With always rising gas prices, the sports-utility-vehicle market has changed in recent years. Consumers still want a vehicle that can hold five to seven passengers. They still desire a large cargo space and roomy interior. They still want four-wheel drive with some towing capacity. Small SUV models offer these same perks of their larger counterparts, but also add sleek designs, driving comfort, and good gas mileage.
With these factors in mind, here are reviews of the top three small SUV models for 2011.
The GMC Terrain
The GMC Terrain comes with front-wheel drive as standard and Four-wheel drive as an option. It boasts an impressive 32 MPG on the highway. The Terrain has a unique look with a big fenders, broad front-grills, and large wheel-wells.
It comes in a 2.4 liter model with 182 HP, or a 3.0, V6 version that gets 264 HP. Both versions come with a 6-speed automatic-transmission as standard. The 4-cylinder engine suffers from a lack of low-end torque, but generally is adequate for most driving needs. It has a rather anemic towing capacity of just 1500 pounds, but the V6 version can handle 3500.
A drawback to this compact SUV is its lack of a third-row seat. It provides a quiet interior with 31.6 cubic feet of storage space. The 2011 Terrain also boasts some of the best crash-test ratings and safety features on the market.
All models come with keyless entry, USB connection, rear-vision cameras, and XM radio as standard features. Remote-starter, leather steering wheels, and a 40GB navigation and infotainment systems are optional.
Pros: Good Price; one of the safest SUV.
Cons: Small interior; no third row; mediocre performance.
The Nissan Juke
This Nissan has a style that is unique and sometimes polarizing. The Juke is a 4-door, hatchback with a 4-cylinder, 1.6 liter engine.
Don’t be fooled by the small size of that engine. The Juke packs an impressive 188 HP due to turbochargers and direct-injection. This SUV is one of the quickest on the market and still enjoys good gas mileage. It comes in manual transmission and automatic models.
It also offers excellent handling thanks to its sport-tuned suspension, quick steering, and a torque-vectoring, AWD system. It offers Ipod and Bluetooth integration, keyless entry, heated seats, and optional leather upholstery.
The Juke comes in three trim levels. The S model has a six-speaker stereo system, 17 inch alloy wheels, cruise control, AC, and power windows and locks. The SV adds a sunroof, climate control, satellite radio, and better upholstery. The SL offers an upgraded stereo, subwoofer, automatic headlights, rear-view camera, and a leather interior.
All models have anti-lock disc brakes, traction and stability control, front-seat airbags, and side curtain airbags as standard safety equipment. The Juke can go from 0-60 MPH in 7.3 seconds and gets 32 MPG during highway driving. Exceptional performance makes the Juke fun to drive and one of the best small SUV models available.
Pros:
Good performance and handling; comfortable; all-wheel-drive.
Cons: Limited headroom; lots of plastic in cabin.
Chevrolet Equinox
The Equinox is one of the best small SUV models for a modest sized family. This SUV is crisp and sporty with great handling. It also has a nice exterior design. This is model has no third row for passengers.
The central control panel has a lot in common with Chevy’s Cadillac SRX. It comes in either 4-cylinder or V6 models. The 2.4 liter, 4-cylinder should suffice for most families. It gets an impressive 182 HP. The power comes from direct-injection and variable valve timing.
The Chevrolet Equinox gets 32 MPG on the highway. The V6 is your option if you need your SUV for towing. Both engines have good power and very smooth, quiet idling. The front visibility is actually great, but the Equinox suffers from poor visibility when trying to see behind the vehicle. This vehicle really excels in the safety department with one of the best crash-test ratings.
The Equinox offers options such as a rear entertainment system, heated seats, leather upholstery, stereo with CD player and satellite radio, power windows and locks, navigation system, and remote-starter.
Pros: Great fuel economy; nice exterior design; quiet cabin.
Cons: Poor visibility; no third row; small interior.