As soon as the first modern crossovers hit the showrooms in the mid 1990s, it was clear they were here to stay. The formula of combining utility with an efficient, car-based platform and slightly more rugged persona resonated with buyers, and it was only matter of time until automakers began to apply it across their lineups. Subcompact vehicles are the latest group to get the crossover treatment, and while they aren't yet as numerous as larger crossovers, the segment is growing rapidly. To get a baseline on current offerings, we’ve gathered them here in order of worst to best. Read on to see how they stack up.
8. Mini Cooper Paceman
If you crossed a Mini Clubman with a Range Rover Evoque, you’d pretty much get the Paceman: a chopped-top, sporty two-door on the Clubman’s longer wheelbase. It’s a maxi Mini, much roomier than the hatchback inside but also more expensive, heavier, and slower.
8. Mini Cooper Paceman
Power comes from a 121-hp version of the 1.6-liter engine, and the extra 300 pounds weigh it down noticeably. Still, it has the soul of a Mini, great handling, and is not without its charms. More powerful S and JCW models also are offered. FULL COVERAGE ››
Buick Encore
Small is in, and Buick—a big-car expert—wants everyone to know it can do small just as well. The Encore is a pocket-sized Enclave and features some of the big Buick SUV’s traits. Its stylish cabin is feature rich, quiet, and comfortable for four.
7. Buick Encore
The Encore eschews tradition with its 138-hp 1.4-liter turbo four, which delivers good fuel economy but struggles under heavy loads. Handling is fairly agile and the ride is silky smooth, but we’d like to feel a bit more of the road through the wheel. FULL COVERAGE ››
6. Chevrolet Trax
Despite a cool name, the Trax is an unadventurous alternative in a segment known for bold designs. It offers a roomy and flexible cabin and is powered by a 138-hp 1.4-liter turbo four with a six-speed automatic; take your pick of either front- or all-wheel drive.
6. Chevrolet Trax
Steering feedback is okay and the ride is smooth, but tuned more for comfort than sporty handling. Inside the hard-plastic interior, tech and safety are the main focus, with 4G LTE WiFi, a touch-screen radio, a backup camera, and lots of airbags. FULL COVERAGE ››
5. Honda HR-V
The HR-V mixes angles and curves in an attractive design that lends it a sporty look while hiding its budget-friendly roots. A 141-hp 1.8-liter four comes with either a six-speed manual or CVT and front- or all-wheel drive.
5. Honda HR-V
Many safety features are available, and the flat-folding second-row provides unmatched versatility. Load it up with extras like lane-departure warning, a seven-inch touch-screen display, and a vehicle telematics system and the HR-V becomes a high-tech haven. FULL COVERAGE ››
4. Fiat 500X
Grown up but still cheeky, the 500X complements its minuscule sibling, the Fiat 500, by offering more space and all-weather capability while retaining its classic Italian style.
4. Fiat 500X
A 160-hp 1.4-liter turbo four drives the front wheels through a six-speed manual; a 180-hp 2.4-liter four and nine-speed automatic power the front or all four wheels. A drive-mode system provides three settings for different driving conditions and the cabin of the 500X is packed with safety features and technology. FULL COVERAGE ››
3. Jeep Renegade
Small, cheap, and cheerful, the Renegade is just as much fun as its toylike dimensions might lead you to believe. Its styling is full of nifty Jeep touches, including two removable “My Sky” roof panels and clever design details sprinkled throughout.
3. Jeep Renegade
Power comes from a 160-hp, 1.4-liter turbo four with a six-speed manual or a 180-hp, 2.4-liter four with a nine-speed automatic. Each is available with front- or four-wheel drive, and the Trailhawk model promises real off-road capability. FULL COVERAGE ››
2. Nissan Juke
The Juke puts the “fun” in “funky,” making it perfect for those who want a spry and speedy little runabout that also stands out in traffic.
2. Nissan Juke
It’s powered by a 188-hp 1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder with front-wheel drive; all-wheel drive is optional. Sadly, a CVT is the only available transmission, which takes some joy out of driving. On the plus side, its light and informative steering makes it easy to fling around back-country curves or to jockey for position on a crowded interstate. FULL COVERAGE ››
1. Mazda CX-3
The CX-3 is a fun and feisty runabout with a can-do attitude, offering taut handling paired with edgy styling. A 146-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a six-speed automatic with front-wheel drive provide the zoom-zoom; all-wheel drive is optional.
1. Mazda CX-3
The CX-3 relies on its sport-tuned suspension and creative weight-saving measures to maintain Mazda’s unique brand of driving pleasure. The cabin is equally well designed, featuring high-quality materials and modern driving aids. FULL COVERAGE ››
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