Best Small 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

Best X-Small SUVs

Extra-small SUVs are the smallest and least expensive crossovers you can buy. Cost-cutting is sometimes apparent, but top-trim versions can feel surprisingly upscale.

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
11th
Edmunds Rating
7.4/10
Toyota's Corolla Cross is comfortable and practical, and comes with generous number of standard features for the money. But there are better options available if you're looking for something fun and interesting to drive.
MSRP
$24,135 - $29,660
Combined MPG
30 - 32
12th
Edmunds Rating
7.4/10
Hyundai's smallest SUV, the Venue, packs a lot into a very compact package. It excels at everyday tasks and is comfortable enough to take on a road trip. It's a great value, too, and comes with most of the latest safety and technology features.
MSRP
$20,200 - $23,450
Combined MPG
31
12th
Edmunds Rating
7.4/10
There's a lot to like with Nissan Kicks. Underneath the striking styling is a practical, well-equipped little SUV with available all-wheel drive and, in its top trim level, an upscale interior. But the Kicks is let down by its subpar driving experience due in large part to its underpowered engine and slow-to-respond transmission.
MSRP
$21,830 - $27,680
Combined MPG
30 - 31
14th
Edmunds Rating
6.6/10
We like the Jeep Compass for its roomy interior, strong standard engine, standard all-wheel drive and Jeep-infused style. But it's let down by distracting-to-use controls, uncomfortable seats and poor value for the money.
MSRP
$26,900 - $32,395
Combined MPG
27
15th
Edmunds Rating
6.1/10
It's easy to see the appeal in the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport's affordability and generous standard equipment, but it's such a humdrum vehicle that we can't recommend it. Check out the EclipseCross for a better Mitsubishi effort.
MSRP
$23,695 - $28,495
Combined MPG
25 - 26

Best Small SUVs

Small SUVs are popular thanks to virtues like reasonable pricing, excellent versatility and a just-right size. They've supplanted midsize sedans as the sensible choice for many families.

1st
Edmunds Rating
8.1/10
The Mazda CX-50 is comfortable, spacious and well appointed, with an interior that looks and feels a cut above anything else in this class. It commands a bit of a premium, but if you're looking for a small utility vehicle, it doesn't get much better than this.
MSRP
$30,300 - $43,300
Combined MPG
25 - 38
2nd
Edmunds Rating
8.1/10
There's a reason many consider the Honda CR-V the benchmark small SUV for families. Its latest version pulls off this feat yet again with a smooth ride, helpful tech features and excellent storage space. Still, competitors have improved significantly. The CR-V is a good choice but no longer the clear leader.
MSRP
$30,100 - $41,100
Combined MPG
28 - 40
3rd
Edmunds Rating
8.1/10
The Mazda CX-5 has interior quality and driving dynamics to challenge some luxury vehicles. Cargo space behind the second row isn't class-leading, but the Mazda's strengths still make it a top pick.
MSRP
$28,570 - $40,600
Combined MPG
24 - 28
4th
Edmunds Rating
7.9/10
The Kia Sportage stands out with its comfortable ride quality, spacious seating and massive rear cargo area. Its biggest shortcomings are its slow acceleration and underwhelming fuel economy.
MSRP
$27,390 - $38,290
Combined MPG
25 - 28
5th
Edmunds Rating
7.9/10
The Hyundai Tucson delivers a lot of value for the money, providing a comfortable ride and helpful technology features. We also like its upscale-feeling cabin and roomy cargo space. Unfortunately it's dogged by a sluggish engine that has trouble keeping pace when the traffic speeds up.
MSRP
$28,705 - $41,295
Combined MPG
26 - 38
6th
Edmunds Rating
7.8/10
The Ford Escape is more competitive after its latest refresh. Updated sheetmetal gives the exterior a more distinctive and expressive design, and an updated entertainment interface keeps Ford's compact SUV competitive in its class.
MSRP
$28,400 - $38,400
Combined MPG
26 - 40
7th
Edmunds Rating
7.8/10
Nissan's Rogue scores well for the qualities most people consider priorities for a small SUV. It's comfortable, practical and comes with a lot of features for the money. There are a few issues, such as elevated road noise, but overall the latest Rogue is a smart pick.
MSRP
$28,590 - $39,990
Combined MPG
29 - 33
8th
Edmunds Rating
7.7/10
The RAV4 is a pleasant SUV with a nice interior, a smooth ride and loads of utility. Its standard suite of advanced driver aids is one of the most comprehensive in the segment, but a merely satisfactory engine and lackluster steering prevent it from being a class favorite.
MSRP
$29,250 - $38,955
Combined MPG
28 - 30
9th
Edmunds Rating
7.6/10
The Ford Bronco Sport is one small crossover that can tackle off-road terrain and look good doing it. But it struggles to meet expectations in ride comfort, rear passenger space, and confident steering and braking.
MSRP
$29,995 - $39,995
Combined MPG
23 - 26
10th
Edmunds Rating
7.6/10
The Volkswagen Tiguan impresses with a high-tech cabin and premium materials. It doesn't falter in many areas, but its drawbacks—a thirsty engine and stumbling transmission—prevent it from being great.
MSRP
$28,880 - $38,880
Combined MPG
24 - 27
11th
Edmunds Rating
7.4/10
The Equinox is the latest work in the surprising renaissance of small SUVs at Chevrolet. Its distinctively styled exterior surrounds a comfortable and tech-friendly interior with plenty of space for people and cargo. Weak acceleration and lower-than-expected real-world fuel economy are the only big drawbacks to what is otherwise a sensible small SUV.
MSRP
$28,600 - $35,000
12th
Edmunds Rating
7.4/10
The Envision is an easy-to-drive SUV that delivers a lot of features and entry-level luxury touches. But it doesn't do much else to stand out from other luxury SUVs.
MSRP
$36,500 - $46,200
Combined MPG
24
13th
Edmunds Rating
7.1/10
With its boxy styling, extra ground clearance, and standard all-wheel drive, the Subaru Forester is a solid pick for the more adventurous SUV buyer. But the latest Forester still suffers from a glaring lack of performance and feels, at times, unsophisticated when compared to its more well-rounded rivals.
MSRP
$29,995 - $41,695
Combined MPG
28 - 29
14th
Edmunds Rating
6.5/10
The GMC Terrain is a more premium version of the Chevy Equinox, and as such it's a comfortable SUV with a long list of available safety and technology features. Unfortunately, the base engine is lackluster, and the premium price tag makes its shortcomings harder to swallow.
MSRP
$28,700 - $38,600
Combined MPG
25 - 26

Best Small 3-row SUVs

If you need a lot of seats on a tight budget, a small three-row SUV might be a good fit. The third row will be cramped for anyone larger than a child, but it's nice to have the option.

1st
Edmunds Rating
8.2/10
With its mix of quality, practicality and available performance, the Sorento is an enticing option if you're looking for a small SUV with above-average versatility. Only the elevated price tag on the top-of-the-line model could be a deterrent.
MSRP
$31,990 - $47,390
Combined MPG
23 - 26
2nd
Edmunds Rating
8.1/10
The Hyundai Santa Fe is comfortable and easy to drive and has a third-row seat for occasional use. It also boasts plenty of interior room and distinctive styling. It certainly gets our recommendation if you're shopping for a family-oriented SUV.
MSRP
$34,300 - $49,650
Combined MPG
22 - 36
3rd
Edmunds Rating
7.9/10
The latest Outlander SUV has a smooth ride, comfortable front seats and lots of space for people and cargo. It looks pretty sharp, too. Slow acceleration is its only major drawback.
MSRP
$29,645 - $43,145
Combined MPG
26 - 27
4th
Edmunds Rating
7.6/10
With optional seating for seven and lots of advanced safety and technology features, the Volkswagen Tiguan earns a top rank among a small group of compact three-row SUVs. A thirsty engine and stumbling transmission hurt the Tiguan's overall appeal compared to other compact SUVs.
MSRP
$28,880 - $38,880
Combined MPG
24 - 27

Best X-Small luxury SUVs

Extra-small luxury SUVs offer a prestigious badge at an affordable price. They don't always deliver luxury-grade comfort and performance, but a few gems stand out.

1st
Edmunds Rating
8.1/10
The X1 may be BMW's lowest-priced SUV, but it doesn't skimp on the things that make crossovers so desirable. You can expect ample passenger and cargo space, sporty driving characteristics and a premium cabin, all of which help make the X1 a great pick.
MSRP
$41,350 - $50,800
2nd
Edmunds Rating
8.1/10
The GLB's boxy shape gives it a distinctively rugged look while providing ample passenger and cargo space for its size. Throw in some of the best technology available on the market, and you've got one outstanding luxury SUV.
MSRP
$45,800 - $60,100
Combined MPG
23 - 28
3rd
Edmunds Rating
7.9/10
This second-generation Mercedes-Benz GLA is a huge improvement over its rather compromised predecessor. It's comfortable and suitably refined for an entry-level luxury SUV.
MSRP
$43,000 - $58,050
Combined MPG
24 - 29
4th
Edmunds Rating
7.9/10
The XC40 doesn't excel in any one area, but pleasing performance, a comfortable interior and Google-backed in-car tech make it a well-rounded compact luxury SUV. Lackluster cargo space is the XC40's biggest drawback.
MSRP
$40,650 - $49,300
Combined MPG
26
5th
Edmunds Rating
7.8/10
The Audi Q3 delivers pleasing performance and a comfortable and quiet ride. You'll also like its upscale interior and wealth of upscale features.
MSRP
$39,800 - $42,600
Combined MPG
23
6th
Edmunds Rating
7.5/10
The E-Pace's upscale interior materials and lively handling help it stand out amongst small luxury SUVs. But the high cost of entry is a concern.
MSRP
$49,500
Combined MPG
23
7th
Edmunds Rating
7.4/10
The Alfa Romeo Tonale looks sharp and its sporty performance makes it fun to drive. It's also a plug-in hybrid, so you'll be able to save on gas if you frequently charge the battery. But the Tonale's high price and somewhat finicky tech interface are notable drawbacks.
MSRP
$36,495 - $54,495
Combined MPG
29
8th
Edmunds Rating
7.1/10
The Range Rover Evoque makes a strong statement through its interior and exterior styling. The minimalist interior is perhaps the most striking, and it's certainly a quiet and comfortable place to spend your time behind the wheel. Unfortunately, the Evoque does little else to distinguish itself from its well-rounded rivals.
MSRP
$49,900 - $54,900
Combined MPG
22

Best Small luxury SUVs

Small luxury SUVs cost more than their extra-small counterparts, but they typically offer a more comfortable ride, nicer materials and better performance, as well as a larger cabin, of course.

1st
Edmunds Rating
8.3/10
It only took Genesis a few years to find its footing and produce a knockout vehicle in the form of the GV70. It's a high performer across the board and presents unmatched value in the small luxury SUV class.
MSRP
$46,200 - $58,800
Combined MPG
20 - 24
2nd
Edmunds Rating
8.0/10
The GLC is one of our favorite small luxury SUVs. It offers smooth and efficient power, a classy interior, and plenty of helpful technology features. The latest GLC has also gotten more expensive, however, and some other competing SUVs provide better value.
MSRP
$49,250 - $86,050
Combined MPG
21 - 28
3rd
Edmunds Rating
7.9/10
The Acura RDX differentiates itself from the competition with edgy styling, a comfortable interior and a long list of standard features. It offers a strong engine and sharp handling, but it isn't quite as posh or elegant as more expensive luxury rivals.
MSRP
$44,700 - $54,450
Combined MPG
23
4th
Edmunds Rating
7.8/10
The Jaguar F-Pace's combination of sharp styling, impressive dynamics and handy utility puts it in a league with the top players in this segment. The Jag suffers from a troublesome infotainment system and some cheap-feeling interior bits, which hurt its overall standing.
MSRP
$57,000 - $92,400
Combined MPG
17 - 24
5th
Edmunds Rating
7.8/10
The NX 350 is an all-around solid compact luxury SUV boasting an upscale, high-quality interior and plenty of standard driver assistance features. It may not lead the class in any specific area, but it does well enough in every category to make it a worthwhile choice.
MSRP
$40,965 - $62,330
Combined MPG
24 - 39
6th
Edmunds Rating
7.6/10
The Audi Q5 receives high marks for its impeccably designed interior. But in most other ways the Q5 comes up short for what we expect out of a small luxury SUV.
MSRP
$45,400 - $66,700
Combined MPG
25 - 26
7th
Edmunds Rating
7.5/10
The BMW X4 is a sleek SUV with a distinctive sloping rear roofline that gives it a sporty appearance. Unfortunately, it makes significant sacrifices in both cargo and rear-passenger space. The X4 has its own kind of appeal, but we're definitely in form-over-function territory.
MSRP
$55,300 - $66,700
Combined MPG
23 - 24
8th
Edmunds Rating
7.4/10
The Q5 Sportback may have the appearance of a sportier SUV, but it isn't any more dynamic than the standard Q5. There's also less rear headroom and a slightly smaller cargo area due to the sloping rear roof. With so many choices in the small luxury SUV class, the Q5 Sportback feels just adequate.
MSRP
$52,200 - $59,400
Combined MPG
25
9th
Edmunds Rating
7.4/10
Highlights of the Infiniti QX50 include a roomy, comfortable cabin, a large and well-appointed cargo area and a quiet demeanor. But overall desirability suffers because of a flummoxed transmission and outdated tech.
MSRP
$43,000 - $51,200
Combined MPG
25
10th
Edmunds Rating
7.2/10
The Macan is the class benchmark when it comes to performance. It has nimble handling and an overall vibe that's more sports car than luxury SUV. Unfortunately, the Macan is expensive and lacking in cargo space.
MSRP
$62,900 - $105,300
Combined MPG
19 - 21
11th
Edmunds Rating
6.8/10
The QX55 is a sportier and more stylish cousin of the QX50, and it makes a good first impression with sharp looks and a surprisingly spacious cabin. The driving experience is a letdown, however, as is real-world fuel economy.
MSRP
$50,150 - $58,650
Combined MPG
25

Best Small performance SUVs

Compact performance SUVs are among the most capable all-around performers on the planet, pairing major driving thrills with plenty of SUV versatility.

1st
Edmunds Rating
8.1/10
The Model Y is a stylish and roomy electric SUV with strong appeal. In Performance trim, it's also extremely quick and dynamic. Unfortunately, the optional sport suspension and large wheels make for an uncomfortable ride.
MSRP
$44,990 - $51,490
2nd
Edmunds Rating
7.9/10
The SQ5 enhances Audi's small SUV with appealing performance. The combination of power and refinement makes the SQ5 a well-rounded, stylish and highly functional SUV.
MSRP
$58,400 - $66,500
Combined MPG
21
3rd
Edmunds Rating
7.8/10
The SQ5 Sportback will make you feel and look modern and chic. The interior is spacious for a coupe-style SUV, but you do trade a little bit of rear headroom and cargo capacity for that sleeker roofline.
MSRP
$61,800 - $68,900
Combined MPG
21

Top Selling Small-suvses of
2024

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

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    Best Small SUVs

    Small SUVs have exploded in popularity over the past few years, even though they are usually more expensive than comparable hatchbacks or sedans. It's easy to see why, considering that small SUVs provide a commanding view of the road ahead and a more spacious cargo area than traditional cars, as well as available all-wheel drive. This irresistible blend of visibility and utility, with a little rugged styling thrown in, makes compact and subcompact SUVs appealing to a wide range of new-car shoppers. Determining which small SUV is right for you can be tough since there are dozens of models to consider. That's why the Edmunds experts rate and review every SUV on the market — so you don't have to. Based on our own vehicle testing, we've put together this guide to help you narrow down your search for the best small SUV.

    What is a subcompact SUV?

    A larger compact SUV may make sense for families or people who frequently travel with friends, but you'll pay more for the added utility, and you'll also have a harder time parking the thing. If you don't need all that space or you just want to save a few bucks (who doesn't?), consider a smaller subcompact SUV instead. You still get the elevated ride height and useful cargo bay of a crossover, but you'll enjoy easier parking and likely better fuel efficiency too.

    What is a compact SUV?

    If a subcompact SUV just doesn't work for you — whether you require extra room, a nicer interior, better ride quality or more power — it's time to try the next size up. Compact crossovers have been around for decades and are certainly more practical as long as you don't mind driving a larger vehicle. They're typically more expensive than subcompacts, but many shoppers will find the upgrades to be worth the premium.

    Choosing the best small SUV for you

    Choosing between a subcompact and compact crossover is a personal decision. On the one hand, subcompacts are less expensive both up front and over time since they are typically more fuel-efficient than compact crossovers. On the other hand, many prefer the additional interior space, improved ride quality, more upscale cabin and expanded features list of a compact, even though these models cost a bit more. Before you head to your nearest dealer, we recommend assessing your needs to decide which vehicle type is best for you. From there, read Edmunds' expert reviews of specific vehicles to narrow down the field of subcompact or compact SUVs. With impressions from behind the wheel and a comprehensive breakdown of trim levels, these reviews can be invaluable in your shopping journey.