We researched and compared the top sport utility vehicles from the 2013 model year, analyzing manufacturer specifications, published safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, and aggregated owner feedback from automotive forums and review sites. Our evaluation focuses on reliability, cargo space, fuel economy, and overall value to help you make an informed purchase. Below are our seven top picks, each with honest pros and cons.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
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2013 Honda CR-V Best Overall 2.4L I4, 185 hp, 31 mpg highway, 5-passenger |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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2013 Toyota RAV4 Runner Up 2.5L I4, 176 hp, 31 mpg highway, 5-passenger |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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2013 Subaru Forester Best for Snow 2.5L H4, 170 hp, 30 mpg highway, AWD standard |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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2013 Ford Escape Best Tech 2.0L EcoBoost I4, 240 hp, 28 mpg highway, optional AWD |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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2013 Chevrolet Equinox Best Value 2.4L I4, 182 hp, 32 mpg highway, optional V6 |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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2013 Mazda CX-5 Best Handling 2.0L I4, 155 hp, 32 mpg highway, FWD or AWD |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
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2013 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Best Off-Road 3.6L V6, 285 hp, 21 mpg highway, 4WD standard |
7.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. 2013 Honda CR-V: Best Overall
The 2013 Honda CR-V earned a top safety pick from the IIHS and received five-star NHTSA ratings. Its 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine delivers adequate power for daily driving, but some owners report it feels sluggish when fully loaded or merging onto highways. The interior is well laid out with high-quality materials, and the rear seats fold flat easily for extra cargo space.
However, the CR-V’s continuously variable transmission can drone under hard acceleration, and the infotainment system lacks modern smartphone integration. This SUV is best for small families or commuters prioritizing reliability and resale value over performance. If you need more power or towing capacity, consider a larger SUV.
- Top safety scores from IIHS and NHTSA
- Spacious cargo area with low load floor
- Excellent predicted reliability ratings
Pros: Very reliable with low maintenance costs; Good fuel economy for its class
Cons: Underpowered engine for highway merging
2. 2013 Toyota RAV4: Runner Up
The 2013 Toyota RAV4 was redesigned for this year, offering a more refined interior and a standard backup camera. In our evaluation, it provides a smooth ride and responsive steering, making it easy to maneuver in city traffic. Owner feedback highlights its long-term durability, with many reporting over 200,000 miles with minimal issues.
However, the base model lacks advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning, which were available on competitors. The four-cylinder engine can feel strained when accelerating onto highways, and the optional third row is very tight for adults. This SUV is ideal for those who value reliability and a comfortable ride, but if you need more power or tech features, look elsewhere.
- Spacious rear seat and cargo area
- Optional third-row seat (limited availability)
- Strong resale value and Toyota reliability
Pros: Comfortable ride and handling; Standard backup camera on most trims
Cons: Base model lacks key safety features like blind-spot monitoring
3. 2013 Subaru Forester: Best for Snow
The 2013 Subaru Forester comes standard with all-wheel drive, making it a top choice for snowy climates. Its boxer engine provides a low center of gravity, improving handling. Based on owner feedback, the Forester handles well in rain and light off-road conditions, and its high ground clearance helps on rough roads.
However, the interior materials feel cheaper than some rivals, with hard plastics throughout. The four-cylinder engine is adequate but can be noisy when revved, and fuel economy lags behind the CR-V and RAV4. This SUV is best for outdoor enthusiasts or those living in areas with harsh winters. If you prioritize a quiet cabin or upscale interior, consider a different model.
- Standard all-wheel drive with great traction
- High ground clearance (8.7 inches)
- Excellent visibility with large windows
Pros: Standard AWD enhances snow and off-road capability; Spacious interior for its size
Cons: Engine noise is pronounced under acceleration
4. 2013 Ford Escape: Best Tech
The 2013 Ford Escape offers a choice of three engines, with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost providing class-leading horsepower and torque. The MyFord Touch system offers advanced connectivity but has a steep learning curve, and some owners report glitches. The Escape handles well and has a composed ride, making it enjoyable to drive.
However, reliability is a concern: the 2013 model has more than average complaints about transmission issues and electrical problems according to aggregated owner feedback. Cargo space is also less than the CR-V or RAV4. This SUV is best for tech enthusiasts who want a sporty drive and are willing to accept higher maintenance risk. If long-term reliability is critical, skip this one.
- Available 2.0L EcoBoost engine with strong power
- MyFord Touch infotainment system with voice control
- Handsome, sporty styling
Pros: Powerful turbo engine option; User-friendly infotainment once learned
Cons: Below-average reliability ratings from owner surveys
5. 2013 Chevrolet Equinox: Best Value
The 2013 Chevrolet Equinox stands out for its spacious rear seat, which slides and reclines for added comfort. The base four-cylinder engine delivers decent fuel economy, but many owners report it struggles with acceleration, especially when climbing hills. The available V6 provides better performance but hurts fuel economy.
Safety ratings are average, with the IIHS giving it a marginal score for the small overlap front crash test. The interior has some cheap plastics, and the infotainment system is dated. This SUV is a good value for those who prioritize rear passenger space on a budget. If you need strong performance or top safety scores, consider alternatives.
- Spacious rear seat with sliding and reclining feature
- Available V6 engine for more power
- Competitive fuel economy with base engine
Pros: Rear seat offers excellent legroom; Smooth ride quality
Cons: Base engine feels underpowered
6. 2013 Mazda CX-5: Best Handling
The 2013 Mazda CX-5 is the most engaging compact SUV to drive, with responsive steering and a well-tuned suspension. Its 2.0-liter engine, however, delivers only 155 horsepower, which leads to sluggish acceleration, particularly when the vehicle is loaded or climbing grades. The interior is stylish but feels cramped, and the rear seat is tight for adults.
Reliability data shows mixed reviews, with some owners reporting issues with the infotainment system and power liftgate. The CX-5 also lacks the cargo space of competitors. This SUV is best for driving enthusiasts who value handling over power and space. If you need more room or a quieter ride, look at the CR-V or RAV4.
- Sporty handling and precise steering
- Aerodynamic styling with good fuel economy
- Available SkyActiv technology for efficiency
Pros: Fun to drive with sharp handling; Good fuel economy for AWD model
Cons: Underpowered engine, especially with AWD
7. 2013 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited: Best Off-Road
The 2013 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is purpose-built for off-road adventures, featuring a robust 4WD system and impressive ground clearance. Its 3.6-liter V6 provides ample power for rock crawling and trail driving. However, on paved roads, the Wrangler suffers from vague steering, a bumpy ride, and significant wind noise at highway speeds.
Safety ratings are low, with the IIHS giving it poor scores in the small overlap front test. Fuel economy is also poor for the class. The interior is basic and utilitarian, with limited cargo space compared to other SUVs. This vehicle is only suitable for serious off-road enthusiasts who can tolerate its on-road compromises. For daily commuting, we recommend a different SUV.
- Legendary off-road capability with solid axles
- Removable doors and roof for open-air driving
- Powerful V6 engine with strong low-end torque
Pros: Unmatched off-road prowess; Unique open-air experience
Cons: Poor on-road ride and handling
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most reliable 2013 SUV?
Based on aggregated owner feedback and reliability surveys, the 2013 Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 are the most reliable choices. Both have high predicted reliability ratings from J.D. Power and Consumer Reports, with many owners reporting minimal issues over long-term ownership.
Which 2013 SUV has the best fuel economy?
The 2013 Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 both achieve up to 31 mpg on the highway with their four-cylinder engines. The Mazda CX-5 also offers competitive fuel economy at 32 mpg highway with front-wheel drive. However, real-world mileage may vary depending on driving conditions and maintenance.
Is the 2013 Ford Escape reliable?
The 2013 Ford Escape has below-average reliability according to owner surveys. Common complaints include transmission issues, electrical problems, and MyFord Touch glitches. If you prioritize reliability, we recommend the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4 instead.
Which 2013 SUV is best for off-roading?
The 2013 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is the best choice for serious off-roading, with its solid axles, 4WD system, and high ground clearance. However, it compromises on-road comfort and safety. For light off-road use, the Subaru Forester offers a good balance of capability and daily drivability.
What is the safest 2013 SUV?
The 2013 Honda CR-V earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick and five-star NHTSA ratings. The Subaru Forester also received top safety scores. Both have standard stability control and multiple airbags. Avoid the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited if safety is a priority, as it scored poorly in crash tests.
Our Verdict
After researching and comparing the 2013 SUV lineup, our top pick is the Honda CR-V for its excellent safety scores, reliability, and practicality. The runner-up is the Toyota RAV4, which offers similar virtues with a slightly more spacious rear seat. For those needing off-road capability, the Subaru Forester is a solid choice, while the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is best left for dedicated off-roaders.
