Subcompact crossovers are the best for starters. Limited power won’t let you drive recklessly. On the other hand, maintenance and running costs are exceptional. These models are not as popular as the compact segment, where some vehicles achieve 400k sales per annum. Well, some companies are even considering cutting their models from the market, since more buyers are choosing bigger SUVs. But, the results from 2019 are showing promises. The subcompact CUV share is 4.5 percent, 1 percent better than in the previous season.
Auto manufacturers continue to make safety a top priority across all makes and models. Here are the 2020 Crossovers that have the best safety ratings according to the National Highway Traffic. The subcompact 2020 Kona is the whole package: Striking looks, engaging driving dynamics, and a comfortable cabin. A pair of four-cylinder engines are available, the best of which is the. In 2020, Chevy sold more than 106,000 Trax vehicles in the U.S., making it one of the highest-selling models in the segment. Unfortunately, good sales don't always translate into a great car. The next-gen Grand Cherokee is expected to reach the dealerships in late 2020 and promises to become one of the best model year 2021 crossovers in an instant. 2021 Alfa Romeo Castello It didn’t take the iconic Italian brand best recognized for timeless designs to expand its lineup of vehicles on the U.S. Search make, model, or keyword. Search CarMax inventory. Home CarMax Facebook CarMax Twitter My store name Find Your Store.
Besidesthe fuel economy and cheap maintenance, a big advantage of mini crossovers isgreat agility. Also, these are the cheapest vehicles in the class. On the otherhand, you are not getting too much power and the cargo space is not toogenerous. Rear seats are cramped, but some models have nice layouts thatprovide enough legroom.
Let’s see which are the best subcompact crossovers in the market.
2020Chevy Trax
We’llstart from the best-selling model in the segment for the previous season.General Motors sold 116,000 units, of 750,000 subcompact crossovers sold in2019.
The 2020 Chevy Trax will offer more room than its rivals. Drivers will need more alert and warning features, though. The base price of the GM’s smallest crossover is $22,300 with the destination fee, and it comes with a nicely equipped interior. A 7-inch touchscreen is the center of the infotainment system that comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support.
Under the bonnet of the 2020 Chevy Trax is a 1.4-liter turbo-four engine capable of producing 140 hp and 150 lb-ft of torque. We expected a better fuel economy, but the CUV can’t do better than 31 mpg (front-wheel drive). The resale value of the Trax is backing off buyers, while the 2020 edition comes with new colors and Midnight package updates.
2020Honda HR-V
The Japanese company updated its CUV for the previous season. So, there is no need for further upgrades right now. Unchanged, the 2020 Honda HR-V will cost just under $22,000, while the Sport trim adds $1,700. EX, EX-L, and Touring are other models that add navigation, leather upholstery, and improved safety systems.
The powerplant for Honda’s mini crossover is a 1.8-liter displacement. The four-cylinder engine delivers 140 hp and 127 lb-ft of torque through a CVT. Comparing to the Chevrolet Trax, the 2020 Honda HR-V will return a better fuel economy, 31 mpg combined. With an AWD it drops to 29 mpg.
2020Hyundai Kona
The fastest-growing brand in the automotive market is Hyundai. In the previous season, its Kona achieved 55 percent higher sales. This season, we can expect even more from the 2020 Hyundai Kona. The company added the SEL Plus trim, while most other versions will now offer wireless charging. Ultimate model is more luxurious with adaptive cruise control.
That is not all. Besides the gasoline engines, the CUV is available with an electric drivetrain. After the update, the battery provides a range of 258 miles and 200 horsepower. There are also two other petrol units – a base 2.0-liter aad turbocharged 1.6. The first one comes with a class-average 147 hp and 132 lb-ft. The other one steps up with 175 hp and 195 pound-feet of torque.
Base versions of the 2020 Hyundai Kona cost only $20,000, which makes this CUV one of the best buys in the segment.
2020 JeepRenegade
After a fruitful season in 2018, Renegade achieved a 20 percent drop in sales last year. The facelift was not a good choice and the raise of the competition is something that should worry about the FCA.
The 2020Jeep Renegade will come unchanged. Fans praise the look of the CUV, as well asits off-road abilities, especially the Trailhawk edition. The resale value isnot as good as for the Honda HR-V.
With more power than its rivals, Renegade can develop 180 hp either you choose turbocharged I3 or the Tigershark 2.4 four-pot engine. The first one is still new and the reports are positive so far. The base price of the 2020 Jeep Renegade will be again around $23,000.
2020Nissan Kicks
The successor of Nissan Juke has a rough time. Kicks is not meeting expectations after the company decided to make a replacement. Since it is not the time for big changes yet, we doubt that the model for this season can make things better.
The overallimpression about the crossover is not bad though and we don’t know why it doesn’tsell better. The 2020 Nissan Kicks will cost only $20,500 and the base packagecomes with Apple CarPlay and Android auto. Under the hood is a 1.6-literfour-cylinder engine. It might not be too powerful with 120 hp, but the modelreturns 33 mpg. Still, the company will need more options for the engine room.For example, if you pick the SR model, you will get Bose audio, leathersteering wheel, and spoilers to boost exterior appearance.
We would recommend you wait for the next season. The company announced big changes in the crossover and SUV classes. Chiefs were not precise, but we believe that the first revisit is due for the 2021 Nissan Kicks. So, the upgraded crossover could bring some serious changes for the first time since it arrived in 2018.
2020 ToyotaC-HR
If theKicks is underachieving, then disappointment with the Toyota is even bigger.The C-HR debuted with an aggressive look and high expectations. While Rav4 isbreaking records in sales, its smaller sibling found less than 50,000 homes lastyear.
Well, thenew 2020 Toyota C-HR could revive the interest in this nameplate. The companyupdated the front fascia and there are new wheels and LED headlights. Toyota finallymade Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available for their vehicles.
Itegno driver download for windows 10. A few reasons why you should buy the 2020 Toyota C-HR are attractive styling, superb handling and agility, excellent fuel economy, a safety package with advanced features, and great resale value. On the other hand, the lacks of the 2020 Toyota C-HR are no AWD, tight rear row and cargo area, and pricey. The MSRP of the company’s smallest crossover is $21,300.
2020 FordEcoSport
The Blue Oval company focuses on larger vehicles rather than the mini crossovers. Still, the 2020 Ford EcoSport is an important player on the market. Well, it seems that replacement is almost ready, with the Ford Puma prototypes looking production-ready.
The 2020 Ford EcoSport comes with a 1.0-liter I3 turbocharged engine as the latest addition. This small block is delivering 123 hp and 125 lb-ft of torque. You won’t get too much power, but the crossover performs similarly in urban areas and on the open road. If you want more torque, then a 2.0-liter I4 is an optional engine. In this case, EcoSport is gaining 165 hp and 150 lb-ft.
The subcompact crossover is available in four trim levels. The entry-level trim is S, with the MSRP just shy of $20k. The SE will already boost the offer since it adds $3,500. The 2020 Ford EcoSport Titanium uses premium B&O audio, leather upholstery, and 17-inch wheels. Still, it is not the most expensive model in the lineup, with SES version having a $27,500 price tag.
2020 MazdaCX-3
MazdaCX-3 underachieved last season. The company sold only 16k units, and we wereshocked. This is one of the most versatile crossovers in the subcompactsegment. Well, its base price of nearly $21,500 might be the stumbling block.
The 2020 Mazda CX-3 will be a good choice for an off-road drive. Jeep Renegade Trailhawk might be better, but there are no too many other models that can keep the pace with CX-3. We can say the same for the cargo space. Again, we can’t expect too much from such a vehicle and made it a downside.
The SkyActiv technology is making the 2020 Mazda CX-3 a favorite among buyers who wants power and fuel economy in one. A 2.0-liter unit is capable to produce 150 hp and 146 lb-ft of torque while returning 32 mpg combined. Even the AWD model is keeping the record above 30 mpg.
The new CX-3 could get a hybrid engine. We could hear a lot of rumors about this drivetrain, but it wasn’t there when the company launched the crossover. We still believe that the hybrid engine will come eventually, probably as an update in the second half of 2020.
2020 Kia Soul
Another all-electric crossover on the list. It uses the same system as the Hyundai Kona. Also, the alternatives are the same. A 2.0-liter produces the same amount of power, while the 1.6-l displacement is tuned to burst more – 200 hp and 195 lb-ft.
Whatsoever, the 2020 Kia Soul is an all-new model with a focus on its styling. One of the rear boxy crossovers draws more attention than its sibling Kona. For its size, the Soul is pretty spacious. Also, the price will make you consider it a good buy. Well, there is a strange thing about the new model. The company launched an off-road oriented X-Line trim, but there is no all-wheel drive available.
The 2020 Kia Soul Electric is definitely the star of the lineup. A 64 kWh battery is ready to cover 243 miles. It is pretty capable with 200 hp and 290 lb-ft of torque. A 10-inch screen is a highlight that you won’t find anywhere else across the lineup. Other notable upgrades for the mini crossover are navigation, heated front buckets, or extra infotainment features.
2020 BuickEncore
The 2020Buick Encore is a mechanical twin of Chevy Trax. However, the upscale offer ismaking it more elegant, but it doesn’t belong to the premium class. The price startspretty high, but the Encore brings you features you must pay on the other crossovers.
The powersource for the 2020 Buick Encore is a 1.4-liter turbo-four engine with 140 hpand 150 lb-ft. A six-speed auto transmission forwards power to front wheels, oroptionally to all four corners. The gas mileage is not among the best in theclass with 27 mpg combined.
The new 2020 Buick Encore is available in four trim levels. The entry-level model is 1SV with 18-inch wheels. Preferred and Sport Tuning are the mid-range offer. The most expensive version is Essence, with dual-zone climate control, heated buckets, and leather upholstery. The price reaches $30,000 waters.
'SUVs aren’t typically the vehicle of choice for seniors. But that is starting to change.
As SUVs become smaller, more fuel-efficient, and are easier to get into and out of, they offer a number of benefits for more seasoned drivers.
This includes more room utility, a higher ride height with better visibility, more cargo-carrying capacity, superior all-weather driving capability, and more room for family, groceries, and grandkids.
And seniors who opt for a crossover model don’t have to compromise on safety. All of the models listed below are 2020 Top Safety Pick models from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Below are our picks for the best 2020 SUVs for seniors.
Hyundai Kona
The Kona is a subcompact crossover with a starting price of about $22,000. The model has a relatively upscale interior with simple, user-friendly controls.
The Kona comes with a host of standard features that are perfect for older drivers including forward collision warning, driver attention monitor, lane keep assist, and a rear-view camera.
Best 2020 Crossovers Under $50 000
The model has an easy to get into ground clearance of 6.7 inches.
Hyundai Santa Fe
The Santa Fe is a good value in the midsize SUV class. It’s also a good option for older drivers. It comes with a host of useful safety features including Safe Exit Assist, which prevents passengers from exiting the vehicle when cars or bicycles are approaching from behind.
The Santa Fe is easy to get into for its size with large door openings and 7.4 inches of ground clearance. Being in the midsize class, it seats five and has a good amount of cargo space with a high cabin to stretch out.
Mazda CX-5
The CX-5 is one of the best compact SUVs for seniors. It has a modest 7.5 inches of ground clearance and blends agile handling and fuel-efficiency with a sharp interior.
For 2020, the CX-5 has newly added standard drive assistance and maintains its user-friendly tech features.
Honda CR-V
The CR-V is a great compact SUV for senior drivers. It combines excellent fuel economy, good power, a spacious interior, comfortable seats with a large cargo area for its class.
The CR-V is a fantastic choice for seniors needing to load a walker or scooter. It has a hands-free lift-gate available, along with a power lift-gate and a low lift-over height.
The model’s safety features include road departure mitigation, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The CR-V combines quality, value, and utility making it a great choice for senior drivers, despite its 8.2 inches of ground clearance with all-wheel drive.
KIA Telluride
The Telluride is an all-new model for 2020. With ample size and comfortable seating for up to eight, the Telluride is a top SUV choice for seniors in the three-row crossover class.
The Telluride has a powerful V6 engine and smooth, composed ride for family trips while still getting 26-mpg highway. Despite being a larger vehicle, the Telluride has a manageable eight inches of ground clearance.
The Telluride also has the Safe Exit Assist feature, as seen in the Santa Fe, which prevents children from opening the rear doors when danger looms. It also has driver attention monitor and pedestrian detection, and a lot of safety tech, to allow seniors to feel confident and safe driving it. The model is also a great vehicle if you’re an overweight driver.
For senior drivers looking for a three-row SUV with lower ground clearance, consider the Honda Pilot, which is in the latter stages of its current generation but has aged well, at 7.3 inches and the Chevrolet Traverse at 7.5 inches. The Traverse also has one of the largest, most spacious interiors in the class.
Best 2020 Crossover Lease
Mercedes-Benz GLE
The GLE is a compact luxury crossover from the German automaker. In base form, the model tows a robust 7,700 pounds with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine.
Equipped with the latest safety features, the GLE has a ground clearance of 7.1 inches. The 2020 GLE has a starting price of $56,000 and is a good choice for older drivers who want to arrive in comfort, safety, and style.
Tesla Model Y
If you’re a senior in driving an electric SUV, the Model Y is a great choice. The Model Y has a powerful motor and can gain over 280 miles of range on a full charge.
The Model Y has a low center of gravity with a ground clearance of only 6.6 inches. This affords excellent handling, a spirited driving experience, and easy ingress and egress.
More Fuel-Efficient SUV Models for Seniors
Older drivers looking to save at the pump may also want to consider the RAV4 Hybrid. This compact crossover delivers an excellent EPA-estimated 41-mpg city and 38-mpg highway.
The RAV4 Hybrid has reasonably quick acceleration and standard all-wheel drive. One drawback for the RAV4 may be its 8.4 inches of ground clearance, which could be a bit of a hurdle for older drivers.
Best Luxury SUVs For Seniors
Best 2020 Crossover Suv
Some of the top picks for luxury SUVs for seniors include the Acura RDX, Lexus NX, and Cadillac XT6. You can learn more about those models and their safety features here.
In addition to the above, other valuable features to consider for seniors when choosing an SUV would include power-adjustable seats, key-less entry ignition, climate control zones, and larger controls.
And if you’re a dog owner, take a look at these 2020 dog-friendly SUVs.
Ground Clearance Can Vary Significantly
In reviewing our 2015 article on best SUVs for seniors, you’ll notice several models no longer make the list. Vehicles models can change quite a bit year to year.
In the case of the Toyota RAV4, the 2020 model has a ground clearance of 8.4 inches. In 2015, it was 6.3 inches to get into. This more than two inches difference can happen when a model is redesigned.
And among vehicle classes, the Model Y’s ground clear inches is more than two inches less than a Subaru Forester.
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