1. 2009-2011 Acura RDX
This represents the first-generation Acura RDX compact crossover SUV, which was essentially a peppier and more upscale version of the Honda CR-V. It handles crisply and delivers a smooth ride. You’ll find it fitted with a truly peppy four-cylinder engine.
Average base model retail prices:
- 2011: $10,000
- 2010: $8,900
- 2009: $8,000
2. 2013-2014 Buick Encore
The subcompact Buick Encore crossover is the brand’s top seller. Built in South Korea, it shares DNA with the Chevrolet Sonic. The 2013 edition comes powered by a 1.4-liter engine, and while it’s not particularly quick, it is sufficient to propel this little SUV. It’s especially well finished on the inside.
Average base model retail prices:
- 2014: $10,000
- 2013: $8,700
3. 2009-2011 Honda CR-V
The compact Honda CR-V crossover is consistently one of the most popular new SUVs, and it carries a well-earned reputation for reliability. These picks are from the CR-V’s third generation (it would be redesigned for 2012), which packed a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that received a power boost for 2010. The vehicle performs adequately and affords decent interior comfort and cargo room.
Average base model retail prices:
- 2011: $8,500
- 2010: $7,400
- 2009: $6,700
4. 2009-2011 Honda Element
The compact Honda Element crossover may look like the box it came in, but it’s roomy and practical, not to mention reliable, with CR giving it high marks in that regard. Honda originally pitched the Element to active consumers and offered a range of outdoors-oriented and pet-friendly accessories for it. It shares what at the time was the Honda Accord’s four-cylinder engine. Unlike most SUVs, the Element features rear-hinged back doors, and rear seats that fold up to the sides and can be removed.
Average base model retail prices:
- 2011: $9,700
- 2010: $8,200
- 2009: $7,000
5. 2009-2012 Honda Pilot
The midsize Honda Pilot crossover has long been a solid choice for growing families with a spacious and comfortable cabin that seats up to eight passengers, though the third row is best left to the kids. It shares platforms with the automaker’s Accord sedan and Odyssey minivan. Its standard V6 engine is smooth and powerful, and the Pilot handles decently while maintaining a smooth ride.
Average base model retail prices:
- 2012: $10,100
- 2011: $9,000
- 2010: $7,600
- 2009: $6,900
6. 2010-2014 Hyundai Tucson
The compact Hyundai Tuscon crossover was redesigned for the 2010 model year with a stylish exterior that still seems fresh. A 2.4-liter engine delivered lively acceleration, and the Tuscons from this period handled well, but with a somewhat stiff ride. The cabin is straightforwardly designed with easily operated controls, but cargo room is a bit tight behind the rear seats.
Average base model retail prices:
- 2014: $10,350
- 2013: $8,000
- 2012: $7,000
- 2011: $5,700
- 2010: $6,600
7. 2010-2016 Kia Soul
Though not typically perceived as an SUV, the only thing different about the compact Kia Soul is that it’s strictly a front-drive model. Otherwise it still features a tall, horizontal roofline, sits higher off the ground than a passenger car, and affords good outward visibility. Its boxy shape creates a surprisingly roomy cabin, with plenty of headroom and rear seat legroom. The Soul was redesigned for 2014, with tweaked styling, an upgraded interior, and several newly added features.
Average base model retail prices:
- 2016: $10,000
- 2015: $9,900
- 2014: $7,900
- 2013: $6,900
- 2012: $5,800
- 2011: $4,700
- 2010: $4,000
8. 2009 Lexus RX
The midsize RX crossover is the only luxury-branded model among our top picks, and it sneaked in by a nose. The 2009 model was the final year before a redesign though the exterior styling remained similar. Then as now, the RX is powered by a smooth and capable V6 engine and treats its occupants to both a roomy interior and a smooth ride, which makes it a great road trip vehicle.
Average base retail price:
9. 2013-2014 Mazda CX-5
Earning great marks for reliability, the compact Mazda CX-5 is also one of the most fun-to-drive small crossovers on the market, with precise handling that belies its practical nature. The interior is nicely finished, with top quality materials that give it a luxury car look and feel.
Average base retail prices:
- 2014: $10,500
- 2013: $9,300
10. 2009-2014 Nissan Murano
The midsize Nissan Murano is a five-passenger crossover SUV that’s roomy, comfortable, and is graded above average in reliability. It gets good power from its V6 engine, and this generation handles rather well with a comfortable ride. An odd-looking two-door CrossCabriolet convertible version debuted for 2012 and only lasted until 2014.
Average base retail prices:
- 2014: $10,000
- 2013: $8,500
- 2012: $8,000
- 2011: $7,000
- 2010: $5,900
- 2009: $5,300
11. 2010-2013 Nissan Rogue
The compact Nissan Rogue is the brand’s top seller, and used models are reasonably plentiful in the marketplace. Its four-cylinder engine works well with an otherwise whiny gearless continuously variable transmission to get the vehicle up to speed and maintain decent fuel economy. It’s not especially flashy or sporty, but it’s comfortable and is easy to drive. The 2020-2013 versions get above average scores for reliability from Consumer Reports.
Average base retail prices:
- 2013: $8,000
- 2012: $6,800
- 2011: $5,900
12. 2012-2013 Subaru Forester
The compact Subaru Forester may be plain looking, but it does the job with authority. It is the only model represented here that came standard with all-wheel drive for added foul weather traction. It delivers amenable road manners and affords a roomy interior with straightforward controls. You’ll find Foresters from this era fitted with either a naturally aspirated or turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
Average base retail prices:
- 2013: $10,000
- 2012: $9,000
13. 2009-2010 Toyota Highlander
Long a family favorite, the roomy and comfortable midsize Toyota Highlander crossover SUV is mechanically related to the Camry sedan, and gets Consumer Reports’ highest marks for long-term durability. It’s not cheap in the resale market, however, and its third-row seat is short on legroom. You’ll find used Highlanders equipped with either a four-cylinder or V6 engine, with the latter being the smoothest choice. A hybrid version was also offered with improved fuel economy.
Average base retail prices:
- 2010: $10,000
- 2009: $8,800
14. 2009-2012 Toyota RAV4
Consistently one of the top sellers among all vehicles, the compact Toyota RAV4 crossover SUV from this era is one of the rare vehicles to come with a side-opening door at the back instead of a horizontal liftgate. It offered a choice of a four-cylinder engine or, rare for this size class, a smooth and quick V6; it gets top marks for durability. The interior is refreshingly roomy and there’s plenty of cargo room behind the seats.
Average base retail prices:
- 2012: $9,900
- 2011: $8,900
- 2010: $8,000
- 2009: $7,400
15. 2009-2012 Toyota Venza
The Toyota Venza crossover was the automaker’s answer to the Nissan Murano, with a wagon-like profile, five-passenger seating, and a large cargo hold. It shares platforms and components with the Toyota Camry, and can likewise be found with either a four-cylinder engine or a smoother and more powerful V6. Discontinued after the 2015 model year, the Venza earns a perfect score for reliability from Consumer Reports.
Average base retail prices:
- 2011: $9,800
- 2010: $9,100
- 2009: $8,400
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