5 Best Compact SUVs for the Money in 2022
Compact SUVs are currently the most popular vehicles in America. Small SUVs are affordable and offer plenty of utility with cargo space and convenient standard features. Here are the five best 2022 compact SUVs for the money.
The 2022 Toyota RAV4 sticks to the script
When it comes to value, it’s tough not to mention the Toyota RAV4 in a compact SUV conversation. The RAV4 is a compact SUV staple because of its affordability and reliability. Toyota sticks to the script for the 2022 model year and keeps the base model simple. The RAV4 comes in several trim levels. It’s also available with several packages.
Whether you’re looking for off-road adventuring or incredible fuel economy, there’s a RAV4 for everyone. The 2022 Toyota RAV4 starts at $26,525. It uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine to make 203 horsepower. The RAV4 achieves 27 miles per gallon in the city and 35 miles per gallon on the highway.
The 2022 Subaru Forester brings the fun to the compact SUV segment
Subaru SUVs occupy a unique niche in the SUV vehicle class: off-roading adventure vehicles. The Crosstrek, Forester, and Outback all have off-roading capabilities.
The 2022 Subaru Forester starts at $25,195. It uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine to make 182 horsepower. The Forester gets 26 miles per gallon in the city and 33 miles per gallon on the highway.
The compact SUV has a whopping 8.7 inches of ground clearance. It’s the best option on the list for drivers who yearn to take the road less traveled and experience the best of the great outdoors.
The 2022 Honda CR-V is the OG all-around compact SUV
Like the Toyota RAV4, the Honda CR-V is consistently at the top of compact SUV rankings. The CR-V balances great driving dynamics with a spacious cabin, cargo area, and great fuel economy.
The 2022 Honda CR-V starts at $26,400. It uses a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine to make 190 horsepower. It gets 28 miles per gallon in the city and 34 miles per gallon on the highway. The 2022 model year is an update that has drastically improved features like the SUV’s outdated infotainment system. The CR-V is refreshed and ready to compete with the latest and greatest new compact SUVs.
The 2022 Mazda CX-5 is practically a luxury SUV
The Mazda CX-5 is as close to a luxury SUV as a base model compact SUV can get. It offers even more comfort and standard tech at higher trim levels. The CX-5 has only been around for about a decade, but it has clawed its way to the top of compact SUV rankings in recent years because of its refined cabin and suite of standard safety features.
The Mazda CX-5 starts at $25,900. It uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine to produce 186 horsepower. The CX-5 achieves 24 miles per gallon in the city and 30 miles per gallon on the highway. It is one of the few SUVs on the market that offers standard all-wheel drive.
The 2022 Hyundai Tucson is moving up in the world
The Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V have long dominated the compact SUV segment. In 2022, a South Korean SUV is giving the two Japanese SUVs major competition. The Tucson is the best compact SUV for the money according to several automotive publications.
The 2022 Hyundai Tucson starts at $24,950. It uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine to make 187 horsepower. It achieves 26 miles per gallon in the city and 33 miles per gallon on the highway. Consumers love the Tucson because it is affordable, practical, and offers a smooth ride quality.
The best compact SUV depends on your personal taste
While the Hyundai Tucson and Honda CR-V are perceived as the best overall compact SUVs, the best compact SUVs listed offer capabilities to satisfy different tastes. The Mazda CX-5 is the best option for consumers looking for a luxury feel. The Subaru Forester is the best option for consumers looking for off-road thrills. The CR-V is the most fuel-efficient option of the compact SUVs listed.
No matter what your preference is, there are plenty of great small SUV options available for under $27K. Which compact SUV do you think provides the most value?
