If you’re in the market for a compact SUV, you need a way to narrow down options. Discover the most important factors to consider before signing on the dotted line.
Must-Have Features and More
If you’re a first-time SUV buyer, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. So many options are available in the compact SUV segment that choosing just one can feel impossible. This article will simplify the process by introducing some top things to look for.
1. Advanced Safety Features
Today’s drivers almost take it for granted that they’ll be safe behind the wheel, but that doesn’t mean you should assume every compact SUV has a perfect safety profile. Pay attention to factors like the NHTSA and IIHS safety ratings. They offer helpful insight into how vehicles hold up during a crash.
Of course, you’ll never have to face a collision in an ideal world. Buying an SUV with advanced active safety and driver assistance features can help you accomplish that goal. Look for automatic e-braking, lane keep assist, and blind spot monitoring, at a bare minimum.
2. Fuel Efficiency
One of the benefits of buying a compact SUV instead of a full-size model is that smaller vehicles are more fuel efficient. That said, some compact SUVs can still be real gas-guzzlers. Check the EPA estimates so you don’t wind up unpleasantly surprised at the pump.
Consider a hybrid or all-electric SUV if you want to maximize fuel efficiency and minimize your environmental impact. Hybrid powertrains provide significant improvements in fuel economy, while battery-electric vehicles eliminate the need for stops at the gas station entirely.
3. Engine Size and Performance
Choosing an SUV with the right powertrain requires understanding your priorities. If maximizing efficiency is your top goal, a hybrid or electric powertrain will be most appealing. However, smaller engines and lighter vehicles can produce solid EPA estimates at a lower price point than EVs.
You must sacrifice some efficiency if you’re looking for power and fun driving dynamics. Look for an engine with more horsepower and torque. Check performance metrics like 0-60 acceleration times, tow capacity, and other essentials to see how they compare.
4. Drivetrain Options
As with engine size, different drivetrains have their benefits and drawbacks. If you live in a cold or wet climate, an AWD SUV can help you maintain traction on slippery roads, but it’ll come at the expense of some fuel efficiency.
If you’re looking for an SUV that can get off-road, you’ll need a 4WD model. Some compact SUVs come with additional off-road drive modes and features designed to improve their capabilities.
5. Tech and Entertainment Features
Today’s infotainment systems are incredibly advanced, but they’re not all created equal. Look for a compact SUV with everything you need in the way of tech at a reasonable price. You can expect to pay more for cutting-edge infotainment tech, but it may be worth the money depending on your lifestyle.
Regardless of price point, you should ensure the SUV’s infotainment system has an intuitive interface and can connect seamlessly to your mobile devices. There’s no excuse for clunky, difficult-to-use touchscreens in 2025.
6. Long-Term Reliability
If you’re buying a new SUV, you won’t have access to long-term reliability statistics. However, you can hedge your bets by buying from a reputable brand with a reputation for manufacturing durable vehicles.
You can also check reliability ratings for older models of the same SUV. A compact SUV that has been performing well for years and hasn’t undergone any significant changes should continue to be just as reliable.
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