In the mainstream compact SUV class, there are about five cars that stand above the others out for various reasons: CX-5, RAV4, CRV, Tiguan, and Forester. Each has strengths and weaknesses.
The CX-5 is probably the best driver and if you spring for the turbo, is probably the fastest. It's got a interior that punches above its weight and the CX-5 has a very good reliability record, perhaps a little better than other Japanese SUVs. On the downside, it's infotainment system, while improved in 2021, is probably still a little behind, especially, if you are the type who really likes a touchscreen. Interior room is a bit tight and there aren't any killer features like a hybrid drivetrain or pano sunroof. Looks are subjective, but most think it is probably the best looking of the crowd.
The RAV4 is a solid SUV but is a little down on most of the competition EXCEPT that it is available in a bunch of specialized versions that may have something you really want - hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and more off-road-oriented adventure version. The hybrids use MUCH less gas and if you can get your hands on a Prime plug-in at reasonable cost (which is difficult since there are long waiting lists), you'll get a very fast SUV that can be driven all over town and on shorter commutes on plug-in power alone. But you'll need to bring $$$.
The CRV is a really good all-arounder, but not much of a driver's car. It's got great interior space, good gas mileage (especially in the hybrid version), and is super comfortable. But it's bland/numb and the CVT saps most of the fun out of the driving experience. A great choice for someone who likes the clean/straightforward interiors of Hondas, values gas mileage, never drives an SUV in a sporting way, and is Ok with a CVT.
The Tiguan is the Euro choice. It has a spacious and very clean interior with a definite Euro flair. It's big and handsome. It does everything reasonably well, but is probably the one the drives the most like an SUV a size class up (which can be good/bad depending on your POV). Slightly underpowered and overweight. It even includes a version with a 3rd row option. VW dealers discount heavily. Reliability will probably be the worst.... not a good choice if you intend to keep the car for years and years, but if you're leasing and will always have the car under warranty, reliability will likely be fine for as long as you own it.
Finally, the Forester gives you the most bang for the buck. Lots of great features and exceptional visibility with a nice tall greenhouse. It's let down by a CVT, a bland engine, and overall numb driving experience. And lately, Subarus have been having some reliability issues. But Consumer Reports rates it tops.
The Rogue has just been re-designed. It may be good (or even great), but I haven't seen a comprehensive review yet. But I'd stay away from the first year of any big redesign.
You can go wrong with any of these. But to summarize..... if you value the driving experience above all....CX5, if you want really outstanding gas mileage.....one of the RAV4 hybrids, want the most useful interior room....CRV, need a bigger SUV than a compact and need a third-row... VW, and looking for the most bang for your buck....Forester.
I haven't touched on safety, but IMO, finding safety differences in this class is mostly splitting hairs - they're all reasonably good.
- Mark