If you’re looking for a versatile vehicle that can handle both city driving and towing, a compact SUV could be the perfect option for you. Compact SUVs have gained popularity in recent years due to their combination of a spacious interior and fuel efficiency. However, not all compact SUVs are built for towing, so it’s important to know what factors to consider before making a purchase.
One of the factors to consider when looking for a compact SUV for towing is the towing capacity. It's important to make sure the vehicle's towing capacity aligns with what you need to tow. Another factor to consider is the type of hitch that will be required for the vehicle. If you’re planning on towing frequently, you may want to opt for a vehicle that comes standard with a tow package. Additionally, you want to make sure the vehicle has a reliable engine and transmission that can handle the added weight.
Are you looking for a vehicle that can handle your weekend adventures or your work needs? Are you concerned about fuel efficiency while still being able to haul your cargo? Discovering the right compact SUV for you can be a daunting task. However, it’s important to consider these factors and to ask yourself what you need in a compact SUV before making your decision. By digging a little deeper and asking the right questions, you can find the perfect compact SUV for your towing needs.
10 Best Compact Suv For Towing
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The product is an ideal cargo carrier for vehicles with a 2" receiver hitch, suitable for camping, traveling and transportation.
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Ideal for wireless towing and trailer lighting needs of trucks, trailers, RVs, SUVs, and boats.
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Ideal for transporting heavy items on the back of your vehicle using a hitch mount.
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This product is ideal for transporting luggage, cargo, and equipment on the back of an SUV, truck, or car.
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This product is ideal for camping, traveling, and creating a comfortable sleeping surface in cars or at home.
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Ideal for sleeping and resting comfortably in vehicles, including SUVs, RVs, trucks, and minivans during travel or camping.
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The hitch cargo carrier is ideal for transporting heavy loads on the back of vehicles with a 2" hitch receiver.
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Ideal for hauling large items or luggage, with a weight capacity of 500 lbs and comes with straps and a stabilizer.
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Ideal for hauling luggage, camping gear, supplies, generators, and more on cars, trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps with 2" receiver hitch.
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10
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Ideal for towing heavy trailers and equipment with a 2-1/2" hitch receiver.
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1. Oklead Heavy Duty Hitch Cargo Carrier
The Heavy Duty Steel Cargo Carrier is a one-piece construction with a matt black powder coating finish that resists elements, rust, and scratches. It has a mesh surface that prevents smaller objects from falling through, and 14.4 inches raised tubular side rails that ensure the cargo does not jolt or slide randomly. The cargo carrier is also equipped with two red reflectors that provide safety when driving at night, on rainy days, or in severe weather. It fits any 2-inch trailer hitch opening and has a 500 lb distributed weight capacity. To ensure that the cargo load is balanced, distribute the weight evenly on the platform or fix it in the middle position. The cargo carrier is extra-large and has a capacity perfect for hauling extra cargo bags, camping equipment, luggage, and more.
The Heavy Duty Steel Cargo Carrier is designed to make hauling extra cargo more convenient and safe. Its one-piece construction and matt black powder coating finish make it durable and resistant to elements, rust, and scratches. The mesh surface prevents smaller objects from falling through, and the raised tubular side rails ensure the cargo does not jolt or slide randomly. The cargo carrier is also equipped with reflectors that provide safety when driving at night or in severe weather. Its 500 lbs distributed weight capacity and easy installation make it versatile and perfect for hauling extra cargo bags, camping equipment, luggage, and more.
The Heavy Duty Steel Cargo Carrier is an excellent addition to any vehicle. Its one-piece construction and matt black powder coating finish make it durable and resistant to elements, rust, and scratches. The mesh surface prevents smaller objects from falling through, and the raised tubular side rails ensure the cargo does not jolt or slide randomly. The cargo carrier also has reflectors that provide safety when driving at night or in severe weather. Its 500 lbs distributed weight capacity and easy installation make it versatile and perfect for hauling extra cargo bags, camping equipment, luggage, and more.
- One-piece construction with matt black powder coating finish that resists elements, rust, and scratches
- Mesh surface prevents smaller objects from falling through
- Raised tubular side rails ensure the cargo does not jolt or slide randomly
- Equipped with reflectors that provide safety when driving at night or in severe weather
- 500 lbs distributed weight capacity
- Easy installation
- Extra-large size and capacity
2. Vulcan Wireless Led Towing And Trailer Light Kit For Trucks, Trailers, Rvs, Suvs, And Boats
The Complete Wireless Trailering and Towing Kit by Vulcan is the perfect solution for hassle-free towing. This kit is easy to use and installs in just seconds. It includes two wireless, rechargeable trailer lights, two universal pivot brackets that can be mounted vertically or horizontally with the twist of a knob, heavy-duty magnets with suction cups, a 7-wire blade transmitter, dual USB charging cable to charge both lights simultaneously, USB cigarette plug adapter, and a sturdy carrying case.
The ultra-bright stop, turn, and taillight LEDs can be seen up to one mile away and are designed to work off your vehicle’s headlights, brake lights, and turn signals. The transmitter and lights have a range of 100 feet, making it easy to reach the back of any trailer or towed vehicle. The wireless lights operate for up to 8 hours on a full charge and can easily recharge in about 2 hours. Each unit also includes a white license plate light.
This kit also includes a universal pivoting bracket with multi-positioning capabilities, allowing you to mount it vertically or horizontally without the need to change brackets or re-mount. Two sets of brackets and magnets are included, ensuring that you will be prepared to trailer or tow in no time, no matter how or where you need to mount these lights, as long as you have a solid metal surface.
The strong, rubber-coated magnets of this kit stick to any solid metal surface and have a 90-pound pull. The magnets include a suction cup that increases the bond between the light and the towed vehicle or trailer. The unique double action suction-magnet system holds better and longer than magnets or suction cups alone. The coating is specially designed to decrease the chance of surface or paint damage.
Each light is individually factory tested for brightness and waterproofing to guarantee that they meet IP65 waterproofing standards. This is a step that many manufacturers do not take, but Vulcan does, ensuring that each light is guaranteed to be fully functional. This kit comes with a two-year manufacturer’s warranty.
In summary, the Complete Wireless Trailering and Towing Kit by Vulcan is a must-have for anyone who wants to tow or trailer with confidence. With its easy installation, ultra-bright LEDs, long battery life, universal pivoting bracket, strong magnets with suction cups, and individual factory testing, this kit is the ultimate solution for hassle-free towing.
- Easy to install and use
- Ultra-bright stop, turn, and taillight LEDs
- 100-foot range and long battery life
- Universal pivoting bracket with multi-positioning capabilities
- Strong magnets with suction cups
- Individually factory tested for brightness and waterproofing
- Two-year manufacturer’s warranty
3. Mockins Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Bundle.
Transporting your belongings has never been easier with the 16 Cu Ft Waterproof Cargo Bag and Hitch Carrier. The cargo bag comes with carry handles, six buckle straps, two ratchet straps, a safety bag lock, and a cargo net to ensure the safe transport of your belongings. The included storage bag makes storing your cargo carrier bag and accessories easy and mess-free. Additionally, the hitch carrier comes with a hitch stabilizer to reduce noise and a hitch lock to secure your carrier to your car and prevent theft. For extra security, each set of keys is specific to its lock.
Constructed with heavy-duty steel, the car trailer hitch carrier can hold up to 500 lbs of cargo, such as luggage, camping gear, and construction material. The tray measures 60” long x 20” wide x 6” tall, providing ample space and multiple easy access tie-down points. The hitch storage rack also features a simple-to-clean mesh floor, making it great for all occasions, such as camping road trips or tailgates. The hitch hauler comes with a 2" rise for improved ground clearance and a foldable basket for easy storage when not in use. Please note that the cargo carrier is not compatible with cars that have a tire on the back as your side swing door will not open.
The package includes a 16 Cu Ft waterproof cargo bag that measures 58 X 20 X 24 inches, a storage carry bag for your cargo bag and accessories, two rainproof ratchet straps, an extra-thick 6mm heavy-duty cargo net, hitch stabilizer, and hitch lock for added security. This hitch basket is great for any vehicle, including cars, SUVs, vans, or trucks that have a 2" receiver.
This transport carrier is easy to use and great for all your transportation needs. It comes with a 1-year limited warranty, and the manufacturer prioritizes customer satisfaction. If you have any questions or concerns about your carrier, please contact the manufacturer, and they will resolve any issues you have.
- Heavy-duty steel construction for durability
- Ample space and multiple tie-down points for secure transport
- Includes a waterproof cargo bag, hitch stabilizer, and hitch lock for added security
- Simple-to-clean mesh floor
- Compatible with most vehicles that have a 2" receiver
- 1-year limited warranty for customer satisfaction
- – Not compatible with cars that have a tire on the back
- – Loss of keys not covered under the warranty
4. Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier – Ultimate Cargo Solution
The TITIMO trailer hitch cargo carrier is a durable and reliable option for anyone looking for a way to transport their belongings. Constructed with heavy duty tubular steel, this cargo carrier boasts high strength and a lightweight mesh design. The E-coat and carbide black powder coat provide long-lasting corrosion resistance, ensuring that this carrier will last for years to come. With a capacity of up to 550 lbs, it is perfect for transporting heavy items.
Safety is a top priority with this cargo carrier. The 6-inch high walls around the cargo basket and mesh bottom keep your items secure during travel, while the reflectors attached to the frame promote a safe ride. The item dimensions are 60"L x 21" W x 6"H, making it a perfect fit for any vehicle with a 2" receiver.
This hitch cargo carrier also features a folding design. Equipped with a folding shank, it can easily be folded up when not in use, even if your vehicle has a spare tire. This feature makes it easy to store and transport the carrier without taking up too much space.
The TITIMO cargo carrier comes with a luxurious package that includes a super duty bungee cargo net, rainproof ratchet straps, and a waterproof cargo cover. These accessories provide added convenience and protection for your belongings. The cargo cover protects your luggage and other items from road grit, sun damage, and rain, while the reflectors pasted around the hitch cargo rack help improve safety at night.
TITIMO stands behind their product and offers a lifetime warranty on all parts. If anything happens after your purchase, their friendly support team is available to help with a resolution in 24 hours. This cargo carrier is a reliable and long-lasting option for anyone in need of extra space for their travels.
- Durable construction with heavy duty tubular steel
- Lightweight mesh design
- E-coat and carbide black powder coat for long-lasting corrosion resistance
- 6-inch high walls and mesh bottom for enhanced security
- Folding design for easy storage
- Comes with luxurious package including cargo net, ratchet straps, and cargo cover
- Lifetime warranty on all parts
5. Saygogo Suv Air Bed – Ultimate Camping Companion
The Functional Air Mattress is a versatile 3-in-1 air mattress that can be used for home, SUV car, and outdoor activities like camping and beach trips. It comes equipped with 6 air bags, providing maximum comfort and stability. The 6 separate air chamber design improves stability and makes it compatible with various car models.
Made of thick PVC material, the air mattress is durable and can support up to 3 large people without leaking air. It is easy to inflate and deflate with the provided car air pump and 3 kinds of inflate funnels. Inflation takes 6-10 minutes, while deflation takes 6-8 minutes. The air mattress is portable and user-friendly, and an instruction manual is included in the package.
The package includes 1 air mattress (measuring 175x130x15cm when inflated), 2 pillows, 1 long pier, 1 air pump, 1 carry bag, 1 instruction manual, and 1 colorful carton. The after-sale warranty ensures customer satisfaction, and they can contact the manufacturer for any queries or issues.
- Versatile 3-in-1 air mattress for home, car, and outdoor use
- 6 air bags and 6 separate air chambers provide maximum comfort and stability
- Made of thick PVC material, durable and leak-proof
- Easy to inflate and deflate with the included air pump and funnels
- Portable and user-friendly, with an included instruction manual
- Comes with 2 pillows, a long pier, and a carry bag for convenience
- After-sale warranty ensures customer satisfaction
6. Travel Bed Bundle With Built-In Pillows
Experience a comfortable and relaxed travel time with the Flocking Air Mattress, which is made of thick, soft, and velvety material. It is designed to provide you with a comfortable sleeping space of 55 x 35 x 18 inches (after inflating). The material used in the air mattress is of high quality, ensuring durability and strength. In case of any issues with the product, customers can directly contact the seller to get a satisfactory solution within 24 hours.
The Flocking Air Mattress is easy to inflate and fold, making it convenient to carry. The air pressure can be adjusted by opening the valve to release the air. This portable air mattress comes with two pillows suitable for children, adults, or pets. It is perfect for camping, traveling, vacationing, and other outdoor activities. The inflatable mattress is flat, spacious, and comfortable enough to accommodate most models of sedans, SUVs, and MPVs except for extended Lincolns, trucks, and minibusses. It is an essential outdoor necessity that provides a safe and comfortable sleeping space for all.
The Flocking Air Mattress is an ideal choice for those who love to travel and spend time outdoors. It is designed to provide you with a comfortable sleeping space, whether you are on a camping trip, festival, surf trip, or any other adventure. The soft and velvety material of the air mattress ensures a comfortable sleeping experience and makes it easy to carry. So, if you are planning a trip, make sure to take the Flocking Air Mattress with you to have a comfortable and relaxed travel time.
- Made of thick, soft and velvety material
- Durable and strong
- Easy to inflate and fold
- Comes with two pillows suitable for children, adults, or pets
- Suitable for most models of sedans, SUVs, and MPVs
- Provides a comfortable sleeping space for camping, traveling, vacationing and other outdoor activities
- – Not suitable for extended Lincolns, trucks, and minibusses
7. Hitchmaxx Cargo Carrier – Load More On-The-Go!
The heavy-duty steel construction of this basket makes it a reliable option for carrying up to 500 pounds of distributed weight. It features an outer basket size of 53 x 19 x 5 inches and an inner basket size of 51 x 17-1/2 x 4-1/2 inches, providing ample space to carry your items. This basket is designed to fit a hitch receiver of 2 x 2 inches and comes with a durable black powder coat finish that adds to its longevity. If you need more information about this product, please scroll down and browse our A+ pages.
- Can carry up to 500 pounds of distributed weight
- Ample space provided by the basket's outer and inner sizes
- Heavy-duty steel construction makes it a reliable option
- Comes with a durable black powder coat finish that adds to its longevity
8. Fold-N-Go Hitch Cargo Carrier Set
The cargo hitch carrier is a must-have for anyone who needs extra space for their luggage or equipment. It is designed to be durable, with tubular steel in black epoxy powder coating that promotes high strength and a lightweight design. The carrier is rated for 500 lbs., making it ideal for heavy items. The overall dimensions of the carrier are 60"(L) x 20"(W) x 6"(H), providing ample space for your cargo. The mesh base of the carrier makes it easy to clean up messes and ensures that your items stay secure while on the road.
The cargo hitch carrier is equipped with an angled shank that provides additional ground clearance for off-road vehicles or low-riding vehicles. This feature ensures that you can travel on uneven terrain without damaging your cargo.
Another great feature of this cargo hitch carrier is its reflectors. These add visibility to the carrier and your vehicle, making it safer to drive at night. You can travel with confidence, knowing that your cargo is secure and visible to other drivers.
In addition to the carrier, you will also receive several accessories, including a waterproof cargo bag that has a capacity of 16 cubic feet (58" 19" 24"). The bag is perfect for keeping your items dry and protected from the elements. You will also receive a hitch stabilizer that reduces noise and movement while driving, a cargo net with attachment hooks, and ratchet straps. These accessories ensure that your cargo stays secure and in place while you're on the road.
- Durable tubular steel construction
- Rated for 500 lbs.
- Angled shank for additional ground clearance
- Reflectors for increased visibility at night
- Includes several accessories for added convenience
9. Quadratec Cargo Rack: Hitch-Mounted Platform For All Vehicles.
The Quadratec receiver hitch cargo rack basket carrier is an ideal solution for individuals with limited cargo space. Whether you're planning a road trip and require an extra luggage carrier or need to haul supplies around town, this cargo rack has got you covered. It is compatible with most cars, trucks, SUVs, RVs, and ATVs, making it a convenient option for many.
Quadratec's receiver hitch cargo racks are designed for easy hauling of dirty and heavy items such as trash, car parts, concrete, and mulch. The cargo rack is constructed with heavy-duty tubular steel and has rails on all four sides, providing maximum stability during travel. Additionally, it is coated with black powder to withstand harsh weather while maintaining its aesthetic appeal.
The cargo rack is designed to fit a standard 2" x 2" Class II receiver hitch and has a cargo capacity of up to 300lbs. However, the cargo capacity may be limited by the vehicle or hitch capacity rating. The cargo basket platform can be easily installed in minutes by sliding it into the tow trailer receiver hitch on your vehicle. With 5" sides, you can rest assured that your luggage, gardening supplies, or any other gear and accessories will remain securely in place during travel.
- Compatible with most cars, trucks, SUVs, RVs, and ATVs
- Heavy-duty tubular steel construction provides maximum stability
- Easy to install in minutes
- – Cargo capacity may be limited by the vehicle or hitch capacity rating
10. Shocker Hd 20k Air Hitch With Combo Ball Mount, Fits 2-1/2" Hitch
The Shocker HD air receiver hitch is a highly advanced towing technology designed to provide a smoother and safer towing experience. It is equipped with a heavy-duty built-in air spring that cushions the ride and absorbs road shocks, while the dual rubber bump cushions offer additional performance. The airbag is designed to absorb road shock, create a smooth ride, and reduce the tendency to trailer sway.
This hitch features a safety red powder-coat finish that provides an impact-resistant premium powder-coat finish on the base frame. It also includes eight adjustment holes that allow you to adjust the height for the combo-ball mount from 1/2 inch to 4-1/2 inches of drop, making it ideal for pickups, full-size pickup trucks and vans, midsize pickups, and select SUVs with a receiver under the bumper.
With a 20,000 lbs heavy-duty capacity and a 2,000 lbs tongue weight, this hitch is adjustable for weight, allowing you to fine-tune for your towing weight. Simply add air for heavier loads. The kit includes a complete Shocker HD air receiver hitch base frame assembly with a built-in 20K airbag and dual bump cushions, an adjustable combo ball mount, and two D-handle ball mount hitch pins. Additionally, you can choose from 10+ ball options (sold separately) including drop, raised, sway bar tab options, pintle, clevis, drawbar, and more.
It is important to note that the Shocker Hitch is a heavy-duty unit that in most cases exceeds factory towing weight capacities. Therefore, it is essential to read and follow the tongue and tow weight recommendations of the truck it is mounted on, hitch and ball rating, the trailer coupler rating, and the ratings of the trailer you are towing. Manufactured by Shocker Hitch USA in Arthur, ND, this hitch is an excellent investment for those who want a safer and smoother towing experience.
- Heavy-duty airbag for a cushioned and smooth ride
- Dual rubber bump cushions for additional performance
- Adjustable height for combo-ball mount for easy customization
- Includes a complete kit with a built-in airbag and dual bump cushions
- Fine-tune the hitch for your towing weight by adding air for heavier loads
- Excellent investment for those who want a safer and smoother towing experience
- – May exceed factory towing weight capacities, so it is essential to read and follow the recommendations
Best Compact Suv For Towing FAQs
Can a compact SUV tow a small camper or trailer?
Yes, a compact SUV can tow a small camper or trailer, but it depends on the weight of the camper or trailer and the maximum towing capacity of the SUV. Most compact SUVs have a towing capacity of around 3,500 pounds, which is suitable for towing small campers or trailers. However, it's important to check the owner's manual of the SUV to ensure that it is equipped with the necessary towing features, such as a hitch receiver, wiring harness, and transmission cooler.
Before towing a camper or trailer, it's also important to ensure that the weight of the camper or trailer is within the towing capacity of the SUV, and that the weight distribution is balanced. Overloading the SUV or the trailer can result in dangerous driving conditions, such as swaying, loss of control, and decreased stopping distance.
Overall, a compact SUV can be a great vehicle for towing a small camper or trailer, but it's important to do your research and ensure that both the SUV and the trailer are properly equipped and within their weight limits.
How does towing with a compact SUV compare to a larger SUV or truck?
When it comes to towing, the size and weight of the vehicle being used can have a significant impact on how easy or challenging the task can be. While larger SUVs and trucks are generally thought of as being better for towing, a compact SUV can also be up for the task.
A compact SUV has a smaller frame and engine, which means it may not be able to tow as heavy a load as a larger SUV or truck. However, many modern compact SUVs have impressive towing capacities, with some able to tow up to 5,000 pounds.
When compared to larger SUVs or trucks, a compact SUV may not have the same level of stability or power when towing. This can make it more challenging to control the trailer, especially in windy or hilly conditions. Additionally, a larger SUV or truck may have more towing features and technology, such as trailer sway control or a built-in trailer brake controller.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to tow with a compact SUV or a larger vehicle depends on the specific needs of the driver. For lighter loads or occasional towing, a compact SUV may be sufficient. However, for heavier loads or more frequent towing, a larger SUV or truck may be the better option.
What is the maximum towing capacity of a compact SUV?
The maximum towing capacity of a compact SUV varies depending on the make and model of the vehicle. Generally, compact SUVs have a maximum towing capacity of around 3,500 pounds. However, some SUVs such as the Subaru Forester have a maximum towing capacity of up to 1,500 pounds, while others such as the Jeep Cherokee can tow up to 4,500 pounds.
It's important to keep in mind that the towing capacity of an SUV is affected by several factors such as the engine size, transmission type, and the presence of a towing package. It's also essential to adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations for towing capacity and ensure that the load is distributed evenly to prevent accidents.
If you're planning on towing with your compact SUV, it's essential to research the specific make and model to determine the maximum towing capacity and ensure that you have the proper equipment and training to do so safely.
What safety features should a compact SUV have for towing?
When it comes to towing with a compact SUV, safety should always be a top priority. To ensure a safe towing experience, there are several important safety features that a compact SUV should have.
First and foremost, the SUV should be equipped with a strong and reliable towing hitch. A good towing hitch should be able to handle the weight of the trailer without compromising the stability of the SUV.
Another important safety feature is a trailer brake controller. This device is responsible for applying the brakes on the trailer when the driver applies the brakes on the SUV. This helps to prevent the trailer from swaying or jackknifing, which can be dangerous on the road.
A compact SUV should also have a robust suspension system that can handle the weight of the trailer without causing the SUV to bounce or sway. Additionally, the SUV should have a powerful engine that can provide enough torque to pull the trailer up hills and through difficult terrain.
Other important safety features include a backup camera, blind spot monitoring, and lane departure warning systems. These features can help the driver to stay aware of their surroundings and avoid accidents while towing.
Overall, it's important to choose a compact SUV that has been specifically designed for towing and has all the necessary safety features to ensure a safe and enjoyable towing experience.
Which compact SUVs are the best for towing?
When it comes to towing with a compact SUV, there are a few models that stand out from the rest. The first one is the 2021 Mazda CX-5, which has a maximum towing capacity of 2,000 pounds. This compact SUV boasts a powerful engine and a smooth ride, making it an ideal choice for those who want to tow a small trailer or boat.
Another great option is the 2021 Toyota RAV4, which can tow up to 3,500 pounds. This SUV is equipped with a powerful engine and a variety of towing features, including Trailer Sway Control and a Tow Package.
The 2021 Ford Escape is also a strong contender, with a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. This SUV has a turbocharged engine and a range of advanced safety features that make towing a breeze.
Lastly, the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox is a versatile compact SUV with a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds. It has a spacious interior, a fuel-efficient engine, and a range of advanced features that make it an excellent choice for towing.
In conclusion, when it comes to compact SUVs that are best for towing, the Mazda CX-5, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, and Chevrolet Equinox are all excellent options to consider.