Over the past five years, American’s thirst for larger, high-riding, cargo-wielding vehicles has transformed the fundamentals of the auto industry. Automakers have shifted their focus away from sedans
...Read MoreOver the past five years, American’s thirst for larger, high-riding, cargo-wielding vehicles has transformed the fundamentals of the auto industry. Automakers have shifted their focus away from sedans and stuffed their lineups with small crossovers and SUVs of all shapes and sizes to tackle every consumer need—both in the mainstream and luxury segments. Crossovers were once somewhat of a dirty word among purists, representing the industry’s adoption of a quirky sedan and utility vehicle mashup that teetered between a marketing gimmick and true necessity. Now the compact segment, no matter what acronym it takes on—CUV, SUV, SAV—is the fastest-growing category in the industry. Our top picks, considered for their lengths of 190 inches or less, offer consumers an array of problem-solving characteristics, from unexpectedly spacious interiors to impressive ground clearance and off-roading tech, all the way to superior handling and show-stopping style.
Read LessOver the past five years, American’s thirst for larger, high-riding, cargo-wielding vehicles has transformed the fundamentals of the auto industry. Automakers have shifted their focus away from sedans and stuffed their lineups with small crossovers and SUVs of all shapes and sizes to tackle every consumer need—both in the mainstream and luxury segments. Crossovers were once somewhat of a dirty
...Read MoreOver the past five years, American’s thirst for larger, high-riding, cargo-wielding vehicles has transformed the fundamentals of the auto industry. Automakers have shifted their focus away from sedans and stuffed their lineups with small crossovers and SUVs of all shapes and sizes to tackle every consumer need—both in the mainstream and luxury segments. Crossovers were once somewhat of a dirty word among purists, representing the industry’s adoption of a quirky sedan and utility vehicle mashup that teetered between a marketing gimmick and true necessity. Now the compact segment, no matter what acronym it takes on—CUV, SUV, SAV—is the fastest-growing category in the industry. Our top picks, considered for their lengths of 190 inches or less, offer consumers an array of problem-solving characteristics, from unexpectedly spacious interiors to impressive ground clearance and off-roading tech, all the way to superior handling and show-stopping style.
Read Less- 2021 Volkswagen ID.4
- 2021 Volvo XC40
- 2021 Mazda CX-30
- 2021 Mazda CX-5
- 2021 Lexus UX
- 2021 BMW X3
- 2021 Subaru Crosstrek
- 2021 Honda CR-V
- 2021 Ford Escape
- 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime
- 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC
- 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan
- 2021 Nissan Rogue
- 2021 Lexus NX
- 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA
Why We Picked It
The 2021 VW ID.4 is a competent electric crossover that easily matches most gas-powered rivals’ performance, comfort and convenience. Its electric architecture and low-mounted battery pack improves the center-of-gravity over conventional SUVs and greatly enhances the ID.4’s driving dynamics. Unlike most current VW products, the ID.4 is rear-wheel drive, although an all-wheel-drive variant is on the horizon. The AWD version is expected to offer more battery power, which will have 295 horsepower and longer range. For now the rear-wheel-drive ID.4 offers 201 horsepower and can travel an estimated 260 miles on a single charge. While this isn’t the vehicle to take on unpaved backroads, it is ideal for urban adventurers and families who can charge from their home or have a nearby charging station. The ID.4 excels in its ability to blend modern influences with VW’s traditional styling cues, which appeals to faithful devotees of the brand. As a bonus, ID.4 owners in the U.S. will receive three years of unlimited charging at Electrify America’s charging stations at no additional cost.
Pros & Cons
- Comfortable and spacious
- Drives better than gasoline counterparts from Toyota and Honda
- RWD version has 260-mile range
- Public charging stations are still challenging to find
- Some drivers will want more buttons and dials for controls
- All-wheel-drive version not yet available
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Why We Picked It
Pros & Cons
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The 2021 VW ID.4 is a competent electric crossover that easily matches most gas-powered rivals’ performance, comfort and convenience. Its electric architecture and low-mounted battery pack improves the center-of-gravity over conventional SUVs and greatly enhances the ID.4’s driving dynamics. Unlike most current VW products, the ID.4 is rear-wheel drive, although an all-wheel-drive
...Read MoreThe 2021 VW ID.4 is a competent electric crossover that easily matches most gas-powered rivals’ performance, comfort and convenience. Its electric architecture and low-mounted battery pack improves the center-of-gravity over conventional SUVs and greatly enhances the ID.4’s driving dynamics. Unlike most current VW products, the ID.4 is rear-wheel drive, although an all-wheel-drive variant is on the horizon. The AWD version is expected to offer more battery power, which will have 295 horsepower and longer range. For now the rear-wheel-drive ID.4 offers 201 horsepower and can travel an estimated 260 miles on a single charge. While this isn’t the vehicle to take on unpaved backroads, it is ideal for urban adventurers and families who can charge from their home or have a nearby charging station. The ID.4 excels in its ability to blend modern influences with VW’s traditional styling cues, which appeals to faithful devotees of the brand. As a bonus, ID.4 owners in the U.S. will receive three years of unlimited charging at Electrify America’s charging stations at no additional cost.
Read Less- Comfortable and spacious
- Drives better than gasoline counterparts from Toyota and Honda
- RWD version has 260-mile range
- Public charging stations are still challenging to find
- Some drivers will want more buttons and dials for controls
- All-wheel-drive version not yet available
Why We Picked It
The Volvo XC40’s endlessly appealing Scandanavian style, comprehensive safety systems and spunky character make it a top choice among small luxury crossover SUVs. It’s surprisingly practical as well, with ingenious storage solutions and generous cargo space considering its tidy footprint. Mediocre fuel economy is the XC40’s biggest demerit, along with a balky electronic console shifter.
Pros & Cons
- Head-turning looks
- Pleasing performance
- Roomy, high-design interior
- Clumsy electronic shifter
- Infotainment system takes practice
- Fuel economy trails class leaders
Specs
Why We Picked It
Pros & Cons
Specs
The Volvo XC40’s endlessly appealing Scandanavian style, comprehensive safety systems and spunky character make it a top choice among small luxury crossover SUVs. It’s surprisingly practical as well, with ingenious storage solutions and generous cargo space considering its tidy footprint. Mediocre fuel economy is the XC40’s biggest demerit, along with a balky electronic console shifter.
The Volvo XC40’s endlessly appealing Scandanavian style, comprehensive safety systems and spunky character make it a top choice among small luxury crossover SUVs. It’s surprisingly practical as well, with ingenious storage solutions and generous cargo space considering its tidy footprint. Mediocre fuel economy is the XC40’s biggest demerit, along with a balky electronic console shifter.
Read Less- Head-turning looks
- Pleasing performance
- Roomy, high-design interior
- Clumsy electronic shifter
- Infotainment system takes practice
- Fuel economy trails class leaders
Why We Picked It
Mazda consistently delivers cars that stand out from the mainstream herd with expressive styling, near-luxury interior design and sophisticated driving dynamics. The CX-30 crossover continues that winning streak; it’s essentially a lifted version of the award-hogging Mazda3 hatchback with available AWD. One brand question remains: Will people who reflexively buy Toyotas or Hondas put Mazda on their shopping list?
Pros & Cons
- Sporty, signature Mazda performance
- Striking looks, upscale and refined interior
- 2021 Turbo model brings class-topping 250 horsepower
- Less cargo capacity than some rivals
- Smallish fuel tank means modest driving range
- Blind spots in rear
Specs
Why We Picked It
Pros & Cons
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Mazda consistently delivers cars that stand out from the mainstream herd with expressive styling, near-luxury interior design and sophisticated driving dynamics. The CX-30 crossover continues that winning streak; it’s essentially a lifted version of the award-hogging Mazda3 hatchback with available AWD. One brand question remains: Will people who reflexively buy Toyotas or Hondas put Mazda on their shopping list?
Mazda consistently delivers cars that stand out from the mainstream herd with expressive styling, near-luxury interior design and sophisticated driving dynamics. The CX-30 crossover continues that winning streak; it’s essentially a lifted version of the award-hogging Mazda3 hatchback with available AWD. One brand question remains: Will people who reflexively buy Toyotas or Hondas put Mazda on their shopping list?
Read Less- Sporty, signature Mazda performance
- Striking looks, upscale and refined interior
- 2021 Turbo model brings class-topping 250 horsepower
- Less cargo capacity than some rivals
- Smallish fuel tank means modest driving range
- Blind spots in rear
Why We Picked It
The Mazda CX-5 is a standout in its segment. Value packed, it drives and looks like a much more expensive machine, proving that quality and attention to detail don’t have to break the bank. It’s a high-style vehicle inside and out, and its driving dynamics are every bit as good as the wrapper, despite not having the most powerful base engine. Top-notch safety scores and a long list of standard features should put it at the top of most shoppers’ lists. It only truly falls short on cargo space, lagging most of its rivals.
Pros & Cons
- Extensive standard safety equipment and great safety scores
- Upscale, inside and out
- Strong turbocharged engine and exciting driving experience
- Tight cargo space
- Base engine feels lacking
- Rotary infotainment controls not so intuitive
Specs
Why We Picked It
Pros & Cons
Specs
The Mazda CX-5 is a standout in its segment. Value packed, it drives and looks like a much more expensive machine, proving that quality and attention to detail don’t have to break the bank. It’s a high-style vehicle inside and out, and its driving dynamics are every bit as good as the wrapper, despite not having the most powerful base engine. Top-notch safety scores and a long
...Read MoreThe Mazda CX-5 is a standout in its segment. Value packed, it drives and looks like a much more expensive machine, proving that quality and attention to detail don’t have to break the bank. It’s a high-style vehicle inside and out, and its driving dynamics are every bit as good as the wrapper, despite not having the most powerful base engine. Top-notch safety scores and a long list of standard features should put it at the top of most shoppers’ lists. It only truly falls short on cargo space, lagging most of its rivals.
Read Less- Extensive standard safety equipment and great safety scores
- Upscale, inside and out
- Strong turbocharged engine and exciting driving experience
- Tight cargo space
- Base engine feels lacking
- Rotary infotainment controls not so intuitive
Why We Picked It
The 2021 Lexus UX has plenty of virtues, but it’s best sampled as the UX 250h, the only hybrid in its class and easily the most fuel-efficient small premium crossover on the market. Its small footprint does mean some limitations, however. Rear seat room and cargo space are a bit restricted, but for those who want a city-friendly footprint, excellent fuel economy and a premium experience, this stylish and feature-packed little SUV delivers.
Pros & Cons
- Well-equipped even on the base trim
- Standard all-wheel drive on the hybrid
- Class-leading fuel economy and nimble driving performance
- Not much cargo room, and awkward to load
- Cramped rear seat
- Hard-to-use multimedia controller
Specs
Why We Picked It
Pros & Cons
Specs
The 2021 Lexus UX has plenty of virtues, but it’s best sampled as the UX 250h, the only hybrid in its class and easily the most fuel-efficient small premium crossover on the market. Its small footprint does mean some limitations, however. Rear seat room and cargo space are a bit restricted, but for those who want a city-friendly footprint, excellent fuel economy and a premium
...Read MoreThe 2021 Lexus UX has plenty of virtues, but it’s best sampled as the UX 250h, the only hybrid in its class and easily the most fuel-efficient small premium crossover on the market. Its small footprint does mean some limitations, however. Rear seat room and cargo space are a bit restricted, but for those who want a city-friendly footprint, excellent fuel economy and a premium experience, this stylish and feature-packed little SUV delivers.
Read Less- Well-equipped even on the base trim
- Standard all-wheel drive on the hybrid
- Class-leading fuel economy and nimble driving performance
- Not much cargo room, and awkward to load
- Cramped rear seat
- Hard-to-use multimedia controller
Why We Picked It
The X3 is a fun and stylish compact SUV. The rear seat room is acceptable for adults but not stellar, and the infotainment system still requires some concentration to master. Still, it’s overall a sophisticated and capable ride, both off-road and on.
Pros & Cons
- Top-shelf handling
- Great styling
- Compact size makes it agile
- Somewhat lackluster acceleration
- Limited cargo
- Complex infotainment
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Why We Picked It
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The X3 is a fun and stylish compact SUV. The rear seat room is acceptable for adults but not stellar, and the infotainment system still requires some concentration to master. Still, it’s overall a sophisticated and capable ride, both off-road and on.
The X3 is a fun and stylish compact SUV. The rear seat room is acceptable for adults but not stellar, and the infotainment system still requires some concentration to master. Still, it’s overall a sophisticated and capable ride, both off-road and on.
Read Less- Top-shelf handling
- Great styling
- Compact size makes it agile
- Somewhat lackluster acceleration
- Limited cargo
- Complex infotainment
Why We Picked It
The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek sees the rare mid-model refresh that feels, well, refreshing. The 2.5-liter boxer engine now available in Limited and an all-new Sport trim works well with its CVT transmission at speed, greatly improving acceleration. The Sport model offers even greater off-road ability for outdoor enthusiasts looking for that next trail or campsite. An even better do-it-all car for people who want a car to do it all.
Pros & Cons
- 2.5-liter gives it proper acceleration, plays well with CVT
- X-Mode AWD makes a good “outdooring” car even better
- Great combo of on/off-road capability
- CVT sometimes a little clunky at lower speeds
- No manual for 2.5-liter models
- EyeSight overly sensitive and too hard to shut off
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Why We Picked It
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The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek sees the rare mid-model refresh that feels, well, refreshing. The 2.5-liter boxer engine now available in Limited and an all-new Sport trim works well with its CVT transmission at speed, greatly improving acceleration. The Sport model offers even greater off-road ability for outdoor enthusiasts looking for that next trail or campsite. An even better do-it-all car for people who want a car to do it all.
The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek sees the rare mid-model refresh that feels, well, refreshing. The 2.5-liter boxer engine now available in Limited and an all-new Sport trim works well with its CVT transmission at speed, greatly improving acceleration. The Sport model offers even greater off-road ability for outdoor enthusiasts looking for that next trail or campsite. An even better do-it-all car for people who want a car to do it all.
Read Less- 2.5-liter gives it proper acceleration, plays well with CVT
- X-Mode AWD makes a good “outdooring” car even better
- Great combo of on/off-road capability
- CVT sometimes a little clunky at lower speeds
- No manual for 2.5-liter models
- EyeSight overly sensitive and too hard to shut off
Why We Picked It
The Honda CR-V isn’t the most exciting vehicle on the road and gets no changes for 2021, but in 2020 it welcomed a hybrid powertrain to the lineup, which helps make the compact crossover a compelling choice for fuel-conscious buyers, especially since its gas engine already delivers competitive fuel economy. It also offers a spacious cabin and cargo bay, a conservative design that will appeal to a wide range of demographics and a generous list of features.
Pros & Cons
- Clean and upscale interior
- Solid fuel economy across the board
- Generous interior storage
- Uninspiring acceleration
- Hybrid version eliminates spare tire
- Top trims can be pricey
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#7 in Best MPG SUVs For 2021
Why We Picked It
Pros & Cons
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The Honda CR-V isn’t the most exciting vehicle on the road and gets no changes for 2021, but in 2020 it welcomed a hybrid powertrain to the lineup, which helps make the compact crossover a compelling choice for fuel-conscious buyers, especially since its gas engine already delivers competitive fuel economy. It also offers a spacious cabin and cargo bay, a conservative design that
...Read MoreThe Honda CR-V isn’t the most exciting vehicle on the road and gets no changes for 2021, but in 2020 it welcomed a hybrid powertrain to the lineup, which helps make the compact crossover a compelling choice for fuel-conscious buyers, especially since its gas engine already delivers competitive fuel economy. It also offers a spacious cabin and cargo bay, a conservative design that will appeal to a wide range of demographics and a generous list of features.
Read Less- Clean and upscale interior
- Solid fuel economy across the board
- Generous interior storage
- Uninspiring acceleration
- Hybrid version eliminates spare tire
- Top trims can be pricey
#7 in Best MPG SUVs For 2021
Why We Picked It
The Escape can be expensive, topping $40,000 in some configurations, but Ford gives a lot for the money. The small crossover is ideal for small and growing families, especially with its variety of fuel-efficient powertrains, including a new plug-in hybrid variant, standard suite of safety technology, superiors crash ratings and surprisingly spacious cabin. All models come with Ford’s Co-Pilot360 along with up to 38.8 inches of rear legroom and up to 37.5 cubic feet of cargo-space. It’s also worth considering for sedan drivers considering an upgrade to the crossover segment. One downside is its use of low-rent materials in the interior on most trims.
Pros & Cons
- Wide variety of options and powertrains
- Generous standard safety equipment
- Smooth styling, inside and out
- Three-cylinder engine feels buzzy and unrefined
- Starts out expensive and gets pricier from there
- Too many cheap interior plastics on all models
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#2 in Best Hybrid SUVs For 2021
#8 in Best MPG SUVs For 2021
Why We Picked It
Pros & Cons
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The Escape can be expensive, topping $40,000 in some configurations, but Ford gives a lot for the money. The small crossover is ideal for small and growing families, especially with its variety of fuel-efficient powertrains, including a new plug-in hybrid variant, standard suite of safety technology, superiors crash ratings and surprisingly spacious cabin. All models come with Ford’s
...Read MoreThe Escape can be expensive, topping $40,000 in some configurations, but Ford gives a lot for the money. The small crossover is ideal for small and growing families, especially with its variety of fuel-efficient powertrains, including a new plug-in hybrid variant, standard suite of safety technology, superiors crash ratings and surprisingly spacious cabin. All models come with Ford’s Co-Pilot360 along with up to 38.8 inches of rear legroom and up to 37.5 cubic feet of cargo-space. It’s also worth considering for sedan drivers considering an upgrade to the crossover segment. One downside is its use of low-rent materials in the interior on most trims.
Read Less- Wide variety of options and powertrains
- Generous standard safety equipment
- Smooth styling, inside and out
- Three-cylinder engine feels buzzy and unrefined
- Starts out expensive and gets pricier from there
- Too many cheap interior plastics on all models
#2 in Best Hybrid SUVs For 2021
#8 in Best MPG SUVs For 2021
Why We Picked It
The RAV4 Prime is the quickest, best and costliest RAV4. The first 40 miles are on battery. Both rows have adequate space and cargo space is good. Driver safety assists are all standard through Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 and included blind-spot warning. On interstates, the car provides rudimentary self-driving. Handling is just fair. Loaded, the price nears $50K before a $7,500 tax credit.
Pros & Cons
- Surprisingly quick (0-60 in 5.7 seconds)
- Roomy for a compact crossover
- Extra weight improves ride versus other RAV4s variants
- So-so handling and braking
- Infotainment system feels dated
- Higher-end XSE trim required to get safest headlamps, faster charger
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Why We Picked It
Pros & Cons
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The RAV4 Prime is the quickest, best and costliest RAV4. The first 40 miles are on battery. Both rows have adequate space and cargo space is good. Driver safety assists are all standard through Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 and included blind-spot warning. On interstates, the car provides rudimentary self-driving. Handling is just fair. Loaded, the price nears $50K before a $7,500 tax credit.
The RAV4 Prime is the quickest, best and costliest RAV4. The first 40 miles are on battery. Both rows have adequate space and cargo space is good. Driver safety assists are all standard through Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 and included blind-spot warning. On interstates, the car provides rudimentary self-driving. Handling is just fair. Loaded, the price nears $50K before a $7,500 tax credit.
Read Less- Surprisingly quick (0-60 in 5.7 seconds)
- Roomy for a compact crossover
- Extra weight improves ride versus other RAV4s variants
- So-so handling and braking
- Infotainment system feels dated
- Higher-end XSE trim required to get safest headlamps, faster charger
Why We Picked It
The aging GLC competes in a crowded class that is full of solid, compelling vehicles. Even so, it’s still got the style, luxury and features to stand out. The interior is as stylish and distinctive as the exterior, and even the GLC’s base engine moves it with plenty of pep. The regular is a relaxed and luxurious cruiser, but for adrenaline junkies, the much faster and pricier AMG models beckon. The GLC does many things well but has a little less cargo space than some newer rivals and it also makes some active safety features extra-cost options. Even so, it’s still near the top of the class in its segment.
Pros & Cons
- Stylish and spacious interior
- Quiet, comfortable ride
- Wide range of engine options
- Lacks cargo space for size
- Most advanced equipment is held back in added-cost options packages
- Uninspired driving experience in non-AMG models
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Why We Picked It
Pros & Cons
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The aging GLC competes in a crowded class that is full of solid, compelling vehicles. Even so, it’s still got the style, luxury and features to stand out. The interior is as stylish and distinctive as the exterior, and even the GLC’s base engine moves it with plenty of pep. The regular is a relaxed and luxurious cruiser, but for adrenaline junkies, the much faster and pricier
...Read MoreThe aging GLC competes in a crowded class that is full of solid, compelling vehicles. Even so, it’s still got the style, luxury and features to stand out. The interior is as stylish and distinctive as the exterior, and even the GLC’s base engine moves it with plenty of pep. The regular is a relaxed and luxurious cruiser, but for adrenaline junkies, the much faster and pricier AMG models beckon. The GLC does many things well but has a little less cargo space than some newer rivals and it also makes some active safety features extra-cost options. Even so, it’s still near the top of the class in its segment.
Read Less- Stylish and spacious interior
- Quiet, comfortable ride
- Wide range of engine options
- Lacks cargo space for size
- Most advanced equipment is held back in added-cost options packages
- Uninspired driving experience in non-AMG models
Why We Picked It
The Tiguan may not be the quickest compact crossover or the most glamorous, but it excels on practicality. Its decent fuel economy, roomy interior, solid tech features and available third row make it a great pick for those seeking seven-seater versatility in a compact package that doesn’t break the bank.
Pros & Cons
- Can seat 7 with the available third row
- Generous features on higher-spec models
- Better than expected fuel economy
- Engine lacks punch
- Plain-jane interior
- Driver assists don’t feel very dialed-in
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Why We Picked It
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The Tiguan may not be the quickest compact crossover or the most glamorous, but it excels on practicality. Its decent fuel economy, roomy interior, solid tech features and available third row make it a great pick for those seeking seven-seater versatility in a compact package that doesn’t break the bank.
The Tiguan may not be the quickest compact crossover or the most glamorous, but it excels on practicality. Its decent fuel economy, roomy interior, solid tech features and available third row make it a great pick for those seeking seven-seater versatility in a compact package that doesn’t break the bank.
Read Less- Can seat 7 with the available third row
- Generous features on higher-spec models
- Better than expected fuel economy
- Engine lacks punch
- Plain-jane interior
- Driver assists don’t feel very dialed-in
Why We Picked It
Nissan’s new Rogue is proof that thoughtful packaging and desirable tech can push any vehicle to the next level. It’s powertrain doesn’t offer an overwhelming amount of power, but it gets high marks for efficiency, especially when configured with front-wheel drive. It comes with a host of advanced driver-assistance safety tech, including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection as well as alerts for lane departure, blind spots and more. It offers a spacious interior and updated tech such as an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Pros & Cons
- Supremely comfortable seats
- Family-friendly to the max
- Refined driving dynamics
- Too much wind and road noise
- Could use a few more horsepower
- Top trims get expensive
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#11 in Best MPG SUVs For 2021
Why We Picked It
Pros & Cons
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Nissan’s new Rogue is proof that thoughtful packaging and desirable tech can push any vehicle to the next level. It’s powertrain doesn’t offer an overwhelming amount of power, but it gets high marks for efficiency, especially when configured with front-wheel drive. It comes with a host of advanced driver-assistance safety tech, including automatic emergency braking
...Read MoreNissan’s new Rogue is proof that thoughtful packaging and desirable tech can push any vehicle to the next level. It’s powertrain doesn’t offer an overwhelming amount of power, but it gets high marks for efficiency, especially when configured with front-wheel drive. It comes with a host of advanced driver-assistance safety tech, including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection as well as alerts for lane departure, blind spots and more. It offers a spacious interior and updated tech such as an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Read Less- Supremely comfortable seats
- Family-friendly to the max
- Refined driving dynamics
- Too much wind and road noise
- Could use a few more horsepower
- Top trims get expensive
#11 in Best MPG SUVs For 2021
Why We Picked It
The compact NX translates and condenses many of the highlights of its larger RX sibling into a smaller and nimbler package. It also offers a 194-horsepower hybrid powertrain that’s slower than gas models but offers fuel economy to put most other compact crossovers to shame, up to 31 mpg. Despite being near the end of its model cycle, the 2021 Lexus NX is still a compelling choice that earns high marks for comfort, refinement and safety. In that last department it excels, with top-notch safety scores and a big suite of standard active-safety features. The NX is a handsome design with a high-quality interior, but there’s less cargo space and headroom compared with newer alternatives, and its infotainment system is dated and clunky.
Pros & Cons
- Handsome styling
- Tidy driving dynamics
- Available hybrid
- Tepid performance
- Clunky, distracting infotainment system
- Short on cargo space compared to similarly-sized rivals
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Why We Picked It
Pros & Cons
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The compact NX translates and condenses many of the highlights of its larger RX sibling into a smaller and nimbler package. It also offers a 194-horsepower hybrid powertrain that’s slower than gas models but offers fuel economy to put most other compact crossovers to shame, up to 31 mpg. Despite being near the end of its model cycle, the 2021 Lexus NX is still a compelling
...Read MoreThe compact NX translates and condenses many of the highlights of its larger RX sibling into a smaller and nimbler package. It also offers a 194-horsepower hybrid powertrain that’s slower than gas models but offers fuel economy to put most other compact crossovers to shame, up to 31 mpg. Despite being near the end of its model cycle, the 2021 Lexus NX is still a compelling choice that earns high marks for comfort, refinement and safety. In that last department it excels, with top-notch safety scores and a big suite of standard active-safety features. The NX is a handsome design with a high-quality interior, but there’s less cargo space and headroom compared with newer alternatives, and its infotainment system is dated and clunky.
Read Less- Handsome styling
- Tidy driving dynamics
- Available hybrid
- Tepid performance
- Clunky, distracting infotainment system
- Short on cargo space compared to similarly-sized rivals
Why We Picked It
With a redesigned exterior and interior, the 2021 GLA finally ships with an interior and the technology of a modern-day Mercedes. That said, the standard vinyl seats do take the shine off the latest generation compact SUV from the German automaker. From the entry-level luxuriance of the GLA 250 to the powerful thrills the AMG-tuned GLA45, the latest compact Mercedes SUV delivers.
Pros & Cons
- Roomier, more comfortable and stylish interior
- Peppy engine and smooth ride for an entry-level Mercedes
- MBUX infotainment system standard
- Base model ships with vinyl seats
- Redundant touchpad interface still wonky
- The best safety features require an additional $1,700
Specs
Why We Picked It
Pros & Cons
Specs
With a redesigned exterior and interior, the 2021 GLA finally ships with an interior and the technology of a modern-day Mercedes. That said, the standard vinyl seats do take the shine off the latest generation compact SUV from the German automaker. From the entry-level luxuriance of the GLA 250 to the powerful thrills the AMG-tuned GLA45, the latest compact Mercedes SUV delivers.
With a redesigned exterior and interior, the 2021 GLA finally ships with an interior and the technology of a modern-day Mercedes. That said, the standard vinyl seats do take the shine off the latest generation compact SUV from the German automaker. From the entry-level luxuriance of the GLA 250 to the powerful thrills the AMG-tuned GLA45, the latest compact Mercedes SUV delivers.
Read Less- Roomier, more comfortable and stylish interior
- Peppy engine and smooth ride for an entry-level Mercedes
- MBUX infotainment system standard
- Base model ships with vinyl seats
- Redundant touchpad interface still wonky
- The best safety features require an additional $1,700
Methodology
The nominees and winners were selected by the Forbes Wheels Car of the Year panel, comprising four staff editors and seven contributors. Our criteria included performance, safety, technology, comfort and convenience, fuel economy, design and functionality. Because each category spans the full spectrum of pricing, we selected vehicles that stand out among their peers. Vehicles eligible for nomination include any car or truck for sale or in production during 2020; some debuted prior to 2020.Forbes Wheels Car of the Year Panelists.
Forbes Wheels Car of the Year Panelists
Sam Abuelsamid (contributor) is principal research analyst at consulting firm Guidehouse Insights (formerly Navigant Research) and is a frequent contributor to Forbes.com, covering innovation in the transportation sector.
Brian Armstead (contributor) is president emeritus of the Washington Automotive Press Association and a North American Car, Truck and Utility of the Year (NACTOY) Juror.
Bill Howard (Forbes Wheels Staff) is editor of Forbes Wheels. He is the past president of the International Motor Press Association and was previously executive editor and contributing editor for Ziff-Davis’ PC Magazine and ExtremeTech.
Alex Kalogiannis (contributor) has been an automotive writer for over 10 years and in addition to bylines at outlets such as Gear Patrol, Trucks.com and SlashGear, he was previously Car section editor at Digital Trends.
Alex Kwanten (Forbes Wheels Staff) has worked in automotive, marine and aviation for over a decade and reported on buying, selling and servicing cars for multiple industry publications, including Automotive News.
Carly Schaffner (Forbes Wheels Staff) has worked in the automotive industry for over a decade in both editorial and communication roles. Before joining Forbes Wheels, she was managing editor of Trucks.com.
Chris Teague (contributor) is a freelance automotive writer focused on new vehicle reviews, industry trends and breaking news, and has an MBA with a focus on data analysis that gives him insight into some of the auto industry’s biggest companies.
Lawrence Ulrich (contributor) is an award-winning auto writer, and former chief auto critic for The New York Times, Detroit Free Press and The Drive.
John Voelcker (contributor) was editor of Green Car Reports for nine years. He now is a reporter and analyst covering advanced auto technologies and energy policy, and a North American Car, Truck and Utility of the Year (NACTOY) Juror.
Andrew Wendler (Forbes Staff) grew up immersed in automotive, marine and aviation culture and spent a decade at Car and Driver as a writer and editor before joining Forbes Wheels.