Best Small SUVs Reviews & Ratings

Small SUVs are becoming a practical alternative to the larger SUVs in the class, offering better fuel economy, a higher seating position than a car and more cargo space than a station wagon. A small SUV typically can seat five although a few models offer a third row seat that is designed more for accommodating children than adults. Small SUVs are typically crossover vehicles with body and drive design based on a car. Prices can range from the smallest SUV running at $15,000 to the more luxurious versions running close to more than $30,000. Engines for small SUVs are usually four-cylinder in size with some models offering a six-cylinder upgrade. In general, SUVs do not brake, accelerate or handle as well as most ordinary family sedans but small SUVs tend to mitigate these issues as compared to mid-sized and large SUVs, due their smaller size and weight.

One of the best small SUVs in this category is the Audi Q5. It is one of the more luxury SUVs in its class, with a spacious interior for five, leather upholstery and a ten-speaker audio system. Offering either a turbocharged four-cylinder or a powerful V6, its Quattro all-wheel drive system makes for a practical, utility-minded vehicle that handles the road with ease. Its small size provides smooth driving dynamics and a sporty feel.

Another of the best small SUVs in this category is the GMC Terrain. It is one of the smallest SUVs and GMC's entry level model in the class. Clever engineering of its inline four-cylinder engine rates an impressive 32 mpg on the highway. It is a well-equipped vehicle that provides a quiet and pleasant ride that is characteristic of the small SUV class.

The Mercedes Benz GLK 350 may be the best smallest SUV in this category with a cozy but comfortable interior that seats five. It is equipped with a V6 engine, all-wheel drive and a seven-speed automatic transmission. Like most vehicles in the small SUV category, it is a crossover vehicle that drives more like a sedan, giving it a more balanced and versatile ride.

The Acura RDX is a small SUV with compact dimensions and sporty handling that make it not only a very functional vehicle but one that is fun to drive as well. Its inline four-cylinder engine is designed and engineered to produce power like a V6 yet still maintain the highly rated fuel economy that is characteristic of this class of vehicles.

The Kia Sportage is another ultra- small SUV with a compact frame and equipped with all-wheel drive that impart it with car-handling capabilities characteristic of its class. Its dimensions may be somewhat reduced yet provide for a comfortable and roomy interior with a quiet and safe ride. It is an ideal vehicle for city driving yet increased cargo space and sharp handling also make it an excellent vehicle for taking on the highway and country driving.

Another small SUV is the Volkswagen Tiguan, a compact and sporty, designed for city driving with a turbocharged four cylinder engine that provides excellent handling and acceleration with a firm and controlled ride quality along almost any surface. Fuel economy is rated at 26 mpg on the highway, characteristic of vehicles in this class, which can still be maintained with an all-wheel drive option.

The Ford Escape is another of the small SUVs in a compact size that seats five and has a four-cylinder engine as standard.