The best small SUVs

Small SUVs make up the fastest-growing vehicle segment on the market. It's no wonder: These right-sized crossovers promise an affordable combination of commanding ride height, spend-thrift fuel economy, interior versatility, all-weather capabilities, and parking-lot-friendly footprint.

Because of the popularity of small SUVs, every major automaker now offers one, giving shoppers many choices. But, as our tests routinely show, they are not all worthy of your short list.

To aid your research, we have collected the seven best small SUVs. Each one meets the stringent criteria to be Consumer Reports recommended, meaning they did well in our road tests, have average or better predicted reliability, and performed adequately, if included, in government or insurance-industry crash tests.

The Subaru Forester has a commanding lead over these competitors. Based on overall road test score alone, the Ford Escape ranks second in this class. However, a low predicted reliability score prevents it from being recommended. The other models featured here score within a point of one another, and they are all listed in alphabetical order.

Looking to save money? Check out the best deals on SUVs.

—George Kennedy

Honda CR-V

Base MSRP price range: $23,445 - $32,895

If functionality and cabin space are what you seek, the Honda CR-V could be the way to go. Compact dimensions and responsive handling keep it maneuverable and easy to park. Plus, access, rear-seat room, and cargo space are generous. The popular EX trim gets standard heated seats, power driver’s seat, and Honda’s LaneWatch system, which uses a camera under the passenger side mirror to provide a video feed of your right blind spot when the right turn signal is engaged. The CR-V is available with other optional safety gear, including forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, autonomous braking, and adaptive cruise control. A recent freshening brought added equipment, a continuously variable transmission (CVT), and a complicated audio system.

Read the complete Honda CR-V road test.

Mazda CX-5

Base MSRP price range: $21,545 - $29,220

For enthusiast drivers looking for the versatility of a small SUV with  sporty handling, the CX-5 may be just what they're seeking. The CX-5 is taut and agile with well-weighted steering. Opt for the  the larger 2.5-liter engine; it’s punchier and gets the same fuel economy as the 2.0-liter. There is even the option of a stick shift, but for that you have to go for the base model with only front-wheel drive and the smaller 2.0-liter engine.

We say stick with the Touring trim level. You get power seats, backup camera, push-button start, and blind-spot monitoring system. Our only knocks on the CX-5 are the constant wind noise, so-so ride comfort, and the need to choose a costly, high trim to get conveniences like heated seats and dual-zone climate control. The new infotainment system takes some learning to master.

Read the complete Mazda CX-5 road test.

Nissan Rogue

Base MSRP price range: $24,490 - $29,630

The Rogue sets itself apart by being one of the only small SUVs available with a third row. This foldaway rear seat is snug, but in a pinch, it means the Rogue can accomodate up to seven. The Rogue is relatively spacious, with roomy second-row seating and easy access. Power comes from a 170-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers adequate performance, but it can get somewhat vocal under hard acceleration. Expect 24 mpg overall. Handling is sound, aided by prompt steering response and restrained body lean in corners. The Rogue is also one of the more comfortable riding of this bunch.A backup camera is standard; a clever surround-view camera is available, giving a 360-degree perspective—a real aid to parking in close quarters. Available safety gear includes rear cross-traffic alert and forward-collision, lane-departure, and blind-spot warnings.