How ‘bout that Subaru Crosstrek?


As announced, Cars.com named the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek 2.0i Premium AWD the best subcompact SUV. The Crosstrek beat the 2018 Ford EcoSport, 2018 Hyundai Kona, and 2018 Nissan Rogue Sport in a comprehensive test by Cars.com judges, who assessed SUVs in 13 categories ranging from front-seat comfort to ride quality.

The last time Cars.com evaluated subcompact SUVs, in November 2015, the 2015 Subaru Crosstrek also emerged victorious – making the vehicle a repeat winner. Here are the results of the 2018 challenge, with comments from the Cars.com editorial team:

  1. 2018 Subaru Crosstrek 2.0i Premium AWD, 667 points
    The verdict: Redesigned for its second go-around, the reigning champ does it again thanks to a mix of drivability, roominess, practicality and quality.
  2. 5 Nissan Rogue Sport SV FWD, 644 points
    The verdict: The name is a misnomer. For this class, Nissan’s contender should go by “Rogue Comfort” for its comfortable ride and quiet cabin, though it’s hampered by its multimedia system.
  3. 2018 Hyundai Kona SEL AWD, 525 points
    The verdict: The Kona favors sport over utility or comfort, with modest cargo space, lesser ride quality and rougher edges than the other competitors – but it was also the most athletic and offers excellent value.
  4. 2018 Ford EcoSport SE FWD, 498 points
    The verdict: Aside from excellent multimedia tech, Ford’s U.S. version of the aging global EcoSport feels like a warmed-over placeholder awaiting a new, up-to-date subcompact SUV.

In-depth analysis