Best Compact SUVs on The Indiana Market
Table of Contents
- Mitsubishi Outlander: Comfortable and Tech-Savvy
- Chevrolet Equinox: America’s Favorite Chevy SUV
- Kia Sportage: Best Korean Compact SUV
- Toyota RAV4: Indiana’s Best-Selling SUV
- Ford Bronco Sport: Top Choice for Off-Road Capability
- Mazda CX-5: Stylish and Fun to Drive
- Volkswagen Tiguan: Spacious and Smooth
- Honda CR-V: The Balanced Everyday SUV
In 2025, used 2022 SUVs are proving to be some of the best deals on the USA used car market—especially for buyers looking to save money without compromising on quality. No matter which model year you choose, these standout compact SUVs available in Indiana dealerships deserve your attention. To help you narrow down your options, we’ve selected the top models to consider.
Mitsubishi Outlander: Comfortable and Tech-Savvy
Mitsubishi’s presence is growing in the U.S., supported by their Momentum 2030 plan, promising new products annually through 2030. The current Outlander offers a bold design, a modern interior, and a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated 184-hp engine paired with a CVT.
- Pros: Loaded with technology, extremely comfortable interior, and includes a third row of seats.
- Cons: Transmission can feel sluggish, priced higher than more stylish rivals, and the third row isn’t suitable for adults.
Chevrolet Equinox: America’s Favorite Chevy SUV
Trailing only the Silverado, the Equinox is one of Chevy’s best-sellers. The fourth-generation Chevrolet Equinox model is similar in size to the Outlander. Front-wheel-drive versions use a 1.5-liter turbocharged 177-hp engine with a CVT; all-wheel-drive trims feature an eight-speed automatic.
- Pros: Redesigned for 2025 with a fresh interior and bold front styling, including two large round air vents.
- Cons: The boxy look makes it feel like a smaller Traverse, which may not appeal to everyone.
Kia Sportage: Best Korean Compact SUV
The Sportage seats five and avoids CVTs, pairing a 190-hp naturally aspirated engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Available in front- or all-wheel drive, Kia also offers hybrid and plug-in hybrid Sportage models with turbocharged 1.6-liter engines producing up to 265 hp.
- Pros: Generous standard features, spacious cabin, and a lengthy warranty.
- Cons: Polarizing design, slow acceleration, and less engaging handling than some competitors.
Toyota RAV4: Indiana’s Best-Selling SUV
The RAV4’s popularity is no secret—it’s practical, reliable, fuel-efficient, and priced to fit most budgets. The popular RAV4 model comes with a 2.5-liter 206-hp engine and an eight-speed automatic. Besides traditional and hybrid versions, there's the powerful plug-in Prime model with 306 hp and a quick 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds.
- Pros: Stylish look and comprehensive standard safety features.
- Cons: Basic trims can feel sparse, and acceleration/handling are average.
Ford Bronco Sport: Top Choice for Off-Road Capability
Styled like a rugged off-roader in the spirit of the older frame Bronco, the Bronco Sport shares a platform with the Ford Escape and Maverick. It offers solid off-road ability, standard all-wheel drive, and higher trims (Badlands, Sasquatch) feature extra ground clearance and all-terrain tires. The base 1.5-liter turbo engine (184 hp) isn’t lively, so the 253-hp 2.0-liter turbo is recommended. Both Bronco Sport versions have eight-speed automatics.
- Pros: Quick with the turbo four-cylinder, practical features, and some trims are truly capable off-road.
- Cons: Rear seats are cramped, lower-quality interior plastics detract from the cabin feel, and the most powerful engine is only on the top trims.
Mazda CX-5: Stylish and Fun to Drive
Though introduced in 2016, the second-generation CX-5 remains a favorite, offering near-luxury styling, a comfortable interior, and enjoyable driving dynamics. Mazda CX-5 2.5-liter turbo engine delivers 260 hp with a 0-60 mph time of 6.2 seconds and a six-speed automatic transmission.
- Pros: Stylish design, upscale cabin, and one of the most engaging rides in this segment.
- Cons: Cargo space is below average, limited towing capacity, and less rear passenger room than rivals.
Volkswagen Tiguan: Spacious and Smooth
The second-generation Tiguan (in production since 2016) is nearing replacement, but still holds appeal with an extended wheelbase American version. The top trim of VW Tiguan II includes all-wheel drive, a 187-hp 2.0-liter turbo engine, and an eight-speed automatic.
- Pros: Fun-to-drive chassis, powerful engine, spacious front and rear seats, plus a third row if needed.
- Cons: No high-performance variant, firm seats, minimalist interior, and below-average cargo space.
Honda CR-V: The Balanced Everyday SUV
The CR-V is a well-rounded compact Honda SUV that meets the expectations of most American buyers. Beyond the CRV hybrid models, the rating focuses on the 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 193 hp, CVT, and all-wheel drive—an affordable, dependable package.
- Pros: Good handling, excellent build quality, and plenty of driver-assist features.
- Cons: Acceleration is unimpressive, interior design is bland, and infotainment tech feels dated.
Whether you prioritize comfort, performance, fuel economy, or off-road capability, there’s a compact SUV that fits your needs in the Indiana used market. To get the best deals and expert support, buy a used SUV at the Indy Auto Man dealership—where quality meets value and your perfect ride is waiting for you.
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