When it comes to choosing the perfect vehicle, small SUVs have become increasingly popular due to their versatility, reasonable pricing, and just-the-right size for many families. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the best small SUVs available in the market for 2024 and 2025.
Top Contenders
Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is consistently ranked high among compact SUVs. It offers excellent fuel efficiency, with an EPA rating of 28-40 mpg combined, and a spacious interior that is both comfortable and practical. The CR-V also boasts a robust safety feature set and a smooth driving experience, making it a top choice for many[4][5].
Mazda CX-50 and CX-5
Mazda’s offerings in the compact SUV segment are highly praised for their sporty driving dynamics and luxurious interiors. The CX-50 and CX-5 stand out with their attractive exteriors, handling, and comfort. While the CX-5 may fall a bit short in practicality, it compensates with its driving experience and upscale cabin[1][4].
Volkswagen Tiguan
The Volkswagen Tiguan is known for its spirited handling and subtle European style. It is one of the few compact SUVs that offer an available third-row seat, making it a great option for families. The Tiguan starts at $30,305 and has an EPA rating of 24-26 mpg combined[1][4].
Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 is a thoroughly competitive compact SUV with a roomy interior, fuel-efficient four-cylinder powertrain, and almost-rugged styling. It offers excellent fuel efficiency with an EPA rating of 28-30 mpg combined. The RAV4 is also known for its durability and solid resale value[1][4].
Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage
Both the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage are stylish and practical options. The Tucson is a head-turner with its upscale and practical cabin, while the Sportage offers plenty of space and generous standard equipment. However, the Sportage is noted for its dull driving character[1][5].
Ford Bronco Sport
The Ford Bronco Sport, while not as off-road capable as its larger counterpart, still offers a taste of the off-roader lifestyle. It is known for its capabilities and starts at $31,590 with an EPA rating of 23-26 mpg combined[1].
Key Features to Consider
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is a crucial factor for many buyers. The Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V are among the leaders in this category, with EPA ratings of 28-30 mpg and 28-40 mpg combined, respectively[1][4].
Interior Space and Comfort
The Volkswagen Tiguan and Honda CR-V offer ample interior space, including the option for a third-row seat in the Tiguan. The Mazda CX-5 and Hyundai Tucson are praised for their luxurious and upscale interiors[1][4].
Safety Features
Most of the top-rated small SUVs come with robust safety feature sets. The Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, and Toyota RAV4 are equipped with advanced safety technologies, including blind-spot monitoring and highway driving assist[1][5].
Driving Dynamics
For those who enjoy driving, the Mazda CX-50 and CX-5 are standout choices due to their sporty driving dynamics. The Volkswagen Tiguan also offers spirited handling, making it a joy to drive[1][4].
Budget Considerations
Price Range
Small SUVs generally fall within a reasonable price range. The Chevrolet Trax starts as low as $20,400, while the Mazda CX-50 and Honda CR-V start around $30,000-$30,300. The top-spec models can go up to around $40,000-$50,000[4].
Value for Money
The Kia Sportage is noted for its wallet-friendly price and luxury-grade features, making it a great value for the money. The Hyundai Tucson and Ford Bronco Sport also offer a good balance of features and price[1][5].
Most Important Facts
Top Models: Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-50, Volkswagen Tiguan, Mazda CX-5, Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, and Ford Bronco Sport.
Fuel Efficiency: Toyota RAV4 (28-30 mpg), Honda CR-V (28-40 mpg), and Volkswagen Tiguan (24-26 mpg) are among the most fuel-efficient options.
Interior Space: Volkswagen Tiguan offers an available third-row seat, while the Honda CR-V and Hyundai Tucson provide spacious interiors.
Safety Features: Advanced safety technologies are standard in most models, including blind-spot monitoring and highway driving assist.
Driving Dynamics: Mazda CX-50 and CX-5 are praised for their sporty driving dynamics, while the Volkswagen Tiguan offers spirited handling.
Price Range: Starting prices range from around $20,000 (Chevrolet Trax) to over $40,000 for top-spec models.
Value for Money: Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson offer a good balance of features and price, making them excellent value choices.
When choosing the best small SUV, consider your priorities in terms of fuel efficiency, interior space, safety features, driving dynamics, and budget to find the perfect vehicle that meets your needs.
