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A compact SUV, or sport utility vehicle, is a small two- or all-wheel-drive truck-based vehicle capable of off-road performance. It's one of the oldest style SUVs on the market, originating with the World War II-era Willys Jeep.
Compact SUV Defined
The compact SUV generally has a wheelbase of less than 106 inches, an overall length ranging from 167 to 181 inches, and is slightly larger than the mini SUVs, according to Goauto.com.
Pioneers
Early versions of the compact SUVs are the AMC Jeep CJ-5 with an ultra short 81-inch wheelbase, the International Harvester Scout, the Ford Bronco II and Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, according to Jeepin.com and Bronco.com.
Truck-based
Many compact SUVs feature truck-based frames, all-wheel-drive and high ground clearance for easy maneuvering on uneven terrain.
Crossover Compacts
Since 2000, a new class of the compact SUV has emerged with the crossover SUV, which is placed on a passenger car platform but features truck-like exterior characteristics.
Gaining Popularity
Many compact SUVS are now crossovers with the Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, Ford Escape and Toyota RAV4 leading the crossover compact SUV market.
Wheelbase Lengths
Some compact SUVs, such as the Toyota RAV4, feature a short 100.8-inch wheelbase and a long wheelbase version at 104.7 inches, but with the overall length on both versions less than 182 inches.
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