The automotive landscape has witnessed an undeniable surge in the popularity of small SUVs over recent years. This segment, encompassing both compact and subcompact models, has become a cornerstone of the American market, appealing to a broad spectrum of new-car shoppers. Despite often being pricier than their hatchback or sedan counterparts, these vehicles offer an irresistible blend of utility, an elevated driving position, and a more generous cargo area, frequently coupled with the added confidence of available all-wheel drive. This combination makes them a compelling choice for individuals and families alike, looking for versatility without sacrificing maneuverability.
Understanding the nuances between subcompact and compact SUVs is crucial for any potential buyer. While subcompacts provide easier parking and generally better fuel efficiency, catering to those who prioritize cost savings and urban agility, compact SUVs step up in terms of interior space, ride quality, and often offer a more upscale cabin with an expanded feature list. This trade-off between initial cost and long-term value against enhanced utility and comfort is a personal decision, one that requires careful assessment of individual needs and priorities before heading to a dealership. Our aim is to provide a comprehensive, data-driven perspective to guide that decision.
To navigate this increasingly crowded segment, the Edmunds experts, along with our Car Confections Team, meticulously rate and review every SUV on the market. Our team dedicates extensive time to testing these models, driving them across diverse terrains, evaluating their technology, assessing their spaciousness, and experiencing them in daily life. This rigorous process allows us to craft segment-specific scores and rankings, helping consumers identify the best compact SUVs for 2025. Based on thousands of viewer comments and our expert observations, we’ve identified the most important categories for shoppers, ensuring our recommendations are practical, user-focused, and above all, trustworthy. Let’s delve into the first half of our expert picks, uncovering what makes each of these compact SUVs stand out, for better or for worse.
1. **Subaru Forester**Starting off our countdown at number 10, we encounter the new Subaru Forester, an option in a segment where almost every contender has seen a redesign in recent years. This iteration of the Forester marks a significant shift, adopting a more luxurious aesthetic both inside and out, which might surprise those familiar with Subaru’s traditionally rugged image. Despite this refined appearance, the Forester staunchly maintains the core perks expected from a Subaru, most notably its standard all-wheel drive, a feature that provides year-round confidence and capability, especially in adverse weather conditions.
Beyond its all-weather prowess, the Forester now boasts a large screen on most models, significantly enhancing its technological appeal and user interface. Complementing this is a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, underscoring Subaru’s ongoing commitment to occupant protection. These elements contribute to an overall package that elevates the in-cabin experience for 2025, pushing its luxury quotient up several notches from previous generations. Buyers seeking a blend of sophistication and the inherent practicality of a Subaru will find much to appreciate here.
However, it’s important to cast an objective eye on areas where the Forester currently falls short. The most significant concern for this model year is its powertrain, which our experts identify as the weakest category in its current configuration. The hope is that this will be addressed in the near future, specifically for next year, when a hybrid model is finally anticipated to join the lineup. This future addition could significantly impact its overall score by offering improved efficiency and potentially more robust performance, although its effects are still too speculative to factor into the current assessment.
Car Model Information: 2021 Subaru Forester Premium
Name: Subaru Forester
Manufacturer: Subaru
Production: 1997–present
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Related: Subaru Impreza
Layout: Front-engine, all-wheel drive
Predecessor: Subaru Bighorn
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles containing potentially dated statements
Summary: The Subaru Forester (Japanese: スバル・フォレスター, Hepburn: Subaru Foresutā) is a compact crossover SUV that has been manufactured by Subaru since 1997. The first generation was built on the platform of the Impreza in the style of a taller station wagon, a style that continued to the second generation, while the third-generation model onwards moved towards a crossover SUV design. A performance model was available for the second-generation Forester in Japan as the Forester STi.
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Brand: Subaru Model: Forester
Price: $22,987 Mileage: 61,212 mi.
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2. **GMC Terrain**Another option that has undergone a much-needed redesign for this year is the GMC Terrain, which secures the ninth spot on our list. This refreshed model brings substantial updates to GMC’s smallest vehicle, pushing it into the premium tier of the compact SUV segment. The most striking improvement is its offering of high-end finishes, directly inspired by its more expensive siblings, the Acadia and Yukon. This means that stepping into the Terrain now provides an experience of luxury and refinement that was previously uncommon for a vehicle in this class, setting it apart from many competitors.
Further enhancing its appeal, the new Terrain comes standard with a premium large display across all models for this year, a clear indication of GMC’s commitment to modern technology and user convenience. This sophisticated infotainment system ensures that drivers and passengers alike benefit from an intuitive and engaging digital experience from the moment they enter the cabin. The integration of such high-quality features from its larger, more luxurious counterparts truly elevates the Terrain’s standing within the segment.
Despite these significant advancements in interior design and technology, the Terrain, much like the Forester, faces challenges in its powertrain department. The vehicle carries over a 1.5L Turbo I-4 engine, which, with its low horsepower for the segment, leaves something to be desired in terms of performance. Furthermore, the front-wheel drive (FWD) model is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), and there is no hybrid option currently available. These factors contribute to a less inspiring driving experience compared to some rivals, highlighting a key area where future improvements could significantly boost its competitive edge.
Car Model Information: 2019 GMC Canyon All Terrain
Name: GMC Terrain
Manufacturer: General Motors
Production: August 2009 – present
ModelYears: 2010–present
Class: Mid-size crossover SUV
Layout: Transverse engine,Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout
Predecessor: GMC Envoy,Pontiac Torrent,Opel Antara
BodyStyle: SUV
Categories: 2010s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, Articles with short description, Cars introduced in 2009
Summary: The GMC Terrain is a crossover SUV by American manufacturer General Motors under its GMC marque. Sharing its platform with the Chevrolet Equinox, the first-generation Terrain was built on GM’s Theta platform, while subsequent generations are built on the Delta platform. The Terrain is the smallest GMC vehicle, slotted below the Acadia. It also indirectly replaced the Pontiac Torrent which was typically sold via the same dealers prior to General Motors dropping the Pontiac brand.
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Brand: GMC Model: Terrain
Price: $27,564 Mileage: 55,409 mi.
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3. **Mazda CX-5 & Mazda CX-50**When discussing premium options in the compact SUV segment, the Mazda CX-5 and Mazda CX-50 invariably enter the conversation, collectively taking the eighth position on our expert countdown. While each of these Mazda crossovers possesses its own distinct personality and character, both share a fundamental commitment to providing some of the nicest cabins in the segment. Their interiors are meticulously crafted with high-quality materials and thoughtful design, creating an atmosphere that feels decidedly upscale and inviting, often surpassing expectations for their price point.
Adding to their premium appeal, both the CX-5 and CX-50 offer robust and engaging engines, with the CX-50 now featuring a significant enhancement: a Toyota Hybrid system. This integration expands powertrain choices and offers improved fuel efficiency, signaling Mazda’s move towards more sustainable yet still powerful options. The combination of refined interiors and strong engine performance positions these Mazda crossovers as attractive choices for buyers who prioritize a more sophisticated driving experience and a touch of luxury in their compact SUV.
However, despite their strengths in design and performance, the Mazda CX-5 and CX-50 exhibit some notable weaknesses that impact their overall scores. They tend to rank lower in the class, particularly concerning space and technology. The trunk space in both models is notably lacking, a direct consequence of their sporty prowess and design philosophy that prioritizes aesthetics and driving dynamics over maximum cargo volume. Furthermore, their partial touchscreens with aging software are long overdue for an upgrade, signaling a need for a more contemporary and fully integrated infotainment experience to compete with the segment’s leaders.
Car Model Information: 2024 Nissan Rogue SV
Name: Mazda CX-5
Caption: Second generation CX-5 (KF; 2024)
Manufacturer: Mazda
Production: 2012–present
ModelYears: 2013–present
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: unbulleted list
Predecessor: unbulleted list
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles containing potentially dated statements, All articles lacking reliable references, All articles with dead external links
Summary: The Mazda CX-5 is a compact crossover SUV, produced by Mazda since 2012. A successor to both the Tribute and the slightly larger CX-7, it is Mazda’s first model to feature the “Kodo” design language and the first model to be fully developed with a range of technologies branded as Skyactiv, including a rigid, lightweight platform combined with a series of engines and transmissions to reduce emissions and fuel consumption.
Since 2019, the CX-5 is positioned above the smaller CX-30. As of 2022, depending on the region, the CX-5 is positioned right below the larger CX-50, CX-60 or the CX-8 within Mazda’s crossover SUV line-up.
Since 2014, the CX-5 has consistently been Mazda’s best-selling model globally. It achieved record sales in 2019, with 444,262 units sold worldwide. As of March 2022, cumulative sales of the CX-5 reached around 3.5 million units.
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Brand: Mazda Model: CX-5 & CX-50
Price: $22,292 Mileage: 21,865 mi.
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4. **Nissan Rogue**The recently refreshed Nissan Rogue emerges as perhaps one of the most underrated options in the compact SUV segment, securing the seventh spot on our list. Our experts, after spending extensive time with multiple Rogue models, were consistently impressed by the vehicle’s overall comfort and spaciousness. This makes the Rogue a standout choice for those prioritizing passenger well-being, as every occupant is practically guaranteed comfort, whether on short errands or longer journeys. The thoughtful design and generous dimensions of the cabin contribute significantly to its appeal as a family-friendly vehicle.
Moving up to the upper trim levels of the Rogue reveals an unexpected level of luxury that can even surpass some of its more established competitors, such as the Honda CR-V. These higher models incorporate premium materials and advanced features that create a sophisticated and refined atmosphere, challenging preconceptions about what to expect from a Nissan compact SUV. This blend of comfort, space, and surprising luxury positions the Rogue as a compelling value proposition for discerning buyers who are looking for more than just basic utility.
Nevertheless, the least impressive aspect of the Rogue remains its powertrain. It continues to utilize a VC-Turbo I-3 engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), and notably, there is no hybrid option currently available. While this setup provides adequate performance for most daily driving, it doesn’t offer the power or efficiency advantages found in some rivals. However, with Nissan’s ongoing strategic developments, including potential future collaborations, there is an anticipation among experts that improvements in this category may be on the horizon, potentially enhancing its competitive standing in the coming years.
Car Model Information: 2016 Nissan Rogue SL
Name: Nissan Rogue
Caption: 2023 Nissan Rogue SV (US)
Manufacturer: Nissan
Aka: Nissan X-Trail
Production: 2007–present
ModelYears: 2008–present
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout
Predecessor: Unbulleted list
Categories: 2010s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles lacking reliable references, Articles lacking reliable references from November 2017, Articles with short description
Summary: The Nissan Rogue is a compact crossover SUV produced by the Japanese automobile manufacturer Nissan. It made its debut in October 2007 for the 2008 model year. Beginning in 2013 for the 2014 model year, the model has been merged with the X-Trail sold outside the North American market, making them identical.
As of 2023, the Rogue was manufactured at the Nissan Smyrna Assembly Plant in Tennessee, United States and at the Nissan Motor Kyushu plant in Kanda, Fukuoka, Japan. Between August 2014 and March 2020, it was also built at the Renault Samsung Motors plant in Busan, South Korea under contract.
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Brand: Nissan Model: Rogue
Price: $12,987 Mileage: 79,021 mi.
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5. **Chevy Equinox**The redesigned Chevy Equinox represents a significant turnaround, moving from a position where it might not have even made the top 10 to claiming the sixth spot in our expert ranking for 2025. This remarkable leap is attributed to the new Equinox’s ability to pair some of the best style in the segment with leading technology and exceptional value. It impressively undercuts most of its competitors in terms of pricing, making it a very attractive option for budget-conscious buyers who do not wish to compromise on aesthetics or modern features.
The cabin of the new Equinox has also seen substantial improvements, offering a much nicer interior than its predecessor, though perhaps not quite reaching the premium finishes seen in its GMC sibling, the Terrain. While some materials may still suffer in comparison to the absolute top-tier options, the overall enhancement in quality and design is evident, contributing to a more pleasant and contemporary driving environment. This focus on value and style makes the Equinox a strong contender in a highly competitive market, especially for those seeking a fresh look and up-to-date tech.
However, mirroring a common theme among some of its counterparts, the Chevy Equinox also carries over its engine, which means missing out on more power and the efficiency benefits of a hybrid option. While its current powertrain performs adequately, the absence of a more robust engine or an electrified variant means it doesn’t quite match the performance or fuel economy offered by segment leaders. Despite this, its compelling combination of style, technology, and value undercuts many rivals, presenting a strong case for its position as a significantly improved and highly competitive compact SUV for 2025.
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6. **Honda CR-V**Entering the esteemed top five, the Honda CR-V steadfastly remains one of the most compelling options in the compact SUV segment, a testament to its well-rounded nature and essential offerings that consistently meet broad consumer needs. For families and value-conscious buyers, the CR-V particularly shines, demonstrating some of the best resale value and reliability across the entire segment. This enduring dependability, consistently scoring a perfect 5 in reliability and an impressive 5 in value under $35,000, makes it a prime choice for those seeking a practical, trustworthy, and fiscally sound vehicle that stands the test of time, minimizing ownership concerns over years of use.
Beyond its financial and reliability merits, the CR-V excels significantly in practical utility, offering generous interior dimensions that prioritize passenger comfort and cargo flexibility. Both the trunk and rear seats provide ample space, ensuring comfortable accommodations for all occupants, even on longer journeys. With a cargo space score of 4.5 and rear seats at 4, it easily accommodates substantial cargo needs, whether for daily errands, family vacations, or outdoor gear. This spaciousness contributes significantly to its appeal as a versatile and family-friendly SUV, making it a capable companion for diverse lifestyles and demands. The drive experience also scores highly at 5, reflecting a balanced and enjoyable ride.
However, a closer, objective look at its current configuration reveals areas where the CR-V, while exceptionally solid, doesn’t quite reach the segment’s highest echelons in terms of contemporary luxury and technology. According to our detailed scoring criteria, its cabin, while functional and ergonomically sound, lacks the truly plush materials and the expansive, cutting-edge screen sizes found in some newer or more premium rivals. With a score of just 2 for luxury features and 2.5 for technology, these aspects prevent it from climbing higher in our comprehensive rankings. While a solid choice with an overall score of 36.5, these points suggest that a future refresh, particularly addressing its interior tech and material palette, could significantly elevate its standing among the segment’s elite.
Car Model Information: 2016 Honda CR-V LX
Name: Honda CR-V
Caption: 2023 Honda CR-V e:HEV
Manufacturer: Honda
Aka: Honda Breeze (China, 2019–present)
Production: 1995–present
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: Sport utility vehicle
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout,Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout
Chassis: Unibody
Predecessor: Honda Crossroad
Successor: Honda ZR-V
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles containing potentially dated statements
Summary: The Honda CR-V (also sold as the Honda Breeze in China since 2019) is a compact crossover SUV manufactured by Japanese automaker Honda since 1995. Initial models of the CR-V were built using the same platform as the Civic.
Honda began producing the CR-V in Sayama, Japan, and Swindon, United Kingdom, for worldwide markets, adding North American manufacturing sites in East Liberty, Ohio, United States, in 2007; El Salto, Jalisco, Mexico, in late 2007 (ended in early 2017); Alliston, Ontario, Canada, in 2012; and Greensburg, Indiana, United States, in February 2017. The CR-V is also produced in Wuhan for the Chinese market by Dongfeng Honda, and also marketed as the Breeze in China for the version produced at Guangzhou by Guangqi Honda.
Honda states that “CR-V” stands for “Comfortable Runabout Vehicle,” while the term “Compact Recreational Vehicle” was used in a British car review article that was republished by Honda, associating the model name with the Sports Utility Vehicle abbreviation of SU-V.
As of 2022, the CR-V is positioned between the smaller ZR-V (marketed as HR-V in North America) — with which the CR-V shares a platform — and the larger North American market Passport/Pilot or the Chinese market Avancier/UR-V. It is currently Honda’s best-selling vehicle in the world, and the second best-selling SUV globally in 2020.
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Brand: Honda Model: CR-V
Price: $15,345 Mileage: 102,036 mi.
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7. **Mitsubishi Outlander**Often overlooked in a crowded market, the Mitsubishi Outlander remarkably emerges as a surprising underdog, securing its well-deserved place among the elite in the compact SUV arena. This model stands as the Japanese automaker’s best-selling offering, and for compelling reasons: it adeptly combines significant value with an impressive array of luxury features that confidently defy its price point. Shoppers will discover that its interior finishes are not merely adequate but rank among the best in the segment, presenting an unexpected level of sophistication and comfort that truly enhances the driving experience, scoring 4.5 in luxury features.
The Outlander particularly excels in delivering exceptional overall value, especially for those operating within a budget of under $35,000. At this price, buyers can often access one of the top trims, which comes comprehensively loaded with premium amenities and advanced functionalities, making it an incredibly attractive proposition. Its outstanding score of 9 in “Value Under $35,000” clearly reflects this strength. Furthermore, its practicality is robust, underscored by one of the most spacious cargo areas in the segment, earning a perfect 5. This provides ample room for luggage, groceries, or sports equipment, making it highly versatile for various demands. Adding to this peace of mind is a commendable 10-year warranty, a testament to Mitsubishi’s confidence in its durability and a significant advantage for long-term ownership.
Despite these compelling advantages in luxury, value, and utility, the Outlander does present a notable compromise in its powertrain department. Most models are equipped with an under-powered 2.5L 4-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which can lead to a less spirited and sometimes uninspiring driving experience compared to some rivals. This impacts its powertrain choices score (3.5) and drive experience (3.5), suggesting room for improvement in dynamic performance. Additionally, its reliability score of 2.5 is on the lower side for the segment. However, considering its high scores elsewhere and its impressive overall total of 38, the Outlander remains an offering that demands serious consideration for its unique and well-balanced package of luxury, space, and outstanding value.
Car Model Information: 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander SE 2.5 S-AWC
Name: Mitsubishi Outlander
Caption: 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander SE
Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors
Aka: ubl
Production: 2001–present
Class: Mid-size crossover SUV
BodyStyle: Sport utility vehicle
Layout: ubl
Categories: 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles containing potentially dated statements, All articles with dead external links
Summary: The Mitsubishi Outlander (Japanese: 三菱・アウトランダー, Hepburn: Mitsubishi Autorandā) is a mid-size crossover SUV manufactured by Japanese automaker Mitsubishi Motors since 2001. It was originally known as the Mitsubishi Airtrek (Japanese: 三菱・エアトレック, Hepburn: Mitsubishi Eatorekku) when it was introduced in Japan.
The original Airtrek name was chosen to “describe the vehicle’s ability to transport its passengers on adventure-packed journeys in a ‘free-as-a-bird’ manner”, and was “coined from Air and Trek to express the idea of footloose, adventure-filled motoring pleasure.” The Outlander nameplate which replaced it evoked a “feeling of journeying to distant, unexplored lands in search of adventure.”
The second generation of the vehicle was introduced in 2006 and all markets including Japan adopted the Outlander name, although production of the older version continued in parallel. It was built on the company’s GS platform, and used various engines developed by Mitsubishi, Volkswagen, and PSA Peugeot Citroën. PSA’s Citroën C-Crosser and Peugeot 4007, which were manufactured by Mitsubishi in Japan, are badge engineered versions of the second generation Outlander. Global sales achieved the 1.5 million unit milestone in October 2016, 15 years after its market launch.
As part of the third generation line-up, Mitsubishi launched in January 2013 a plug-in hybrid model called Outlander PHEV. As of January 2022, global sales totaled about 300,000 units.
The fourth-generation model was released in 2021 as a 2022 model. Following Mitsubishi’s entry to Renault–Nissan–Mitsubishi Alliance, the fourth-generation Outlander is based on the Rogue/X-Trail, which is built on the CMF-CD platform.
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Brand: Mitsubishi Model: Outlander
Price: Not Priced Mileage: 32,728 mi.
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8. **Toyota RAV4**The Toyota RAV4, a perennial best-seller in this highly competitive segment, makes an undeniably strong and consistent case for its enduring position within our top three. Its widespread and sustained popularity is easily understood, as it consistently scores above average in nearly every single category we evaluate, from powertrain choices (5) and reliability (5) to active safety (4). This remarkable, well-rounded performance explains why so many buyers continue to choose this model, even as it awaits a significant redesign, proving that a solid, dependable foundation continues to resonate deeply with consumers seeking proven quality and peace of mind.
One of the RAV4’s most significant strengths, contributing to its broad appeal, lies in its comprehensive range of choices, offering a variant for almost every preference and need. Buyers can select from traditional, efficient gasoline engines, highly efficient hybrid options that balance power and economy, and even a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) for enhanced fuel efficiency and limited electric-only range. Beyond powertrain, it also comes in sport-oriented trims, luxurious versions, and more rugged configurations, such as the TRD Off-Road, ensuring a tailored driving experience for a diverse audience. This versatility ensures that a RAV4 exists for nearly every lifestyle.
Furthermore, every RAV4 model benefits immensely from Toyota’s segment-leading commitment to advanced safety features, renowned resale value that protects your investment, and exceptional long-term reliability. These attributes provide a strong assurance of quality and longevity, making it a financially sound and secure investment for years to come. However, with a comprehensive 2026 redesign on the horizon, we anticipate crucial improvements in its lowest-scoring categories, namely technology (3.5) and cargo space (3). The expectation is that these areas will be rectified, further enhancing the RAV4’s competitive edge and cementing its status as a segment leader with an impressive overall score of 38, driven by its unparalleled reliability and diverse powertrain options.
Car Model Information: 2022 Toyota RAV4 Limited
Name: Toyota RAV4
Caption: 2019 Toyota RAV4 LE AWD (AXAA54, US)
Manufacturer: Toyota
Aka: unbulleted list
Production: 1994–present
Class: Compact crossover SUV
Layout: unbulleted list
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles with unsourced statements
Summary: The Toyota RAV4 (Japanese: トヨタ・RAV4, Hepburn: Toyota Ravufō) is a compact crossover SUV produced by the Japanese automobile manufacturer Toyota. It is known for starting the wave of compact crossovers. The RAV4 is one of the best-selling SUVs of all time. By February 2020, a total of 10 million RAV4s had been sold globally. In February 2025, the RAV4 replaced the Ford F-150 as the top selling car in the United States, after nearly four decades of the F-150’s reign.
It made its debut in Japan and Europe in 1994, and in North America in 1995, being launched in January 1996. The vehicle was designed for consumers wanting a vehicle that had most of the benefits of SUVs, such as increased cargo room, higher visibility, and the option of full-time four-wheel drive, along with the maneuverability of a mid-size car. The vehicle’s name is an abbreviation of “Recreational Active Vehicle with 4-wheel drive”, or “Robust Accurate Vehicle with 4-wheel drive”, although not all models come equipped with the four-wheel drive system.
For the third-generation model, Toyota offered both short- and long-wheelbase versions of the RAV4. Short-wheelbase versions were sold in Japan and Europe; long-wheelbase versions in Australia and North America. Toyota of Japan also sold the longer-wheelbase version as the Toyota Vanguard (Japanese: トヨタ・ヴァンガード, Hepburn: Toyota Vangādo) at Toyopet Store dealership chain from 2005 through 2016. RAV4 for the Japanese market were sold at two different Toyota dealership chains, Corolla Store and Netz.
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Brand: Toyota Model: RAV4
Price: $35,402 Mileage: 29,930 mi.
Read more about: Top New and Used Cars for Teens: Safety and Affordability Without Breaking the Bank
9. **Kia Sportage**Holding its ground as one of the segment’s true value kings, the Kia Sportage continues to be a formidable competitor this year, showcasing its strengths despite a refresh anticipated for the coming year. Much like its Toyota rival, the Sportage distinguishes itself as a remarkably well-rounded option, providing a wide array of choices in both distinctive styling — from the sleek X-Line to more rugged options — and diverse powertrain configurations, including gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid variants. This versatility allows buyers to find a Sportage that perfectly aligns with their aesthetic preferences and performance requirements, scoring 4.5 in powertrain choices.
Regardless of the specific trim or powertrain chosen, all Sportage models consistently deliver segment-leading value, earning a perfect 10 in “Value Under $35,000.” This commitment to affordability without compromising significantly on features or quality makes it a highly attractive choice for budget-conscious consumers seeking maximum bang for their buck. Additionally, the Sportage boasts some of the best interior space in the segment, securing a score of 4 for cargo space and 3.5 for rear seats, ensuring comfortable accommodations for passengers and ample room for cargo, further enhancing its appeal as a practical family vehicle. Its luxury features also score a commendable 4.
However, the Kia Sportage faces challenges in categories where Toyota typically excels, particularly concerning its reliability (3.5) and the breadth of its standard active safety features (3). While these areas present a contrast to some competitors, the Sportage skillfully compensates by offering an overall experience imbued with a surprising level of luxury for its price point and an appealing, modern design, which are often prioritized by contemporary buyers. With strong showings across many categories and an impressive total score of 39, the Sportage remains a compelling option for those prioritizing distinctive style, generous space, and exceptional overall value in their compact SUV.
Car Model Information: 2023 Kia Sportage X-Line
Name: Kia Sportage
Manufacturer: Kia
Production: 1993–present
Class: Compact SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Predecessor: Kia Retona
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive,Front-engine, front-wheel-drive,Front-engine, all-wheel-drive
Chassis: ubl
ModelYears: 1995–present
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, ANCAP small off-road, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles containing potentially dated statements
Summary: The Kia Sportage (Korean: 기아 스포티지) is a series of automobiles manufactured by the South Korean manufacturer Kia since 1993 through five generations. Initially a compact SUV built on a body-on-frame chassis, the second-generation Sportage transitioned to a car-based platform which placed it into the compact crossover SUV class, and was originally developed alongside the Hyundai Tucson and since the fifth-generation model launched in 2021, in two sizes with different wheelbase lengths for different markets, alongside the Hyundai Santa Fe and the Kia Sorento.
The Sportage has been the best-selling Kia model globally since 2016 after surpassing the Rio. In 2018, the model reached the 5 million production milestone. As of 2023, the Sportage is positioned between the Seltos or Niro and the three-row Sorento in Kia’s SUV global lineup with the latter sharing platform with the Sportage.
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Brand: Kia Model: Sportage
Price: $25,186 Mileage: 29,815 mi.
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10. **Hyundai Tucson**As a distant, yet more updated, cousin to the Kia Sportage, it comes as no surprise that the Hyundai Tucson proudly leads the way for the compact SUV segment this year, solidifying its position at the pinnacle of our expert rankings. Freshly refreshed, the Tucson further builds upon its advantageous position, significantly enhancing its luxury offerings for 2025 and integrating some of the best technology available in the segment. This potent combination of elevated refinement and cutting-edge features truly sets it apart, with perfect scores of 5 in both luxury features and technology.
The Tucson continues to impress with an extensive and diverse menu of choices, catering robustly to a broad spectrum of buyer needs and preferences. Shoppers can confidently opt for traditional gasoline engines, highly efficient hybrid variants, plug-in hybrids (PHEV) for extended electric capability, and even sport, luxury, or off-road oriented trims like the XRT. Crucially, many of these highly desirable configurations can be acquired at an excellent value, scoring 8 in “Value Under $35,000”, maximizing consumer benefit without a premium price tag, and earning 4.5 in powertrain choices.
Adding significantly to its compelling proposition, the Tucson stands out as one of the largest vehicles in the segment when it comes to both exceptional rear seat comfort and expansive cargo capacity. This generous interior space ensures that passengers enjoy ample legroom and headroom, making long journeys more comfortable, while the expansive cargo area (scoring 4) easily accommodates diverse hauling requirements, making it ideal for families or those with active lifestyles. Its perfect score of 5 for rear seats further underscores its passenger-centric design.
While the Tucson offers an outstanding package, it is important to note its scoring in certain dynamic aspects. Its drive experience score is 3.5, and reliability is 3, indicating areas where some competitors may hold a slight edge. However, its overall excellence in luxury, technology, and interior room strongly outweighs these points for many buyers.
Indeed, while the upcoming 2026 Toyota RAV4 redesign may soon introduce a new formidable contender into this competitive landscape, the Hyundai Tucson unequivocally holds its position as the clear winner for this year’s countdown. Its balanced excellence across key categories, culminating in an impressive total score of 42.5 out of 50, makes it a benchmark for the segment with leading attributes in luxury, cutting-edge technology, and unparalleled interior space, making it a compelling choice for any discerning compact SUV buyer today.
**Concluding Thoughts on the Compact SUV Landscape**
As we conclude our comprehensive, data-driven look at the top compact SUVs for 2025, the depth and intensity of competition in this segment are strikingly clear. The nuanced point values across our stringent criteria, meticulously gathered from extensive testing and thousands of viewer comments, reveal a vibrant landscape of close calls, where each contender brings distinct, compelling strengths to the table. This means that, truly, you can’t go wrong with any of the vehicles highlighted on our expert-curated list; the “best” choice ultimately hinges on individual priorities and preferences, making a personal assessment of needs paramount.
Car Model Information: 2024 Hyundai TUCSON Hybrid N Line
Name: Hyundai Tucson
Caption: Hyundai Tucson (NX4, SWB)
Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor Company
Aka: Hyundai ix35 (2009–2015)
Production: 2004–present
ModelYears: 2005–present
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: sport utility vehicle
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout,Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout
Sp: us
Categories: 2010s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles needing additional references, All articles with dead external links, All articles with unsourced statements
Summary: The Hyundai Tucson (; Korean: 현대 투싼) is a compact crossover SUV produced by the South Korean manufacturer Hyundai. It is named after the city of Tucson, Arizona, U.S.
The second-generation model was marketed as the Hyundai ix35 in several markets, including Europe, Australia and China, before reverting to Tucson for the third-generation. Since its first-generation, the Tucson has been developed alongside the Kia Sportage, sharing platforms and engines.
The Tucson is the best-selling Hyundai model, with more than 7 million units sold globally since it launched in 2004. Of these, 1.4 million units have been sold in Europe.
Get more information about: Hyundai Tucson
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Hyundai Model: Tucson
Price: $27,467 Mileage: 35,347 mi.
Read more about: 15 Vehicles Drivers Wish They Never Bought: An In-Depth Look at Buyer’s Remorse Magnets for Informed Consumers
Our team of experts, for instance, perfectly showcases this diversity in their personal leanings, reflecting the varied priorities of real-world buyers. Drew, with an eye for enthusiast appeal and refined aesthetics, often gravitates towards the Mazda CX-50 or CX-5, appreciating their engaging driving dynamics and surprisingly luxurious cabins. Mason, on the other hand, prioritizes true value and overall luxury, consistently finding the Hyundai Tucson to be a standout performer in seamlessly blending these two highly desirable attributes. Josh, valuing refinement and distinctive style coupled with proven reliability, would readily opt for the new Honda CR-V, praising its balanced approach and updated presence. This variety in expert opinion powerfully underscores the vibrant innovation and high level of quality that every competitor in this segment is now putting forward. We sincerely hope this in-depth, objective analysis has provided you with the detailed, data-driven insights necessary to confidently navigate your journey toward purchasing a new vehicle that perfectly suits your needs.
