COMPACT SUVs VS.
SUBCOMPACT SUVs
Understanding the Smaller SUV
![Compact SUVS vs Subcompact SUVs [2024]](https://di-uploads-pod4.dealerinspire.com/knightautomotivegroupusa/uploads/2024/07/Compact-vs-Subcompact-SUV-Article.jpg)
Do You Value Space And Features Above All Else?
Is Fitting In Tight City Spaces And Overall Efficiency Your Main Priority?
When venturing into the market for a new vehicle, the distinction between compact and subcompact SUVs can be as varied as the road trips they’re destined for. Compact SUVs, with their slightly larger stature, often command a higher price point, reflecting their more spacious interiors, increased cargo capacity, and, typically, a more robust suite of features. Subcompact SUVs, on the other hand, appeal to those seeking a more nimble and economical option, often offering a more attractive price tag, easier maneuverability, and efficiency in urban settings.
While both categories boast their own set of advanced technologies and comfort amenities, the scale of these offerings can differ significantly, with compact SUVs frequently presenting more advanced options.
Understanding these differences is key to navigating the landscape of modern SUVs and aligning your choice with your lifestyle and budget.
| Feature | Compact SUVs | Subcompact SUVs |
|---|---|---|
Price |
Higher price point, reflecting more spacious interiors and advanced features. |
More economical, with a lower initial purchase price, insurance, and taxes. |
Comfort |
More space, larger seats, more legroom, and increased cargo capacity. |
Smaller but maximizes interior design for comfort with creative storage solutions. |
Entertainment |
Advanced infotainment systems, larger touchscreens, and more speakers. |
Similar technologies but with smaller screens and fewer speakers. |
Safety |
More room, more safety tech like lane departure warnings and adaptive cruise control. |
Robust safety packages with standard features like airbags and stability control. |
Physical Size |
Larger, providing more room inside for passengers and cargo. |
Smaller, easier to maneuver and park in urban settings. |
Cargo Space |
Typically, 70 to 80 cubic feet with rear seats folded down. |
Typically, 50 to 60 cubic feet with rear seats folded down. |
Passenger Space |
More legroom and headroom, making long journeys more comfortable. |
Snugger fit, suitable for children or shorter trips. |
Fuel Efficiency |
Less fuel-efficient due to larger size and weight. |
Better fuel efficiency, ideal for urban driving and regular commuting. |
Performance |
More power and capability, better for diverse terrains and conditions. |
Agile and responsive, ideal for urban journeys and routine tasks. |
Compact SUVs vs. Subcompact SUVs
PRICING & SUITE OF FEATURES
COMFORT • ENTERTAINMENT • SAFETY
COMFORT • ENTERTAINMENT • SAFETY
Price
Subcompact SUVs tend to be less expensive, not just in terms of the initial purchase price but also when considering insurance and taxes.
This makes them an attractive option for first-time buyers or those with a tighter budget.
Features
Features play a significant role in distinguishing between compact and subcompact SUVs. Compact SUVs typically come with a broader range of features and options, including advanced safety technologies and luxury amenities. Subcompact SUVs may have fewer features but often include the essentials that cater to comfort and convenience.
Let’s delve into the overall suite of features, including comfort, entertainment, and safety systems, that distinguish these two classes of vehicles.
Comfort Features
Comfort is paramount in any vehicle, and both compact and subcompact SUVs offer a range of features designed to enhance the driving experience. Compact SUVs generally provide more space, allowing for larger seats, more legroom, and increased cargo capacity. This makes them ideal for longer trips or family outings. Subcompact SUVs, while smaller, maximize their interior design to still offer a comfortable ride, often with creative storage solutions and versatile seating configurations.
Entertainment Systems
In the digital age, connectivity and entertainment are vital. Compact SUVs often come equipped with advanced infotainment systems, larger touchscreens, and more speakers for a high-quality audio experience. Subcompact SUVs keep pace with similar technologies but may have smaller screens and fewer speakers. However, both categories typically support smartphone integration, Bluetooth connectivity, and various multimedia options for an enjoyable journey.
Safety Systems
Safety is a critical consideration, and both compact and subcompact SUVs are equipped with a host of safety features. Compact SUVs may have a slight edge with more room for additional safety tech, such as lane departure warnings, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. Subcompact SUVs also offer robust safety packages, including standard features like airbags, stability control, and rearview cameras. Advanced driver-assistance systems are increasingly common in both vehicle classes, ensuring peace of mind on the road.
SUBCOMPACT SUV MODELS
Ford Bronco Sport
The 2024 Ford Bronco Sport is a versatile SUV that offers a blend of comfort, entertainment, safety, and performance features designed to enhance the driving experience.
For comfort, it provides premium cloth seating and a spacious interior with ample head and legroom, ensuring a relaxing ride for all passengers.
Entertainment is covered with the SYNC® 3 system, which includes an 8″ touchscreen and voice-activated navigation, along with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility. Equip the available 10-speaker B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® for an immersive audio experience.
Safety is a priority with the inclusion of Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+ features like Adaptive Cruise Control and Pre-Collision Assist with Emergency Braking, providing peace of mind on the road.
Performance-wise, the Bronco Sport is equipped with a 1.5L EcoBoost® engine with Auto Start-Stop Technology, delivering efficient power and handling for both city driving and off-road adventures.
Jeep Renegade
The 2024 Jeep Renegade stands out with its array of features designed to enhance comfort, entertainment, safety, and performance.
For comfort, it offers a modern design with a substantial feel and a respectable amount of rear cargo space, ensuring a pleasant and convenient driving experience.
Entertainment is elevated with a full-HD 10.1-inch touchscreen display and a premium sound system, providing an immersive audio-visual experience.
Safety is a top priority, with the Renegade boasting up-to-date crash-avoidance technology and excellent ratings in crash tests.
Performance-wise, the Renegade doesn’t disappoint, offering a 1.3-liter turbo engine with a nine-speed automatic transmission, providing a smooth and responsive ride.
Subaru Crosstrek
The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek offers a blend of comfort, entertainment, safety, and performance features designed to enhance the driving experience.
For comfort, it boasts a spacious interior with high-quality materials and an 11.6-inch high-resolution touchscreen for convenient control.
Entertainment is covered with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration, along with wireless charging to keep devices powered up.
Safety is a priority with the upgraded EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, providing more protection on every drive.
Performance-wise, the Crosstrek shines with a retuned 2.5-liter, 182-horsepower SUBARU BOXER® engine, delivering more torque and a revised drivetrain for improved low-speed climbing. The standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive ensures reliable traction across various terrains, making the Crosstrek a versatile choice for adventure seekers.
Volkswagen Taos
The 2024 Volkswagen Taos is a testament to modern automotive engineering, offering a blend of comfort, entertainment, safety, and performance.
For comfort, it boasts a spacious interior with high-quality materials and supportive seats, ensuring a pleasant ride even on longer journeys.
Entertainment is provided via a responsive touchscreen infotainment system, which includes seamless smartphone integration and a premium sound system for an immersive audio experience.
Safety is paramount in the Taos, with advanced driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control, active blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assistance as standard offerings.
Performance-wise, the Taos is equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine delivering 158 horsepower, paired with a smooth-shifting transmission, providing both efficiency and sufficient power for daily driving needs.
Compact SUVs vs. Subcompact SUVs
A COMPARISON OF SPACE AND UTILITY
Choosing the right SUV is a matter of size. The market is brimming with options, particularly compact and subcompact SUVs. These models provide the utility and style of larger SUVs in a more urban-friendly size. However, distinguishing between the two can be challenging. Let’s explore the differences in physical size, interior cargo capacity, and passenger space between compact and subcompact SUVs.
Physical Size: The Exterior Dimensions
Compact SUVs are generally larger than subcompact SUVs. This means they offer more room inside for passengers and cargo, but they also require more parking space.
For example, a typical compact SUV might measure around 180 inches in length, while a subcompact SUV might be closer to 170 inches.
The width and height can also vary, with compact SUVs being slightly wider and taller, providing a more commanding view of the road.
Interior Cargo Space: Packing More In
When it comes to cargo space, compact SUVs have the upper hand. They often provide around 70 to 80 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded down, which is ample room for luggage, shopping bags, and even some furniture. Subcompact SUVs, on the other hand, offer less cargo space, typically between 50 to 60 cubic feet. This difference can be crucial for those who frequently carry large items or travel with family and pets.
Passenger Space: Comfort on the Road
Both compact and subcompact SUVs usually seat up to five passengers, but the experience can differ significantly. In a compact SUV, rear passengers will enjoy more legroom and headroom, making long journeys more comfortable, especially for adults. Subcompact SUVs, while still capable of seating five, often provide a snugger fit, which might be more suitable for children or shorter trips.
COMPACT SUV MODELS
Acura RDX
The 2024 Acura RDX is a premium sport crossover that excels in comfort, entertainment, safety, and performance.
For comfort, it offers athletic accommodations with an available NSX-inspired Ultrasuede™-trimmed interior, panoramic moonroof, and ambient cabin lighting for a luxurious driving experience.
The entertainment centerpiece is a 10.2-inch full HD display that provides crisp and clear visuals. The system includes wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, allowing for seamless integration of smartphones. The available ELS Studio® premium audio system features up to 16 speakers for pure immersion.
Safety features are comprehensive, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring to ensure peace of mind on the road.
Performance-wise, the RDX boasts a 272-HP VTEC® Turbo engine and available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™, offering confident handling and precision control in various driving conditions.
Dodge Hornet
Available Plugin Hybrid
The 2024 Dodge Hornet is a compact SUV that combines comfort, entertainment, safety, and performance into one sleek package.
For comfort, it offers cloth/sueded microfiber seats with multi-level heating options and power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support.
Entertainment is provided by a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 9-speaker Alpine sound system, ensuring a high-quality audio experience.
Safety features include blind spot and lane departure warnings, rear cross traffic alert, and a pre-collision safety system.
Performance-wise, the Hornet comes with a choice of a 268-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine or a 288-hp plug-in hybrid, paired with all-wheel drive to deliver a dynamic driving experience.
Jeep Cherokee
The 2024 Jeep Cherokee offers a blend of comfort, entertainment, safety, and performance features designed to enhance the driving experience.
For comfort, it boasts six-way adjustable heated and insulated seats, ensuring a cozy ride regardless of the weather conditions.
The entertainment system is likely to include advanced connectivity options such as USB ports and possibly integrated smartphone interfaces for seamless integration of your media on the go.
Safety is a top priority, with the Grand Cherokee being named a 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick, indicating a range of advanced safety features and robust design.
Performance-wise, the Cherokee may come equipped with a 3.6L V6 engine, providing ample power for both city driving and off-road adventures, complemented by a smooth 8-speed shiftable automatic transmission for a responsive and engaging driving experience.
Jeep Compass
The 2024 Jeep Compass is a blend of comfort, entertainment, safety, and performance designed to elevate the driving experience.
In terms of comfort, it boasts leatherette standard bucket front seats with multi-level heating for both driver and passenger, ensuring a cozy journey regardless of the weather.
The entertainment is enhanced by a standard 10.1-inch touchscreen and wireless smartphone connectivity, keeping you connected and entertained on the go.
Safety is paramount with features like lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring, providing peace of mind for both driver and passengers.
Performance-wise, the Compass is equipped with a 2.0L 4cyl Turbo engine paired with an 8-speed shiftable automatic transmission, offering a balanced mix of power and efficiency for any adventure.
Jeep Wrangler
2-Door & 4-Door Variants
The 2024 Jeep Wrangler is designed to deliver a premium experience in all aspects of driving.
For comfort, it offers a spacious interior with high-quality materials and adjustable seating, ensuring a pleasant ride even on the roughest terrains.
Entertainment is enhanced with the updated Uconnect® 5 software, which includes a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen for easy access to navigation, music, and more.
Safety is a top priority, with the Wrangler boasting over 85 safety features, including standard side-curtain airbags and a post-collision safety system.
Performance-wise, the Wrangler doesn’t disappoint with a robust 3.6L V6 engine, providing 285 horsepower – making it both powerful and reliable for any adventure.
Ford Escape
Available Hybrid Powertrain
The 2024 Ford Escape offers a blend of comfort, entertainment, safety, and performance features designed to enhance the driving experience.
For comfort, it boasts spacious legroom and available multi-level heated front seats, ensuring a cozy ride even in colder climates.
Entertainment is covered with the standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing seamless integration of smartphone apps, and an optional Bang & Olufsen sound system for an immersive audio experience.
Safety is a priority with the Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist 2.0, which includes advanced driver-assist technologies.
Performance-wise, the Escape offers a range of powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid option – with an EPA-estimated MPG of 42/36 (city/highway) for the hybrid model.
Subaru Forester
The 2025 Subaru Forester stands out with its array of features designed to enhance comfort, entertainment, safety, and performance.
For comfort, the spacious cabin is covered with premium materials and fitted with a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and standard heated front seats – with rear heated seats available. Dual-zone automatic climate control allows both the driver and front passenger to set their ideal temperature.
Entertainment is elevated with the available 11.6-inch high-resolution touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration, alongside wireless device charging, ensuring connectivity and convenience.
Safety is paramount with the upgraded standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, providing a wider field of view and advanced active safety systems like Automatic Emergency Steering.
Performance-wise, the Forester shines with its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, offering exceptional traction and a balanced drive. Under the hood, the base model is equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 180 horsepower and nearly the same number in torque.
Volkswagen Tiguan
The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan offers a blend of comfort, entertainment, safety, and performance features designed to enhance the driving experience.
For comfort, the Tiguan provides a spacious interior with optional leatherette seating and multi-level heated front seats.
Entertainment is covered by a 6.5-inch touchscreen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a Wi-Fi hotspot, ensuring connectivity and access to media on the go.
Safety is a priority with the standard IQ.Drive package, which includes a suite of driver assistance technologies.
Performance-wise, the Tiguan is equipped with a 2.0-liter engine delivering 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission for smooth and responsive driving
Compact SUVs vs. Subcompact SUVs
PERFORMANCE AND FUEL EFFICIENCY
When selecting between compact and subcompact SUVs, performance and fuel efficiency significantly impact the buying decision. Each category presents distinct benefits and compromises tailored to various driving requirements and preferences.
FUEL EFFICIENCY
Compact SUVs offer more interior space and cargo capacity due to their larger size, catering to families or those needing extra room for passengers and gear. However, this larger size and weight often lead to reduced fuel efficiency when compared to subcompact SUVs. For drivers valuing space and versatility, compact SUVs may be the preferred choice, particularly for extended trips where comfort and storage are crucial.
Conversely, subcompact SUVs excel in fuel efficiency. Their reduced size and weight lead to improved gas mileage, advantageous for urban driving and regular commuters aiming to minimize fuel expenses. Additionally, subcompact SUVs provide better maneuverability and parking ease, appealing for city residents dealing with confined spaces.
PERFORMANCE
In terms of performance, compact SUVs generally offer more power and capability, resulting in a stronger driving experience. They are likely to handle diverse terrains and conditions better, including off-roading or towing. Although less powerful, subcompact SUVs deliver an agile and responsive driving experience, ideal for swift urban journeys and routine tasks.
Compact SUVs like the Acura RDX and Ford Escape Hybrid tend to offer more power and a higher level of performance, while subcompact SUVs such as the Subaru Crosstrek and Volkswagen Taos prioritize fuel efficiency.
A SUMMARY OF COMPACT VS. SUBCOMPACT SUV MODELS
Both compact and subcompact SUVs offer unique advantages.
It’s essential to consider how much space you need, how you’ll be using the vehicle, and where you’ll be driving most often before making a decision.
Compact SUVs:
More Space: Larger interiors with more legroom and cargo capacity1.
Advanced Features: Typically come with more advanced safety and entertainment options.
Powerful Performance: Often equipped with stronger engines and better handling for diverse terrains.
Subcompact SUVs:
Better Fuel Efficiency: Smaller size and weight lead to improved gas mileage2.
Easier Maneuverability: Ideal for urban driving and tight parking spaces.
Cost-Effective: Generally lower purchase price, insurance, and taxes
Choosing between a compact and subcompact SUV ultimately depends on your specific needs and lifestyle. If interior space and cargo capacity are your top priorities, a compact SUV might be the best choice. However, if you prioritize fuel efficiency, ease of parking, and maneuverability, a subcompact SUV could be more suitable.
Both categories offer unique advantages, so consider how much space you need, how you’ll be using the vehicle, and where you’ll be driving most often before making a decision. Whether you opt for the roomier compact SUV or the nimble subcompact SUV, there’s a perfect match out there for every driver’s needs.
Happy car hunting!
Here is a list of all the areas to compare your contenders – if you want to do a proper deep dive comparison:
- Vehicle Dimensions: Length, width, height, and wheelbase.
- Fuel Efficiency: City, highway, and combined MPG.
- Cargo Space: Rear seats up and folded down.
- Passenger Space: Legroom, headroom, and seating capacity.
- Performance: Engine power, torque, and drivetrain.
- Safety Features: Airbags, stability control, and driver-assistance systems.
- Comfort Features: Seat materials, legroom, and climate control.
- Entertainment Systems: Infotainment screen size, speaker quality, and connectivity options.
- Price: Base price, trim levels, and additional costs.
- Warranty and Maintenance: Coverage period and included services.
Knight Group operates from multiple locations around California. If you’re shopping for a new Acura for sale in Elk Grove, chances are you can find the right model for you in our extensive inventory. To get started, use the following online shopping tools and resources:
Ready to test drive a new Acura for sale in Elk Grove? Contact us online to schedule a test drive with the Acura vehicle you like best. In the meantime, browse our new vehicle specials for exciting offers on select models from our brand-new inventories at our CA locations!
Knight Automotive Group has a prominent selection of Compact & Subcompact SUVs for sale in multiple California locations.
- The Auto Mall in Elk Grove, CA, is a significant hub, offering a diverse range of automotive brands and services.
- A Ford store in North Hollywood and another in Fontana, CA provide customers with a comprehensive selection of vehicles and services to choose from – including commercial and fleet.
- The North Hollywood and Fontana locations, known as Sunrise Ford, have been serving their communities for decades, with the Fontana store earning the prestigious Ford Motor Company’s Triple Crown award in 2014.
Knight Automotive Group’s commitment to customer service and community engagement is evident in their operations, ensuring a legacy of quality and trust in the automotive sector.