Buying a brand new SUV can be expensive, and that’s why we spend so much time and energy researching potential options. We travel to dealerships to test drive what we think we might like, but there are so many options that it’s impossible to test drive them all. There are popular options like the Mazda CX-5 that people love, and according to websites like Consumer Reports, the evidence seems to agree with these two options.
Best 2020 Small SUVs by Handling ranked by users. See how your car/truck ranks. In Small SUVs, there are 27 cars. The Best SUVs for 2020 & 2021 — The Top-Rated Small, Midsize, Large, Luxury SUVs and Crossovers SUVs are the most popular vehicles on the road today, and they come in all shapes and sizes.
What makes a good compact SUV
There are a lot of factors to take into consideration when it comes to deciding what makes a good compact SUV stand out from the rest. You want something that doesn’t require a lot of compromises, and the best options are usually the ones that offer more than their competition without raising the price.
There are also a lot of reasons why owning a compact SUV is the happy compromise for family vehicles, and according to Consumer Reports, these are the best all-around options. That means that they require less compromise, and give you more smiles-per-mile.
2020 Mazda CX-5
The price tag of the 2020 Mazda CX-5 might be the first thing to catch your attention — and it should. There is a whole lot of SUV for the surprisingly affordable price of $25,190, though higher trim levels can take you as far as nearly $40,000. They are comfortable to drive and ride in, responsible, and you can drive them in almost any weather condition. On top of that, people recognize the Mazda brand for being reliable, so the option to buy one brand new without blowing your budget seems more than appealing.
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2020 Subaru Forester
The 2020 Subaru Forester is no hidden secret. Like the MX-5, drivers already recognize these cars for their capabilities on and off the road. It’s also popular for the modest price tag, and while Subaru isn’t quite the luxury brand that we get from other affordable options like the Volvo XC40, the versatility and comfort more than makeup for it.
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No matter what option you chose, if its including these two or not, there are a lot of great options for compact SUV. Whether you are looking for a lot of different capabilities or the latest and greatest safety features, buying a new SUV is all about getting the best bang for your buck.
More and more people are getting compact sport utility vehicles instead of the more traditional sedan. They are spacious, safe, reliable, and tech-friendly. And if you make the right choice, the best compact SUV can be fuel efficient, too. Here are some of the world’s best compact SUVs you can ever buy this 2019.
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Mazda CX-5 2019
The 2019 CX-5 is the Japanese automaker’s second generation of its now-iconic small SUV. It still has the same sporty look as its predecessors. However, it has a sharper appearance because of the longer bonnet, squintier headlights, and a wider grille. Mazda also deemed it necessary to make the design more intelligent. You can also expect the interior and car handling to have substantial improvements over the first generation CX-5.
The Mazda CX-5 features the SkyActiv platform in all of its 5 different variants. It includes the Sport, Touring, Grand Touring, Grand Touring Reserve, and Signature trims. In the US, the Mazda CX-5 only comes with a 2.5-liter, 16-valve 4-cylinder DOHC engine. Other markets come with a 2.0-liter and a 2.2-liter SkyActiv platform.
Taking a ride in this mini SUV is like bringing your home along. It comes complete with an array of infotainment and audio system to keep your family entertained. There is Apple and Android integration, plus access to SiriusXM. The interior is lavish enough to encourage you to spend a few hours relaxing on the comfy seats.
Chevrolet Equinox 2020
The latest addition of Chevrolet to its growing selection of high-performance SUVs promises to deliver better fuel economy. It has an agreeable look, although not as sporty as the Mazda CX-5.
The 2020 Equinox comes in two turbocharged powerplant options. One features a 1.5-liter motor while the other comes with a gutsier 2.0-liter. It should be powerful enough to take you on a pleasurable drive. Moreover, its engine design can give you a more remarkable fuel economy than other brands.
The Chevy Equinox is also very agile. It can take on any corner with relative ease. The cabin is also spacious enough for the entire family, with plenty of leg and head room for everyone. This is the kind of crossover that is perfect for weekend getaways as it can be a remarkable vehicle for everyday use.
Ford Escape 2019
The 2019 Ford Escape offers lithe handling and very lively engine options. It is one of the best small SUV models you can drive. Ford reshuffled the packages and features of the latest Escape to make your driving worthwhile.
The current model Escape comes in four different powertrains; two of them are hybrid. The traditional model features the turbo three. It provides enough acceleration to get you to 60 in 7.7 seconds. It may feel unrefined and grumbly, however. The hybrid versions offer better performance. These trims come with two electric motors complementing the power of the Escape’s 2.5-liter inline-4.
This small SUV comes with a graceful styling. It features the same grille as the Ford Fiesta WRC Rally car. Its interior is also stylish. Unfortunately, most of the materials are hard black plastic. The driver-assistance features are, nevertheless, superb.
Nissan Rogue 2020
Many people love the Nissan Rogue, which entered the market in 2007. For more than a decade, Nissan has been trying to improve on the performance and the overall package of the Rogue. Its 2020 version comes with improved safety features that can give you peace of mind on the road.
It comes with rear cross-traffic alert, blind spot warning, and automatic emergency braking systems. There is also Nissan’s signature ProPilot Assist suite that features adaptive cruise control and an innovative lane-keep assist system. There is also a rear automatic braking. These features make the all-new Nissan Rogue the best compact SUV for keeping your out of trouble.
While the 2020 Rogue is a small crossover, its interior is unusually spacious for its size. Its second row has a 60/40 split design. It allows you to fold the seat almost flat. There is also the Divide-N-Hide system at the cargo compartment. The system allows for the splitting of the cargo floor into storage boards. This is a compact crossover that has weekend adventures in mind.
Volkswagen Tiguan 2019
The 2019 Tiguan is Volkswagen’s second generation of compact crossovers that comes with plenty of space for both passengers and cargo. It also features a more intuitive tech interface that should make any journey a lot more pleasant and less stressful.
The latest Tiguan comes in 6 different trims. However, they all come with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that delivers 184 horsepower at 221 lb-ft of torque. Most compact crossovers on the market come with a 6-speed automatic. The Tiguan features an 8-speed tranny for more efficient drives. It gives you a more comfortable ride, too. The seats are supportive and the overall design of the crossover keeps you insulated from both bumps and noise on the road.
Volkswagen designed the Tiguan to carry most of your belongings. It has three rows of seating in the passenger compartment. This is something that is quite rare for a compact SUV. However, keep in mind that the third row may not be suitable for adults as the leg room can be cramped.
Honda CR-V 2019
The CR-V is one of the world’s oldest compact crossovers. With almost a quarter of a century of reliable performance under its belt, one can only expect the latest Honda CR-V to be a lot better than ever before.
The Honda CR-V offers generous passenger space. It is perfect for small families and a group of friends who wish to have an enjoyable weekend. The cargo hold is also spacious. You can put a large number of items in its 39.2 cubic feet of rear storage space. And if you fold the rear seat, you can increase the volume of the cargo hold to 75.8 cubic feet.
The ride is extra-comfortable, too. Passengers will never hurt their bottoms or backs when you drive over uneven terrain. The CR-V also comes with state-of-the-art navigation system, plus Android and Apple integration. The infotainment system in the CR-V will make your drive more pleasant than other small SUVs.
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Subaru Forester 2019
The 2019 Subaru Forester is another good mini SUV. It comes with the standard two rows of seats like any other crossover. However, unlike most of its rivals, the Forester handles more like a car. It offers one of the most comfortable rides for its class.
Not only does the latest Forester offer you a more luxurious ride; it also gives you the chance to enjoy the many premium features in its passenger cabin. The infotainment system will make travel time less boring. The tech interface is very easy to use. Your kids will have no issues operating them. The materials are also of premium quality. They are unlike other brands that put cheap plastics in their interior.
Both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay already come as standard. And while you may find its engine uninspiring, the Forester does provide drivers with a more engaging experience. It comes with retuned steering and more safety features. Subaru also upgraded the sound insulation in the new Forester. This is one of the quietest small SUV cars you can ever get.
Toyota RAV4 2019
Toyota introduced the first ever Rav4 in 1994. The Japanese brand wanted people to enjoy the many benefits of the best small SUV. It offered a spacious cargo room and a comfortable ride. It also provided exceptional fuel economy and maneuverability that most can only get from a sedan.
Fast forward 25 years later and Toyota continues to wow the crowd. It has redesigned its engine to make it even more fuel-efficient. What is most striking in the new RAV4 is its exterior – more aggressive shoulders and a seriously beefed-up face. Gone are the sexy curves that defined this compact SUV for many years. In fact, it looks more like the little brother of Toyota’s beefier and more powerful 4Runner.
Toyota also upgraded the multimedia system in the RAV4. The materials also received a much-needed enhancement. The 2019 RAV4 also comes with additional technology and safety features. It comes in both gas and hybrid versions. If you want to get the best RAV4, you’d better get the RAV4 Hybrid. It combines the awesome power of its 2.5-liter I4 engine with an efficient electric motor for a combined output of 219 horsepower.
Jeep Wrangler 2019
The 2019 Jeep Wrangler may not be your idea of the best mini SUV. However, it is capable of taking you places other compact SUVs do not dare go. It is as nimble on the road as it is off it. Jeep designed the 2019 Wrangler to give you the best of both worlds. Whether your idea of a weekend adventure is cruising along the coastline or conquering a small hill, this Wrangler can be a great part of your journey.
The new Wrangler comes in two trims. The 2-door variant is spacious enough for a family of four. Both trims come with a powerful 3.6-liter V6, mated to a 6-speed manual tranny. There is also the optional 8-speed automatic for those who want a more seamless driving experience.
This terrain-conquering SUV comes with adaptive cruise control. It can make driving a lot more pleasant. Also included in the new Wrangler is the forward collision warning technology. You can also remove the doors and tops as well as fold down the windshield for a true open-air freedom.
GMC Terrain 2020
Many people consider the 2020 GMC Terrain as the Chevy Equinox’s upscale sibling. While it cannot beat the Mazda CX-5’s driving dynamics, the Honda CR-V’s spaciousness, and the Volkswagen Tiguan’s refinement, the Terrain does offer incredible fuel economy.
The base Terrain comes with a 1.5-liter powertrain. Its optional 1.6-liter, 137-horsepower turbocharged engine is more popular, however. If you want a more powerful Terrain, then you should go for the SLT and SLE trims. These feature a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that delivers 252 horsepower.
General Motors refined the Terrain’s safety features. What used to be optional are now standard. These include automatic emergency braking, automatic high-beam headlights, forward collision alert, and lane-keep assist. The interior is also refined and made more accommodating. It should give you a hassle-free ride.
2020 Top Luxury Small Suv
Kia Sportage 2020
Kia unveiled the Sportage in 1993, a year before Toyota introduced the RAV4. Since then, the Sportage has undergone several changes in both its styling and performance package. The latest incarnation of the Korean brand’s fourth generation of Sportage offers a more comfortable ride and more composed ride.
The 2020 Kia Sportage vies for the best small SUV plum because of its very sporty look. The now-iconic grille gives the Sportage a more aggressive face. Its interior looks posh and elegant. There are leather and chrome accents that complement the premium-quality cabin materials. And while it does not have a cargo hold that is as spacious as the Honda CR-V, 60.1 cubic feet is not that bad.
The infotainment system in the new Sportage is also worth highlighting. You can enjoy many of the latest in wireless communication and entertainment technologies. From touchscreen controls to more traditional buttons, managing your entertainment during the ride is easy.
Hyundai Tucson 2020
The Tucson is one of two SUVs that Hyundai produces for the small SUV segment. The Tucson also happens to be the smaller of the two. This doesn’t mean that it fares poorer than the Santa Fe. The 2020 Hyundai Tucson comes with a competitive interior appointments, complete with ample leg room and head room. Hyundai also included storage cubbies for everyone’s trinkets and other small items.
Small Suv Comparison
There are six trims for the 2020 Tucson. These are the SE, SEL, Value, Limited, Sport, and Ultimate. The Limited and Ultimate trims come with more luxurious features as well as a more potent powertrain. The SE and Value base trims come with a 161-horsepower 2.0-liter engine. The other trims come with a 2.4-liter engine. All trims feature a 6-speed automatic tranny on a standard front-wheel drive.
While the Tucson has a modest powertrain, the comfort that it provides during a drive is exceptional. It also handles well on the road. The tech features and infotainment system can also make each ride very pleasant and convenient.
Jeep Compass 2019
The 2019 Jeep Compass doesn’t look like any of the off-road SUVs that carry the Jeep badge. As a matter of fact, the styling is so refined that you will think the Compass is not a Jeep at all. The only sign that it is a Jeep is the iconic grille up front. Without it, most people will mistake the 2019 Jeep compass for something else.
There is no doubt that the handsome exterior makes the Jeep Compass one of the best compact SUV models you can have. It has a strong stance; not aggressive. You also have the option to get the Trailhawk to make the Compass a lot more rugged. Jeep also offers a number of customizations for the Compass.
The Compass handles like any other off-roading Jeep. However, the automaker designed this SUV for better comfort and not for performance off-roads. The fuel economy is good and the interior looks posh enough.
Hyundai Santa Fe Sport 2019
The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe offers more room than its smaller sibling, the Tucson. It also provides better handling. The Santa Fe Sport also comes with a more aggressive, albeit squarer stance. It has bolder features at both its nose and tail.
Under the hood of the Santa Fe is a 2.4-liter I4, although you can choose to get the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4. An 8-speed automatic transmission and a front-wheel drive layout come as standard. However, you can always opt for an all-wheel drive if you choose.
The safety features are also commendable and the infotainment system great for a Korean brand. The interior is practical and is capable of seating 5 grownups. Folding the second row of seats will give you a spacious 71-cubic foot cargo space. The seats are comfortable and supportive. There are also smart storage features for every passenger. It is a great compact SUV for long rides.
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross 2019
Mitsubishi is looking for interesting ideas to lead it into the third decade of the new millennium with a fresh start. And that start is the 2019 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross. The Eclipse Cross is the Japanese automaker’s answer to the CR-V and the RAV4 from rival national brands.
The Eclipse Cross has a very daring look. It tries to convey an aggressive stance, complete with flared out shoulders and chinky headlights. The grille is reminiscent of Mitsubishi’s Lancer Evos, while the back has a more streamlined, sweptback styling.
This small SUV comes with an inline-4 engine, delivering 152 horsepower from its 1.5-liter unit. It comes with a continuously variable transmission. It also features a number of infotainment technologies that can make any journey less boring.
Determining the best compact SUV is a matter of personal preference. Some offer better fuel economy, while others rely on their spacious interior. Others provide a sporty exterior or a more comfortable ride. Of course, it would be best if you can get all of these from the best small SUV on the market.
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