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Best Compact SUVs of 2023, Ranked: Kelley Blue Book’s Top Picks

Kelley Blue Book ranks the 2023 Honda CR-V first among compact SUVs, with the Kia Sportage and Toyota RAV4 tied for second. See the full list and how its picks differ.
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Kelley Blue Book’s 2023 compact-SUV ranking puts the Honda CR-V first, followed by a tie between the Kia Sportage and Toyota RAV4. The list is not a verified match for an unidentified “10 best small SUVs” ranking: KBB’s page covers compact SUVs and includes ties that carry more than ten models through rank No. 10. The comparisons below follow KBB’s published order and attribute its ratings and displayed fuel-economy figures to KBB.

How to read this 2023 small-SUV ranking

“Small SUV” is not a universal category label. Kelley Blue Book calls its list Best Compact SUVs of 2023; its rankings are a useful benchmark, but they should not be mistaken for a confirmed list from an unidentified publisher or as the only possible definition of a small SUV.

KBB says its editors considered driving performance, features, cargo space, technology, build quality, fuel economy and other factors after test-driving and reviewing vehicles. The ratings and combined-MPG figures below are those displayed by KBB on its current page, accessed in 2026; the page does not establish that year as the publication date for the figures. MPG values are presented as KBB’s figures, not as an independently checked EPA comparison.

Kelley Blue Book’s top compact SUVs of 2023

KBB rank 2023 model KBB expert rating KBB displayed combined MPG What KBB highlights
1 Honda CR-V 4.8 29 KBB’s Compact SUV Best Buy for 2023; redesigned with updated technology.
2 (tie) Kia Sportage 4.6 28 Roomy, refined and equipped with modern technology.
2 (tie) Toyota RAV4 4.6 29 Roomy, with standard safety features and good fuel economy.
4 (tie) Mazda CX-5 4.5 26 Particularly appealing to people who enjoy driving.
4 (tie) Mazda CX-50 4.5 27 Slightly larger than the CX-5 and aimed at more adventurous buyers.
6 Hyundai Tucson 4.4 28 Technology, styling, safety scores and a roomy interior.
7 (tie) Nissan Rogue 4.3 31 KBB identifies it as the most fuel-efficient vehicle on its list.
7 (tie) Subaru Forester 4.3 29 A practical option with adventure-oriented and more luxurious appeal.
9 GMC Terrain 4.1 27 Spaciousness and upscale top trims.
10 (tie) Chevrolet Equinox 4.0 28 KBB places it in a four-model tie at No. 10.
10 (tie) Dodge Hornet 4.0 24 KBB places it in a four-model tie at No. 10.
10 (tie) Ford Escape 4.0 26 KBB places it in a four-model tie at No. 10.
10 (tie) Volkswagen Tiguan 4.0 25 A rare compact SUV with a three-row layout for up to seven occupants.

Rankings, expert ratings, displayed MPG figures and model descriptions are from Kelley Blue Book’s 2023 compact-SUV list. Because four vehicles share No. 10, the page includes 13 models at ranks through 10 rather than a strict ten-vehicle cutoff.

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Which 2023 small SUV should you choose?

For the strongest overall KBB ranking: Honda CR-V

The CR-V leads KBB’s list with a 4.8 expert rating and 29 combined MPG displayed. KBB names it its Compact SUV Best Buy for 2023 and points to its redesign and updated technology. That makes it the clearest pick if you want to follow the ranking’s overall result, rather than prioritize one particular feature.

For a close alternative: Kia Sportage or Toyota RAV4

KBB ties the Sportage and RAV4 at No. 2, both rated 4.6. Its descriptions point to different strengths: the Sportage is noted for roominess, refinement and technology, while the RAV4 is noted for roominess, standard safety features and fuel economy. KBB displays 28 combined MPG for the Sportage and 29 for the RAV4.

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For driving enjoyment: Mazda CX-5

KBB singles out the CX-5 as especially appealing to people who enjoy driving. It is tied at No. 4, with a 4.5 rating and 26 combined MPG displayed.

For a more adventure-oriented feel: Mazda CX-50 or Subaru Forester

KBB describes the CX-50 as slightly larger than the CX-5 and aimed at more adventurous buyers. It is tied at No. 4, rated 4.5, with 27 combined MPG displayed. The Forester is tied at No. 7; KBB presents it as a practical choice that also offers adventure and luxury, with a 4.3 rating and 29 combined MPG displayed.

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For fuel economy: Nissan Rogue

KBB lists the Rogue at No. 7 (tie), displays 31 combined MPG and calls it the most fuel-efficient vehicle on its list. That distinction applies to KBB’s ranking and displayed figures; it is not a claim that the Rogue leads every small-SUV comparison or every EPA configuration comparison.

For three rows: Volkswagen Tiguan

KBB notes that the Tiguan is a rare compact SUV with three rows and seating for up to seven occupants. It is tied at No. 10, rated 4.0, with 25 combined MPG displayed. If you need extra seats, confirm the exact vehicle’s configuration and available space before buying.

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What the ranking can—and cannot—tell you

KBB’s list provides a publisher-attributed comparison across performance, features, space, technology, build and fuel economy. It does not establish a universal small-SUV class definition, a single best choice for every driver, or a confirmed ten-model list behind the title “10 Best Small SUVs Of 2023, Ranked.” Use the rank as a starting point, then compare the exact trims and configurations that fit your passenger, cargo, seating and driving needs.

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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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