Your membership has expired

The payment for your account couldn't be processed or you've canceled your account with us.

Re-activate

    Popular Small SUVs to Avoid and What to Buy Instead

    There's no need to settle for what's popular when you can buy a smart, reliable SUV that performs well in CR's tests

    VW Taos  and Toyota Corolla Cross
    Skip the 2023 Volkswagen Taos (left) and instead consider the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid.
    Photo: John Powers/Consumer Reports

    Compact SUVs are the fastest-growing type of vehicle. To help you buy one you’ll keep for the long haul—one that’s safe, reliable, fuel-efficient, and satisfying—we’ve compiled a list of winning models and models to stay away from.

    More on SUVs

    We focus on models that are popular in their category (though they may not be the top sellers). Then we present two recommended alternatives.

    • A better choice: Another vehicle that sells well but has a higher Overall Score.

    • An “under-the-radar” alternative: A better-scoring model that doesn’t sell as well, in case you aren’t concerned with following the crowd.

    We note whether key active safety systems are standard or optional, including automatic emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian detection, AEB that works at highway speeds, blind spot warning (BSW), and rear cross traffic warning (RCTW).

    This article is available to CR members.

    Become a member to read the full article and get access to digital ratings.

    We investigate, research, and test so you can choose with confidence.