By Alexander Stoklosa
When shopping for a subcompact SUV, you should expect to find a moderately powered vehicle that can serve your day-to-day needs and provide a commanding view of the road. The best subcompact SUVs. No matter what's under the hood, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 is a stellar compact crossover, delivering a whole bunch of style, tech and capability under its many angled pieces of sheet metal. Honda had several top-rated SUVs for 2019, including the compact CR-V and midsize three-row Pilot. In the luxury class, the Mercedes-Benz GLC is our top pick for a compact SUV, and the Audi Q7 is.
|2020 JEEP CHEROKEE 01
Jeep's Cherokee earns its lowly position with the one-two punch of being pricier than other compact SUVs and tighter inside than most. (Jeep's one-size-smaller Compass, in fact, has nearly as much interior room as the Cherokee.) Still, the somewhat odd-looking SUV has some redeemable qualities, from its segment-exclusive V-6 engine option to its actual off-road capability (at least in its Trailhawk trim level). Avoid the 2.4-liter base engine if you can—it's quite weak; the optional turbo 2.0-liter or the aforementioned V-6 are much better partners for the Cherokee's bulk. [Read more on the Jeep Cherokee]
© Motor Trend StaffThese days, a huge number of drivers would rather choose a small crossover instead of hatchback or some smaller sedan. Reasons are numerous. First of all, these vehicles are even more versatile, offering not just perfect practicality, but also a high level of comfort, great driving dynamics, and better safety above all. Considering all this, it’s not wondering that crossovers of all classes are overtaking the market, these smaller in particular. The next year will bring plenty of novelties. We are expecting to several redesigns, as well as numerous updates. There are models like Acura RDX, Toyota Rav4 and Subaru Forester that are coming completely redesigned. Also, several models like Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, and Jeep Cherokee will receive a facelift. Other models will come with bigger or smaller novelties as well. Here are some of the most interesting compact crossovers for the next year.
2019 Acura RDX
This is definitely one of the most anticipated crossovers for the next year. The 2019 Acura RDX is ready to come completely new. It already had a premiere, while sales should start this summer. Almost everything is new on this crossover. It gets a new platform, borrowed from another excellent crossover, Honda CR-V. Still, the chassis has been modified to provide even better driving experience. Also, there is a new engine. For this occasion, the company will use a new 2.0-liter inline-four turbo engine, which is currently available in two output variants. In famous Accord sedan, it delivers around 252 horsepower, while in hi-performance Civic Type R is good for about 306. Also, it will get a new 10-speed automatic transmission. Finally, there is a new look, adapted to the brand’s latest design language.
2019 Jeep Cherokee
The current generation of this crossover is present since 2013. So far, its design was a little bit polarizing, so the company decided to offer a new look. This facelift includes several changes, but most of them are at the front. The 2019 Jeep Cherokee gets a new pair of headlights, which now look far more conventional. Also, there are new front fascia and hood, while the rear end features a new tailgate. On the inside, this compact crossover remains largely unchanged. Still, there is more standard equipment for each trim level. Although is the most notable part of the 2019 Jeep Cherokee, we believe that the new engine is a real highlight of this update. The 2019 Jeep Cherokee gets a new 2.0-liter inline-four, with a max power of 270 horses and 295 pound-feet of torque.
2019 Honda CR-V
This model was always a synonym for the excellent crossover, a true class-leader in many aspects. It is a highly versatile crossover which will give plenty of practicality, including very generous interior space. Also, there is a whole bunch of standard features, highlighted by the company’s famous “Sensing” package of safety features, which make this model one of the best-equipped in the class. Since the current generation is still pretty fresh, we don’t expect bigger changes for the next year. The 2019 Honda CR-V will continue with the same design characteristics. There are two engines in the offer. Base models use the power from the famous and well-proven 2.4-liter engine, which delivers around 184 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque. On the other side, there is an optional, highly efficient, 1.5-liter turbo inline-four, which is good for about 190 hp and 180 lb-ft.
2019 Jeep Wrangler
After the recent redesign, we can hardly expect some more important changes for the second year of production. The 2019 Jeep Wrangler will continue with all those novelties that we have recently seen. The new generation of this iconic SUV comes with plenty of novelties. There is a new chassis, which saves some weight, as well as new engines. While base models continue with a familiar 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, there is also a new, far more efficient 2.0-liter turbo inline-four in the offer. This unit delivers around 270 horses and 295 pound-feet of torque. Also, there is a chance to finally see a diesel version of this SUV, with the Italian 3.0-liter engine from VM Motori, which delivers around 240 horses and 440 pound-feet of torque.
2019 Mazda CX-5
Along with the Honda CR-V, this is probably the best compact crossover around. It has so many things to offer, such as excellent driving characteristics, premium interior design, long list of standard features and much more. Still, its styling is definitely the most distinguished aspect of the crossover. It features by far the prettiest look in the class. With such smooth lines and perfect aerodynamic, this model gives an impression of a real premium car. When it comes to engines, North American models come with a 2.5-liter unit with around 185 horses and 185 pound-feet of torque. Lack of some hi-performance version could be the only diminishing point of this amazing crossover. The second generation came last year, so 2019 Mazda CX-5 should continue without bigger changes.
2019 GMC Terrain
The 2019 GMC Terrain will represent the second year model of the current generation, which came last year. The recent redesign has brought plenty of changes. There is a new platform, which includes a use of three completely new engines in this crossover. Base models come with a 1.5-liter unit which has a max power of 170 horses and 203 pound-feet of torque. On the other side, there is an optional 2.0-liter engine, which delivers around 250 horses and 260 pound-feet of torque. Along with its Chevy brother, Equinox, it is the only compact crossover that offers a diesel engine. It is a familiar 1.6-liter unit, good for about 136 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. Considering all this, we don’t expect bigger changes for the next year.
2019 Hyundai Tucson
The Korean manufacturer prepares big changes for one of its bestsellers. The 2019 Hyundai Tucson is about to receive a mid-cycle update. For this occasion, we are about to see plenty of novelties. The test model still hides its look, so we can conclude that there are various visual modifications to come. Of course, most of them will be at the front, but it seems that some tweaks are about to come on the rear end and from the side as well. On the inside, we don’t expect styling changes, tough numerous tech updates should come, including a new version of the infotainment system. Engine lineup should remain the same, consisting of a standard 2.0-liter unit and optional 1.6-liter turbo inline-four.
2019 Chevrolet Equinox
Just like Terrain, this crossover also came completely new last year. This redesign included various kinds of changes and this model is now among the bests in class. Its styling isn’t impressive, but model’s strong points are well-equipped interior, as well as wide engine choice, which includes a diesel unit as well. A 1.5-liter gasoline is in the standard offer, but a 2.0-liter unit is a far better choice. Still, consider diesel engine if you prefer economy over performances. For the second year of production, we can’t expect much. Still, some minor tweaks are always welcome. This could include few exterior colors, as well as some new interior color schemes. Rest of the crossover will remain pretty much unchanged.
2019 VW Tiguan
Another pretty fresh model that doesn’t demand bigger changes, at least those general. The current generation is present since 2016, but we are about to see some big novelties for the next year. The 2019 VW Tiguan is about to get a new, hybrid powertrain. Latest reports suggest it will be a combination of 1.4-liter gasoline engine and electric motor with a 9.9-kWh battery pack, paired with a dual-clutch transmission. A combined output will probably go around 215 horse and 295 pound-feet of torque. Considering battery capacity, we should expect some decent all-electric range as well. Rest of the lineup will remain the same. The North American model will feature a 2.0-liter TSI, while smaller 1.4-liter TSI, as well as famous 2.0-liter TDI, will be available in Europe and other parts of the world.
2019 Subaru Forester
According to latest reports, the launch of the new, fifth-generation 2019 Subaru Forester is set for October. The current model is present since 2013 and the company continue with its famous 5-year production cycle philosophy. This will be another model to receive new Subaru Global platform. Expect to see a new look, in a Subaru’s recognizable conventional manner. Speaking of engines, a famous 2.0-liter turbo engine will remain, but some tweaks for more power and better efficiency are possible. The great news is that the company prepares a new, hi-performance version of the same engine, with around 280 horsepower. A familiar 6-speed automatic should remain.
2019 Ford Escape
Unlike its key competitors, 2019 Ford Escape most likely won’t feature bigger changes. The current generation is present since 2013, and we have already seen one update, two years ago. Also, there are reports that suggest the new generation is on its way and will come probably in about two years. All this indicates that the company doesn’t plan to make bigger revisions for the next year. Of course, some smaller revisions are welcome, so expect things like new color options and more standard equipment. When it comes to powertrain, there are three engines in the offer. The base 2.5-liter unit is good for about 168 horses, while the optional 1.5-liter EcoBoost delivers a similar amount of power, but far better fuel economy. Finally, there’s a 2.0-liter EcoBoost unit with 245 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque.
2019 Kia Sportage
Just like its corporate brother, Tucson, 2019 Kia Sportage will also receive a facelift. The current generation has been around for about four years, so it is a perfect time for a mid-cycle update. We are about to see various visual changes, mostly at the front, but other areas should suffer modifications as well. On the inside, we expect to see a familiar cabin look, but with a longer list of standard equipment, as well as updated tech-features. Current engines will carry on, but there is a chance to see an introduction of the hybrid version as well. Expect to see the same hybrid system as in the new Ceed. Latest reports suggest that the updated version will have its premiere in October, at Paris Motor Show.
2019 Toyota RAV4
This crossover has been the U.S. leader in terms of sales for years when it comes to crossovers and we have no doubt that this state is going to remain after the upcoming redesign. The new generation is on its way and we have big expectations. The 2019 Toyota RAV4 will adopt company’s new TNGA platform which will provide much better driving dynamics. Still, the most interesting part of the upcoming model will be its look. Since it will borrow many details from the recent FT-AC concept, it should have far more attractive design than before. Also, expect a new palette of engines, including new hybrid version, which should feature the same system as new Camry, which debuted last year. The new model will also offer hybrid variant.
2019 Nissan Rogue
Unlike the most of its competitors, this crossover is likely to remain the same for the next year. Introduced in 2013, the current generation of this popular crossover has been updated two times in past two years. In 2017, we saw facelift, which included various styling updates. On the others side, a 2018-update was about new standard features, mostly in terms of safety. Considering all these changes, we are pretty sure that 2019 Nissan Rogue is going to carry on without bigger changes. Moreover, we don’t expect changes until the redesign, which should happen in about two years. Under the hood, this model offers a 2.5-liter inline-four as standard engine, which is good for about 170 horses. There is also a hybrid version in the offer, with a similar output, but better economy.
2019 Jeep Compass
This crossover came completely redesigned two years ago, so you shouldn’t expect many novelties from 2019 Jeep Compass. The upcoming year model will continue in the same way, featuring same design and trim level organization. There are total four trim levels in the offer – Sport, Latitude, Limited, and performance-oriented Trailhawk. Under the hood, there are three variants in the offer. Base models feature a familiar 2.4-liter engine, which delivers around 180 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque. There is also a 2.0-liter engine with around 158 horsepower. Both engines come with an automatic transmission. Finally, you can find a diesel version in some markets. It comes with a familiar 2.0-liter diesel engine with 140 horses in a combination with 6-speed manual transmission.
2019 Mitsubishi Outlander
The current generation of this popular crossover is slowly aging. It is present on the market since 2012, so it is time for some updates. For this occasion, the company has prepared a new hybrid powertrain. The new version hits the ongoing Geneva Motor Show. It comes with a 2.4-liter engine, instead of 2.0-liter unit. One of the modifications on the engine is different compression stroke, which should provide better efficiency. Although we don’t have exact numbers, it seems the new powertrain will feature 15% higher battery capacity and around 10% more power compared to the current model. On the other side, fuel economy should remain on the same level, around 25 mpg in a combined drive. Rest of the lineup will remain pretty much the same.
2019 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
After series of concept SUV, the Japanese manufacturer has finally released one production model. It came just recently, as a 2018-year model. Since it is still very fresh, we don’t expect design changes. On the other side, the company could expand it to some new markets. To remind you, it is currently available in Japan, Australia, and North America. The 2019 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross will continue with same design characteristics, featuring company’s new corporate look. There are two engines in the offer. The base gasoline unit has a displacement of 1.5-liter and features max output of 161 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. It is paired with a CVT. On some market, there is a diesel version in the offer as well. This model features a familiar 2.2-liter unit, which is good for about 175 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This engine comes with a new 8-speed automatic transmission.
2019 Honda HR-V
Although smaller than all above, 2019 Honda HR-V will also have much to offer, so we’ve decided to put it on our list. It seems like the company prepares an update for the next year. If we can trust those reports on the internet, we are about to see a new front end. Some of the highlights will be a new pair of headlights and a new grille, which will come in the same manner as we those on the new Civic. Another important novelty should be an updated powertrain list. So far, this crossover has been offered with only one, atmospheric 1.8-liter gasoline engine. Rudram episode 72. We hope that the new 1.5-liter turbo inline-four will be available for the next year. Some reports also suggest hybrid version as well.
2019 Mazda CX-3
Compact Crossover Suv Definition
Another subcompact crossover that is so good that we must put it on this list. Most likely, the 2019 Mazda CX-3 will not feature bigger changes. It came two years ago and we believe that it’s too early for some tweaks, especially if we consider that this is probably the best model in the class. Everything seems perfect on this model. It comes with the amazing styling, generous offer of standard equipment and excellent driving experience. In North America, a 2.0-liter gasoline engine is the only engine available. It delivers 146 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque. On the other side, abroad-market models are available with few other gasoline engines, as well as with a 1.5-liter diesel engine.
Compact Crossover Suv 2020 Reviews
2019 Subaru Crosstrek
We will end our list with 2019 Subaru Crosstrek. This is excellent subcompact crossover has been around for about two years, so there is no need for some updates at the moment. It will keep the same, very attractive styling, as well as other design characteristics. Its main strength is attractive styling, great handling, and excellent overall quality. On the other side, the interior cabin could be better and that is the aspect where we could expect changes in the near future.
Compact Crossover Suv List
When it comes to the powertrain, a familiar 2.0-liter engine is the only in the offer. It delivers 152 horsepower and comes with a 6-speed manual transmission as standard. On the other side, CVT is optional. Fuel economy is very good. It goes around 30 mpg in a combined drive.