The Most Perfect Compact Sports Utility Vehicle
SUVs or Sport Utility Vehicles have been in existence for a long time now. They’re massive, comfortable, safe, but don’t handle as well as a car. But they do have numerous reasons to justify you paying for them. If, however, those reasons aren’t sufficient enough, and you would like something more, but something a little less at the same time, the compact SUV is just what you’re looking for.
The compact SUV market has seen a major jump in sales globally, and this is because of numerous reasons – they’re not so bulky, not hard for the pocket, and they ride and handle just about as great as a road car. A lot of them as crossover platforms, however some manufacturers even have an exclusive platform. However, to single out one of them as the best compact SUV wouldn’t be fair.
The brands from Detroit and Dearborn may possibly cross your mind first, as they have been around ever since most of us were born! In the realm of the best small SUV though, they do have serious opponents – the new Ford Escape is due soon for 2012 and that is one which incorporates a radical, yet pleasing design, and also has some frugal 4 cylinder engine choices from their EcoBoost range that don’t sacrifice on power. Also in the value range is the redesigned Chevy Equinox, featuring a more contemporary stance and some good engines as well.
There’s Toyota with their RAV4. It is extremely reliable, no-nonsense motoring that you can depend on anytime, at any place. You also have a choice of 4, or 6 cylinder engines and the list of standard devices are quite decent as well. If the RAV4 doesn’t cut it for you, for a little extra dough, you can go for the legendary FJ Cruiser – that has won lots of hearts with it’s unique brute design. Remarkably or not, Toyota have a few more models you could consider – including the truly unique Venza crossover, the Highlander as well as the not-so-compact 4runner. From Acura comes the RDX – a compact, but peppy little crossover, though the cost may throw you off a little bit. On the other hand, there is the Honda CR-V – tried, tested and yet quite attractive. It is unquestionably aided by the rock solid reliability and also the smooth engine it brings with it. Have a look at the equipment list and also the cost, and it is excellent value! A genuine competitor in the race for the best compact SUV.
Additionally, there is the very distinct Ford Edge, and also the smart but boxier Ford Flex, which provide the 6 cylinder engines to your list of choices. You also have the Chevy Traverse to have a considerably long look at.
From Germany there is the Audi Q5, which brings benchmark controlling to the table, with a slew of terrific engines – a turbocharged 4 cylinder, and a great V6 as well. Volkswagen also have the Tiguan out there, with the same engine selections. For people who seek driving pleasure whenever they’re at the wheel, BMW offers their new X3 which has a V4, as well as a straight V6 engine alternative.
So there you have it. A wide array of choices that not only span a fairly large budget bracket – around $20,000 – $45,000, but also have some unique designs which may be identifiable to different people for several reasons. Another thing to keep in mind is that you shouldn’t think of them as compact SUVs, but rather more capable cars that could hold more luggage and seat people more comfortably and safer than the majority of cars can.
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