BUYING GUIDE to New Compact SUVs

Overview

The Compact SUV class is for car buyers who want a more cargo room than a sedan, but who want the added fuel economy that a sedan offers in comparison to a full-size SUV. In the past several years this car class has grown in popularity and is expected to double its sales by 2010. By no means "hardened off-road vehicles," compact SUV's however often do provide a little more ground clearance and have greater capabilities off the pavement than many passenger cars. In addition, thanks to their smaller stature, compact SUVs are more reliable, easier to maneuver, and more fuel efficient than larger SUVs. Ideal for a small family or the outdoor/adventurous type, the compact SUV class provides a wide range of choices to choose from. Moreover, these compact SUVs offer the same commanding view of the road.

Price Range: $14,999 - $32,995

Models

For 2009, the compact SUV owner has even more options than in 2008. Below you’ll find a few of the fifteen compact SUVs currently on the market.

New for 2009 is the Volkswagen Tiguan. The Tiguan's heart lies in the form of a fuel-effecient 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 200 horsepower while being mated to Volkswagen's excellent smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission helping the Tiguan to achieve 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway—all for an affordable starting price of $23,200.

Also new for 2009 is the Volvo XC60, which features a bevy of safety features including Roll Stability Control, a lane departure warning system, blind-spot warning, collision warning with braking and a backup camera. The XC60 comes standard with a 3.0-liter six-cylinder turbocharged engine which produces a very stout 281 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Starting prices for the XC60 will be released in the spring of 2009.

The Honda CR-V, a carryover from 2008, comes with bulletproof reliability and bold styling. Power comes from Honda’s 166hp 2.4-liter DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine, a 10hp increase from the previous model. MSN Autos calls the new CR-V, "Evolutionary and revolutionary, with advanced styling that makes a statement."

The Mitsubishi Outlander, which looks very similar to the Toyota RAV4, is also available to the compact SUV owner who wants the best possible handling performance while still being able to haul cargo. Driving performance is where the Outlander shines and it offers the best car-like handling and ride in the class.

The Pontiac Torrent is a close cousin to the Chevy Equinox and the Saturn Vue . It comes with a 185hp 3.4-liter V-6 engine, stability control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. The Torrent also received very high safety crash test ratings from the NHTSA with a five-star rating (the best possible) for its protection of front occupants in frontal collisions. The SUV also earned five stars for front- and rear-seat occupant protection in side collisions.

Hybrid Mid-Size

As gas prices have skyrocketed and hybrid sedans have sold well, manufacturers have begun to outfit other classes of vehicles with Hybrid technology. One such segment has been the compact SUV class.

The Ford Escape Hybrid remains largely unchanged for 2009. It has a 133 HP 2.3L I-4 and gets 36/31 mpg. The Mercury Mariner Hybrid is based off the Ford Escape and also remains largely unchanged. It uses a continuously variable transmission and can travel up to 25 mph on battery power alone for a short period of time. Car and Driver says, "The Mariner is an SUV that drives much like a car. Strong and lightweight unibody construction, as well as a tuned four-wheel independent suspension, gives a supple ride while providing the proper control in emergency maneuvers." The all new $22,370 Saturn Vue Hybrid is the most affordable hybrid compact SUV. The Hybrid Vue looks almost identical to the regular combustion Vue and is even one second faster to 60mph. EPA mileage estimates aren't in yet, but GM estimates 27 mpg city and 32 mpg highway.

Compact SUV Safety Guide

When vehicles are launched or redesigned, it's becoming common to equip them with extensive safety features, many of which were only available on luxury cars just a few years ago. Besides antilock brakes (ABS) and side airbags, compact SUVs are beginning to come standard with features such as side curtain airbags and traction control. In some cases, advanced safety technology may only be available as costly options, if at all, so it's important to do your research if safety is important to you.