Only 1 SUV Is Declared the Worst Small SUV by Car and Driver
The small SUV vehicle segment is the most popular segment in the country, thanks to models like the Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue, and Honda CR-V. Models that are popular in small SUV rankings also tend to sell well. One small SUV has come dead last in Car and Driver’s ranked list of the best small SUVs.
A small Jeep SUV is at the bottom of Car and Driver’s best small SUV list
Car and Driver ranked 17 different 2023 small SUVs from worst to best. The Jeep Compass is ranked last behind 16 other small SUVs. So, why does the 2023 Jeep Compass perform so poorly in rankings?
Affordability is one of the points that the automotive publication brings up in its evaluation of the Jeep Compass. The most notable Compass trim, the Trailhawk, costs a whopping $35,745. C&D argues that other Jeep models offer more space and value for the money.
Edmunds lists “weak power delivery” on the four-cylinder engine and a lethargic transmission as cons. MotorTrend claims that the 2023 Jeep Compass has a rough ride and isn’t as roomy as other SUVs in its price range.
The Compass is far from the only small off-road SUV in its segment. It competes with models like the Subaru Forester and Ford Bronco Sport. Both the Subaru Forester and Ford Bronco Sport also offer capable off-road trim levels.
Is the 2023 Jeep Compass a good SUV?
The 2023 Jeep Compass starts at $29,995. It uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine to make 200 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. The Compass gets 22 miles per gallon in the city and 31 miles per gallon on the highway.
The Jeep Compass is less powerful than many of its rivals, and it’s also less fuel-efficient. Like most Jeep models, the main reason to buy the Compass is its off-roading capability.
Outside of off-roading capability, the Compass doesn’t particularly stand out. The 2023 Jeep Compass is a decent SUV, but there are several better alternatives on the market with lower starting prices.
What is Car and Driver’s best small SUV?
The small SUV with the highest rank is none other than the redesigned 2023 Honda CR-V. The CR-V’s redesign makes it more expensive ,but also better-equipped to compete against rivals.
The 2023 Honda CR-V starts at $31,110. It uses a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine to make 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. The small SUV achieves 28 miles per gallon in the city and 34 miles per gallon on the highway.
The new CR-V is praised for its attractive new exterior design, handling, and smooth ride. It comes standard with adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, blind-spot warning, and a driver monitoring system. It also includes a larger 7.0-inch infotainment system, a lane-keeping assist system, and a collision mitigation braking system.
The 2023 Honda CR-V is positioned to be one of the best-selling new small SUVs of 2023. It could even dethrone the Toyota RAV4 as the best-selling small SUV.
