For the past few decades, the consumer interest in SUVs has been steadily increasing and automakers are responding with bigger and more tech-savvy offerings. But what if you don’t need something as big as an SUV, but still need a vehicle with some utility that can carry multiple passengers comfortably? In that case, here are five SUV alternatives that you might want to check out.  

2020 Audi A6 Allroad | MSRP: $65,900

While the all-new Audi A6 Allroad isn’t as big as the typical SUV, it sure has the same type of capability and creature comforts. The A6 Allroad offers the same elegant styling and premier fit and finish as the A6 sedan that it’s based on, but has the benefit of added cargo room and taller ride height. Couple that with Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system and there’s almost nowhere this wagon can’t go.

Ford Transit Connect Passenger Van | MSRP: $27,020

Yes, we know, it’s a van. But at least it’s not the typical minivan. The Transit Connect has a very generous amount of room for up to seven passengers and is tough enough to put up with daily duties while ensuring everyone’s safety. The Transit Connect comes standard with Ford’s Co-Pilot360, which is a suite of safety features that includes blind-spot protection, adaptive cruise control, and park assist, to name a few. Also, its utility is second to none. Do you have some home-improvement projects to work on? No worries! The second and third rows fold down flat to reveal 106 cubic feet of room.

Volvo V90 Cross Country | MSRP: $54,550

Volvo has always been known for its renowned safety ratings and, as of late, their handsome designs inside and out. The Volvo V90 Cross Country is no exception as this wagon offers up the safety equipment that you would expect coupled with intuitive tech features and a comfortable interior all wrapped up in a capable wagon that’s ready for some light off-road driving.

Volkswagen Golf Sportwagen | MSRP: $21,895

As the most affordable option on this list, the Golf Sportwagen offers value like no SUV can. With spacious room for five and all of their cargo, thanks to 66.5 cubic feet of cargo volume, the Golf Sportwagen will give you the most bang for your budget. Let’s not forget that it’s available with a host of tech-savvy features and is capable for the rougher road ahead with its 4Motion all-wheel-drive system.

MINI Countryman | MSRP: $28,900

The MINI Countryman is technically not an SUV. In fact, the brand labels it as an “SAV,” or sports activity vehicle, which means that it’s big enough for a family of five and whatever their active lifestyle entails. The Countryman offers the same quirky styling that the brand is known for, but is comfortable enough for the daily drive and rugged enough for just about any country backroad.

Do you really need an SUV?

We hope that this list of SUV alternatives will get you thinking a little differently during your shopping process. Do you really need the monstrous ride height that SUVs have or all the capability that they’re built for? Probably not. In that case, just know that there are vehicles out there that might be better suited to your needs.