Downsizing from a mammoth SUV or truck can feel like trading in your beloved Great Dane for a chihuahua. But before you write off compact SUVs as glorified golf carts, let’s enjoy some of the hottest small SUVs on the market today. Spoiler alert: You might find yourself falling head over heels for these pint-sized powerhouses.
Mazda CX-5
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The Mazda CX-5 stands out in the compact SUV segment for its engaging driving dynamics, upscale interior, and sleek design. The vehicle is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine or a turbocharged variant, delivering up to 250 horsepower. Its refined handling and luxurious features, such as an available head-up display and premium audio system, make it a top contender for those looking to downsize without sacrificing performance and comfort.
Honda CR-V
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This vehicular equivalent of that friend, who’s always dependable yet surprisingly fun, remains a favorite for its reliability, spacious interior, and impressive fuel efficiency. Equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 190 horsepower, the CR-V offers a smooth ride and ample cargo space. Honda’s suite of safety features, including Honda Sensing, includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and collision mitigation braking, ensuring peace of mind for drivers.
Toyota RAV4
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Toyota’s RAV4 combines rugged looks with advanced technology and efficiency. Its hybrid model offers outstanding fuel economy, averaging 40 mpg combined, while the Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims provide enhanced off-road capabilities. The RAV4 features a user-friendly infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. It’s not just a car; it’s a lifestyle upgrade.
Ford Escape
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This Houdini of SUVs magically escapes traffic jams and mundane errands with style and offers a diverse range of powertrains, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, catering to eco-conscious drivers. Its spacious cabin has the latest technology, such as the SYNC 3 infotainment system and Ford Co-Pilot360 driver-assist features. The Escape’s sleek design and impressive towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds make it a versatile choice.
Subaru Forester
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The Subaru Forester is renowned for its standard all-wheel-drive system, making it a reliable choice for those frequently encountering adverse weather conditions. The Forester’s 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine provides adequate power, while its spacious interior and generous cargo space ensure comfort for passengers and gear. Subaru’s Eyesight driver assist technology enhances safety with features like pre-collision braking and lane departure warning, making it clear that this is practically a bubble wrap. So go ahead, conquer the great outdoors.
Kia Sportage
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The Kia Sportage combines a stylish design, spacious interior, and advanced features. This car with more personality than your average Monday morning is available with either a 2.4-liter engine or a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine delivering 240 horsepower and offers a spirited drive. The compact SUV includes wireless charging, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced safety systems, making it a compelling option for downsizing.
Hyundai Tucson
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This chameleon of the road impresses with its upscale interior, user-friendly technology, and comprehensive warranty. The latest model offers a variety of powertrains, including a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid, providing excellent fuel efficiency. Its advanced safety features, such as forward collision avoidance and blind-spot monitoring, ensure a secure driving experience. This car is so efficient that it practically drives itself.
Chevrolet Equinox
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The Chevrolet Equinox strikes a balance between comfort, technology, and performance. Its turbocharged 1.5-liter engine delivers a respectable 170 horsepower, and an optional 2.0-liter engine offers more power for those who need it. The Equinox features Chevrolet’s Infotainment 3 system, with an intuitive touchscreen and smartphone integration, making it a practical and stylish choice.
Volkswagen Tiguan
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The Volkswagen Tiguan stands out with its European-inspired design, spacious interior, and third-row seating option. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine provides a smooth and responsive drive, while the 4MOTION all-wheel drive enhances traction and stability. The Tiguan’s refined interior includes a digital cockpit, ambient lighting, and a panoramic sunroof.
Nissan Rogue
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The Nissan Rogue has undergone a significant redesign, offering a bold exterior, improved performance, and a high-quality interior. Its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 181 horsepower, providing a balanced mix of power and efficiency. The Rogue’s ProPILOT Assist system enhances the driving experience with semi-autonomous capabilities, including adaptive cruise control and lane centering. The SUV is anything but rogue in performance.
Jeep Cherokee
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The Jeep Cherokee offers a blend of off-road prowess and urban comfort, making it a versatile choice for a compact SUV. Available with a range of engines, including a powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged option, the Cherokee can easily tackle various terrains. Jeep’s Uconnect system, with its intuitive interface and smartphone connectivity, ensures a connected driving experience.
Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
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The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport combines affordability with robust features, making it a good option for those seeking value in a compact SUV. Its 2.0-liter engine provides reliable performance, while the available all-wheel-drive system enhances its versatility. The Outlander Sport’s updated interior includes a new infotainment system with smartphone integration and a range of driver-assist technologies.
Buick Encore GX
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Last but certainly not least, the Buick Encore GX is a compact SUV that feels anything but compact. Its luxurious interior, with high-quality materials and a quiet cabin, makes it feel like a premium vehicle. Equipped with advanced safety features like automatic emergency brakes and lane keep assist, it prioritizes passenger security. A 1.3L turbocharged engine delivers a responsive driving experience with up to 155 horsepower and an estimated 32 mpg highway fuel efficiency. The Encore GX also boasts advanced safety features and a turbocharged engine that delivers a smooth, sophisticated ride.
15 Most Reliable Cars Ever Made — Why They Never Quit
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Some claim that the dependability of autos has decreased. Modern cars have a shorter lifespan than some cars manufactured between the 1970s and the 1990s, but some new and used cars today are good enough to last for at least ten years and up to 500,000 miles. When these vehicles break down, most problems are relatively simple, and many don’t have serious difficulties. Here are 15 of the most reliable cars ever made:
15 Most Reliable Cars Ever Made — Why They Never Quit
