  We study the minimally and non-minimally coupled scalar field models as
possible alternatives for dark energy, the mysterious energy component that is
driving the accelerated expansion of the universe. After discussing the
dynamics at both the background and perturbation level, we confront the two
models with the latest cosmological data. After obtaining updated constraints
on their parameters we perform model selection using the basic information
criteria. We found that the $\Lambda$CDM model is strongly favored when the
local determination of the Hubble constant is not considered and that this
statement is weakened once local $H_0$ is included in the analysis. We
calculate the parameter combination $S_8=\sigma_8\sqrt{\Omega_{m}/0.3}$ and
show the decrement of the tension with respect to the Planck results in the
case of minimally and non-minimally coupled scalar field models. Finally, for
the coupling constant between DE and gravity, we obtain the constraint
$\xi\simeq -0.06^{+0.19}_{-0.19}$, approaching the one from solar system tests
$|\xi| \lesssim 10^{-2}$ and comparable to the conformal value $\xi=1/6$ at
$1\sigma$ uncertainty.
