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
Deputy Content Editor, Autos
Updated December 5, 2024
Sports utility vehicles are by far the most popular vehicle type in the U.S., with compact SUVs the fastest-growing segment. Many buyers are drawn to their elevated ride height, all-wheel drive, interior versatility, and/or image compared with their car counterparts.In this article
In this article
To help you buy one that’s safe, reliable, fuel-efficient, and satisfying, we’ve compiled a list of winning models and ones to stay away from.
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CR’s SUV Ratings & Buying Guide
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We focus on popular models in their category (though they may not be the top sellers) and 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.
All key active safety systems, including automatic emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian detection, AEB that works at highway speeds, blind spot warning (BSW), and rear cross traffic warning (RCTW) are standard unless otherwise noted.
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We investigate, research, and test so you can choose with confidence.
Jon Linkov is the deputy auto editor at Consumer Reports. He has been with CR since 2002, covering varied automotive topics including buying and leasing, maintenance and repair, ownership, reliability, used cars, and electric vehicles. He manages CR’s lineup of special interest publications, hosts CR’s “Talking Cars” podcast, and writes and edits content for CR’s online and print products. An avid cyclist, Jon also enjoys driving his ’80s-era sports car and instructing at track days.
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