Best compact SUV of 2023

Compact SUVs are now the go-to choice for family transportation. In fact, given their popularity, they’re clearly over family obligations. It becomes difficult to determine whether

It is important to note that by “compact SUV” we are talking about a specific segment. a more comprehensive “Best small SUV.“There are two smaller sub-segments on the list: subcompacts and midcompacts. Frankly, today’s segment of compact SUVs is not necessarily compact. medium scale Based on external dimensions. They have all grown considerably over the years.

A lot of the listings out there just rattle off all the vehicles available in the segment, but with the most recommended choices for the 2023 model year, I thought it would help a little more and make shopping a little more organized. compact luxury SUV choice.

Best compact SUV.

Honda CR-V

Why it stands out: Best-in-class space, powerful and efficient base engine, great hybrid options, low-middle LATCH anchors
Should be better: A bit boring and can be expensive

read us 2023 Honda CR-V First Drive

think CR-V A baseline for compact SUV searches, take a closer look Superb CR-V hybrid option. Objectively speaking, its massive cargo capacity, voluminous rear seats, powerful yet efficient engine, balanced driving dynamics, competitive price and features, strong safety ratings, and With its reputation for reliability, it can’t be beat. It’s easy to see why it remains a bestseller. For the majority of compact SUV buyers, especially families, all the boxes are ticked. Of course, people don’t base their purchase decisions solely on objective criteria. That’s why other options exist, including the next pair of small SUVs that satisfy your subjective desires a little more.

Mazda CX-50

Why it stands out: Budget Porsche driving experience; Luxurious cabin; Powerful turbo engine upgrades
Should be better: Less cargo, less passengers and less storage space.Infotainment systems are not for everyone

read us 2023 Mazda CX-50 Review

fundamentally, CX-50 It offers an area where the CR-V falls short: style and driving fun. It can also be considered as an alternative to luxury compact SUVs. It all starts with its sporty, rugged styling, then carries an interior where its handsome design and plush materials are a definite step up from others in its price range. , the CX-50 impresses with the engaging driving manners we routinely describe as indicative of a “budget Porsche.”Plus, its available turbocharged engines have as much or more power than some similarly sized luxury models. RAV4, not for everyone, but definitely something to consider. Many of the above CX-5but the CX-50’s slightly larger proportions, improved off-roading chop and better interior make it a favorite between the two.

Toyota RAV4

Why it stands out: An unrivaled variety of models, including two hybrids. Spacious backseat and cargo area.reliability
Should be better: Raw base engine.Outdated tech interface

our full 2022 Toyota RAV4 Review

The RAV4 has more space than most passenger and cargo spaces. Comfortable and surprisingly responsive to drive. Its interior is solidly constructed with quality materials, offering user-friendly controls and plenty of storage. Its resale value and reliability should outperform most on the street.These are all basics of the RAV4, but the latest version stands out by offering an unparalleled variety of models. increase adventure When TRD off-road Sporty XSE hybrid and PrimeThe RAV4 is not only a hybrid plug-in hybrid (Prime) too.of ford escape, Hyundai Tucson When kia sportage other. I love that there’s a little something for everyone with a RAV4.

Best compact luxury SUV.

read us 2022 Genesis GV70 Review

of GV70 A real, real challenger to the overall excellence demonstrated by mercedes GLC and Porsche Macan, including the provision of high-performance versions. It’s technically cheaper than the German model, but this isn’t a value play. AcuraLexus, infinity, and features a luxurious interior and more sophisticated engineering to ensure that. It stands out for its unique looks and beautiful interior (see here for details). Interior choices in purple, green and blue), and then the wheel-drive platform is enhanced by a smooth and extremely powerful Turbo V6 and high-tech adaptive suspension that not only reacts to road imperfections, but anticipates them.

Mercedes-Benz GLC-class

Why it stands out: Drives like a proper Mercedes.Stylish interior; versatile model lineup
Should be better: Overwhelming and confusing technical interface.interior space

Read what’s new Mercedes GLC review

The GLC was so brilliantly executed when it was introduced seven years ago that it continues to impress even as many competitors have entered or redesigned the space. Basically, the GLC is so good because it looks, drives and is as good as a properly equipped Mercedes. Sure, ticking a few option boxes will help you achieve that status perfectly, but even the most basic GLC drives feature almost unmatched ruggedness and sophistication, It has a stylish interior dominated by an elegant waterfall of wood trim.It doesn’t look as tech-savvy as other Mercedes, but (for better or worse) Mercedes’ safety and infotainment, including the clean but confusing MBUX tech interface. Nearly all of the ment tech features are included. 2 body styles (regular and ‘coupe’) and 3 engine options (2 included) AMG models) offer a range versatility that only the BMW X3/X4 can match.

Porsche Macan

Why it stands out: A compact SUV that’s great to drive.Porsche quality and customization possibilities
Should be better: Expensive before you get to the exorbitantly priced options.small interior

Read what’s new Porsche Macan review

Literally, the Porsche Macan is arguably the best compact luxury SUV. When it comes to buying a compact SUV, the look, the way it’s built, and most importantly the way you drive it, make your budget a non-issue. Oh, and there’s rubbing.as exceptional as Macan So it’s still a Porsche. That said, it offers pretty dismal feature content and space for the money. So is it the smartest choice? No, but this isn’t a “most sensible luxury SUV” list. It’s about the best. Makan is one of them.

Volvo XC60

Why it stands out: Nordic design. More space and features for your money.Great plug-in hybrid option
Should be better: Infotainment isn’t for everyone.mediocre handling

Read what’s new 2022 Volvo XC60 Review

Ok, so sometimes it’s about being a little sensible, and XC60 More so than most.More spacious than usual and (surprise!) this volvo It boasts safety credentials that will delight picky parents everywhere.it’s clean too fuel efficiency, and also available in a great plug-in hybrid model called the Recharge. But the XC60 is also not the ultra-utilitarian boxy Volvo of old. The styling is timeless and the interior exudes Scandinavian cool. The quality and feature content also fully corresponds to the bigger and more expensive ones. XC90Basically, the XC60 is one of the smarter choices in this segment, but it’s also one of the best.

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