Compact SUV size comparison

coachclass

Hi,
My wife and I have been looking to get a new SUV in the $23k-$26k range. I've been looking at a few common contenders, but it's hard to judge the size of these SUVs. It would be great to have these cars lined up right next to each other. All we can do is look from one dealership to another and try to visually remember how big the interior is. So, maybe you guys can help me list these SUV's based on interior size? I know it's kind of complex because one car might be wider and another one longer...my priorities are:

1) Backseat room. We need two car seats, they kind of force the front passenger and driver to move their seats too close to the dash. I guess we can expect problem only exists for a few years, but even so.

2) Cargo area. We'd like to bring the dog out on outings, and still be able to haul the double stroller along without having to fiddle with putting it on a roof rack.

The models that are within our price range:

Mazda CX-5
Toyota Rav4
Honda CR-V
Hyundai Tucson

One thing I've been wondering if you happen to have a car with keyless entry and ignition. Is it nice? I've never had one like that. It seems super convenient, especially with kids so you don't have to dig out your key when you have groceries in one hand and a 2-year old in the other.

kyfdx

Keyless entry and ignition are awesome. There is a little bit of a learning curve, but once you get used to the differences, it is really nice.

Can't help you with the cargo/interior room specs, but the Mazda, followed by the Honda are my favorites. If I had to guess, the Tucson and RAV4 might also be smaller than those two (inside).

Michaell

I will second my co-hosts opinion on the keyless entry. Both my wife and my daughter's cars have that feature, and it's one of the few things that will be a "must have" on my next car.

If you use the Edmunds site to research each vehicle, the specification numbers are available. Granted, numbers alone don't tell the whole story, but it's at least a place to start.

While I doubt the dealers would be keen on letting your dogs into the cargo compartment of a brand new car, I don't see any reason why they wouldn't allow you to set up the car seats in the back and put the double stroller into the cargo area. Then, you can take pictures with your phone so you have some visual evidence to review later.

I, too, like the Mazda best - but, it's a more sporty ride that isn't everybody's cup of tea. The Hyundai has lots of standard features. The CR-V is a perennial favorite, and some pretty awesome deals are available right now.