The small SUV 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. A small SUV has come in dead last on Car and Driver’s ranked list of the best small SUVs.
A small SUV Jeep is at the bottom of Car and Driver’s list of the best small SUVs
car and driver ranked 17 different 2023 small SUVs from worst to best. The Jeep Compass ranks last behind 16 other small SUVs. So why does the 2023 Jeep Compass perform so poorly in the ratings?
Affordability is one of the points that the automotive publication mentions in its evaluation of the Jeep Compass. The most notable Compass model, the Trailhawk, costs a whopping $35,745. C&D argues that other Jeep models offer more space and value for money.
Edmunds lists the “weak power delivery” in the four-cylinder engine and a lethargic transmission as cons. MotorTrend claims 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 SUV in its segment. It competes with models like the Subaru Forester and the Ford Bronco Sport. Both the Subaru Forester and Ford Bronco Sport also offer suitable off-road trim levels.
Is the 2023 Jeep Compass a good SUV?
The 2023 Jeep Compass starts at $29,995. It uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine to make 200 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. The Compass gets 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
The Jeep Compass is less powerful than many of its rivals and also consumes less fuel. Like most Jeep models, the main reason to buy the Compass is its off-road capability.
Outside of off-road 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 the best small SUV from Car and Driver?
The highest-ranked small SUV 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 its rivals.
The 2023 Honda CR-V starts at $31,110. It uses a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine to make 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque. The small SUV gets 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg 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 unseat the Toyota RAV4 as the best-selling small SUV.