Best Small 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

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.

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At Edmunds we call the smallest SUVs "extra-small," although they're typically referred to as subcompact SUVs in the marketplace. For the most part, these vehicles are just high-riding hatchbacks derived from car platforms, but we don't mean that as a dig. Hatchbacks, after all, are inherently practical, and a higher ride means it's easier to get in and out. Most subcompact SUVs offer adult passenger comfort, although the rear seat can be cramped if the folks in front are on the larger side.
  1. #12026 Hyundai Kona
  2. #22026 Kia Niro Hybrid
  3. #32025 Kia Soul
  4. #42026 Volkswagen Taos
  5. #52026 Chevrolet Trax
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
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
3rd
2025 Kia Soul
Edmunds Rating
7.3/10
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
4th
2026 Volkswagen Taos
Edmunds Rating
7.1/10
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
$29,595 - $33,630
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 Chevrolet Trailblazer
Edmunds Rating
6.5/10
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
10th
2026 Kia Seltos
Edmunds Rating
6.4/10
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
$23,790 - $31,490
Combined MPG
25 - 31
11th
2027 Honda HR-V
Edmunds Rating
6.3/10
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
6.2/10
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 Subaru Crosstrek
Edmunds Rating
6.2/10
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
14th
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
$25,235 - $31,610
Combined MPG
30 - 32
15th
2025 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
$25,195 - $37,150
Combined MPG
25 - 29
16th
2026 Hyundai Venue
Edmunds Rating
6.0/10
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
$20,550 - $22,825
Combined MPG
31
17th
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

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.

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Small SUVs, also known as compact SUVs, are the lifeblood of today's SUV market. Nearly every major automaker offers one, and they've largely displaced compact and midsize sedans as the go-to vehicle for small families and commuters alike. Not surprisingly, compact SUVs are where you begin to feel like you're driving an SUV and not a hatchback. Most offer generous cargo capacity and ample room for rear passengers, even with long-legged front occupants.
  1. #12026 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
  2. #22026 Kia Sportage Hybrid
  3. #32026 Toyota RAV4
  4. #42026 Hyundai Tucson
  5. #52026 Kia Sportage
1st
2026 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
Edmunds Rating
8.8/10
The refreshed Hyundai Tucson Hybrid gets some key improvements that have made it an even more user-friendly and well-rounded SUV. This small SUV delivers good mpg, a comfortable ride, and lots of standard technology features. The Tucson Hybrid delivers more than you'd expect for its price and is an SUV we'd highly recommend.
MSRP
$30,950 - $42,575
Combined MPG
36 - 38
2nd
2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid
Edmunds Rating
8.7/10
The Kia Sportage Hybrid delivers on just about every front. The ride quality is excellent, the interior is spacious and the rear hatch opens to a massive cargo area. We have few complaints about this electrified compact crossover.
MSRP
$30,490 - $40,590
Combined MPG
35 - 42
3rd
2026 Toyota RAV4
Edmunds Rating
8.1/10
The redesigned, all-hybrid Toyota RAV4 is better than ever, offering excellent fuel economy, helpful tech features and a sizable cargo area. Rivals offer more passenger space and smoother rides, but overall the RAV4 is one of our top picks for a small SUV.
MSRP
$31,900 - $43,300
Combined MPG
38 - 43
4th
2026 Hyundai Tucson
Edmunds Rating
7.8/10
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
$29,450 - $42,575
Combined MPG
26 - 38
5th
2026 Kia Sportage
Edmunds Rating
7.8/10
The Kia Sportage is spacious and comfortable, with a large cargo area, a tech-filled cabin, and plenty of advanced driver aids. However, its engine is seriously down on power, making it a challenge to live with, and its fuel economy figures are also a letdown.
MSRP
$28,790 - $39,690
Combined MPG
24 - 28
6th
2026 Volkswagen Tiguan
Edmunds Rating
7.6/10
The new Volkswagen Tiguan blurs the line between mainstream and luxury small SUVs. It's refined, and features like massaging front seats and programmable ambient lighting are rare in this class. VW even held the line on pricing, making this compact SUV a surprisingly good value.
MSRP
$30,805 - $43,085
Combined MPG
25 - 29
7th
2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid
Edmunds Rating
7.5/10
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
$30,920 - $42,250
Combined MPG
29 - 40
8th
2026 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid
Edmunds Rating
6.9/10
The Mazda CX-50 Hybrid has roomy seating, a classy cabin design, and better fuel economy than a regular CX-50. The hybrid isn't as enjoyable to drive as a regular CX-50, but overall we recommend it if you want an upscale and fuel-efficient small SUV.
MSRP
$34,750 - $40,450
Combined MPG
38
9th
2026 Mazda CX-50
Edmunds Rating
6.8/10
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
$29,900 - $42,900
Combined MPG
25 - 38
10th
2026 Ford Escape Hybrid
Edmunds Rating
6.8/10
The Escape is one of just a few small SUVs with an available hybrid powertrain. Pleasingly, the Hybrid sacrifices little for its improved fuel economy. It has excellent tech, a roomy cabin, and a smooth and easy-to-drive demeanor.
MSRP
$33,890 - $37,210
Combined MPG
39
11th
2026 Ford Escape
Edmunds Rating
6.7/10
The Ford Escape is a spacious and comfortable compact SUV with a user-friendly infotainment system and wide range of powertrain options, but many of its competitors match it in those areas and also offer more driving engagement and a higher-quality interior.
MSRP
$30,350 - $38,935
Combined MPG
26 - 40
12th
2026 Buick Envision
Edmunds Rating
6.6/10
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
$41,000 - $50,700
Combined MPG
25
13th
2026 Mazda CX-5
Edmunds Rating
6.5/10
Mazda has designed its new CX-5 to be appealing to a wider audience. You’ll no doubt enjoy its roomy interior, classy design, and smooth ride over bumps. But we’ve found that the focus on comfort has made this small SUV less engaging to drive than before and more generic-feeling. It no longer stands out against rival SUVs from Hyundai, Kia and Toyota.
MSRP
$29,990 - $38,990
Combined MPG
25 - 28
14th
2026 Nissan Rogue
Edmunds Rating
6.4/10
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
$29,490 - $39,390
Combined MPG
29 - 32
15th
2026 Jeep Cherokee
Edmunds Rating
6.3/10
We think you’ll like the Jeep Cherokee if you’re looking for a roomy small SUV that’s also a hybrid and gets good mpg. But be aware that a few flaws, such as sluggish acceleration and lackluster value, keep it from being a top-tier pick.
MSRP
$35,000 - $43,000
Combined MPG
37
16th
2026 Ford Bronco Sport
Edmunds Rating
6.3/10
The Ford Bronco Sport is one small crossover that can tackle terrain and look good doing it. Technology and usable space are also strong points. However, the Bronco Sport can feel a little sluggish with its base engine and doesn't offer the interior and cargo space of some rivals.
MSRP
$31,845 - $40,265
Combined MPG
23 - 27
17th
2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid
Edmunds Rating
6.3/10
The Subaru Forester Hybrid is a real improvement over the standard Forester. It's quicker, quieter and more comfortable, all while being significantly more efficient. Though it suffers from a lackluster infotainment system and an overall lack of polish, we think the Forester Hybrid is a solid choice overall for a small hybrid SUV.
MSRP
$34,730 - $41,545
Combined MPG
35
18th
2026 Subaru Forester
Edmunds Rating
5.8/10
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 - $41,595
Combined MPG
26 - 35
19th
2027 Chevrolet Equinox
Edmunds Rating
5.7/10
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
$29,000 - $35,900
Combined MPG
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.

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If you like the size of compact SUVs but need three rows, there's a handful of compact 3-row SUVs that fit the bill. We admit we're not big fans of the idea, or of the available options. Cramming three rows of seats into a smaller body comes with inherent compromises to passenger comfort. While there are still only a small number of SUVs in this class, the offerings are better than ever before thanks to some updated models.
  1. #12026 Kia Sorento Hybrid
  2. #22026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid
  3. #32026 Kia Sorento
  4. #42026 Hyundai Santa Fe
  5. #52025 Mitsubishi Outlander
1st
2026 Kia Sorento Hybrid
Edmunds Rating
7.9/10
The Kia Sorento Hybrid is an enticing option if you're looking for a small SUV with three rows of seating and good mpg. It's also easy to drive and comes well stocked with features. Only the elevated price tag on the top-of-the-line model could be a deterrent.
MSRP
$38,890 - $47,190
Combined MPG
34 - 37
2nd
2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid
Edmunds Rating
7.7/10
The Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid is a great option for a family-oriented SUV. It provides plenty of space for both passengers and cargo and comes with the latest driver assistance features. We appreciate the smooth, quiet, and responsive turbocharged hybrid powertrain, but it falls slightly short of expectations in terms of efficiency.
MSRP
$36,400 - $50,500
Combined MPG
34 - 36
3rd
2026 Kia Sorento
Edmunds Rating
7.7/10
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
$32,390 - $47,790
Combined MPG
23 - 26
4th
2026 Hyundai Santa Fe
Edmunds Rating
7.5/10
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
$35,050 - $50,500
Combined MPG
21 - 36
5th
2025 Mitsubishi Outlander
Edmunds Rating
5.9/10
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
$29,995 - $44,445
Combined MPG
26 - 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.

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Luxury subcompact SUVs might share the same size as their mainstream counterparts, but at this level, you can expect upgrades that match the elevated prices. That means more sophisticated interior materials and infotainment systems, advanced driver aids, and increased power and performance.
  1. #12026 Mercedes-Benz GLB
  2. #22026 BMW X1
  3. #32026 BMW X2
  4. #42025 Audi Q3
  5. #52026 Mercedes-Benz GLA
1st
2026 Mercedes-Benz GLB
Edmunds Rating
7.8/10
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
$43,800 - $60,600
Combined MPG
23 - 28
2nd
2026 BMW X1
Edmunds Rating
7.4/10
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
$43,200 - $52,400
Combined MPG
27 - 28
3rd
2026 BMW X2
Edmunds Rating
6.9/10
The BMW X2 is the more stylish and sporty — but notably less practical — sibling of the X1 SUV. It gives up cargo space and rear headroom, but comes in a sleeker shape and offers a powerful optional engine.
MSRP
$44,700 - $53,900
Combined MPG
26 - 28
4th
2025 Audi Q3
Edmunds Rating
6.7/10
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
5th
2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA
Edmunds Rating
6.5/10
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
$41,500 - $58,550
Combined MPG
25 - 29
6th
2025 Alfa Romeo Tonale
Edmunds Rating
6.3/10
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
24 - 29
7th
2027 MINI Countryman
Edmunds Rating
6.1/10
The Mini Countryman is a little SUV that carves out an interesting niche between regular SUVs and those from luxury brands. It has a cool-looking interior and sporty performance. But some design quirks keep it from being a truly fulfilling vehicle.
MSRP
$34,900 - $49,400
Combined MPG
25
8th
2026 Volvo XC40
Edmunds Rating
5.7/10
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
$39,900 - $51,900
Combined MPG
26 - 27
9th
2026 Acura ADX
Edmunds Rating
5.6/10
Sadly, the Acura ADX is just another crossover SUV. It's spacious and has a solid amount of cargo space, but that's all that really stands out. Otherwise, the ADX is let down by a lackluster interior design, slow acceleration, a dated tech interface and not-great value.
MSRP
$35,000 - $44,000
Combined MPG
28 - 29
10th
2026 Lexus UX
Edmunds Rating
5.5/10
The Lexus UX will appeal to you if you're seeking a fuel-efficient and upscale small vehicle. Its hybrid powertrain gets great mpg and makes enough power to move through traffic with ease. But the diminutive size of the UX takes a toll on interior room and cargo space, and its elevated price tag flirts with larger, more luxurious SUVs.
MSRP
$37,155 - $47,145
Combined MPG
42 - 43
11th
2026 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque
Edmunds Rating
5.3/10
The Land Rover Range Rover Evoque is as stylish as small luxury SUVs get, and it's instantly recognizable as a Range Rover. Its minimalist interior is appealing and it's notably quiet and comfortable. However, the Evoque falls short of the competition in most other aspects.
MSRP
$49,900 - $55,100
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.

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Like their non-luxury brethren, compact luxury SUVs feel more like utility vehicles than hatchbacks. Here you'll find extensive lists of luxury equipment and advanced technology, along with more upscale cabins and higher-horsepower engines. There have been a lot of new entries or updated models in this class.
  1. #12026 Genesis GV70
  2. #22026 BMW X3
  3. #32026 Mercedes-Benz GLC
  4. #42026 Audi Q5
  5. #52026 Acura RDX
1st
2026 Genesis GV70
Edmunds Rating
7.8/10
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
$48,985 - $71,095
Combined MPG
21 - 22
2nd
2026 BMW X3
Edmunds Rating
7.5/10
The redesigned BMW X3 has a lot to offer. Its responsive engine and precise handling add enjoyment to every drive, while its spacious cargo area makes it practical and versatile. We recommend it if you're shopping for a well-rounded small luxury SUV.
MSRP
$51,300 - $66,500
Combined MPG
27 - 29
3rd
2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC
Edmunds Rating
7.3/10
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
$49,550 - $86,750
Combined MPG
20 - 27
4th
2026 Audi Q5
Edmunds Rating
7.1/10
The redesigned Audi Q5 is definitely new and different, but it doesn't feel that much better than before. Its standout wins are an easy-to-use tech interface and a comfortable cabin.
MSRP
$52,800 - $60,700
Combined MPG
24
5th
2026 Acura RDX
Edmunds Rating
6.8/10
We like the Acura RDX and how it offers a roomy interior and lots of features for an agreeable price. More power or a hybrid option for better mpg would be welcome, as would easier-to-use controls. But overall the RDX deserves a look if you want luxury combined with value.
MSRP
$45,100 - $54,850
Combined MPG
23
6th
2026 Lexus NX 350
Edmunds Rating
6.8/10
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
$45,175 - $62,830
Combined MPG
24 - 40
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7th
2026 Jaguar F-PACE
Edmunds Rating
6.6/10
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 - $95,000
Combined MPG
17 - 24
8th
2026 Porsche Macan
Edmunds Rating
6.1/10
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
$65,400 - $112,700
Combined MPG
19 - 21
9th
2026 Volvo XC60
Edmunds Rating
5.8/10
The Volvo XC60 has some appealing qualities, such as very comfortable front seats and a stylish interior design. But it otherwise comes up short on technology features, performance and overall value compared to top luxury SUV rivals.
MSRP
$49,700 - $79,800
Combined MPG
26 - 28
10th
2026 Alfa Romeo Stelvio
Edmunds Rating
5.7/10
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio is an outdated choice for a small luxury SUV. We do like its distinctive styling and no-nonsense interior design. But compared to its newest rivals the Stelvio suffers from a small cargo area, dated technology features and a bland driving experience.
MSRP
$49,995
Combined MPG
24

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.

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  1. #12026 BMW X3 M50 xDrive
  2. #22026 Genesis GV70 3.5T
  3. #32026 Audi SQ5
1st
2026 BMW X3 M50 xDrive
Edmunds Rating
7.8/10
The new BMW X3 M50 delivers a driving experience that's truly exciting. Its powerful, efficient engine provides seamless acceleration, while its sporty handling evokes the spirit of a hot hatch. Generous cargo space and towing capabilities make it practical too.
MSRP
$66,500
Combined MPG
27
2nd
2026 Genesis GV70 3.5T
Edmunds Rating
7.4/10
Comfortable, practical and stylish, the Genesis GV70 boasts a comprehensive list of standard features and a menu of optional upgrades to rival those offered by most any other vehicle in its class. This is a competitive luxury SUV that favors comfort over sport.
MSRP
$64,415 - $71,095
Combined MPG
21
3rd
2026 Audi SQ5
Edmunds Rating
7.0/10
The redesigned Audi SQ5 benefits from all the upgrades given to the more pedestrian Q5, as well as a significant boost in power and performance. If subtle speed is your thing, the SQ5 is definitely a front-runner in the segment. But the lack of any real personality holds it back against the BMW X3 M50.
MSRP
$65,400 - $71,300
Combined MPG
23
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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.