SUV's are large vehicles that have a number of key benefits that regular cars don't have. However, due to their size, they can be quite difficult to drive and to park, and they consume a lot of fuel as well. This is why so many people are looking for the top rated small SUV's for 2017 instead. These vehicles have all the benefits of the regular SUVs, but without the drawbacks. However, determining what the top rated small SUV's for 2017 are is a subjective matter. Different vehicle reviewers will have different opinions on what vehicles should be considered as the best. Nevertheless, below are some of the widely agreed best models out there.

The Top 8 Expert Rated Small SUVs For 2017:

1.) The 2016 Buick Encore

Nobody expected Buick to have something so successful, but the subcompact Encore model is fantastic. It also has a Sport Touring version. This vehicle will remain largely unchanged for 2017.

2.) The 2016 Chevrolet Equinox

The Chevrolet Equinox is nothing new, but it has had some excellent technological and stylish upgrades, which has made it competitive again. A very roomy vehicle, it comes with a V6 four cylinder engine, and either an all-wheel or a front-wheel drive. It also has four different trim levels to choose from. The Equinox is tight on cargo space, but that is perhaps its only drawback.

3.) The 2016 Ford Escape

The Escape has been highly rated when it comes to its initial quality. Ford has also taken the MyFord Touch infotainment system out, much to the relief of Ford fans. Instead, people can now enjoy Sync 3 technology, which is much quicker on response, has a capacitive touch display, and natural voice recognition. In 2017, the mid-level Escape SE will have some new option packages as well.

4.) The 2016 GMC Terrain

The Terrain has a beautiful fresh style, and it now also comes with driver-assistance technologies, which have made people turn heads towards this one. Furthermore, GMC has updated the interior, particularly increasing comfort for passengers, although this is only available in certain trims.

5.) The Hyundai Tucson

The Tucson has recently receive a full redesign. It is now safer, more fun to drive, more sophisticated, and larger. It also comes in four versions (Limited, Sport, Eco, and SE), two different engines, and either front- or all-wheel drive.

6.) The 2016 Kia Sportage

The Kia Sportage will see a full redesign over the course of 2017. For now, however, it retains its four cylinder turbo engine, as well as a fantastic warranty.

7.) The 2016 Toyota RAV4

This vehicle has been re-styled, the suspension retuned, the cabin refreshed, and the driver assistance, infotainment technology, and collision-avoidance upgraded. The RAV4 has always been cool, but now it is even more so. It also comes in a sports trim and now offers 33 mpg in combined driving.

8.) The 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan

Lastly, there is the Tiguan, which will see a full redesign in 2017. Today, it is less expensive and much better equipped. There is also the very cool R-Line, which is the sports version.