Mazda CX-50 Tops U.S. Best Compact SUV Rankings

Honda’s SUV, the CR-V

The ranking of the best compact SUVs in the U.S. has been revealed. Many models from Japanese companies showed strength, occupying the top rankings, while South Korean companies showed a contrast, with only Kia Sportage ranked 7th out of 8 models.

This article examines three Japanese compact SUVs that ranked higher than the Sportage. In addition to the models to be introduced, the Volkswagen Tiguan, in second place; Ford Escape, in fourth place; and the Dodge Hornet, in fifth place, ranked higher based on better evaluations than Kia’s flagship SUV.

First Place: Mazda CX-50

The Mazda CX-50 was selected as the best compact SUV in the U.S. It is a model that has not been launched in South Korea and was able to take first place based on its attractive wagon-like proportions, solid powertrain, and harmony of smooth ride and handling.

The CX-50 also has strengths in its interior, emphasizing luxury with soft textured leather on the dashboard and door panels. However, it received the highest score for its solid powertrain and top-of-the-line chassis using a 256-horsepower turbocharged inline-4 engine.

3rd Place: Honda CR-V

Following the Volkswagen Tiguan in second place, Honda’s compact SUV, CR-V, took third place. Based on the evaluation that it was an SUV version of the Accord, its comfortable interior space and attractive chassis were selected as strengths. However, at the same time, the lack of speed and small infotainment display were criticized as disappointing.

The CR-V, which received the highest scores in ride comfort and rear seat space and rave reviews for its interior, is currently available in South Korea. The 2024 CR-V Turbo starts at 42.6 million won ($30,930) and has three exterior colors.

6th Place: Toyota’s RAV4

Toyota is the best-selling Japanese automaker in the U.S. market with its lineup of off-roaders, such as the Tacoma, 4Runner, and Land Cruiser. Although the RAV4 only ranked 6th in this ranking, experts are receiving rave reviews for its sturdy exterior, spacious interior, and top-notch fuel economy.

However, loud engine noise and vibration and the inconvenience of the off-road kit were cited as disadvantages. It had to give up in the compact SUV market. The RAV4 was also released in South Korea, and the CR-V and a front-wheel-drive hybrid model are being sold. The price range of this model, which is equipped with an in-line 4-cylinder gasoline engine, is 50.2 million won ($36,448).