Best Crossover SUV 2016 | CarGurus 2-Row Crossover Roundup
Crossovers pack go-anywhere practicality into increasingly fuel-efficient packages, so their growing popularity comes as no surprise. Now one of the most rapidly growing segments in the automotive industry, CarGurus tested plenty of 2-row crossovers in 2016 and we are now pleased to present the 5 highest-scoring models in the 2016 2-Row Crossover Roundup.
The Ford Edge, Subaru Outback, Jeep Cherokee, Hyundai Tucson, and Toyota RAV4 Hybrid are all capable machines, but none of them excels in any one area, be it fuel economy, towing capacity, or even price. Mileage lies somewhere in the mid-twenties for all 5, none tow more than a maximum of 4,500 pounds (and no standard rate exceeds 2,000 lbs), and most prices fall somewhere near $30,000.
Ford’s Edge Sport definitely takes the crown in terms of pure speed, with a 2.7-liter V6 EcoBoost engine making 315 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, but its brakes left a bit to be desired, especially on hot days. Luckily, Ford is delivering a great interior, complete with the new Sync 3 system, available heated and cooled seats, and an optional hands-free power liftgate. Granted, all these options will push the price way above the base $28,700 MSRP.
The Subaru Outback, on the other hand, delivers rugged practicality and exceptional safety, thanks to the EyeSight safety system and an already impressive record, at an affordable price. The 2.5-liter H4 engine’s 174 hp and 175 lb-ft of torque feel unimpressive, especially when compared to Subaru’s larger H6 engine, but the boxer orientation allows the Subaru to sit an impressive 8.7 inches off the ground, making it “the 4-wheel equivalent of a Swiss Army knife.”
Jeep’s Trailhawk version of the Cherokee takes that go-anywhere attitude even further, although a Marginal rating from the IIHS leaves it lagging behind the competition in terms of safety. Nonetheless, the Cherokee, particularly with the optional 3.2-liter V6, will take drivers far off the beaten path.
On the more value-oriented side of the spectrum, the Hyundai Tucson offers a fantastic warranty and a great, easy-to-use infotainment system—though, just like the competition, it does not come with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The amount of hard plastic in the Tucson’s interior is concerning, the relatively small trunk is discouraging, and the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine’s acceleration is downright upsetting, but still, the Tucson is the least expensive crossover in this roundup.
Being offered in only the XLE and Limited trims increases the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid’s base MSRP, but the impressive interior space, standard all-wheel drive, and 32 miles per gallon in combined driving make it a good value. Nissan is releasing a hybrid Rogue in 2017, but for 2016, the Rav4’s only competition was the Subaru Crosstrek hybrid (which has been discontinued). If you’re looking for a car that does a little bit of everything, the RAV4 Hybrid might just be the best of the bunch.
For more information on the 2016 Ford Edge, see the CarGurus Test Drive Review: https://cargur.us/9qh44
For more information on the 2016 Subaru Outback, see the CarGurus Test Drive Review: https://cargur.us/dMdjL
For more information on the 2016 Jeep Cherokee, see the CarGurus Test Drive Review: https://cargur.us/dMdl8
For more information on the 2016 Hyundai Tucson, see the CarGurus Test Drive Review: https://cargur.us/dMdlT
For more information on the 2016 Toyota Rav4 Hybrid, see the CarGurus Test Drive Review: https://cargur.us/9dS62
Presenter: Matt Smith
Producer: Jake Hughes