Compact SUVs are a good bet for those who like the higher ride height and cargo flexibility of an SUV but don't want to spend so much at the pump. Small SUVs have standard seating for five, though some offer optional third-row seating (mainly for kids). Four-cylinder engines are usually standard; sometimes optional engines are available. Compact hybrid SUVs are available, but the selection is very limited and, like their hybrid car counterparts, they cost more, resulting in a long payback period.

Because compact SUVs try to blend a lot of variables, we looked for reviews that evaluate small SUVs on performance criteria like acceleration and handling, but also on cargo capacity, seating comfort and additional extra features. Towing isn't the strong suit of compact SUVs; if you need to tow trailers or boats, you'll likely need to check our reports on midsize SUVs and large SUVs. The most popular small SUVs all have good safety ratings. For example, the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Subaru Forester, Nissan Rogue and Volkswagen Tiguan are Top Safety Picks at the independent Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

The following is what the experts say to consider when shopping for a small SUV:

  • Compact SUV or station wagon? Most of the vehicles in this class can carry at least five people in a pinch and have adequate cargo space. A third row of seats (which allows the vehicle to accommodate two more small adults or children) is optional on some models, including the Toyota RAV4, but those seats are going to be a tight squeeze. If you're thinking about a compact SUV, you might also consider a station wagon, which will have similar seating and cargo options, but will generally get better gas mileage and offer better handling.
  • Acceleration, handling and braking are not an SUV's strong suit due to the vehicles' weight and high center of gravity. The best models reach 60 mph in no more than 10 seconds, corner at no more than 0.70 g, and stop from 60 mph in 150 feet or less, numbers that don't compare well to most sedans. Compact SUVs are better in these respects than midsize and large SUVs, but still do not perform as well as cars.
  • Less than 5 percent of SUV owners regularly take their vehicles off-road. If you're one of the other 95 percent, pay attention to the vehicle's on-road comfort and performance. The more nimble and car-like it is, the better. In general, SUVs based on passenger-car architecture, like the Honda CR-V or Nissan Rogue, have the most car-like rides.
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