Best Small SUV: 4 Top Small SUVs to Choose From

Buyers looking for the best small SUV may feel intimidated by the vast selection of vehicles available to choose from. However, there’s no need to feel challenged; that’s why we’re reviewing the top selections for you, so that you can choose what you like without having to worry about quality.

No matter what kind of SUV you’re looking for, there’s one here to suit your needs.  Here are 4 of the best options to choose from when looking for a compact SUV.

The Subaru Forester

The Forester is popular among owners for its improved design, with traditional SUV-style bodywork and emphasis on passenger and driver comfort. This vehicle offers standard all-wheel drive, two rows of seating, fuel economy, and powerful engines.

Although it earned rave reviews (including the Motor Trend’s Sport Utility of the Year award), the Forester has been criticized for having its outdated four-speed automatic feature; reviews have also highlighted its tendency to pitch and roll more than competitors.

The Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 is hailed by reviewers for its powerful base engine, as well as the optional V-6 engine which is the most powerful in its class but still effective at delivering excellent fuel economy.

Particularly well-reviewed design features include an optional third-row seat (which has been described as too cramped for adults but perfect for children), plenty of cargo space, and excellent safety ratings. Cons of purchasing this vehicle include minimal interior design and difficult-to-access top-tether anchors.

The Ford Escape Hybrid

The Ford Escape Hybrid is unique in its accomplishment as the leading SUV in fuel economy, offering 34 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, surpassing the numbers of small economy vehicles.

A powerful gasoline engine and quite performance make this SUV a favorite among reviewers, who are also impressed with the space and comfort level of the interior as well as the Escape being the IIHS Top Safety Pick. Negative reviews mentioned cheap interior parts and lack of power for passing on the highway.

The Nissan Rogue

The Nissan Rogue is most popular for its design, sporting a jaunty look that earns it extra points for aestheticism, as well as for the ease of driving—reviewers state that the Rogue handles like a car.

Additional perks include comfortable seats, good safety ratings, and affordability. Reviewers were less than impressed with the loudness of this vehicle, its lack of cargo space in comparison to competitors, and poor rear visibility.

With these choices, selecting your new SUV is an easy process!  Should any small SUVs be added to the list?  Leave us your thoughts!

2 Responses to “Best Small SUV: 4 Top Small SUVs to Choose From”

1. Options for Best Fuel Efficient SUV | SUV Today says:

   March 18, 2010 at 9:31 pm

   […] products. New technologies that have redefined the SUV market include hybrids, which are also the most efficient SUVs on the road. Hybrids combine a traditional combustible engine with an electric motor, creating an […]

2. Hybrid SUV Comparison: Finding the Best Hybrid Vehicle | SUV Today says:

   March 29, 2010 at 10:17 pm

   […] Ford Escape hybrid is the SUV with the best mileage rating. At 34 miles per gallon city and 31 on the highway this is […]