Choosing the right SUV can feel like navigating a maze, especially with so many options flooding the market. If you were in the market back in 2018, or are looking at used models from that year, Consumer Reports offers a valuable guide. They rigorously test vehicles, providing data-driven insights on reliability, safety, and overall owner satisfaction. Let's dive into some of the top SUVs of 2018, according to Consumer Reports, to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding Consumer Reports' Methodology

Before we jump into specific models, it's crucial to understand how Consumer Reports arrives at their ratings. They don't just rely on manufacturer claims or subjective opinions. Instead, they employ a comprehensive methodology that includes:

• Road Tests: Consumer Reports' experts put vehicles through a battery of tests on their own test track, evaluating acceleration, braking, handling, ride quality, and fuel economy.
• Reliability Surveys: They collect data from hundreds of thousands of vehicle owners each year, asking about problems they've experienced with their vehicles over the past 12 months. This provides valuable insights into long-term reliability.
• Safety Assessments: Consumer Reports considers crash-test results from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), as well as the availability of advanced safety features.
• Owner Satisfaction: They survey owners about their overall satisfaction with their vehicles, including factors like comfort, styling, and value.

By combining these different sources of data, Consumer Reports provides a well-rounded assessment of each vehicle. This comprehensive approach is why their recommendations carry so much weight with consumers. This thorough testing ensures that the SUVs they recommend are not just fun to drive but also reliable and safe for you and your family. Consumer Reports also considers the environmental impact of the vehicles they test. They evaluate fuel efficiency and emissions to provide consumers with information on the environmental performance of different models. They also assess the ease of use of the infotainment systems in the vehicles they test. They look at factors such as the clarity of the display, the responsiveness of the controls, and the availability of smartphone integration features. In addition to their standard testing procedures, Consumer Reports also conducts specialized tests to evaluate specific aspects of vehicle performance. For example, they conduct tests to evaluate the performance of the vehicle's headlights in different conditions. They also conduct tests to evaluate the effectiveness of the vehicle's safety features, such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. Consumer Reports' commitment to thorough and objective testing makes their recommendations a valuable resource for consumers looking to purchase a new or used vehicle.

Top Picks from Consumer Reports: 2018 SUVs

While the exact rankings may vary slightly depending on the specific category (e.g., compact, mid-size, large), here are some of the SUVs that consistently scored high in Consumer Reports' evaluations for 2018:

• Subaru Forester: The Subaru Forester is a perennial favorite among Consumer Reports' testers, consistently earning high marks for its reliability, safety, and fuel economy. It offers a spacious interior, excellent visibility, and standard all-wheel drive, making it a great choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The Forester's focus on safety is evident in its standard EyeSight driver-assist system, which includes features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Consumer Reports also praised the Forester's comfortable ride and responsive handling, making it a joy to drive in a variety of conditions. For those seeking a practical and reliable compact SUV, the 2018 Subaru Forester is definitely worth considering. Moreover, the Forester boasts impressive cargo space for its class, making it ideal for road trips and hauling gear. The user-friendly infotainment system and intuitive controls further enhance the driving experience. The Forester's reputation for longevity and high resale value adds to its appeal as a smart long-term investment. The Forester's blend of practicality, safety, and reliability has solidified its position as a top pick in the compact SUV segment. Its consistent high ratings from Consumer Reports reflect its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. The Forester also offers a range of trim levels to suit different budgets and preferences, from the base model to the fully-loaded Touring trim. This allows buyers to customize their Forester to meet their specific needs and desires. Overall, the 2018 Subaru Forester remains a standout choice for those seeking a well-rounded and dependable compact SUV.
• Toyota RAV4: The Toyota RAV4 is another popular compact SUV that consistently earns high marks from Consumer Reports. It's known for its reliability, fuel economy, and spacious interior. The RAV4 offers a comfortable ride and a variety of features, making it a great choice for everyday driving. One of the RAV4's key strengths is its fuel efficiency, which is among the best in its class. This makes it an economical choice for commuters and families who drive frequently. The RAV4 also offers a range of advanced safety features, including Toyota Safety Sense P, which includes automatic emergency braking, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. Consumer Reports also praised the RAV4's user-friendly infotainment system and its comfortable and supportive seats. The RAV4's reputation for reliability and low maintenance costs makes it a smart long-term investment. For those seeking a practical and dependable compact SUV, the 2018 Toyota RAV4 is definitely worth considering. Furthermore, the RAV4 offers a variety of trim levels and options, allowing buyers to customize their vehicle to meet their specific needs. Whether you're looking for a basic commuter car or a fully-loaded family SUV, the RAV4 has something to offer. The RAV4's spacious cargo area and versatile seating configurations make it ideal for hauling groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. Its blend of practicality, fuel efficiency, and reliability has made it a popular choice among SUV buyers for many years. The RAV4's consistent high ratings from Consumer Reports reflect its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Overall, the 2018 Toyota RAV4 remains a top contender in the crowded compact SUV segment.
• Kia Sorento: If you need a bit more space, the Kia Sorento is a mid-size SUV that offers three rows of seating. Consumer Reports praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and long list of features for the price. The Sorento also boasts a strong safety record and a user-friendly infotainment system. One of the Sorento's key advantages is its value proposition. It offers a lot of features and space for the money, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The Sorento also offers a comfortable and quiet ride, making it ideal for long road trips. Consumer Reports also praised the Sorento's well-designed interior and its intuitive controls. The Sorento's available all-wheel drive system provides added traction and stability in slippery conditions. For those seeking a spacious and affordable mid-size SUV, the 2018 Kia Sorento is definitely worth considering. Moreover, the Sorento offers a variety of engine options, allowing buyers to choose the one that best suits their needs. Whether you're looking for fuel efficiency or more power, the Sorento has an engine option for you. The Sorento's versatile seating configurations and ample cargo space make it ideal for families with children or anyone who needs to haul a lot of gear. Its blend of value, practicality, and comfort has made it a popular choice among SUV buyers. The Sorento's strong safety ratings and long warranty provide added peace of mind for buyers. Overall, the 2018 Kia Sorento remains a compelling option in the competitive mid-size SUV segment.

Key Considerations When Buying a Used SUV

When considering a used SUV, especially one from 2018, keep these factors in mind:

• Mileage and Condition: Obviously, higher mileage vehicles will likely have more wear and tear. Get a pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic to assess the vehicle's condition and identify any potential problems.
• Maintenance History: Ask for maintenance records to see if the vehicle has been properly maintained. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and other routine maintenance are crucial for long-term reliability.
• Accident History: Check the vehicle's history report (e.g., Carfax or AutoCheck) to see if it has been involved in any accidents. Even minor accidents can affect a vehicle's structural integrity and safety.
• Test Drive: Always take the vehicle for a test drive to assess its handling, ride quality, and overall performance. Pay attention to any unusual noises or vibrations.
• Features and Technology: Consider what features are important to you, such as advanced safety features, infotainment systems, and comfort amenities. Make sure the vehicle has the features you need and that they are in good working order.

By carefully considering these factors, you can increase your chances of finding a reliable and enjoyable used SUV. Remember that the best SUV for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

Beyond Consumer Reports: Other Resources

While Consumer Reports is a valuable resource, it's always a good idea to consult other sources as well. Consider checking out reviews from other reputable publications, such as Car and Driver, Motor Trend, and Edmunds. You can also read owner reviews on websites like Edmunds and Kelley Blue Book to get a sense of real-world experiences with the vehicle. Talking to friends, family, or colleagues who own similar SUVs can also provide valuable insights. Remember, the more information you gather, the better equipped you'll be to make an informed decision.

Final Thoughts

Finding the perfect SUV involves careful research and consideration. Consumer Reports' recommendations for the top SUVs of 2018 provide a great starting point. By understanding their methodology and considering the factors mentioned above, you can narrow down your options and find an SUV that meets your needs and budget. Happy car hunting, guys!