SUVs are everywhere. They’re the family car of choice for many Americans, and the auto industry has noticed. In 2019, SUVs and pickup trucks accounted for 70% of all auto sales.
But with so many SUVs to choose from, how do you pick the right one for you? This article will focus on two of the most popular SUV sizes: midsize and compact. We’ll compare their size, fuel efficiency, cargo space, passenger capacity, price, and driving experience to help you decide which SUV is right for you.
Generally, a compact SUV is smaller and more fuel-efficient than a midsize SUV, while a midsize SUV offers more space and power.
What are midsize and compact SUVs?
If you’re starting to shop for a new or used SUV, you’ll quickly find that you have a lot of choices. Two of the most popular categories are midsize and compact SUVs.
Midsize SUVs
Midsize SUVs are often considered the “sweet spot” between compact and full-size SUVs. They tend to have seating for five to seven people, with a decent amount of cargo space, and they strike a balance between fuel efficiency and interior space. You may also see these called intermediate SUVs or crossover SUVs.
Compact SUVs
Compact SUVs are smaller than midsize SUVs, and they’re generally more fuel-efficient. They typically seat five passengers, are easy to maneuver, and have a lower price point than midsize vehicles. Because of their smaller size, they tend to be popular in urban areas.
Size and Dimensions: Exterior and Interior
Midsize and compact SUVs differ in their length, width, and height, and those differences affect both the interior space and the ease with which you can navigate and park the vehicle.
Exterior Dimensions
Midsize SUVs are generally longer, wider, and taller than their compact cousins. This can make a difference when you’re trying to squeeze into a parking space or maneuver through city streets. Standard SUVs can be more challenging to drive and park in tight spaces, so if you live in an urban area, that’s something to keep in mind.
Interior Space
The longer wheelbase of a midsize SUV usually translates to more passenger space, especially in the second and (if applicable) third rows. You’ll also find more cargo capacity, both with the rear seats up and folded down.
Think about your family size and how much cargo you typically need to haul. If you regularly transport a crew of people or bulky items, a midsize SUV might be a better fit.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency
Engine Options and Performance
Compact SUVs often feature smaller engines, typically ranging from fuel-efficient four-cylinder options to turbocharged variants that prioritize efficiency. Midsize SUVs, on the other hand, tend to offer more powerful engines, including larger four-cylinders, V6s, or even hybrid powertrains. This translates to a noticeable difference in horsepower and torque, with midsize SUVs generally offering quicker acceleration and higher towing capacities.
Fuel Economy
Compact SUVs usually win in the fuel economy category, boasting higher MPG figures for both city and highway driving. Midsize SUVs, with their larger engines and increased weight, tend to be less fuel-efficient. While the difference might seem marginal on paper, it can add up over time, impacting your long-term ownership costs. Of course, midsize SUVs are more fuel efficient and have lower operating costs than full-size SUVs.
Handling and Ride Quality
Compact SUVs, with their smaller size and lighter weight, generally offer more nimble handling and are easier to maneuver in tight spaces. Midsize SUVs, while less agile, often provide a more comfortable and stable ride, especially on long highway journeys, thanks to their longer wheelbase and more sophisticated suspension systems.
Price and Features
When it comes to SUVs, how much you’ll pay depends on the size and the bells and whistles you want.
Base Price Comparison
In general, you can expect to pay somewhere in the neighborhood of $28,000 to $40,000 for a new compact SUV. For a midsize SUV, that range goes up to about $35,000 to $50,000 to start. Of course, the trim level and any optional features you choose can significantly increase the final price.
Standard and Available Features
Most new SUVs, whether compact or midsize, come standard with a decent infotainment system, including a touchscreen and smartphone integration. You’ll also find a basic suite of safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. If you want leather seats, a premium sound system, or advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control or blind-spot monitoring, you’ll need to look at higher trim levels or optional packages.
Long-Term Costs
The sticker price is just the beginning. Don’t forget to factor in the total cost of ownership, which includes things like insurance, routine maintenance (oil changes, tire rotations), and depreciation. Midsize SUVs typically cost more to insure and maintain, and they tend to depreciate faster than their smaller counterparts.
Drivability and Handling
How do these SUVs perform on the road?
Maneuverability
In cities, compact SUVs generally beat out midsize SUVs in terms of ease of driving and parking. Their smaller size usually translates to a tighter turning radius and better agility in crowded areas.
Off-Road Capability
If you plan on off-roading, both compact and midsize SUVs can be capable, especially when equipped with four-wheel drive. However, midsize SUVs often have greater ground clearance, which can be helpful on rough terrain. The larger size of a midsize SUV can be a disadvantage in tight, winding trails, though.
Driving Experience
The overall driving experience depends on the specific model, but compact SUVs often feel more nimble and responsive, while midsize SUVs may offer a more commanding view of the road and a smoother ride. Consider visibility and driver comfort when making your decision.
Safety Features and Ratings
When you’re trying to decide between a midsize and compact SUV, safety is naturally a top consideration. Both types of vehicles generally come standard with safety features like airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), and stability control. You might find that midsize SUVs, being newer or higher-end models, have a few more standard safety features than their compact counterparts.
Today’s SUVs often include advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Again, you may see more of these features included as standard equipment in midsize SUVs, while they might be optional or unavailable in some compact models.
To get a better sense of how these vehicles perform in a crash, it’s always a good idea to check the crash test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). While both midsize and compact SUVs can achieve high safety ratings, it’s worth comparing specific models to see which one offers the best protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a CRV a midsize or compact SUV?
The Honda CR-V is generally considered a compact SUV. While it offers a good amount of interior space, its overall dimensions and design place it firmly in the compact category, competing with vehicles like the Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5.
Is midsize better than compact?
Neither is inherently “better.” It depends entirely on your needs and priorities. Midsize SUVs offer more space for passengers and cargo, making them great for families or those who frequently haul larger items. Compact SUVs are typically more fuel-efficient, easier to maneuver in tight spaces, and often more affordable.
What is the difference between a compact SUV and a midsize SUV?
The primary differences lie in size, interior space, and cargo capacity. Midsize SUVs are larger overall, offering more legroom for rear passengers and a larger cargo area. They may also offer more powerful engine options and greater towing capacity compared to compact SUVs.
What classifies as a midsize SUV?
Classifying vehicles can be tricky, but generally, a midsize SUV will have a longer wheelbase and larger exterior dimensions than a compact SUV. They often offer three-row seating options (though some two-row midsize SUVs exist) and are typically larger than compact SUVs but smaller than full-size SUVs. The EPA uses interior passenger and cargo volume to classify vehicles, but specific dimensions can vary.
In Conclusion
Midsize SUVs offer more passenger and cargo space than compact SUVs, but they also cost more and typically get worse gas mileage. Compact SUVs are easier to maneuver and park, making them a better choice for city driving, and they’re typically more fuel-efficient and affordable.
When deciding between a midsize and compact SUV, think about what you need in a vehicle and what you can afford. If you have a large family or frequently haul bulky items, a midsize SUV may be the better choice. If you’re looking for an affordable, fuel-efficient vehicle for commuting and errands, a compact SUV may be a better fit.
Whatever you decide, research specific models and test drive both types of SUVs before making a final decision. That way, you can be sure you’re getting the right vehicle for your needs and budget.