2007-'08 Compact Crossovers Comparison Test Video

By Edmunds Video Productions | Published September 23, 2009

5:25 min

Crossover SUVs continue to be popular thanks to a combination of SUV usefulness and car-like driving dynamics. They also don�t scream �Family Car� the same way a minivan does -- and that might be the real reason behind their success. For our comparison test, we factored in fuel economy, value and bang for the buck and rounded up four of the top crossover SUVs. They are the Honda CRV, Nissan Rouge, Mitsubishi Outlander, and the ever-popular Toyota RAV4. We made sure each contestant was equipped with all-wheel drive and as many features and options as we could get without breaking the $30,000 mark. Part of our Long Term fleet of test cars, this new Mistusbihi Outlander is a perfect fit for this comparison. Unfortunately its three notable option packages -- luxury, sun-and-sound, plus navigation -- force the price just over $30,000. If you nix the $1,800 hard-drive-based nav system, then the price looks a lot better on paper. The Mitsu�s only available engine is a 220-hp 3.0-liter V6. It sings a sporty song, but it's far from benchmark in terms of acceleration or fuel economy. The best 0-60 time we could manage was 9 seconds and we only averaged 18 mpg over a 1,000-mile distance. Both of these disappointing performances are likely due to the Outlander�s as- tested weight of 3,887pounds. This makes it the heaviest vehicle in the test. We also docked the Mitsu a few points for its awkward third-row seat. On the other hand, we found the Outlander to be a lot of fun to drive on a twisty back road. Still, the Mitsubisi Outlander finishes fourth in this group. Finishing less than one point ahead of the Mitsubishi is the Honda CRV EX-L with Nav. This version of the popular CR-V comes nicely equipped with such features as leather seats, voice- recognition navigation, rear-view parking camera and an upgraded audio system. The CRV costs $28,595. That�s certainly reasonable, but the CRV comes only with an inline four cylinder engine, and also a third-row seat isn't available. The CR-V's acceleration is adequate but far from inspiring. In fact, the engine and transmission combination is perhaps our biggest gripe. It delivers fuel economy at the price of performance, and the transmission hunts too frequently. The CRV�s 2.4-liter, 166 hp engine gets it from 0-60 in 9.5 seconds making it the slowest crossover in our test. Our test driver rated the Honda�s braking as �very good� thanks firm and linear pedal feel. The little ute comes to a full stop from 60 in 131 feet. Second place belongs to the Nissan Rouge, the newest SUV of the bunch. With the exception of a flimsy feeling shift lever, the Rogue's interior is one of its best features. Overall, the interior is better than the rest. The layout is clean and useful and the material colors are tasteful and warm. Our first impression of the Nissan Sentra-based Rogue is that it is a better Sentra than the Sentra itself. It�s better looking, has a nicer ride and offers more utility. It�s also the most car-like crossover in the test. The Rogue's suspension doesn't feel floaty or under-damped and offers a good balance of supple ride and polished control. The Rouge also had the shortest stopping distance of the group at just 123 feet. The Rouge is powered by a 2.5-liter inline four making 170 hp. Combined with a continuously variable transmission, it�s enough to get the Rouge from 0-60 in 9.2 seconds. The Rogue returns the best observed fuel economy in this test at over 22 mpg, with one tank returning 27 mpg. Of course this leaves first place to the Toyota RAV 4. It wins our comparison without breaking a sweat � it combines a dominant V6, an impressive roster of features, and a competitive price that easily adds up to a winner. Not only does the RAV4�s V6 make 103 more horsepower than the CRV�s inline four, it also matches its fuel economy when adjusted for 2008 EPA numbers. The Toyota is also the most competent off-road vehicle in this comparison thanks to a seamless all drive system plus downhill assist and hill-start assist. This is the only vehicle in our test to offer these useful features for off-road driving.. True, the RAV rang up at just over $29,000 but each editor said it was the RAV4 they�d drop their money on Finally, if you ever find yourself saying, "Sure, I'll take the upgrade," then the 2007 Toyota RAV4 is the best choice for you. It effortlessly combines utility and carlike comfort. The other guys are catching up, but for now, the Toyota RAV4 is still the one to beat.