What is a compact SUV?

Compact SUVs offer more practicality than a sedan and tend to be more fuel-efficient and maneuverable than larger SUVs. They serve as a good entry point to the SUV segment, as they are spacious enough for a small family and start at a lower price point than mid-size and full-size SUVs.

How big are compact SUVs?

Compact SUVs are larger than subcompact SUVs and smaller than mid-size SUVs. The Honda CR-V is a good benchmark for the segment, measuring in at 184.8 inches long, 73.5 inches wide, and 66.5 inches tall. Average cargo volume for the compact segment typically ranges between 30 and 50 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat.

Are compact SUVs good for families?

Compact SUVs generally provide plenty of space for a small family, but mid-size SUVs are typically more comfortable for families of five or more. While some compact SUVs offer three-row seating, most options in the segment come with only two rows and seating for five.

Best Compact SUVs for 2023

Car and Driver's rankings are arrived at from the results of our extensive instrumented testing of several hundred vehicles each year and from our expert editors' subjective impressions gained in real-world driving. We've ranked the best compact SUVs based on roughly 200 data points encompassing acceleration, handling, comfort, cargo space, fuel efficiency, value, and how enjoyable they are to drive. We take rankings seriously because we want you to know everything about the vehicles that you're interested in.

Read about how we test and evaluate vehicles here.

Top Ranked Compact SUVs for 2023 at a glance

C/D Rating: 10/10

2023

Honda CR-V

$29,760 - $37,110

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C/D Rating: 9.5/10

2023

Mazda CX-50

$28,925 - $43,675

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C/D Rating: 9/10

2023

Volkswagen Tiguan

$28,245 - $38,975

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Shop the Top 3 Compact SUVs for 2023

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2023 Honda CR-V

/10

C/D RATING

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Starting at

$29,760

SHOP USED CR-V

EPA MPG

29–30 combined

C/D SAYS: The 2023 Honda CR-V brings a new design, fresh features, and a roomier interior that make the compact SUV's sixth generation better than ever. Learn More

#1 in Best Compact SUVs

#1 in Best SUVs Under $40,000

#1 in Honda SUVs

#2 in Safest SUVs

2023 Mazda CX-50

9.5

/10

C/D RATING

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Starting at

$28,925

SHOP USED CX-50

EPA MPG

25–27 combined

C/D SAYS: Mazda's second compact SUV model, the 2023 CX-50, is like a larger CX-5 and it gives buyers another stylish, fun-to-drive option in a staid segment. Learn More

#2 in Best Compact SUVs

#2 in Mazda SUVs and Crossovers

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2023 Volkswagen Tiguan

/10

C/D RATING

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Starting at

$28,245

SHOP USED Tiguan

EPA MPG

24–27 combined

C/D SAYS: The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan SUV is more fun to drive than many of its rivals, and its cabin has a restrained vibe with plenty of trendy technology features. Learn More

#2 in Volkswagen SUVs and Crossovers

2023 Mazda CX-5

/10

C/D RATING

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Starting at

$28,075

SHOP USED CX-5

EPA MPG

24–26 combined

C/D SAYS: Unlike most mainstream SUVs, the 2023 Mazda CX-5 satisfies drivers with its lively handling and treats occupants to an upscale cabin that feels class above. Learn More

#3 in Best Compact SUVs

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2023 Ford Bronco Sport

/10

C/D RATING

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Starting at

$30,810

SHOP USED Bronco Sport

EPA MPG

23–26 combined

C/D SAYS: The 2023 Ford Bronco Sport is a good choice for mixing urban living and outdoorsy weekend adventures thanks to its compact size and solid off-road capability. Learn More

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Shop the Top 5 Compact SUVs for 2023

2023 Kia Sportage

8.5

/10

C/D RATING

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Starting at

$27,615

SHOP USED Sportage

EPA MPG

25–28 combined

C/D SAYS: The Kia Sportage is about to commence a new generation, and the compact crossover has one of the most interesting designs in its highly competitive class. Learn More

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2023 Hyundai Tucson

8.5

/10

C/D RATING

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Starting at

$28,235

SHOP USED Tucson

EPA MPG

25–28 combined

C/D SAYS: The Tucson lures you in with futuristic styling before making its case as a well-rounded SUV with a spacious cabin, a high-value feature list, and a refined ride. Learn More

2023 Toyota RAV4

8.5

/10

C/D RATING

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Starting at

$29,625

SHOP USED RAV4

EPA MPG

28–30 combined

C/D SAYS: While the 2023 Toyota RAV4 isn't the most entertaining SUV to drive, its practicality bolsters its value and makes it worthy of your consideration. Learn More

#3 in Toyota SUVs and Crossovers

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2023 Mitsubishi Outlander

/10

C/D RATING

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Starting at

$29,715

SHOP USED Outlander

EPA MPG

26–27 combined

C/D SAYS: Built from the bones of the compact Nissan Rogue, the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander has three rows of seats and an interior that’s surprisingly elegant. Learn More

#1 in Most Affordable 3-Row SUVs

#2 in Mitsubishi SUVs and Crossovers

2023 Subaru Forester

/10

C/D RATING

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Starting at

$27,620

SHOP USED Forester

EPA MPG

26–29 combined

C/D SAYS: Combining Subaru's outdoorsy image with the practicality of an SUV has made the Forester a success, but its tepid acceleration that tempers its desirability. Learn More

#3 in Subaru SUVs and Crossovers