Best Subcompact SUVs of 2026 and 2027

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
2026 Hyundai Kona
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
$25,500 - $34,150
Combined MPG
26 - 31
2nd
2027 Kia Seltos
Edmunds Rating
7.8/10
The Kia Seltos is an excellent little SUV, with an appealing base price, lots of standard features, and a surprisingly roomy cabin given the small footprint. An underpowered base engine makes the Seltos feel particularly slow, but if you don't mind the lack of speed, you should otherwise be quite happy with the Seltos.
MSRP
$24,990 - $32,790
Combined MPG
26 - 30
3rd
2026 Kia Niro Hybrid
Edmunds Rating
7.6/10
The Kia Niro is a great all-around option for anyone wanting an efficient, compact crossover. Acceleration is lackluster but the Niro gains back points with its helpful driving aids, smooth ride quality and value for the money.
MSRP
$27,390 - $35,790
Combined MPG
49 - 53
Also Consider
2026 Hyundai SANTA FE

2026 Hyundai SANTA FE

2026 Hyundai SANTA FE

$35,300Starting MSRP
“...plenty of standard features, safety tech and cargo space.” -Edmunds
Learn More 
Hyundaiusa.com
4th
2026 Volkswagen Taos
Edmunds Rating
7.5/10
The updated Volkswagen Taos boasts plenty of modern features, comfortable seating and a big cargo area for its size. It's also pretty enjoyable to drive. We think the Taos is one of the most well-rounded and family-friendly offerings in its class.
MSRP
$26,500 - $35,900
Combined MPG
28 - 31
5th
2026 Chevrolet Trax
Edmunds Rating
7.0/10
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
$21,700 - $25,400
Combined MPG
30
6th
2026 Buick Encore GX
Edmunds Rating
7.0/10
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
$26,200 - $33,300
Combined MPG
27 - 30
7th
2026 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid
Edmunds Rating
6.7/10
If you're considering the Corolla Cross, the Hybrid is the one to get. It offers superior fuel economy to the standard model with few drawbacks. It's easy to drive, and its long list of standard driver assist features in combination with generous cargo space make it a great entry-level choice for new families and younger drivers.
MSRP
$29,795 - $33,830
Combined MPG
42
8th
2026 Buick Envista
Edmunds Rating
6.7/10
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
$24,700 - $29,500
Combined MPG
30
9th
2026 Hyundai Venue
Edmunds Rating
6.7/10
The Hyundai Venue is primarily appealing because of its impressively low price and best-in-class warranty. It's a bit of a "no-frills" vehicle, but if that's what you want, the Venue will more than satisfy your needs.
MSRP
$20,550 - $22,825
Combined MPG
31
10th
2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer
Edmunds Rating
6.7/10
While newer rivals have eclipsed the Trailblazer in some areas, it remains a solid all-around extra-small SUV. It's comfortable, spacious and offers lots of in-car tech. It's one of the more expensive vehicles in its class, and fuel economy isn't exceptional, but as a whole the Trailblazer is worth consideration.
MSRP
$23,300 - $29,500
Combined MPG
27 - 31
11th
2027 Honda HR-V
Edmunds Rating
6.6/10
The Honda HR-V is Honda's smallest SUV that packs lot of utility and clever features into a compact package. However, its performance and technology features lag behind what you can get from some of the HR-V's rivals.
MSRP
$26,600 - $31,950
Combined MPG
27 - 28
12th
2026 Nissan Kicks
Edmunds Rating
6.5/10
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
$22,730 - $28,460
Combined MPG
30 - 31
13th
2026 Toyota Corolla Cross
Edmunds Rating
6.2/10
Toyota's Corolla Cross will serve you well as a daily driver, with its comfortable ride and practical interior. But there are better options available if you're looking for something fun and interesting to drive.
MSRP
$25,335 - $31,710
Combined MPG
30 - 32
14th
2026 Subaru Crosstrek
Edmunds Rating
6.1/10
The Subaru Crosstrek is a comfortable, usable everyday companion that will shine in inclement weather thanks to standard all-wheel drive. It remains a solid choice for those who want a fuss-free daily driver with some off-road ability, but its technology and lack of storage space can cause headaches.
MSRP
$26,995 - $34,995
Combined MPG
26 - 36
15th
2026 Mazda CX-30
Edmunds Rating
6.1/10
The Mazda CX-30 is a rarity among subcompact SUVs: It's a lot of fun to drive. You'll pay a bit more for it than its competition, but the CX-30 offers a lot of features, a comfortable ride and a great engine.
MSRP
$26,375 - $37,900
Combined MPG
25 - 27
16th
2026 Jeep Compass
Edmunds Rating
5.7/10
We like the Jeep Compass for its roomy interior, strong turbocharged 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
$29,550 - $35,555
Combined MPG
26

Most Popular Small SUVs of
2025

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*

    20252025

    Some Takeaways

    • Toyota sold the most small SUVs in 2025.
    • Chevrolet takes 4th place from Hyundai for total small SUV sales in 2025.
    • Ford drops out of the top 5, with Hyundai taking its place.
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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.