There is no single compact SUV that is reliably best for every buyer. The Honda CR-V, Subaru Forester, Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, and Toyota RAV4 are all worth shortlisting, but reliability rankings measure different things and often reflect older model years. Compare the exact year, trim, and powertrain you plan to buy, then weigh reliability evidence against price, fuel economy, space, comfort, and capability.
What “reliable” means depends on the ranking
Reliability scores are not interchangeable. J.D. Power’s 2026 Vehicle Dependability Study measures problems reported by owners of three-year-old vehicles during the previous 12 months. J.D. Power says its 2026 ratings draw on more than 80,000 verified owners; that is a retrospective measure of older vehicles, not a forecast for a newly redesigned model. Its 2025 Compact SUV award went to the 2022 Toyota RAV4 (J.D. Power’s 2025 award results; 2026 study methodology).
A different approach produces a different order. In its 2026 small and compact SUV ranking, iSeeCars gave the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5 reliability scores of 8.0/10 each, compared with a class average of 7.4. Its method focuses on expected useful lifespan and the likelihood of reaching high mileage (iSeeCars’ small and compact SUV reliability ranking). That longevity-oriented score answers a different question from J.D. Power’s owner-reported problems measure, so neither should be treated as a universal verdict.
Six compact SUVs to put on your shortlist
These models are relevant alternatives, not a claim that one is best for every shopper. J.D. Power’s 2026 RAV4 competitor pages identify the CR-V, Tucson, Sportage, and Forester among its direct rivals; the CX-5 is also supported by the separate iSeeCars reliability ranking.
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Honda CR-V
Consider the CR-V if passenger room and an efficient hybrid are priorities. Consumer Reports’ ratings reprint, current as of October 2025, describes the tested 2025 CR-V Hybrid as roomy and efficient, but noisy (Consumer Reports SUV ratings, reprinted by Subaru of America). iSeeCars placed the CR-V first in its 2026 small and compact SUV reliability ranking. Compare the specific engine and trim: the hybrid’s reported starting price was notably higher than the base CR-V in Edmunds’ 2025 comparison.
Subaru Forester
The Forester merits a look if visibility and a comfortable ride matter. Consumer Reports’ summary of the tested 2025 model praises comfort and visibility, while noting that it feels underpowered. Check the exact powertrain and equipment on the model year you are considering; those observations describe the tested 2025 vehicle, not every Forester configuration.
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Mazda CX-5
The CX-5 is a candidate for shoppers who value a quiet cabin and responsive feel. Consumer Reports’ tested-2025 summary describes it as quiet and responsive, but not a fuel-economy standout. iSeeCars gave it an 8.0/10 reliability score in its 2026 ranking, equal to the CR-V’s score and above that ranking’s 7.4 class average.
Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage
Both are direct alternatives to include in a comparison, as J.D. Power’s 2026 RAV4 competitor set includes the Tucson and Sportage. The evidence here does not establish a model-specific reliability advantage or a like-for-like ranking for either one. Compare their exact year, trim, powertrain, warranty terms, and local transaction prices rather than assuming the nameplate alone settles the choice.
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Toyota RAV4
The RAV4 is a particularly relevant benchmark: the 2022 model received J.D. Power’s 2025 Compact SUV award, while an Edmunds comparison republished by AP News in December 2025 describes the 2026 RAV4 as hybrid-only. Those statements concern different model years and different evidence. The award is not a reliability prediction for the redesigned 2026 model.
Compare price and fuel economy by powertrain
Edmunds’ comparison, distributed by AP News in December 2025, reported these starting prices including destination and combined fuel-economy figures for the 2026 models. Prices and official economy estimates can change; verify current trim availability, transaction pricing, and EPA figures before deciding.
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| 2026 model/configuration | Reported starting price including destination | Reported combined fuel economy |
|---|---|---|
| Toyota RAV4, hybrid-only lineup | $33,350 | Up to 44 mpg |
| Honda CR-V, base model | $32,370 | Not stated in the comparison for the base model |
| Honda CR-V Hybrid, least-expensive hybrid | $37,080 | Up to 40 mpg |
These are the figures as reported by Edmunds, not a promise of the price or economy you will get. The table also illustrates why comparing only entry prices can mislead: a base gas CR-V and a hybrid RAV4 are different powertrain propositions, while the least-expensive CR-V hybrid starts above both reported base prices.
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Once the model names are narrowed down, assess the compromises that affect everyday use. Available configurations and specifications depend on year, trim, and market, so confirm them for the vehicle you intend to buy.
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- Fuel use: Compare the same type of powertrain and use the current official economy estimate for that configuration. A hybrid and a conventional-gas version should not be treated as identical comparisons.
- Passenger and cargo space: Bring the people, child seats, pets, or bulky items you routinely carry. Published capacity alone may not show whether the seating and cargo opening work for your needs.
- Comfort and noise: Test-drive the exact trim on the roads you use. The 2025 CR-V Hybrid, Forester, and CX-5 summaries from Consumer Reports point to distinct trade-offs in noise, comfort, visibility, power, and efficiency.
- Controls and technology: Try climate controls, infotainment, phone pairing, and driver-assistance settings while parked. Check whether the interface is easy to use without distracting you.
- All-wheel drive and light trails: Buy AWD for a real traction need, not just the badge. Confirm whether the specific trim offers it, and assess ground clearance, tires, and route conditions before expecting a compact SUV to handle rough tracks.
- Total cost: Compare the actual local quote, equipment, insurance, fuel, maintenance schedule, and warranty coverage for the precise configuration. A lower starting price does not necessarily mean a lower ownership cost.
A practical checklist before you choose
- Write down the exact model year, trim, and powertrain for every candidate. Do not transfer a score, award, or driving impression from another year as if it were the same vehicle.
- Identify what each reliability source measures. J.D. Power’s dependability study reflects owner-reported problems on three-year-old vehicles; iSeeCars’ 2026 ranking is oriented toward longevity and high-mileage likelihood.
- Check current prices and economy figures. Use current manufacturer and EPA information for the selected configuration, then get local dealer quotes that include destination and required fees.
- Test-drive the equipment you would actually buy. Pay attention to seat comfort, visibility, cabin noise, controls, and response in ordinary traffic.
- For a used SUV, examine the individual vehicle as well as the model. Review maintenance records, mileage, title status, and a vehicle-history report, and arrange an independent inspection when appropriate. Model-level rankings cannot establish the condition of a particular used vehicle.
Sources and scope
The Consumer Reports observations cited above come from ratings current as of October 2025, reprinted in a PDF hosted by Subaru of America; they describe tested 2025 vehicles and are not a like-for-like 2026 reliability ranking. The Edmunds figures were republished by AP News in December 2025 and should be checked against current official information. Model availability, prices, specifications, and equipment can vary by market.
Quick Recap
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.
