Looking for a new compact SUV but not sure where to start? Consumer Reports said these are some sport utility vehicles you can skip over. What makes these new cars undesirable? A lack of safety features and reliability seems to be a common cause. Don’t worry; the experts also offered some recommendations on what to buy instead.

The GMC Terrain is a new compact SUV to skip over

When Consumer Reports chose some new compact SUVs that provide a stress-free ownership experience, the 2022 GMC Terrain was not one of those options. The SUV hasn’t been fully tested, but it didn’t get great reliability and owner satisfaction scores. While the Terrain recently got a revamp, it didn’t update enough for the experts. Standard safety features include forward collision warning (FCW) and automatic emergency braking (AEB).

Price Range: $28,400 – $37,100

Unfortunately, Alfa Romeo’s Stelvio is another new compact SUV to avoid

While the 2022 Alfa Romeo Stelvio has striking looks, Consumer Reports thought it was a new compact SUV to skip over. It performed well on the road test, but the predicted owner satisfaction score was low. The reliability score wasn’t any better. On the road test, the experts at CR actually said, “For daily driving needs, we found this mechanical sibling of the Giulia ripe with annoyances.” There are better sport utility vehicles out there for the same money. FCW and AEB are standard, as are blind-spot warning (BSW) and lane departure warning (LDW).

Price Range: $45,550 – $84,650

The Lexus NX is usually good, but this one is missing some things

It isn’t clear why the experts at Consumer Reports said to skip the 2022 Lexus NX. With high scores on the road test, reliability, and owner satisfaction, the NX has all the markings of a good compact SUV. The Lexus SUV has a pretty stellar history, thanks to Toyota’s reliability. It doesn’t have great visibility and has some quirks that dull this SUV’s shine. If you are stuck with the 2022 Lexus NX, the hybrid is a good choice. FCW, LDW, BSW, and AEB are all standard safety features.

Price Range: $38,350 – $57,400

Consumer Reports thought the Subaru Forester was a new compact SUV to seek out

The 2022 Subaru Forester was the number one pick for compact SUVs. Consumer Reports gave this SUV high marks on the road test and for the predicted reliability. Owners are satisfied with the driving experience, comfort, value, and styling. The overall fuel economy came in at 28 mpg. While the Forester SUV has ample cargo space, good visibility, and enough headroom for most people, that’s not all. FCW, LDW, and AEB are all standard on this compact SUV. The IIHS gave the 2022 Subaru Forester the Top Safety Pick Plus award.

Price Range: $25,895 – $35,995

While the Subaru Forester was the best option, Consumer Reports also said the Nissan Rogue and the Toyota RAV4 were other good choices. Keep an eye on the sales at your local dealerships as the year progresses. You might be able to snag a good deal on an outgoing model.