2010 Hyundai Tucson

Other experts largely agree, although most still reserve their highest recommendations for more refined, established choices like the Honda CR-V. The Hyundai Tucson also loses points for a smaller cargo bay than most others in its class -- 55.8 cubic feet max, versus nearly 73 cubic feet for the CR-V.

"If you're just looking for a small, fuel-efficient SUV, though, the Tucson is an excellent choice -- even if you can only afford a budget buy," Edmunds.com says. When outfitted with front-wheel drive and the optional six-speed automatic transmission, the Tucson is rated at an estimated 26 mpg in combined driving (23 mpg city/31 mpg highway), making it one of the most fuel-efficient nonhybrid SUVs you can buy, according to Environmental Protection Agency figures; the standard six-speed manual loses an estimated 1 mpg all around. With all-wheel drive, the EPA estimates 21 mpg city/28 mpg highway/24 mpg combined. However, both the front- and four-wheel-drive Tucson finish 2 mpg below those estimates in two expert tests, putting them on par with most other popular small SUVs, including the critics' favorite, the Honda CR-V. All 2010 Hyundai Tucsons use a 176-horsepower, 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine.

Handling is surprisingly athletic, and more than one tester says the Hyundai Tucson feels taut and precise like a German car. "Driven aggressively on a curvy road, the Tucson is actually fun," says Michael Karesh at TheTruthAboutCars.com. Steering feels artificial in some tests, and critics say the firm suspension may transmit too many road bumps for some tastes.

Inside, testers say the cabin is roomy enough for five. Despite some so-so plastics, critics praise the stylish interior. Rear visibility is a problem in some tests, thanks to the swoopy design's thick roof pillars and small, curved back window. Off-roading and towing aren't strong points for the Tucson; Hyundai's website doesn't even discuss them.

The entry-level Hyundai Tucson GLS (Base MSRP: $18,885 to $21,495) comes extremely well-equipped for the price, experts say, with hill-hold and descent control, a trip computer, keyless entry, tilt steering, height-adjustable driver's seat and a CD stereo with auxiliary jack, USB port, iPod interface and satellite radio. Options such as leatherette upholstery and navigation are available in packages. The Hyundai Tucson Limited (Base MSRP: $24,345 to $25,845) adds heated seats, dual-zone automatic climate control and more, including options like a panoramic sunroof and backup camera.

The new Tucson had not yet been crash tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration when we checked, but it scores ratings of Good across the board at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, earning a 2010 Top Safety Pick designation. The Hyundai Tucson comes with a full complement of standard safety features, including antilock brakes, traction and stability control and front, front-side and curtain airbags, as well as hill-hold and hill descent control.

This new model hasn't accumulated any reliability data yet, but experts praise the long warranty: five years/60,000 miles basic and 10 years/100,000 miles for the powertrain.

Motor Trend, Edmunds.com and ConsumerReports.org all thoroughly test the 2010 Hyundai Tucson and compare it with competing SUVs. Autoblog.com's review is very detailed, and TheTruthAboutCars.com's two separate reviews also give a good overview of the Tucson. ConsumerGuide.com's test results include lots of helpful details about the Tucson. Both FuelEconomy.gov and GreenerCars.org rank the Tucson against other SUVs, based on fuel economy and pollution ratings. Kelley Blue Book is another reliable source that recommends the 2010 Tucson, but editors have not yet written a full review.