31) 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
Reliability: 2.5/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 6.5/10 | $20,395
The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport places at the bottom of our subcompact SUV rankings. Not only does it earn a low score for predicted reliability, it also has a dated cabin design, lackluster performance, and low crash test ratings. Moreover, it’s not very agile, its engines are weak, and its not fuel efficient.
The Outlander Sport does have a few redeeming qualities, including an intuitive infotainment system, a coddling ride, and a long warranty. But overall, we don’t recommend it.
30) 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander
Reliability: 2.5/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.1/10 | $23,945
While the Mitsubishi Outlander earns a below-average predicted reliability rating, it offers plenty of value for a 3-row SUV due to its competitive starting price, long warranty, and respectable fuel economy. It also comes standard with a user-friendly 7-inch touch screen.
However, other compact SUVs have more comfortable seats, better ride quality, and more-powerful engine options.
29) 2018 Jeep Wrangler
Reliability: 2.5/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.5/10 | $23,995
Jeep completely redesigned the Wrangler for the 2018 model year. It provides a more modern cabin with higher-quality materials and an updated feature list, including options like an improved touch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, and a Wi-Fi hot spot.
The Wrangler is one of the most capable off-roaders available and offers plenty of cargo space if you opt for the four-door model. Still, it receives low marks for predicted reliability and lands near the bottom of our compact SUV rankings.
27) 2018 Jeep Compass (tie)
Reliability: 2.5/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.6/10 | $21,095
The Jeep Compass earns a low score for predicted reliability and also places in the bottom third of our compact SUV rankings. It’s not a good choice if you prioritize acceleration, handling, or cargo volume. Nonetheless, it features a high-quality interior and is one of the least-expensive SUVs in its class. Like all Jeeps, the Compass also boasts solid off-road prowess.
27) 2018 Jeep Cherokee (tie)
Reliability: 2.5/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.6/10 | $24,395
Like every Jeep in this slideshow, the Cherokee receives a low predicted reliability rating from J.D. Power. It also returns below-average fuel economy, has limited cargo capacity, and receives low safety scores. Regardless of these shortcomings, the Cherokee is one of the best off-road vehicles in its class and provides a comfortable, attractive cabin. A 5-inch touch screen, Bluetooth, and parking sensors come standard, though an upgraded infotainment system, several advanced safety features, and many other desirable options are available.
26) 2018 Jeep Renegade
Reliability: 2.5/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.8/10 | $18,445
The subcompact Jeep Renegade offers a welcome balance between daily drivability and off-road capability. The 2018 model adds newly standard features, including a 5-inch touch screen, a rearview camera, and Bluetooth. The Renegade provides an upmarket cabin with ample space for five passengers and sufficient room for cargo. This all comes at low price compared to rivals. However, fuel economy is subpar, predicted reliability is below average, and the base model is slim on features.
25) 2018 Mazda CX-3
Reliability: 2.5/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.3/10 | $20,110
The Mazda CX-3 holds a leading spot in our subcompact SUV rankings despite its low predicted reliability score. Its agile handling, peppy powertrain, excellent fuel economy, and upscale interior help to elevate its overall U.S. News score. The CX-3 also fares well in crash tests and features low-speed automatic emergency braking, Bluetooth, and a 7-inch touch screen as standard.
24) 2018 Mazda CX-5
Reliability: 2.5/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.7/10 | $24,150
The compact Mazda CX-5 excels due to its athletic handling and classy cabin. In addition, it performs well in crash tests and provides comfortable, supportive seating in both rows. The CX-5 comes with a long list of appealing standard features, including blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, low-speed automatic braking, and a 7-inch touch-screen interface. However, it falters when it comes to predicted reliability.
23) 2018 Ford EcoSport
Reliability: 3.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 6.8/10 | $19,995
Ford’s all-new EcoSport debuts near the bottom of our subcompact SUV rankings, since many rivals are more reliable, fun to drive, fuel-efficient, and upscale. The EcoSport also suffers from a lackluster base engine, and it’s short on notable standard features. Still, it comes at a competitive price, offers plenty of in-cabin storage, and has decent reliability and passenger space. Crash test ratings are not yet in for the EcoSport.
22) 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
Reliability: 3.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 6.9/10 | $23,295
While the all-new Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross has a handful of appealing attributes, like a peppy engine, good ground clearance, and a nice interior, it sits at the bottom of our compact SUV rankings. Safety scores are not yet in, and its average predicted reliability rating doesn’t help to push it ahead of rivals. The Eclipse Cross suffers from minimal cargo volume, dull steering, noticeable body roll, and confusing infotainment features.
20) 2018 FIAT 500X (tie)
Reliability: 3.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.4/10 | $19,995
Fiat’s 500X falls near the bottom of our subcompact SUV rankings due in part to its average predicted reliability rating. In addition, it doesn’t have much space for cargo, its ride is bumpy, and its overall performance is lacking.
Nonetheless, it has some positive attributes, including bold exterior styling, an attractive cabin with quality materials, and a user-friendly 7-inch touch-screen interface with up-to-date smartphone connectivity.
20) 2018 Chevrolet Trax (tie)
Reliability: 3.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.4/10 | $21,000
The Chevrolet Trax is a good choice for city commuters because of its excellent turning radius and easy maneuverability. It also offers supportive seats and respectable room for cargo. The Trax receives good scores in crash tests and average predicted reliability ratings.
It has an attractive list of standard features, including a 7-inch touch-screen display, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a Wi-Fi hot spot. However, it has a weak engine and a low-quality interior, which hold it back in our subcompact SUV rankings.
18) 2018 Subaru Crosstrek (tie)
Reliability: 3.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.8/10 | $21,795
The completely redesigned 2018 Subaru Crosstrek offers exceptional cargo capacity and accommodating rear seats. It provides athletic handling, comes standard with all-wheel drive, and has considerable ground clearance.
Standard features include a 6.5-inch infotainment display, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a manual transmission. You can upgrade to a continuously variable automatic transmission that’s quiet and fuel-efficient. Predicted reliability is average and safety ratings are good.
18) 2018 Nissan Rogue Sport (tie)
Reliability: 3.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.8/10 | $21,640
While the Nissan Rogue Sport only earns an average predicted reliability rating, it performs well in some areas that appeal to subcompact SUV shoppers. It offers coddling ride quality, solid fuel economy estimates, and plenty of room for cargo in its quiet, upscale interior. It comes standard with a long list of features, including blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, a 5-inch audio display, Siri Eyes Free, hands-free text messaging, Bluetooth, and satellite radio.
17) 2018 Nissan Kicks
Reliability: 3.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.9/10 | $17,990
The all-new Nissan Kicks replaces the Juke in Nissan’s lineup. It has good passenger space in both rows and best-in-class cargo capacity. The Kicks also has the lowest starting price in its class, offers loads of features, and gets excellent gas mileage. It won’t wow you with its acceleration, but it rides and handles well. The base model includes a 7-inch a touch-screen infotainment system, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Crash test scores are not yet in, and predicted reliability is average.
15) 2018 Mini Cooper Countryman (tie)
Reliability: 3.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.1/10 | $26,600
The Mini Cooper Countryman boasts a first-rate cabin with two rows of adult-friendly seats. It provides well-balanced handling and offers two available turbocharged engines that deliver eager acceleration. The Mini Countryman also receives high marks for safety, though its predicted reliability rating is average. It comes equipped with standard niceties, such as Bluetooth, Siri Eyes Free, and a 6.5-inch infotainment display.
15) 2018 Nissan Rogue (tie)
Reliability: 3.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.1/10 | $24,800
Nissan’s compact Rogue adds newly standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for the 2018 model year. You can now also opt for the automaker’s Pro Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driver assistance system as an upgrade. It’s important to note that there is no longer optional third-row seating.
The Rogue has a handsome interior with lots of legroom in both rows and impressive room for cargo. The SUV also returns great gas mileage and comes standard with many active safety features.
14) 2018 Honda HR-V
Reliability: 3.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.2/10 | $19,670
The Honda HR-V earns an average predicted reliability rating, but it succeeds in many other areas. It has a flexible cargo area, adult-sized rear seats, and intuitive infotainment controls. The HR-V also comes with a low starting price and is our 2018 Best Subcompact SUV for the Money. Standard features include a multi-angle rearview camera, Bluetooth, and a 5-inch color infotainment display.
13) 2018 Subaru Forester
Reliability: 3.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.5/10 | $22,795
The Subaru Forester is one of the least expensive vehicles in our compact SUV rankings. Its competitive fuel economy, and versatile, well-built interior are just two reasons it scores better than many competing models. The Forester offers excellent cargo capacity and spacious seating in both rows. It also comes standard with all-wheel drive and receives good safety scores. According to J.D. Power, the Forester’s predicted reliability is average.
12) 2018 Honda CR-V
Reliability: 3.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.8/10 | $24,250
Honda’s CR-V is the winner of U.S. News’ 2018 Best Compact SUV for the Money and Best Compact SUV for Families awards. It is also our top-ranked compact SUV. While it only earns an average rating for predicted reliability, it shines due to its high crash test scores, cavernous cargo hold, and two rows of spacious seats. The CR-V also provides a smooth ride and a high-quality cabin. It’s not heavy on standard features, but you can pay more for a 7-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and multiple active safety technologies.
11) 2018 Chevrolet Equinox
Reliability: 3.5/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.1/10 | $23,580
The fully redesigned, compact 2018 Equinox receives an upgraded interior with roomy supportive seats and respectable cargo space. It comes standard with an impressive list of features, like a Wi-Fi hot spot, Bluetooth, a user-friendly 7-inch touch-screen infotainment system, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and GM’s Teen Driver safety system, which gives parents control of volume and speed limits for young drivers. The Equinox earns great safety scores and an above-average predicted reliability rating. While its base engine is uninspiring, a more powerful option is available.
10) 2018 Hyundai Kona
Reliability: 3.5/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.5/10 | $19,500
The brand-new Hyundai Kona arrived and stole the top spot in U.S. News’ subcompact SUV rankings. That comes as no surprise due to its long warranty, above-average predicted reliability, outstanding fuel economy, and competitive pricing. In addition, it boasts stylish looks inside and out, two rows of adult-sized seats, more cargo volume behind the rear seats than most rivals, and agile handling. Standard features include Bluetooth and an intuitive 7-inch touch screen that supports the latest smartphone integration.
9) 2018 Toyota RAV4
Reliability: 4.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.8/10 | $24,660
The Toyota RAV4 comes standard with a full suite of advanced driver assistance features, including lane departure warning, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection. It earns a high predicted reliability rating and respectable crash test scores. Toyota increased the RAV4’s maximum towing capacity from 1,500 to 3,500 pounds for the 2018 model year. It handles well and is reasonably peppy, but the RAV4’s interior design and materials are lacking compared to rivals, leading to its lower place in our compact SUV rankings.
8) 2018 Kia Niro
Reliability: 4.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.1/10 | $23,340
The subcompact Kia Niro returns exceptional fuel economy due to its hybrid configuration, and it also delivers eager acceleration. It has a modern, high-quality cabin with a significant amount of room for passengers and cargo. Bluetooth, a user-friendly 7-inch touch-screen interface, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay come standard. The Niro receives a “better than most” predicted reliability rating from J.D. Power and features a top-notch warranty. Crash test ratings are not yet published for the Niro.
7) 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan
Reliability: 4.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.2/10 | $24,595
The fully redesigned 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan offers a nice cabin, coddling ride quality, and high scores for safety and predicted reliability. It’s one of U.S. News’ 2018 Best New Cars for Teens. The Tiguan is also one of few vehicles in our compact SUV rankings that comes standard with three rows of seats. While the first two rows are roomy, the third row is very cramped. Additionally, cargo capacity behind the third row is minimal, though overall cargo volume (with all the seats down) is above average for the class. Intuitive tech features, like a 6.5-inch touch screen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth, are standard.
6) 2018 Hyundai Tucson
Reliability: 4.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.4/10 | $22,550
We chose the Hyundai Tucson as a U.S. News 2018 Best New Cars for Teens. It seats five passengers comfortably and provides adequate space for cargo. The Tucson also receives outstanding crash test scores, comes with an industry-leading warranty, and earns a rating of four out of five for predicted reliability. According to J.D. Power, this qualifies as “better than most.” The base Tucson is slim on features, but it has one of the lowest starting prices in its class. A wide variety of safety and convenience technologies are available.
5) 2018 GMC Terrain
Reliability: 4.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.5/10 | $24,995
The GMC Terrain is corporate cousins with the Chevy Equinox and was also completely redesigned for the 2018 model year. For these reasons, the two vehicles have a lot in common, though the Terrain earns a higher predicted reliability rating and costs more. The Terrain features an upmarket interior, two rows of comfortable seats, and a smooth ride. Standard features include a responsive 7-inch touch screen, smartphone app integration, a Wi-Fi hot spot, voice recognition, Bluetooth, and GM’s Teen Driver safety system.
4) 2018 Toyota C-HR
Reliability: 4.5/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 6.9/10 | $22,500
The all-new Toyota C-HR (Coupe-High Rider) struggles to compete in our subcompact SUV rankings. It falters due to its cramped seats, limited smartphone integration, and bland, plastics-heavy cabin. However, it receives an impeccable predicted reliability rating and comes loaded with standard features, including a full suite of active safety systems. The C-HR also provides comfortable handling and has more cargo volume than some rivals.
3) 2018 Buick Encore
Reliability: 4.5/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.2/10 | $22,990
The Buick Encore’s tiny footprint and outstanding maneuverability make it a great subcompact SUV for urban settings. In addition, it provides a coddling ride, nimble handling, and comfortable seating for four adults. The Encore has one of the classiest cabins among competitors, and it’s packed with desirable standard features, like a Wi-Fi hot spot, Bluetooth, two USB ports, Siri Eyes Free, and an 8-inch touch screen. Safety and predicted reliability ratings are first-rate.
2) 2018 Kia Sportage
Reliability: 4.5/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.6/10 | $23,600
Kia’s compact Sportage fares well in crash tests, comes with one of the best warranties in the industry, and receives a stellar predicted reliability rating from J.D. Power. It boasts a handsome cabin with two roomy rows and provides a well-balanced ride and agile handling.
It’s not perfect, however. The Sportage isn’t very fuel-efficient, doesn’t offer as much cargo volume as some rivals, and its engine options are unimpressive. Still, its pros vastly outweigh its cons.
Standard features include a responsive 5-inch touch-screen, Bluetooth, and satellite radio.
1) 2018 Ford Escape
Reliability: 4.5/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.7/10 | $23,940
The Ford Escape earns an outstanding predicted reliability rating and holds a spot near the top of our competitive compact SUV rankings. That combination drives it to the top of this list.
The Escape has lots of room for cargo, receives good marks for safety, and delivers sporty handling. Its base engine should suffice for most drivers, but two energetic turbo-fours are available.
The base Escape comes with Bluetooth, voice control, and Ford’s MyKey, which allows owners to set individual limits for speed and audio volume – it’s great for teen drivers.
More Shopping Tools From U.S. News & World Report
Have you determined which reliable small SUV best suits your priorities and budget? Check out our compact and subcompact SUV rankings to research additional models and compare each to the competition.
When you’ve made your decision, use our U.S. News Best Price Program to find the dealership in your area offering low, pre-negotiated prices. Shoppers who use the program save an average of $3,106 off their new car purchase.
31 Most (and Least) Reliable Small SUVs in 2018
- 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport - Reliability: 2.5/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 6.5/10
- 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander - Reliability: 2.5/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.1/10
- 2018 Jeep Wrangler - Reliability: 2.5/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.5/10
- 2018 Jeep Compass - Reliability: 2.5/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.6/10
- 2018 Jeep Cherokee - Reliability: 2.5/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.6/10
- 2018 Jeep Renegade - Reliability: 2.5/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.8/10
- 2018 Mazda CX-3 - Reliability: 2.5/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.3/10
- 2018 Mazda CX-5 - Reliability: 2.5/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.7/10
- 2018 Ford EcoSport - Reliability: 3.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 6.8/10
- 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross - Reliability: 3.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 6.9/10
- 2018 FIAT 500X - Reliability: 3.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.4/10
- 2018 Chevrolet Trax - Reliability: 3.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.4/10
- 2018 Subaru Crosstrek - Reliability: 3.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.8/10
- 2018 Nissan Rogue Sport - Reliability: 3.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.8/10
- 2018 Nissan Kicks - Reliability: 3.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.9/10
- 2018 MINI Cooper Countryman - Reliability: 3.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.1/10
- 2018 Nissan Rogue - Reliability: 3.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.1/10
- 2018 Honda HR-V - Reliability: 3.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.2/10
- 2018 Subaru Forester - Reliability: 3.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.5/10
- 2018 Honda CR-V - Reliability: 3.0/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.8/10
- 2018 Chevrolet Equinox - Reliability: 3.5/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.1/10
- 2018 Hyundai Kona - Reliability: 3.5/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.5/10
- 2018 Toyota RAV4 - Reliability: 4/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.8/10
- 2018 Kia Niro - Reliability: 4/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.1/10
- 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan - Reliability: 4/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.2/10
- 2018 Hyundai Tucson - Reliability: 4/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.4/10
- 2018 GMC Terrain - Reliability: 4/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.5/10
- 2018 Toyota C-HR - Reliability: 4.5/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 6.9/10
- 2018 Buick Encore - Reliability: 4.5/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.2/10
- 2018 Kia Sportage - Reliability: 4.5/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.6/10
- 2018 Ford Escape - Reliability: 4.5/5 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.7/10
Recommended Articles
-
Redesigned 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE: All You Need to Know
-
All-New 2020 Jeep Gladiator: What You Need to Know
-
All-New 2019 BMW X7: What You Need to Know
-
Redesigned 2020 Toyota Corolla Sedan: All You Need to Know
-
Redesigned 2019 Mazda3: All You Need to Know
-
10 Best Luxury Cars Under $30,000
-
2018 Best Cars for the Money
-
2018 Best Cars for Families
-
2019 Best Vehicle Brand Awards
Compact and Subcompact SUVs Ranked by J.D. Power Reliability Ratings
SUVs have garnered much interest among the U.S. car-buying public. They’re practical, capable, and stylish. An SUV allows you to take advantage of some of the perks of truck ownership, while having extra space for passengers and car-like driving manners.
When committing to any purchase, it’s important to have faith that the product is going to last and remain free of recurring issues. This is especially true when it comes to a major investment, like a brand-new SUV. You need to be able to count on it to dependably transport your family. This is why we factor J.D. Power reliability ratings into our vehicle scores and rankings.
Let’s take a look at how these compact and subcompact SUVs, like the 2018 Ford Escape (pictured above), compare when it comes to predicted reliability. Which vehicles are more likely to be virtually problem free? On the contrary, which small SUVs may end up costing you extra time, money, and frustration?
Keep in mind that our scores and rankings are constantly updated due to new safety and reliability information, as well as the consensus of the automotive press. For this reason, some of the scores in this slideshow may not match what you see on our site.
We’ve ranked every SUV is the class from worst to best. For SUVs with the same reliability rating, we broke the tie with the vehicle’s U.S. News overall score. Continue reading to learn all about the most (and least) reliable small SUVs in 2018.
This list only covers non-luxury small SUVs. If you want to know the most reliable small SUVs from luxury brands, click here.