It's often easy to forget that sporty luxury sedans aren't limited to European brands. German automakers such as BMW and Audi rightly get credit for popularizing a class of small car that blends high-performance driving with luxury materials and technology. But Japanese and American brands have left their own marks on the class. The 2019 Infiniti Q50 is one such alternative to cars such as the Audi A4 and the BMW 3 Series.
Like its competitors, the Q50 offers turbocharged four - and six-cylinder engines, premium interior touches, and an array of available technology, but it often comes at a lower price. And with a performance pedigree that reaches back to the mighty, Japan-only Nissan Skyline, the Q50 has power and handling that holds its own in this segment.
https://www.edmunds.com/alfa-romeo/giulia/
The 2019 Infiniti QX60 has a few standout qualities that are ideal for hauling people over long distances. A large and roomy cabin, a quiet and smooth ride, and leather-appointed stadium-style seating mean your family will be as comfortable as possible. The fold-down second- and third-row seats also give you the flexibility you need for mixing passengers and cargo.
Most luxury SUVs give you a choice of engines, but in the QX60 there's only one available: a 3.5-liter V6 (295 horsepower, 270 pound-feet of torque) that's connected to a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). While we usually dislike CVT automatics in luxury vehicles due to their elastic-like power delivery when accelerating quickly, the one in the QX60 works pretty well. Altogether, this powertrain is quiet and smooth, lending itself well to its luxury people-mover mission.
KBB:
Sharing a platform with the Japanese Mazda MX-5, the 2019 Fiat
124 Spider adds a big dose of Italian design, horsepower and handling, creating
a worthy successor to the legendary 124 name. In place of the normally
aspirated Mazda engine, the Fiat 124 Spider borrows the turbocharged 1.4-liter
engine from the 500 Abarth, giving the Spider a bit more bite without
sacrificing the near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution that makes the MX-5 such
a joy to drive. Inside, the cabin is steeped in high-grade materials a step
above what Mazda offers. Best of all, while priced in line with the Mini Cooper
Convertible, the 124 Spider offers a look and attitude more commonly associated
with expensive roadsters like the Porsche Boxster and Audi TT.
If you’re looking for a fun, affordable small convertible with
styling and attitude that far exceed its humble price, the 2019 Fiat 124 Spider
tops a very short list. Fiat’s turbocharged 4-cylinder delivers a different
driving experience than in a Mazda MX-5, as does the reworked cabin.
For 2019, the Fiat 124 Spider adds a rearview camera and 7-inch
touch screen with Fiat Connect 7.0 software. The 124 Abarth now offers a Record
Monza exhaust, while the Technology Group adds SiriusXM and proximity entry.
Some new exterior styling options and colors round out the changes.
Edmunds:
On the outside, the 2019 Fiat 500X looks similar to last year's model. Fiat has restyled the front and rear fascias, but only eagle-eyed observers will be able to spot the differences. Below the surface, however, more significant changes are afoot that substantially improve the 500X's appeal.
Previously, there was a standard 1.4-liter turbocharged engine and an optional 2.4-liter non-turbocharged engine. We weren't in love with either choice, so there's promise in this year's new turbocharged 1.3-liter engine that generates 177 horsepower and 210 pound-feet of torque. While it has 3 hp less than the previously optional 2.4-liter engine, the significantly higher torque output should make the 500X more responsive at low speeds. We expect it to be more fuel-efficient as well.
In terms of features, adaptive cruise control is now available on the 500X's upper trim levels, and it's paired with safety features such as blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning. There are also a series of new interior materials used on the dashboard and seats, and a new look to the gauge cluster and steering wheel, to improve the already upscale vibe of the 500X.
Edmunds:
The 2019 Ford F-150 is one of the most popular trucks in the United States. That it's also one of the most capable vehicles on the road today is no coincidence. Like other top-tier full-size pickup trucks, the F-150 is available in a wide variety of trim levels, comes with many available powertrains, and delivers big-time towing and hauling capabilities.
Of course, if trailer-pulling power is what you're after, the F-150 still has you covered. Six engines are available, ranging from a basic V6 all the way to a muscular 450-horsepower turbocharged V6. As part of that six-engine lineup, the F-150 is now available with a 3.0-liter diesel-powered V6 engine. It's likely the best pick of the group if you plan to do a lot of towing. Even without all these updates for 2019, the Ford F-150 was a class leader. And with everything that Ford has done to keep it relevant, this F-150
hasn't lost a step.
KBB:
Despite all this talk of Ford not building cars in favor of more profitable crossovers, SUVs and trucks, there is a 2019 Fusion. And significantly, this comfortable midsize sedan, mildly restyled for 2019, marks the debut of Ford Co-Pilot360 Protect, a standard suite of advanced driver-assist technologies that includes automatic emergency braking (with pedestrian protection), a blind-spot information system, lane-keeping system, rearview camera and auto high-beam lighting. Moreover, the Fusion lineup has been simplified for 2019, with S, SE, Hybrid SE, SEL, Hybrid SEL, Titanium and Hybrid Titanium models joined by the Fusion Energi Titanium plug-in hybrid and all-wheel-drive Sport. With models ranging from affordable and efficient to well-equipped and opulent, the 2019 Ford Fusion competes with the Chevrolet Malibu, Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Mazda6 and Toyota Camry.
We've been giving this generation Civic top marks since its
debut three years ago, and there's nothing else out this year that's going to
steal the car's title belt. But here we are anyway with an even better Civic.
For starters, the 2019 Honda Civic gets a restyled front end.
The new look is subtle and helps the car look a little sleeker and less
imposing. Inside, you get an updated infotainment interface that brings with it
the return of a volume knob for the Civic. This small addition addresses one of
the biggest complaints we had with the Civic last year.
What's more, all Civic trims also get additional features from
the Honda Sensing bundle, which is now standard. It includes adaptive cruise
control, forward collision mitigation, and lane departure warning with lane
keeping assist. The Civic already had several advantages over competitors, and
this addition of safety equipment is yet another.
https://www.edmunds.com/honda/civic/
Just because something sells in massive numbers doesn't mean it's the best thing to buy. When it comes to fast food, for instance, popularity doesn't necessarily equal quality. The 2019 Honda CR-V, however, is one example where the masses are definitely on the right track: Honda sold nearly 400,000 last year and it's one of our top-rated small SUVs.
The 2019 CR-V checks virtually every box on car shoppers' list in this increasingly popular vehicle segment. It makes family life easier with a cavernous cargo area, abundant back seat room, easily accessed LATCH anchors and more clever storage solutions than an Ikea. It will also keep you safe. Crash test ratings are flawless, and accident avoidance technologies are standard on all but the base trim.
Behind the wheel, the 2019 CR-V responds smartly to inputs and handles well, yet its comfortable ride and quiet cabin won't wake the kids. Under the hood, the turbocharged engine found in most trim levels provides best-in-class acceleration and fuel economy. Wrapping everything up is the CR-V's excellent reputation for resale value and reliability.
Quite simply, the CR-V makes a ton of sense. If anything, its greatest flaw might be that it makes too much sense. There are rivals that definitely offer more memorable styling and personality, such as the Mazda CX-5 and the new Toyota RAV4. Technophiles may also find Honda's touchscreen to be frustratingly behind the times. Yet those are minor quibbles. In general, joining the CR-V owning masses would be a pretty good idea.
https://www.edmunds.com/honda/cr-v/
It's often easy to forget that sporty luxury sedans aren't limited to European brands. German automakers such as BMW and Audi rightly get credit for popularizing a class of small car that blends high-performance driving with luxury materials and technology. But Japanese and American brands have left their own marks on the class. The 2019 Infiniti Q50 is one such alternative to cars such as the Audi A4 and the BMW 3 Series.
Like its competitors, the Q50 offers turbocharged four - and six-cylinder engines, premium interior touches, and an array of available technology, but it often comes at a lower price. And with a performance pedigree that reaches back to the mighty, Japan-only Nissan Skyline, the Q50 has power and handling that holds its own in this segment.
https://www.edmunds.com/infiniti/q50/
The 2019 Infiniti QX60 has a few standout qualities that are ideal for hauling people over long distances. A large and roomy cabin, a quiet and smooth ride, and leather-appointed stadium-style seating mean your family will be as comfortable as possible. The fold-down second- and third-row seats also give you the flexibility you need for mixing passengers and cargo.
Most luxury SUVs give you a choice of engines, but in the QX60 there's only one available: a 3.5-liter V6 (295 horsepower, 270 pound-feet of torque) that's connected to a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). While we usually dislike CVT automatics in luxury vehicles due to their elastic-like power delivery when accelerating quickly, the one in the QX60 works pretty well. Altogether, this powertrain is quiet and smooth, lending itself well to its luxury people-mover mission.
https://www.edmunds.com/infiniti/qx60/
With seating for seven, top-notch crash-test ratings and an enviable 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, the 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander is ideal for families on a tight budget. One of the few compact SUVs available with a 3rd-row seat, the Outlander may be ordered with front- or all-wheel drive. The plug-in hybrid model continues in 2019, the only SUV in its class to offer such an electrified powertrain. Prices start just over $25,500 for a front-wheel-drive base ES model with a 166-horsepower 4-cylinder engine, and they rise to just over $34,000 for a V6-powered GT. Mitsubishi’s compact SUV competes with the Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue, Dodge Journey, Kia Sorento and Toyota RAV4. (The Outlander Sport, Mitsubishi’s smaller crossover SUV, is reviewed separately.)
Slotting between the
best-selling Rogue and diminutive Kicks is the 2019 Nissan Rouge Sport, a
subcompact-crossover SUV offering the styling and features of the larger Rogue,
but with a cozier feel. Up against big names like the Honda HR-V and Hyundai Kona,
the Rogue Sport looks pretty good, offering more interior room than the Mazda
CX-3 and a better track record than the Jeep Renegade. The Rogue Sport isn’t
big on power or off-road ability, but it does have enough cargo space to haul a
weekend’s worth of gear, and in urban settings its smaller size makes it easy
to maneuver and park. The Rogue Sport also gains Nissan’s best driver-assist
and advance safety and infotainment features, making it a tempting choice.
If you like the versatility
and all-wheel drive capability of an SUV, but you’re not looking for something
big, bulky or fuel-thirsty, the subcompact 2019 Nissan Rogue Sport might
surprise you. A long list of advanced features helps bolster driver confidence,
and a reasonable price removes any fear of massive monthly payments.
The 2019 Nissan Maxima is a midsize sedan with a bit of twist. Nissan differentiates the Maxima by calling it the "four-door sports car" of the category. Now, sports car aficionados will beg to differ, but the statement does have some merit. The Maxima is typically more responsive to steering inputs than its rivals, and its standard V6 engine produces a healthy 300 horsepower.
On the inside, you'll notice an easy-to-use and comfortable cabin. Most functions can be accessed and controlled via touchscreen, direct button access, a rotary knob, or even voice control, making the learning curve very shallow. The Platinum trim gets stylish trim pieces and luxurious quilted leather seats, while the SR gets a combination of leather upholstery, simulated-suede seat inserts and contrasting orange stitching.
Edmunds:
SUVs have been dominating the market recently to the point that
Ford recently announced it was going to largely give up on making sedans. But
there is one area where the traditional four-door holds an advantage: hybrid
efficiency. The latest hybrid sedans are posting truly impressive fuel economy,
and a great example is the fully redesigned 2019 Toyota Avalon Hybrid.
The Avalon Hybrid debuts alongside the conventionally powered
Avalon and is estimated by the EPA to return up to 44 mpg in combined driving.
That's almost 70 percent better than the gasoline-only Avalon, yet the Hybrid
costs only about $1,000 more. With what you'll save on gas, you could very well
recoup that added cost in just over a year and continue to reap the rewards
thereafter. From behind the wheel, the Hybrid's power deficit isn't as much of
a penalty as the numbers suggest, making it our pick in the Avalon lineup. The
hybrid batteries are mounted under the rear seats, maintaining the same trunk
capacity as the conventional Avalon while keeping the flat-folding rear
seatbacks for greater versatility. Both offer high levels of comfort and plenty
of features and blur the line between Toyota and its Lexus luxury brand.
If you're in the market for a large sedan, the 2019 Toyota Avalon Hybrid should be among your top picks whether or not you're looking for a hybrid.
Edmunds:
Rarely does a car get more popular with age, but that's exactly what's happening with the Toyota 4Runner. Despite entering its 10th year since it was completely redesigned — an eternity in car terms — the 4Runner sells exponentially better today than it did when minty fresh.
Perhaps that has to do with today's SUV-hungry buyers, but the 2019 4Runner is also a distinctive model. It is rugged and off-road capable, yet it's spacious and family-friendly. Sure, it's a bit rough around the edges and lacks many of the technology features you'll find in other SUVs, but there's an honesty to the 4Runner and a just-right goodness that keeps it relevant. It won't be for everyone, but it'll be exactly what a great many want.
So, if you think you might be in that "great many," here are the 4Runner's good bits. Its rugged trucklike construction, abundant ground clearance and legitimate off-road hardware give it go-anywhere credentials few SUVs (and especially crossovers) can match or surpass. At the same time, it has a large cabin with a big, boxy cargo area that'll make packing for a go-anywhere adventure (or just a trip to Grandma's for the holidays) that much easier. You also get a reputation for near bulletproof reliability and a driving experience that's not as cumbersome or trucklike as you'd expect for an off-road-oriented SUV.
The 2019 Volkswagen Golf is fun, efficient, practical and more
sophisticated than its price suggests. Starting in the low-$20,000 range, it is
slightly pricier than rivals like the Honda Civic hatch but still among the
least expensive ways to get into a German-engineered car. The Golf lineup is
broad, spanning from the standard 4-door Golf hatchback to the sporty GTI and
the performance-oriented Golf R. There’s even the all-electric e-Golf, but its
range pales compared to rivals. The Golf family also extends to the larger
SportWagen and adventurous Alltrack, reviewed separately. For 2019, the VW Golf
hatchback gets a less powerful but more efficient new engine, plus new safety
features. The updates help keep the Golf an athletic, premium-feeling
alternative to mainstream rivals.
If you want a practical, handsome hatchback with the athletic
driving manners for which European cars are known, all at a digestible price,
the 2019 VW Golf was made for you. Driving enthusiasts will love the excellent
handling of the GTI, while the Golf R packs even more power and all-wheel
drive.
VW’s 2019 Tiguan’s excellent steering and pedal response -- expected attributes of any VW -- contribute to an overall driving feel that’s among the best in the segment. Highway ride is firmer than that of some other small SUVs, but excellent seats, a quiet cabin and superior steering feel qualify the new Tiguan as an excellent long-haul companion. While the Tiguan’s turbocharged engine generates impressive horsepower and torque, a base Tiguan is a whopping 450 pounds heavier than a base Honda CR-V. City scooting and highway cruising are barely impacted, but the added mass is evident in highway merging and passing situations. Although the Tiguan is a bit longer than most compact SUVs, good outward visibility and a decent turning diameter combine to make it a breeze in parking lots. The Tiguan also offers a host of available technologies that make parking maneuvers even easier. Rear Traffic Alert with Braking will warn you of cars coming down the aisle you’re backing into, and can automatically stop the car if necessary. The Overhead View Camera provides a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle and its surroundings, an increasingly common feature that remains among our favorites. Park Distance Control with Maneuver Braking incorporates front and rear parking sensors that warn you of close objects and can even stop the car if you’re about to back into something.
