SUVs or Sport Utility Vehicles have been popular for many years now. They’re huge, comfortable, safe, but don’t handle as well as a car. Even so they do have numerous good reasons to justify you spending on them. If, however, those reasons aren’t sufficient enough, and you would like something way more, but something a bit less simultaneously, the best small SUV is exactly what you’re seeking.
The compact Sports utility vehicle market has seen a major jump in sales throughout the world, and this is because of several reasons – they’re not too bulky, not hard for the pocket, and they ride and handle just about as good as a road car. Most of them as crossover platforms, however some manufacturers even have an exclusive platform. However, to single out one of them as the best compact SUV wouldn’t be fair.
The brands from Detroit and Dearborn may possibly cross your mind first, because they’re been around ever since most of us were born! In the world of the best small SUV though, they’ve got serious rivals – the latest Ford Escape is due soon for 2012 that is certainly one which boasts a radical, yet pleasing design, and also has some frugal 4 cylinder engine alternatives from their EcoBoost range that don’t sacrifice on power. Also in the value range is the redesigned Chevy Equinox, featuring a more contemporary stance and some good engines as well.
There’s Toyota with their RAV4. It is simply reliable, no-nonsense motoring that you can depend on anytime, at any place. You also have got a choice of 4, or 6 cylinder engines and the list of standard devices are quite decent as well. If the RAV4 doesn’t work for you, for a little extra dough, you could go for the legendary FJ Cruiser – that has won lots of hearts with it’s distinct brute styling. Surprisingly or not, Toyota possess a few more models you can consider – including the truly unique Venza crossover, the Highlander and the not-so-compact 4runner. From Acura comes the RDX – a compact, but peppy little crossover, though the price may throw you off a little. On the other hand, you have the Honda CR-V – tried, tested and yet quite attractive. It is unquestionably aided by the rock solid reliability and also the smooth engine it brings with it. Look at the equipment list and the cost, and it is exceptional value! A genuine competitor in the race for the best compact SUV.
Additionally, there is the very distinct Ford Edge, and also the smart but boxier Ford Flex, that provide the 6 cylinder engines into your list of choices. You also have the Chevy Traverse to have a considerably long look at.
From Germany you have the Audi Q5, which brings benchmark handling to the table, with a slew of terrific engines – a turbocharged 4 cylinder, plus a great V6 as well. Volkswagen also have the Tiguan out there, with similar engine selections. For people who seek driving pleasure whenever they’re at the wheel, BMW provides their new X3 that has a V4, as well as a straight V6 engine alternate.
So there you have it. A good number of choices that not only span a fairly large budget bracket – around $20,000 – $45,000, but also have some unique designs which might be identifiable to various people for various reasons. Another thing to bear in mind is that you shouldn’t think of them as compact SUVs, but instead more capable cars that could hold more luggage and hold people more comfortably and safer than most cars can.