2011 AutoPacific Ideal Vehicle Awards: Compact Crossover SUV

by Michelle Naranjo

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February 1, 2011

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5 min. Reading Time

AutoPacific’s 2011 Ideal Vehicle Awards (IVA) are based on 73,000 surveys completed by owners of new cars and light trucks in the United States in the first half of 2011.

Compact XSUVs range from pint-sized cute utes like the Nissan Juke to the Jeep Compass. Often pegged as a compact commuter cars with an elevated seating position and available all-wheel drive, these vehicles are essentially the entry point for XSUVs. Increasingly, they are becoming alternatives to traditional Compact Cars.

This year's AutoPacific IVA Compact Crossover SUV winner is the 2011 Volkswagen Tiguan.

Read on to see the entire list of category candidates and how they scored.

*NOTE: Results for 2010 Model Year Vehicles are Included in the 2011 Model Year Research Because of Availability. Scores Are Shown Where Sample Sizes Allow

#1 Compact Crossover SUV: 2011 Volkswagen Tiguan

Rank: #1

Score: 1239

Touted at its launch as the “The GTI of SUVs,” the 2011 Volkswagen Tiguan has clearly delivered on its promise. The pulse-quickening performance from the lively 2.0L 4-cylinder, responsive handling, and all around enjoyable ride were among the features most frequently mentioned. The relatively steep price tag also earned a nod, though it seems like a fair trade for superb build quality and sumptuous cabin appointments.

#2 Compact Crossover SUV: 2011 Suzuki Grand Vitara

Rank: #2

Score: 1190

What the 2011 Suzuki Grand Vitara may lack in style, it more than makes up for in substance. The list of standard options is long, including stability control, traction control, and front/side curtain airbags, and the engine options (2.4L I4 and 3.2L V6) offer a reliable if not hair-raising performance. To be frank, no one is likely to accuse Suzuki of elaborately over-engineering, but it may be agreed that they seem to have struck an agreeable compromise.

#3 Compact Crossover SUV: 2011 Kia Sportage

Rank: #3

Score: 1162

Maybe not a “dark horse” in the strictest sense of the term, but the 2011 Kia Sportage definitely packed a punch that few anticipated. The design is fresh and unique inside and out, but this isn’t some miracle make-up slathered over an aging face. Collaboration with German firm Magna International birthed the new all wheel drive Dynamax system which, coupled with the new turbocharged 2.0L I4, make for a livelier, lighter driving experience. Oh – and the turbo guzzles regular unleaded, no pretensions here.

#4 Compact Crossover SUV: 2011 Jeep Compass

Rank: #4

Score: 1162

The 2011 Jeep Compass has dropped three spots from last year’s ranking to tie with the new Kia Sportage, which isn’t exactly a dent in its armor. The XUV segment has had a strong showing this year, and the Compass has managed to hang tough despite riding heavily on the coattails of its big brother, the Grand Cherokee. As a matter of fact, to the untrained eye the two may seem virtually indistinguishable as they both sport identical front fascia and conservatively impressive off-road capability.

#5 Compact Crossover SUV: 2011 Hyundai Tucson

Rank: #5

Score: 1154

Like the 2010, the 2011 Hyundai Tucson is heavily influenced by Hyundai’s Fluidic Sculpture design philosophy. It’s enough to keep it relevant, but not necessarily enough to ignite a spark. Fortunately, “just enough” appears to be the metric many consumers are weighing their purchases against, giving the Tucson an edge against superfluous accessories.

#6 Compact Crossover SUV: 2011 Honda Element

Rank: #6

Score: 1154

Chances are slim that the 2011 Honda Element will be preserved for study by future generations of dramatic composition. It has an unbelievable amount of cargo room, it’s easy to clean, and it’s not a minivan. For the most utilitarian-focused consumers it’s adequate, but the lack of power and relatively unimpressive fuel economy are difficult for the larger populace to ignore. A little more vigor under the accelerator and it could easily hold court with the rest of its segment.

#7 Compact Crossover SUV: 2011 Jeep Patriot

Rank: #7

Score: 1147

The 2011 Jeep Patriot seems to exist in an awkward off-road limbo, unable to stake any claim that hasn’t already been made (better) by the rest of the Jeep line-up. Its ability off the tarmac is the only discernible edge it holds over other crossovers, which struggles to resonate against poor fuel economy, torpid acceleration, and mediocre interior. Perhaps sensing the weak link in the chain, Jeep will cease production of the Patriot in 2012.

#8 Compact Crossover SUV: 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

Rank: #8

Score: 1117

Using the same theory upon which the Lancer model family is built, the 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is supposed to be a nimble, athletic counterpart to the full-size Outlander SUV. The weight difference plus Mitsubishi’s new electronic steering devilry makes it actually successful at achieving this end – an ideal that all crossovers project but few can actually deliver. Passenger and cargo capacity are also purportedly somewhat more generous, and Mitsubishi’s earnest desire to compete with the varsity squad is evident in the design.

#9 Compact Crossover SUV: 2011 Nissan Juke

Rank: #9

Score: 1096

The 2011 Nissan Juke has an amazing personality. Hailing from an established line of sporty vehicles, it ticks off all the boxes: light, quick, affordable. Unfortunately, the avant-garde styling is alienating to some would-be customers and seems to come at the expense of an XUV’s key selling point: capacity. Cargo space is severely limited given its intended purpose, forcing a confusing compromise on potential buyers.