Reliable, fuel-efficient, safe compact SUV

I don't personally care for the CR-V because I find it boring to look at and drive.

The CX-5 has been very reliable in our survey. The repairs that have been reported involve small stuff that Mazda has largely corrected with the current model year. It's probably the best fit for what you're looking for.

The Tiguan was fairly efficient in my testing as long as I drove it like I might a Prius. Take advantage of its extra power, and fuel economy drops dramatically. Based on our data a Tiguan would likely be reliable for at least the first two to three years, but after that could become more troublesome. So it depends on how long you'd plan to keep it, and how much you'd like to avoid even one repair per year.

One other thing: the Tiguan is a relatively old design, and doesn't offer as many safety features as the other two. In one relatively new crash test it received a moderate score, while the other two, which are newer designs, received good scores.

I liked the Subaru quite a bit as well, but it's not as sporty or as stylish as the Mazda or the VW.

Any of these could be a good choice, but there aren't really any good reasons not to get the CX-5 given what you're looking for.

You'll find additional information linked beneath the photos.

I recently sold a Mazda after 11 years, and the only thing really wrong with it was that it was rusting. The CX-5 has much better rust protection, in part from all that plastic cladding around the wheel openings.

Other things I had repaired: alternator, front control arms, a couple pairs of wheel bearings, and an ABS sensor. Not zero, but not much for 11 years. A CR-V might be a little more reliable when old, but the CX-5 is quite a bit more stylish and fun to drive.

If you look for excellent warranty go for any Hyundai SUV.