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Best compact SUVs of 2022

Compact SUVs are now the go-to choice for family transportation. Actually, considering how popular they are, they have clearly moved beyond only family duty. With such popularity, though, comes an awful lot of competitors, and it can be difficult to figure out which one might be the best compact SUV for you.  It's important to note that by "compact SUV" we're talking about a specific segment. As we describe in our more comprehensive "Best small SUVs" list, there are also subcompact SUVs that vary widely in size amongst themselves, but are clearly smaller than the SUVs below. Frankly, today's segment of compact SUVs isn't exactly compact — some have more cargo space than vehicles that are considered midsize based on their exterior dimensions. They've all grown considerably over the years. While many lists out there just rattle off every vehicle available in a segment, we thought we'd be a bit more helpful and curate your shopping a bit with the top-recommended choices reviewed by Autoblog. We've included both mainstream and compact luxury SUV choices. Best compact SUVs of 2023 and 2024 2024 Honda CR-V Why it stands out: Best-in-class space; excellent hybrid powertrain; sharp interior style; Honda dependabilityCould be better: No lower-price base trim levels; no sporty or off-road niche models; no plug-in hybrid Read our full 2024 Honda CR-V Review Consider the CR-V the baseline for any compact SUV search, and look extra closely at the superb CR-V Hybrid option. Objectively speaking, it's tough to beat due to its massive cargo capacity, voluminous back seat, strong-yet-efficient engines, well-balanced driving dynamics, competitive pricing and features,  and well-regarded reliability. It's easy to see why it continues to be such a best-seller: for the vast majority of compact SUV buyers, and especially families, it checks every box. That's been the case for many years now, however. The all-new 2023 Honda CR-V changes things up by adding a bit more style and character, particularly in terms of its interior design and how surprisingly enjoyable the Sport and Sport Touring hybrid trim levels are to drive.

2016 Toyota Camry and Corolla Special Editions hit the floor

In addition to bringing the refreshed Avalon to the 2015 Chicago Auto Show, Toyota has also brought along a duo of limited Special Edition models based on the Camry and Corolla. The company is only building 12,000 examples 2016 Camry Special Edition, which might sound like a lot at first, but it's a pittance compared to the sedan's overall annual sales numbers. The SE models arrive at dealers in August with 18-inch wheels, black highlights, smoked taillights and a choice of Blizzard Pearl or Blue Streak Metallic paint. The interior gets a few more upgrades with a power moonroof, blue seat inserts with black bolsters, push-button start and optional navigation. The updates are similar for the 2016 Corolla Special Edition, which is limited to 8,000 units. Toyota gives it a set gloss black 17-inch wheels and Absolutely Red, Black Sand Pearl or Super White paint. The interior features red stitching for the seats and matching trim on the dashboard and doors. Tech upgrades are limited to push-button start, but navigation and a power moonroof are optional. Check out both the Camry and Corolla Special Edition models in our live image galleries, above and below.

2014 Toyota Aygo marks the spot [w/video]

Following the leaked pictures we showed you yesterday, we have the full battery of images and info of the all-new Toyota Aygo, in addition to our gallery of live photos from the floor of the Geneva Motor Show.
Like its cousins from Peugeot and Citroën, the Aygo foregoes a diesel engine in favor of a highly efficient gas powerplant. The 1.0-liter naturally aspirated 4-cylinder turns out 68 horsepower and 70 pound-feet of torque. When it hits the market, it'll be with either a five-speed manual transmission or a five-speed, X-Shift automated manual. The former will help the Aygo return 57.3 miles per gallon and hit 62 miles per hour in 14.2 seconds. Opting for the X-Shift variant will net drivers 56 mpg, with 62 arriving in a leisurely 15.5 seconds.
We'll admit, aside from the fuel efficiency, there's nothing terribly great about those numbers. Still, with its compact dimensions - it's only 136 inches long - and a curb weight of no more than 2,000 pounds, it should prove tossable in the bends.