Best Subcompact SUVs of 2025 and 2026

The Edmunds experts test drive small SUV contenders on our test track and in the real world. Our ratings assess performance, comfort, technology, utility, value and more. How we rank small SUVs
1st
Edmunds Rating
8.0/10
Chevy's done a great job with the latest Trailblazer. It isn't the most efficient or the best-performing vehicle in the class, but it is exceedingly competent at nearly everything it does. In the increasingly competitive class of extra-small SUVs, the Trailblazer is a half-step ahead.
MSRP
$23,100 - $29,300
Combined MPG
27 - 31
2nd
Edmunds Rating
7.9/10
The Mazda CX-30 is sporty and sophisticated and one of our top picks for an extra-small SUV. It has striking style, is comfortable on the road, and offers plenty of standard features for its price.
MSRP
$24,995 - $36,950
Combined MPG
25 - 29
3rd
Edmunds Rating
7.9/10
The Encore GX is essentially an improved version of the Encore. Advantages to this extra-small SUV include a comfortable ride quality and a classy design. But you do pay a (literal) price for these qualities since the Encore GX is expensive relative to its primary competition.
MSRP
$26,000 - $33,100
Combined MPG
27 - 30
4th
Edmunds Rating
7.9/10
The Chevrolet Trax is a comfortable and spacious SUV. It comes with a lot of features for the money too. All-wheel drive is unavailable, which might be a turnoff if you want it for wintertime driving. Otherwise, we think it's one of the best picks around for a small SUV.
MSRP
$20,500 - $24,500
Combined MPG
30
5th
Edmunds Rating
7.9/10
The Hyundai Kona is an appealing pick if you want a small crossover SUV with ample passenger space. It also comes well stocked with features at an agreeable price.
MSRP
$24,550 - $33,600
Combined MPG
26 - 31
6th
Edmunds Rating
7.9/10
The Kia Soul does not offer all-wheel drive, but it does provide more space than some crossover SUVs, as well as more equipment at a lower price. There's also the Soul's distinctive personality, which helps it stand out from the crowd.
MSRP
$20,490 - $24,790
Combined MPG
30 - 31
7th
Edmunds Rating
7.8/10
The Buick Envista looks sharp and comes with a lot of features considering its low price. It's also pretty roomy inside for people. There are a few drawbacks to the Envista, but overall we recommend it if you want a small crossover SUV that stands out.
MSRP
$22,900 - $28,600
Combined MPG
30
8th
Edmunds Rating
7.6/10
The Kia Seltos is stylish, surprisingly roomy, and available with plenty of the latest technology and safety features. It's rather quick, too, if you opt for the optional turbocharged engine.
MSRP
$24,690 - $31,190
Combined MPG
25 - 31
9th
Edmunds Rating
7.6/10
The Subaru Crosstrek is essentially a lifted Impreza hatchback that offers sure-footed all-wheel drive and an impressive set of active safety features. It's a pleasing runabout around town that just so happens to have above-average off-road ability.
MSRP
$25,810 - $32,610
Combined MPG
27 - 29
10th
Edmunds Rating
7.5/10
Honda's smallest SUV, the HR-V, has been completely redesigned 2023. It's larger, more refined and more sophisticated-looking inside and out. But the extra-small SUV segment has gained some impressive offerings of late, and we're afraid the new HR-V hasn't evolved enough to compete with the best.
MSRP
$25,400 - $31,000
Combined MPG
27 - 28

Top Selling Small-suvses of
2024

Table view of

Vehicles included in the data set are exclusively retail registrations to individuals and do not include rental sales or registrations from government bodies*

    20242024
    Powered by