SUVs or Sport Utility Vehicles have been popular for many years now. They're big, relaxing, safe, but don't handle as well as a car. But they do have a lot of reasons to justify you paying for them. If, however, those reasons aren't sufficient enough, and you would like something way more, but something a bit less simultaneously, the compact SUV is what you're looking for.

The compact SUV market has seen a major jump in sales throughout the world, and this is because of many reasons - they're not so bulky, easy for the pocket, and they ride and handle just about as great as a road car. Most of them as crossover platforms, but some manufacturers even have an exclusive platform. However, to pick out one of them as the best compact SUV wouldn't be easy.

The brands from Detroit and Dearborn may possibly come to your mind first, as they have been around since most of us were born! In the arena of the best small SUV though, they have serious competitors - the new Ford Escape is due soon for 2012 and that is one which boasts a radical, yet pleasing design, and has some frugal 4 cylinder engine alternatives from their EcoBoost range which do not sacrifice on power. Also in the value range is the redesigned Chevy Equinox, featuring a more contemporary stance plus some good engines as well.

There's Toyota with their RAV4. It is simply reliable, no-nonsense motoring that you could depend on anytime, at any place. You also have got a choice of 4, or 6 cylinder engines and the list of standard devices are quite decent too. If the RAV4 doesn't cut it for you, for a little more dough, you could choose the legendary FJ Cruiser - which has won lots of hearts with it's unique brute design. Remarkably or not, Toyota possess a few more models you can consider - such as the truly unique Venza crossover, the Highlander and the not-so-compact 4runner. From Acura comes the RDX - a compact, but peppy little crossover, though the price may throw you off a little bit. On the other hand, there is the Honda CR-V - tried, tested and yet quite attractive. It is unquestionably aided by the rock solid reliability and the smooth engine it brings with it. Look at the equipment list and the price, and it is outstanding value! A genuine competitor in the race for the best compact SUV.

There is also the very distinct Ford Edge, as well as the smart but boxier Ford Flex, which provide the 6 cylinder engines into your list of choices. You also have the Chevy Traverse to have a considerably long look at.

From Germany you have the Audi Q5, which brings benchmark handling to the table, along with a slew of terrific engines - a turbocharged 4 cylinder, plus a great V6 too. Volkswagen also have the Tiguan on the market, with the same engine options. For those that seek driving pleasure whenever they're at the wheel, BMW offers their new X3 with a V4, as well as a straight V6 engine alternative.

So there you have it. A good number of choices which not only span a fairly large budget bracket - around $20,000 - $45,000, but also have some unique designs which might be identifiable to different people for a number of reasons. Another point to remember is that you shouldn't think of them as compact SUVs, but instead more capable cars that could hold more luggage and hold people more comfortably and safer than most cars can.

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