-based architecture. All-wheel drive is available on all models, except Timberline, sporty ST, and line-topping Platinum trims where it’s standard. The base engine is a 300-horsepower turbocharged 2.3-liter 4-cylinder. The performance engine is a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 that is rated at 365 hp in the luxury Platinum model or 400 hp in the sporty ST. Turbo V6 models can tow up to 5600 pounds. The Hybrid’s powertrain is a 3.3-liter V6 paired with an electric motor that produces a combined 318 hp. All engines are mated with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Available safety features include forward collision warning with pedestrian detection and automatic emergency braking, rear automatic braking, blind-spot alert, lane keep assist, automatic high-beam headlights, and Evasive Steering Assist, which can provide steering support to avoid a collision. Other available features include Active Park Assist 2.0, an automatic parking system that controls the throttle, steering, shifting, and braking; an upgraded Terrain Management System with seven drive modes; and adaptive cruise control that includes stop-and-go capability. The Explorer has long been one Ford’s best-selling vehicles, and the ambitiously expanded model lineup for the 2020 redesign is evidence that Ford continues to consider the Explorer one of its key products. In addition to its “something for nearly everyone” roster of trim levels, the Explorer boasts an impressive menu of available comfort, safety, and technology features, and the move to rear-wheel-drive architecture improves its handling and towing capabilities. It isn’t as outright commodious as rival three-row midsize SUVs, and the bottom-line prices rise very quickly, but Explorer’s attributes make it well worth considering.[/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 | 7 |
| Drive Wheels | rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Ford |
| Nation of Manufacture | USA |
| Base Prices | Base: $33,470 AWD Base: $35,470 XLT: $35,245 AWD XLT: $37,245 Limited: $46,950 AWD Limited: $48,950 AWD Timberline: NA AWD ST: $53,850 AWD Platinum: $55,745 Hybrid Limited: $51,100 AWD Hybrid Limited: $53,100 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 2.3-liter 4-cylinder (XLT, Limited, Timberline) |
| Horsepower 300 |
| Std. Transmission 10-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 20-21 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 27-28 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 (ST, Platinum) |
| Horsepower 365 (400 in ST) |
| Std. Transmission 10-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 18 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 24-26 |
| Optional Engine 3.3-liter V6/electric motor (Hybrid Limited) |
| Horsepower 318 |
| Std. Transmission 10-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 23-27 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 26-28 |
Test Drive: 2020 Ford Explorer ST
First Spin: 2020 Ford Explorer
First Look: 2020 Ford Police Interceptor (Spoiler Alert: It’s an Explorer)
5 Ways Hybrids are Different[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Chevrolet Traverse
Honda Pilot
Hyundai Palisade[/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: Cargo capacity only average for the class; higher trim levels get expensive[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: After last year’s redesign, there are few changes for the 2021 Ford Escape. The hybrid powertrain is now available for SE and SEL trims. Ford redesigned its compact SUV from the ground up for 2020. The current Escape is a more car-like vehicle than its predecessor; Ford is in process of phasing out almost all of its traditional passenger cars, so the company has repositioned the Escape as a more urban, on-road-oriented vehicle. Ford’s Bronco SUV, as well as a smaller Bronco Sport SUV, are aimed more at the traditional off-road-ready SUV market.
In addition to its lower, sleeker styling, the Ford Escape gained a host of new technology and convenience features, plus new powertrains (including a hybrid and plug-in hybrid). The base engine is a turbocharged 180-horsepower 3-cylinder engine and a 250-hp 2.0-liter turbo four is available on topline SEL and Titanium trims. Both engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission; all-wheel drive is standard with the 2.0-liter, while the 1.5-liter 3-cylinder is available with front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. Also available is a hybrid that combines a 2.5-liter four with two electric motors for a total of 198 hp. A plug-in hybrid uses the same basic powertrain, but is rated at 209 hp and is capable of travelling an estimated 30 miles in pure-electric mode. Both hybrids have a CVT automatic transmission; the plug-in hybrid is front-wheel drive only, while the regular hybrid also offers all-wheel drive.
The Escape’s standard safety features include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot alert, cross-traffic alert, lane-keep assist, and automatic high-beam headlights. Available safety features include adaptive cruise control with stop and go capability, lane-centering, and evasive steering assist. Other available features include active park assist, panoramic sunroof, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto functionality, Wi-Fi hotspot, and remote-access capabilities through the FordPass Connect smartphone app. The current Ford Escape is a crossover SUV that “crosses over” farther to the car side of the car/SUV divide than any previous Escape—and that’s mostly a good thing for the average buyer looking for an everyday vehicle. Even though it’s on the small side of the compact SUV class, the Escape interior is reasonably spacious for the vehicle’s overall size—and rear passenger room is aided by rear seats that adjusts fore and aft six inches to improve rear legroom or cargo space. A broad range of high-tech available features and good fuel economy with conventional engines—not to mention the availability of hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains—add to the Escape’s appeal.
[/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 | front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Ford |
| Nation of Manufacture | USA |
| Base Prices | S: $26,130 AWD S: $27,630 SE: $27,855 AWD SE: $29,355 SEL: $30,450 AWD SEL: $31,950 AWD Titanium: $37,000 SE Hybrid: $28,850 AWD SE Hybrid: $30,350 SEL Hybrid: $31,445 AWD SEL: $32,945 Titanium Hybrid: $34,545 AWD Titanium Hybrid: $36,045 SE Plug-in Hybrid: $33,895 SEL Plug-in Hybrid: $36,755 Titanium Plug-in Hybrid: $39,830 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 1.5-liter 3-cylinder (S, SE, SEL) |
| Horsepower 180 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 26-28 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 31-34 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder (Titanium) |
| Horsepower 250 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 23 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 31 |
| Optional Engine 2.5-liter 4-cylinder/electric motors (Hybrid) |
| Horsepower 198 |
| Std. Transmission CVT |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 43-44 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 37 |
| Optional Engine 2.5-liter 4-cylinder/electric motors (Plug-in Hybrid) |
| Horsepower 209 |
| Std. Transmission CVT |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA Combined Gas Engine (mpg) 40 |
| EPA Combined Electric Engine (MPGe) 105 |
Guide to Electric Vehicle Charging
Missing Pistons? A Gallery of 3-Cylinder Vehicles[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Chevrolet Equinox
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: Rear visibility hurt by thick roof pillars; higher trim levels get expensive as options are added[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: The 2021 Ford Edge is little changed. The biggest news may be the addition of the Snyc 4 infotainment system with a new 12-inch display screen. Also, Edge now has standard rear parking sensors on all models. The performance ST model receives a 7-speed automatic transmission that replaces the previous 8-speed. Edge is a midsize crossover SUV with seating for five. Trim levels ascend through SE, SEL, ST-Line, Titanium, and a performance-oriented ST model. All models, except ST, have a 2.0-liter EcoBoost 4-cylinder with “twin scroll” turbocharger rated at 245 horsepower. The ST has a 335-hp, 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 as standard. Most Edge models have an 8-speed automatic transmission with fuel-saving stop/start technology. ST has a 7-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is optional across the board; except ST where it is standard. Technology features include automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot alert, lane-keep assist, active park assist, and a hands-free opening liftgate which opens with a swipe of a foot under the rear bumper. The previous-generation Edge was beginning to feel a bit long in the tooth, but the 2015 redesign brought it fully up to date. Though the “traditional” 5-passenger crossover SUV has been somewhat marginalized by three-row midsize SUVs and a new wave of upsized compact SUVs, the Ford Edge offers plenty of “just right” appeal.[/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 | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Ford |
| Nation of Manufacture | Canada |
| Base Prices | SE: $32,495 AWD SE: $34,490 SEL: $35,935 AWD SEL: $37,930 ST-Line: $39,685 AWD ST-Line: $41,680 Titanium: $39,685 AWD Titanium: $41,680 AWD ST: $44,345 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder (SE, SEL, ST-Line, Titanium) |
| Horsepower 245 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 20-21 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 28-29 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 (ST) |
| Horsepower 335 |
| Std. Transmission 7-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 19 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 25 |
2020 Ford Edge Review[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Honda Pilot
Hyundai Palisade
Jeep Grand Cherokee[/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: Some modern safety features are not available; side-opening tailgate may not suit all buyers; 3-cylinder engine is noisy and somewhat underpowered[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: The 2021 Ford EcoSport adds a standard power driver seat to the SES trim and there’s a new SE Appearance Package. Ford entered the subcompact crossover market in 2018. Although the EcoSport (pronounced “Echo Sport”) was new to the American market, Ford had sold similar versions in global markets for a number of years. The EcoSport is Ford’s smallest SUV, with an overall length that’s 17 inches shorter than the Ford Escape’s. It is unique in its class by having a side-hinged tailgate instead of the typical top-hinged liftgate. Front-wheel-drive EcoSports are powered by a 123-horsepower turbocharged 1.0-liter 3-cylinder engine, while all-wheel-drive versions have a naturally aspirated (non-turbo) 166-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder. Both engines have fuel-saving auto stop/start and are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Models ascend through base S, SE, sporty SES, and luxury Titanium; all can be had in all-wheel-drive form. SES comes standard with the 2.0-liter four, all-wheel drive, and sport suspension. Titanium comes with leather upholstery, navigation, and premium sound system. Available technology features include Ford’s SYNC3 infotainment system, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto functionality, and connectivity features via the FordPass mobile app. Blind-spot and rear cross-traffic alert is standard, but forward collision warning/mitigation, lane-departure warning/mitigation, and adaptive cruise control are unavailable. The EcoSport is something of a “placeholder” for Ford; it’s a foreign-market vehicle pressed into service in America until Ford can field a subcompact-SUV competitor that’s been designed from the ground up for U.S. buyers. This pint-sized crossover is not without its charms, but it is missing some safety features, the side-hinged cargo door can be a liability in close quarters, and the 3-cylinder engine is noisy as it strains to provide adequate acceleration. An all-wheel-drive EcoSport is probably your best bet.[/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 | Subcompact SUV |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Ford |
| Nation of Manufacture | India |
| Base Prices | S: $21,240 AWD S: $22,835 SE: $24,695 AWD SE: $26,195 Titanium: $27,510 AWD Titanium: $28,960 AWD SES: $28,820 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 1.0-liter 3-cylinder (front-wheel-drive models) |
| Horsepower 123 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 27 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 29 |
| Optional Engine 2.0-liter 4-cylinder (all-wheel-drive models) |
| Horsepower 166 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 23 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 29 |
Current Ford Bronco Sport Review
Missing Pistons? A Gallery of 3-Cylinder Vehicles[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Honda HR-V
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Cons: Gets pricey quickly as you move up the model roster[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: Ford is reviving its Bronco nameplate for 2021 on not one but two new vehicles: The larger and more expensive Bronco (see separate review) is a body-on-frame SUV aimed squarely at the Jeep Wrangler, while the subject of this review, the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport, is a smaller compact crossover SUV that is built on the basic platform of the Ford Escape. The Bronco Sport uses unibody construction and has front and rear independent suspension, but it’s been fortified for off-road driving. All Bronco Sports have standard 4-wheel drive, and the list of available features includes a rear differential lock, Trail Control (a low-speed cruise control for off-road driving), a front-mounted off-road camera, and a Rock Crawl mode that provides better steering control on rocky terrain. The base engine is a 181-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter 3-cylinder; the topline Badlands and First Edition models have a 245-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder. Both engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic. Standard safety features include pre-collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection, blind-spot alert, cross-traffic alert, lane-keep assist, and automatic high-beam headlights. Available safety features include adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go and lane centering, evasive steering assist, and speed-limit recognition. The Bronco Sport aims to deliver the bold style and most of the off-road capability of its larger Bronco sibling in a smaller, more affordable package that’s also a bit more refined in on-road driving.[/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 Crossover/SUV |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Ford |
| Nation of Manufacture | Mexico |
| Base Prices | Base: $28,155 Big Bend: $29,655 Outer Banks: $33,655 Badlands: $34,155 First Edition: $39,655 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 1.5-liter 3-cylinder (Base, Big Bend, Outer Banks) |
| Horsepower 181 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 25 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 28 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder (Badlands, First Edition) |
| Horsepower 245 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 21 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 26 |
Test Drive: 2021 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks
First Look: 2021 Ford Bronco Sport
Missing Pistons? A Gallery of 3-Cylinder Vehicles
Current Ford Bronco Sport Review
Consumer Guide Car Stuff Podcast, Episode 75; Electrify America HomeStation Charger, 2021 Ford Bronco Sport[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Jeep Cherokee
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