Consumer Reports' 19 Most Satisfying Compact SUVs to Buy in 2026

These mainstream and luxury models are smart choices that make their owners happy and perform well in CR's tests

Jon Linkov, Consumer Reports Autos Editor.

By Jon Linkov
Autos Editor

Updated February 26, 2026

blue 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid on road with desert landscape in background — Honda CR-V Hybrid

Every year, Consumer Reports asks members to tell us how happy they are with the vehicles they own and whether they would buy them again. Every year, reliable and fuel-efficient vehicles lead the results. For 2026, 12 of the models are hybrids or plug-in hybrids (PHEVs).

Our annual member surveys include a fundamental question: Would you buy this car if you had to do it all over again? There’s a good chance that the SUVs that Consumer Reports members say they would definitely buy again are the ones you will be happiest with, too.

In this article

Compact SUVs
Luxury SUVs

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Jon Linkov

Jon Linkov is the deputy auto editor at Consumer Reports. He has been with CR since 2002, covering varied automotive topics including buying and leasing, maintenance and repair, ownership, reliability, used cars, and electric vehicles. He manages CR’s lineup of special interest publications, hosts CR’s “Talking Cars” podcast, and writes and edits content for CR’s online and print products. An avid cyclist, Jon also enjoys driving his ’80s-era sports car and instructing at track days.