Each year, Consumer Guide Automotive editors test drive and evaluate nearly every vehicle sold in the United States. Together, the editors rate each vehicle 1–10 in the following categories: Acceleration, Fuel Economy, Ride Quality, Steering/Handling/Braking, Quietness, Controls, Details, Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front), Room/Comfort (rear), Cargo Room, and Value Within Class.
The editors add those numbers to produce a total rating score for each vehicle. Below are the total rating scores for all 2012 compact SUVs (excluding luxury cars). Click the name of the car for a detailed review of that vehicle. Or simply check out The Consumer Guide to 2012 Compact SUVs.
Check out the current Consumer Guide Compact Crossover Best Buys
1. Volkswagen Tiguan
Base MSRP: $22,840; Consumer Guide Rating: 77
2. Honda CR-V
Base MSRP: $22,295; Consumer Guide Rating: 72
2. Hyundai Tucson
Base MSRP: $19,045; Consumer Guide Rating: 72
4. Subaru Forester
Base MSRP: $20,595; Consumer Guide Rating: 70
5. Suzuki Grand Vitara
Base MSRP: $19,499; Consumer Guide Rating: 68
5. Toyota RAV4
Base MSRP: $21,925; Consumer Guide Rating: 68
7. Kia Sportage Base MSRP: $18,500; Consumer Guide Rating: 65
8. Ford Escape Base MSRP: $21,240; Consumer Guide Rating: 64
9. Mini Countryman Base MSRP: $21,650; Consumer Guide Rating: 61
10. Nissan Rogue Base MSRP: $21,530; Consumer Guide Rating: 59
11. Jeep Compass Base MSRP: $19,295; Consumer Guide Rating: 58
11. Jeep Patriot Base MSRP: $15,995; Consumer Guide Rating: 58
13. Jeep Liberty Base MSRP: $23,360; Consumer Guide Rating: 56
13. Mitsubishi Outlander Base MSRP: $22,345; Consumer Guide Rating: 56
15. Jeep Wrangler Base MSRP: $22,045; Consumer Guide Rating: 49
16. Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Base MSRP: $25,545; Consumer Guide Rating: 49
17. Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Base MSRP: $18,495; Consumer Guide Rating: 48
