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A popular small SUV is not always the strongest pick in its class. Consumer Reports tested four alternatives worth a closer look

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A popular small SUV doesn't always outperform its lesser-known rivals, and sales figures alone don't guarantee reliability or a satisfying drive. Reliability, ride comfort and how a vehicle handles everyday driving can vary widely even between SUVs competing for the same buyers.

Consumer Reports identified four small SUVs worth cross-shopping against their more popular rivals, so shoppers can weigh real tradeoffs before deciding which one to buy.