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 2011. 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: $15,995 - $35,930

Models

For 2011, the compact SUV owner has even more options. Below you?ll find a few of the fifteen compact SUVs currently on the market.

For 2011, the notable compact SUV happens to be a carryover from 2010: the 2011 GMC Acadia, with a class-leading 32-mpg leads the back. Receiving minor updates for 2011, the Volkswagen Tiguan brings both style and a dynamic driving experience that can only come from Germany. 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 2011 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 2011.

The Honda CR-V, a carryover from 2011, 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.

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.