Compact SUV

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Subaru Forester, one of the first vehicles to be named a compact SUV
Suzuki Grand Vitara, a modern compact SUV


Compact SUV (nicknamed "cute-ute") is a class of small sport utility vehicles with a length between 4.25 and 4.60 m (170-185 in). This class should not be confused with mini SUV, which refers to smaller vehicles, usually under 4.10 m (165 in) long.

Most of current compact SUVs are crossover SUVs, as they have unibody construction and few off-road capabilities. In this case, the chassis may be derived from a compact car / small family car.

Some modern compact SUVs have some features which resemble compact MPVs and regular hatchbacks besides those of sport utility vehicles; examples of this are the Dodge Caliber, SEAT Altea, Nissan Qashqai and Chevrolet HHR. Most automakers create new market niches by mixing segments with the goal of attracting new customers.

See also