Compact SUVs

#1 Honda CR-V

SCORE 8.5/10

Base Price $26,000-$36,000*

UNCHANGED The CR-V remains the class benchmark because it does nearly everything well. A roomy cabin packed with clever storage solutions provides families exceptional flexibility. Sporty handling, good steering feel, and a comfortable ride give the Honda impressive road manners. Both powertrain options also offer a nice balance of power and efficiency. If you’re into tech, however, the CR-V will likely fall short. The dated infotainment system is slow to respond to inputs, and the main touchscreen is small by today’s standards. A hybrid version arrived for 2020 with more power than the base turbocharged engine and boosted fuel economy ratings. AWD is also standard on the CR-V Hybrid, as are the virtues that make the standard CR-V such a strong contender.

0-60 mph 7.5-7.7 sec

EPA Econ City/Hwy 27-40/32-35 mpg

Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles

Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars; IIHS: TSP

IntelliChoice Value Rating: Above Average

Pros Great driving dynamics, spacious interior, excellent fuel efficiency

Cons Dated infotainment system, limited towing capacity

#2 Mazda CX-5

SCORE 8.3/10

Base Price $26,500-$38,500*

 Mazda’s strong-selling CX-5 remains one of the most attractive and sportiest compact SUVs available. Responsive handling, good body control, and communicative steering make the CX-5 the driver’s choice. Thanks to the well-tuned suspension, the CX-5 rides superbly, too. Higher trims deliver an interior with near-luxury levels of