Compact SUV Comparison: Specs, pics and reviews of every brand's crossover
Wed, Jul 25 2018
However, if you want a bunch of that information all in one convenient place, well, here it is. Our mega comparison of specs, features and photos of compact SUV entries from every mainstream manufacturer that sells them. That includes the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox, 2018 Ford Escape, 2018 GMC Terrain, 2018 Honda CR-V, 2018 Hyundai Tucson, 2019 Jeep Cherokee (it's already on sale with notable changes from 2018), 2018 Jeep Compass, 2018 Kia Sportage, 2018 Mazda CX-5, 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross (none of Mitsu's SUVs are perfect fits for this segment, so we deemed the MEC the most competitive fit), 2018 Nissan Rogue, 2018 Subaru Forester, 2018 Toyota RAV4 and 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan. We can update this comparison as more information about 2019 models is released, most notably the Forester and RAV4.
Now, there are certainly some models that are smaller (Nissan Rogue Sport) or larger (Kia Sorento) that could also be considered, but we figured it was wise to stick with those in this sweet spot of comparable size and price. We also included links to Autoblog reviews, buying guides and smaller comparisons.
Engines and Transmissions
With rare exception, this segment features four-cylinder power. Sometimes it's turbocharged, often its not, but standard engine outputs are generally in the same ballpark. Therefore, we'd recommend focusing on torque output, as it's what will make a difference around town or when passing, and weighing that versus fuel economy (the Chevy Equinox, GMC Terrain, Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5 make particularly strong cases in this regard). Many drivers aren't too fond of continuously variable transmissions (CVT), either, so that's another thing to consider and note during a test drive.
As you can see, several models are available with performance upgrades. Besides the Jeep Cherokee's available V6, all are more powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engines. The exception to this would be the Honda CR-V and Ford Escape, as their 1.5-liter turbo engines don't prioritize performance. Instead, they serve as overall upgrades to the base naturally aspirated engines standard on only their base trim levels (CR-V LX and Escape S). Since the volume-selling CR-V EX and Escape SE come with those 1.5-liter turbos, we've listed those as "base engines" for the sake of more realistic comparison.
It's also important to note that several choices are available with fuel economy upgrades. This includes the diesel-powered Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain, as well as the Nissan Rogue and Toyota RAV4 hybrids.
Interior and Exterior Dimensions
There were a lot more dimensions we could've included, but there's only so much room, so these are the measurements that make a difference in terms of whether you, your passengers and your child's car seat will fit inside. Whether all your stuff will fit in the cargo area. Whether the compact SUV be too tall, wide or tall for your garage. Whether it will be damaged should you take it lightly off-roading. And whether a hefty curb weight may negate whatever power advantage it might seem to have.
We've gone ahead and highlighted the best (green) and worst (red) in each category, though it's still important to try things out for yourself. That's a reason we left out front legroom: seat adjustments, differing body types, and options like power seats can make measurements misleading. You may or may not fit well regardless of what the specs say. It's also important to note that cargo measurements can be deceptive at times, so don't be shy about bringing along stuff to try out during a test drive. That includes strollers, golf bags or your dog. Seriously, do this. You're spending tens of thousands of dollars, do you really want to do so and find out your Golden Retriever doesn't fit?
Photos and Links to Autoblog Reviews
2018 Chevrolet Equinox
Read our 2018 Chevy Equinox Buying Guide
2018 Ford Escape
Read our 2018 Ford Escape Buying Guide
2018 GMC Terrain
Read our 2018 GMC Terrain Review
2018 GMC Terrain SLT Diesel
View 18 Photos
2018 Honda CR-V
Read our Honda CR-V Review and see how it specifically compares to the Mazda CX-5
2018 Jeep Compass Trailhawk
View 17 Photos
2018 Mazda CX-5
Read our Mazda CX-5 Review and see how it specifically compares to the Honda CR-V
2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
Read our 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Review and see how it compares to smaller compact SUVs
2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
View 27 Photos
2018 Subaru Forester
Read our Subaru Forester Review and see what's changing for the all-new 2019 model
2018 Toyota RAV4
Read our 2018 Toyota RAV4 Buying Guide and see what's changing for the all-new 2019 model
2018 Volkswagen Tiguan
Read our 2018 VW Tiguan Review and see how it compares to some larger compact SUVs
- Chevrolet
- Ford
- GMC
- Honda
- Hyundai
- Jeep
- Kia
- Mazda
- Mitsubishi
- Nissan
- Subaru
- Toyota
- Volkswagen
- Car Buying
- Buying Guide
- First Drives
- Crossover
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- consumer
- compact crossover
- mitsubishi eclipse cross
Autoblog accepts vehicle loans from auto manufacturers with a tank of gas and sometimes insurance for the purpose of evaluation and editorial content. Like most of the auto news industry, we also sometimes accept travel, lodging and event access for vehicle drive and news coverage opportunities. Our opinions and criticism remain our own — we do not accept sponsored editorial.
By James Riswick
See also: Our love of SUVs is killing people in the streets, BMW M4 versus Audi RS5 | Autoblog Podcast #546, Genesis designer Luc Donckerwolke talks new sedan, 'post-SUV' phase.