Top 10 Compact SUVs 2019 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. Toyota RAV4

The 2019 Toyota RAV4 ranks first as the best overall compact SUV due to its comprehensive redesign that delivered class-leading hybrid efficiency and standard safety technology. The hybrid powertrain produces 219 combined horsepower while achieving an EPA-estimated 41/37/39 mpg city/highway/combined, making it the most fuel-efficient option in the segment.

This SUV is for buyers who want one vehicle to handle all duties and keep for a decade, trading away the sporty handling of the Mazda CX-5 below it for superior efficiency and reliability. Compared to the Honda CR-V ranked second, the RAV4 offers a more modern cabin and a hybrid option, but its gas engine can feel coarser under hard acceleration.

2. Honda CR-V

The 2019 Honda CR-V earns the second spot and the Best Value title because it offers the largest cargo hold and a thrifty turbo engine at a competitive starting price of $24,350. Its 190-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter engine returns an EPA-rated 28/34 mpg city/highway with front-wheel drive, providing both strong performance and excellent fuel economy.

This crossover is for families who prioritize space, frugality, and resale value, trading away the sharper driving dynamics of the Mazda CX-5 for practicality. Compared to the RAV4 above it, the CR-V offers a bigger cargo area and a lower starting price, but its cabin styling is more conservative. Some early turbo engines drew complaints about oil dilution in cold climates, so checking service records is essential.

3. Mazda CX-5

The 2019 Mazda CX-5 ranks third because it is the best-driving compact SUV of the year, with an available 227-horsepower turbocharged 2.5-liter engine that sets it apart from rivals. The standard 2.5-liter four makes 187 horsepower, while the turbo version pairs with torque-vectoring AWD for genuinely engaging handling. EPA figures run 25/31 mpg for the front-drive non-turbo and 22/27 mpg for the turbo AWD, which is respectable given the performance.

This SUV is for drivers who refuse to give up on fun, trading away cargo space for handling prowess, with roughly 31 cubic feet behind the rear seats and about 60 cubic feet folded. Compared to the Honda CR-V above it, the CX-5 offers superior steering feel and a more premium interior, but it lags in practicality and infotainment responsiveness. The smaller cargo area is a real compromise for families, and the infotainment system trails the segment's best.

4. Subaru Forester

The 2019 Subaru Forester ranks fourth due to its full redesign that emphasized standard all-wheel drive, a roomy cabin, and generous cargo space. Every trim uses a 182-horsepower 2.5-liter flat-four with a CVT, returning an EPA-estimated 26/33/29 mpg, which is impressive for standard AWD. Cargo space is generous at 35.4 cubic feet behind the seats and 76.1 cubic feet folded, among the most in the class.

This SUV is for foul-weather buyers who want standard AWD and big glass, trading away the sporty handling of the Mazda CX-5 for all-weather capability. Compared to the CX-5 above it, the Forester offers a larger greenhouse, more cargo room, and standard AWD, but its 182-horsepower engine feels leisurely when loaded. There is no turbo option after the prior generation's XT departed, which limits performance appeal.

5. Nissan Rogue

The 2019 Nissan Rogue ranks fifth because it is a sales juggernaut that delivers comfort, roominess, and ease of living at a competitive starting price of $25,020. Its 170-horsepower 2.5-liter four pairs with a CVT to deliver an EPA-rated 26/33/29 mpg with front-wheel drive and 25/32/27 mpg with AWD.

This SUV is for comfort-first commuters on a budget, trading away performance and sharp handling for a quiet, smooth ride. Compared to the Subaru Forester above it, the Rogue offers a lower starting price and available ProPILOT Assist, but its 170-horsepower engine and CVT feel sluggish under load. Reliability and resale trail the Toyota and Honda leaders, so shopping the maintenance history closely is essential. It remains a pleasant, affordable used buy for those prioritizing comfort.

6. Hyundai Tucson

The 2019 Hyundai Tucson ranks sixth because it counters the segment leaders with sharp pricing and Hyundai's industry-leading warranty, starting at $23,200. A 164-horsepower 2.0-liter four is standard, with a stronger 181-horsepower 2.4-liter on upper trims, returning roughly 22/28/25 mpg front-drive with the bigger engine. Cargo and rear-seat space trail the class best, but a refresh for 2019 added more standard safety content and a cleaner cabin.

This SUV is for value hunters who want a long warranty, trading away cargo space and engine performance for a lower price and peace of mind. Compared to the Nissan Rogue above it, the Tucson undercuts it in price and offers a longer warranty, but its engines feel merely adequate, not strong. The tighter rear seat and cargo area than segment leaders is a real compromise for families. It is a budget-smart used pick, especially with warranty coverage remaining.

7. Kia Sportage

The 2019 Kia Sportage ranks seventh because it shares mechanicals with the Hyundai Tucson but adds a more polished cabin and a sharper available engine lineup. A 181-horsepower 2.4-liter four anchors most trims, with a turbocharged 2.0-liter offering 240 horsepower on the top SX trim. Cargo measures a modest 30.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats, and combined fuel economy lands in the 23 to 25 mpg range.

This SUV is for buyers wanting nicer materials at a fair price, trading away cargo capacity for a more upscale interior. Compared to the Hyundai Tucson above it, the Sportage offers a more refined cabin and a more powerful turbo option, but its smaller cargo hold is a drawback. The turbo's fuel economy disappoints, and the base engine is merely adequate. It is a handsome, well-built used value with strong remaining warranty coverage.

8. Chevrolet Equinox

The 2019 Chevrolet Equinox ranks eighth because it counters with a practical cabin and a wide engine spread, starting at $24,795. Most use a 170-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter four with strong highway economy, while a 252-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo answers the call for power in LT and Premier trims. A turbodiesel is also offered for efficiency-focused buyers, and two roomy rows make it an easy daily driver.

This SUV is for highway commuters chasing efficiency or available diesel, trading away premium cabin materials for a lower price and strong engine options. Compared to the Kia Sportage above it, the Equinox offers a larger cabin and a more powerful 2.0-liter turbo, but its interior feels cost-conscious. Resale value trails the segment leaders, so it is best bought at a discount to the Toyota and Honda. It is a roomy, affordable used choice for practical buyers.

9. Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan ranks ninth because it stands out by offering a small available third row on front-drive models, rare in this class. A 184-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four pairs with an eight-speed automatic, returning a combined 24 to 25 mpg. It feels solid and grown-up on the road, and VW backs it with a strong warranty. The trade-offs are merely adequate acceleration from the larger body and resale value that trails the leaders.

This SUV is for buyers who wanted available third-row seating and German feel, trading away fuel economy and acceleration for extra passenger capacity. Compared to the Chevrolet Equinox above it, the Tiguan offers a more planted highway ride and a third row, but its 184-horsepower engine feels strained in the heavier body. Fuel economy lags the efficiency leaders, and resale value is weaker. It is a roomy, comfortable used option for buyers who valued the extra seats.

10. Subaru Crosstrek

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek ranks tenth because it is smaller and more affordable than the rest, earning its spot on rugged versatility at a starting price of $21,895. A 152-horsepower 2.0-liter flat-four pairs with standard symmetrical AWD and 8.7 inches of ground clearance, returning an EPA-rated 23/29 mpg city/highway with the CVT. It is the slowest car here, but its standard all-wheel drive, low price, and outdoorsy capability make it a cult favorite.

This SUV is for budget adventurers who wanted standard AWD and ground clearance, trading away performance and cabin space for capability and value. Compared to the Volkswagen Tiguan above it, the Crosstrek offers a lower price and better ground clearance, but its 152-horsepower engine is genuinely slow. The smaller cabin and cargo than the true compacts is a real trade-off for families.

How we ranked these

We ranked the 2019 compact SUVs using a weighted scoring system: reliability and ownership cost (25%), safety (20%), efficiency and powertrain (20%), cargo and comfort (15%), value when new (10%), and used value today (10%). Data came from J.D. Power, IIHS, EPA, and period reviews from Car and Driver, MotorTrend, and Edmunds.

We deliberately ignored subjective brand loyalty and marketing hype, focusing instead on measurable, long-term factors that affect ownership. We also excluded performance metrics like 0-60 times beyond basic adequacy, because real-world buyers prioritize durability, safety, and cost over marginal speed differences that rarely matter in daily driving.

What to look for

When choosing among these 2019 models, prioritize service history and condition over trim level. Check for turbo engine oil dilution on the CR-V, CVT health on the Forester and Rogue, and confirm that standard safety features like Toyota Safety Sense or EyeSight are actually present. A well-maintained base model beats a neglected loaded one.

The biggest mistake buyers make is obsessing over minor spec differences like a few horsepower or mpg, while ignoring how the car was maintained. A poorly serviced RAV4 is riskier than a well-cared-for Equinox. Also, don't assume all-wheel drive is necessary—if you don't need it, you'll save fuel and maintenance costs by choosing front-drive.

Related questions

What were the key differences between the 2019 Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V?

The RAV4 offered a standard hybrid with 219 hp and 39 mpg combined, plus standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0. The CR-V had a larger cargo area (75.8 cu ft) and a punchy turbo engine, but its turbo faced oil dilution complaints in cold climates. Both were reliable, but the RAV4's hybrid efficiency and standard safety gave it the edge for overall value.

Which 2019 compact SUV had the best fuel economy?

The 2019 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid led the class with an EPA-estimated 41/37/39 mpg city/highway/combined. That was significantly better than any gas-only rival, making it the top choice for efficiency-conscious buyers. The Honda CR-V turbo achieved 28/34 mpg, and the Subaru Forester with standard AWD returned 26/33 mpg.

Was the 2019 Mazda CX-5 turbo worth the extra cost?

Yes, if driving enjoyment was a priority. The available 227-horsepower turbo provided strong acceleration and the CX-5's handling was best-in-class. However, it came with a fuel economy penalty (22/27 mpg) and a smaller cargo area (31 cu ft). For enthusiasts, the turbo was worth it; for practical families, the base engine sufficed.

How did the 2019 Subaru Forester compare to the RAV4 for all-weather driving?

The Forester came standard with symmetrical all-wheel drive and 8.7 inches of ground clearance, making it excellent for snow and light trails. The RAV4 offered available AWD but with less ground clearance. The Forester also had a larger cargo area (76.1 cu ft) and standard EyeSight safety, but its 182-hp engine was less powerful than the RAV4's 203-hp base unit.

What was the biggest reliability concern for the 2019 Honda CR-V?

The 1.5-liter turbo engine had complaints about oil dilution in cold climates, where fuel could mix with oil. Honda issued a service campaign to update the software and heater lines. Buyers should check if the campaign was completed. Otherwise, the CR-V had strong reliability, but this issue was a notable caveat for northern owners.

Which 2019 compact SUV had the most cargo space?

The Honda CR-V offered the largest maximum cargo capacity at 75.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The Subaru Forester was close behind at 76.1 cubic feet, and the Nissan Rogue offered 70 cubic feet. The Mazda CX-5 had the least at around 60 cubic feet, making it less practical for families.

Was the 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan's third row usable?

The Tiguan's optional third row was very tight, suitable only for small children on short trips. It was not comfortable for adults. However, it was a unique feature in the compact SUV class. If you needed occasional extra seating, it was a bonus, but most buyers would find the CR-V or RAV4 more practical for daily use.

How did the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek compare to the Forester?

The Crosstrek was smaller, cheaper, and more fuel-efficient (23/29 mpg) but had a weaker 152-hp engine and less cargo space. The Forester offered more power (182 hp), more room, and standard EyeSight, but at a higher price. For budget-minded adventurers, the Crosstrek was a great value; for families, the Forester was better.

FAQ

Which 2019 compact SUV was the best overall?

The redesigned 2019 Toyota RAV4 took the top spot, combining standard active safety, class-leading hybrid efficiency near 39 mpg combined, useful cargo room, and Toyota's bankable reliability and resale. It was the most complete package for a wide range of buyers.

Which 2019 compact SUV was the best value?

The Honda CR-V. It opened around $24,350, offered the biggest cargo hold at 75.8 cubic feet, paired an efficient 190-horsepower turbo on EX and up, and has held resale value as well as anything in the class. It delivered exceptional practicality per dollar.

What major redesigns landed for 2019?

Both the Toyota RAV4 and the Subaru Forester were fully redesigned for 2019, making it a pivotal model year for the segment. The RAV4 gained a new platform and hybrid option, while the Forester emphasized safety and space. These redesigns raised the bar for the entire class.

Which 2019 compact SUV is most reliable as a used buy now?

The RAV4 and CR-V have the strongest long-term dependability reputations, supported by J.D. Power data and owner reports, which is why both still command premium used prices. The Mazda CX-5 also has good reliability, but the RAV4's hybrid system adds complexity that could be a concern.

Which 2019 compact SUV had the best fuel economy?

The RAV4 Hybrid led the class at an EPA-estimated 41/37/39 mpg city/highway/combined, well ahead of the gas-only field. The Honda CR-V turbo achieved 28/34 mpg, and the Subaru Forester with standard AWD returned 26/33 mpg. The RAV4 Hybrid was the clear winner for efficiency.

Which 2019 compact SUV was the most fun to drive?

The Mazda CX-5, especially with its available 227-horsepower turbo and torque-vectoring AWD, set the segment benchmark for handling and cabin quality. Its steering and chassis dynamics were unmatched, making it the enthusiast's choice, even though it sacrificed some cargo space and fuel economy.

What should I look for when buying a used 2019 compact SUV?

Check service records for oil changes, especially on turbo engines. For the CR-V, verify the oil dilution campaign was done. Inspect CVT health on the Forester, Rogue, and Crosstrek. Confirm that safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist are present and functional. Also, check AWD system service if equipped.

Is the 2019 Nissan Rogue a good used buy?

It can be, if you prioritize comfort and price over performance and reliability. The Rogue offers a smooth ride and available ProPILOT Assist, but its 170-hp engine is sluggish and resale values are lower than Toyota or Honda. Ensure the CVT has been serviced regularly to avoid costly repairs.

How does the 2019 Hyundai Tucson compare to the Kia Sportage?

They share mechanicals, but the Sportage has a more upscale interior and an available 240-hp turbo. The Tucson is slightly cheaper and has a longer warranty (10-year/100,000-mile powertrain). Both are good value picks, but the Sportage offers more driving appeal, while the Tucson is the budget choice.

Which 2019 compact SUV has the best resale value today?

The Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V hold their value best due to their reputations for reliability and low ownership costs. The Subaru Forester and Crosstrek also have strong resale, especially in snowy regions. The Chevrolet Equinox and Volkswagen Tiguan depreciate more, making them better used bargains.

Sources

• https://www.caranddriver.com/toyota/rav4
• https://www.motortrend.com/cars/toyota/rav4/2019/
• https://www.edmunds.com/toyota/rav4/2019/
• https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/toyota/rav4-2019
• https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/Find.do?action=sbs&id=40071
• https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2019/toyota/rav4
• https://www.kbb.com/toyota/rav4/2019/
• https://www.caranddriver.com/honda/cr-v
• https://www.edmunds.com/honda/cr-v/2019/
• https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/honda/cr-v-2019

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