Small SUV quandary

I want to buy a new small SUV. But at a quandary to find one that meets my needs. Looking at Honda CR-V, Subaru Crosstrek or Mazda CX-5. I average just 5k miles per year with mostly short city trips (don't need hybrid). I prefer small car for parking ease. I rarely have a passenger so back seat/cargo space not that important. Mostly hot sun and lots of rain with rare ice/snow (live in Deep South). Roads in city are rough with lots of potholes. I am short stature and physical flexibility issues so easy entry/exit important.

I've been driving 2007 CRV for 18 years so naturally looking at 2026. BUT Honda CRV now has 1.5L Turbo engine and CVT. Not thrilled about small engines with turbos. Roominess is nice although I rarely need. Infotainment system seems ok for me with knobs for heat/AC and sound. Easy in and out with good visibility. All wheel drive is available. Not interested in HRV.

Suburu Crosstrek is ok. But I don't like laggy infotainment system. Not thrilled about CVT, slow acceleration and "rubberband" feeling. Really don't need roomier Forester so Crosstrek my interest. Has smoother ride for daily potholes and rough roads. Easy in and out with decent visibility. The headrests on rear seats interfere some with visibility but could just have seats always down since no passengers. Symmetrical all wheel drive great for rainy driving.

Mazda CX-5 is great for naturally aspirated 2.5L engine with 6 speed transmission. Infotainment system is hard for me to reach. And 2026 removed physical knobs for heat/AC and sound. Not as easy to enter and exit. Visibility problematic for me with thick A pillars. All wheel drive standard on all trims.

Posted Mar 30, 2026, 6:22 AM UTC

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