Each year, Consumer Guide Automotive editors test drive and evaluate nearly every vehicle sold in the United States. Together, the editors rate each vehicle 1–10 in the following categories: Acceleration, Fuel Economy, Ride Quality, Steering/Handling/Braking, Quietness, Controls, Details, Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front), Room/Comfort (rear), Cargo Room, and Value Within Class.

The editors add those numbers to produce a total rating score for each vehicle. Below are the total rating scores for all 2012 compact SUVs (excluding luxury cars). Click the name of the car for a detailed review of that vehicle. Or simply check out The Consumer Guide to 2012 Compact SUVs.

1. Volkswagen Tiguan
Base MSRP: $22,840; Consumer Guide Rating: 77

2. Honda CR-V
Base MSRP: $22,295; Consumer Guide Rating: 72

2. Hyundai Tucson
Base MSRP: $19,045;  Consumer Guide Rating: 72

4. Subaru Forester
Base MSRP: $20,595; Consumer Guide Rating: 70

5. Suzuki Grand Vitara
Base MSRP: $19,499; Consumer Guide Rating: 68

5. Toyota RAV4
Base MSRP: $21,925; Consumer Guide Rating: 68

7. Kia Sportage    Base MSRP: $18,500; Consumer Guide Rating: 65

8. Ford Escape    Base MSRP: $21,240; Consumer Guide Rating: 64

9. Mini Countryman    Base MSRP: $21,650; Consumer Guide Rating: 61

10. Nissan Rogue    Base MSRP: $21,530; Consumer Guide Rating: 59

11. Jeep Compass    Base MSRP: $19,295; Consumer Guide Rating: 58

11. Jeep Patriot    Base MSRP: $15,995; Consumer Guide Rating: 58

13. Jeep Liberty    Base MSRP: $23,360; Consumer Guide Rating: 56

13. Mitsubishi Outlander    Base MSRP: $22,345; Consumer Guide Rating: 56

15. Jeep Wrangler    Base MSRP: $22,045; Consumer Guide Rating: 49

16. Jeep Wrangler Unlimited    Base MSRP: $25,545; Consumer Guide Rating: 49

17. Mitsubishi Outlander Sport    Base MSRP: $18,495; Consumer Guide Rating: 48