The compact SUV segment is crowded, and it can be difficult to decide which model is the best. Thankfully, there’s no shortage of SUV lists that can help with the decision. And even though it’s still 2021, the 2022 Hyundai Tucson is already claiming a spot at the top of the pack. Sporting a sleek redesign and a hybrid version, the new Tucson is creating quite a buzz.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson tops this list of the 10 best compact SUVs of the year

If you’re looking for the best compact SUV, TrueCar offers a list of the 10 best models. The 2022 Hyundai Tucson snags the top spot, with the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime and 2021 Ford Escape placing second and third. The 2021 Nissan Rogue and 2021 Tesla Model Y round out the top five. The 2021 Toyota RAV4, 2021 Ford Bronco Sport, 2021 Infiniti QX50, 2021 Volvo XC60, and 2021 Kia Niro make up the rest.

Why is the 2022 Hyundai Tucson number 1?

The Hyundai Tucson is the only 2022 SUV that made TrueCar’s list. A big reason for that is the SUV’s redesign. It provides an exceptional amount of cargo space, well-integrated tech features, and a comfortable and sophisticated cabin. Seven trim levels and three powertrain options, including a hybrid, are available. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, as does a host of safety features. They include hill descent assist, blind-spot warning, pedestrian detection, and parallel and perpendicular automatic parking. 

The Tucson’s base engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 187 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque, with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 2022 Tucson has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The hybrid engine is a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder; it pairs with a 1.5-kWh battery to put out 226 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, with a six-speed automatic transmission. It has an electric driving range of 32 miles and an estimated fuel economy of 70 MPGe.

How did TrueCar determine which SUVs made the list?

TrueCar says it bases its lists on a data-driven methodology that utilizes ALG industry research, consumer surveys, and a team of data scientists and vehicle experts. Vehicles are scored using TrueCar’s in-house rating system by analyzing metrics in five categories. Those categories include comfort and amenities — features that can transform a basic vehicle into a luxurious one — and tech features like infotainment systems and safety suites.

TrueCar’s analysts also examine a vehicle’s fuel efficiency and driving performance. Finally, they look at how they perform in terms of practicality or utility. Does the vehicle get you from home to work only, or can it also help you with carpool duty? 

So if you’re looking for a compact SUV that has a bunch of room for passengers and cargo, offers a hybrid powertrain, and has plenty of pizazz, the 2022 Hyundai Tucson is a good choice. It also boasts Hyundai’s impressive 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Plus, the 2022 Tucson’s starting price is lower than the MSRPs of the other compact SUVs on TrueCar’s list. And getting a roomy hybrid compact SUV with a ton of tech and safety features without breaking the bank is never a bad thing.