It’s no wonder subcompact SUVs are the fastest-growing segment of the new car market. They offer an excellent mix of comfort, capability, safety, and efficiency at a price that most can afford. In this segment, drivers get a higher seating position than in a sedan and more functional space, and some models are even respectably good at driving off-road.
The subcompact SUV market is so popular that nearly every major automaker now offers at least one. These vehicles often feature cutting-edge infotainment tech and the most up-to-date advanced safety features. To help you make sense of it all, we’ve assembled a list of the best SUVs in the segment.
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The Best Subcompact SUVs of 2025
- Honda HR-V
- Kia Seltos
- Hyundai Venue
- Kia Soul
- Subaru Crosstrek
- Hyundai Kona
- Mazda CX-30
- Buick Envista
- MINI Countryman
- Volkswagen Taos
FAQs Shopping Tools Related Topics
1. Honda HR-V
CarGurus expert rating: 8.2 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 4.3 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 31% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Standard advanced safety features | No hybrid option |
| Fun to drive | Fairly pedestrian performance |
| Top trim feels more expensive than it is |
Honda rolled out a complete HR-V redesign for 2023, trading its Fit-based roots for a global platform shared with the Civic. This brought a sleeker, more refined look both inside and out, with a cabin that feels impressively upscale for the price—especially in the EX-L trim, which features perforated leather seats and dual-zone climate control. Honda also streamlined the trim lineup, now offering LX, Sport, and EX-L, each with a strong list of standard features. The HR-V’s practical 24.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats (55.1 cubic feet with them folded) and nearly flat load floor make it one of the roomiest options in the subcompact SUV segment.
Under the hood, every HR-V runs a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 158 hp and 138 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While the performance is more about efficiency than excitement, the HR-V surprises with solid handling, thanks to its independent rear suspension and widened tracks. Standard across the board is the Honda Sensing suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and traffic-sign recognition, bolstering peace of mind. All trims get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless connectivity and a larger 9-inch touchscreen reserved for EX-L. The HR-V’s combination of comfort, safety, and value keeps it competitive in a crowded field.
The CarGurus Verdict: "New styling plus the newly standard Honda Sensing suite of safety features put this latest HR-V back at the front of the pack it led when it debuted in 2016." - Natalie Harrington
Read our most recent Honda HR-V review
2. Kia Seltos
CarGurus expert rating: 7.5 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 4.9 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lots of helpful standard safety features | Base engine feels underpowered |
| Functional cabin with intuitive technology | Optional turbo engine suffers from low-speed turbo-lag |
| AWD standard on base trim level |
The Kia Seltos features impressive space for a subcompact, plus thoughtful tech and a recent refresh that brings in sharper styling and a more modern interior. Even with its small footprint, the Seltos offers surprising headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers, making it a practical choice for families or anyone who values comfort on the go. The updated cabin features a large digital display that combines a digital instrument cluster with an upgraded touchscreen infotainment system, while still retaining handy physical controls for climate and audio—an appreciated touch for everyday usability.
Under the hood, the Seltos comes standard with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine making 146 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), with all-wheel drive (AWD) standard on the base LX trim. For those wanting more pep, higher trims offer a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder delivering 195 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque, now matched to a smoother eight-speed automatic. Cargo space is a highlight as well, with up to 62.8 cubic feet available with the rear seats folded and 26.6 cubic feet with them in place—plenty for road trips or hauling gear. Safety features are generous across the board, and the Seltos continues to offer strong value with a competitive starting price and Kia’s excellent 10-year/100,000-mile warranty.
The CarGurus Verdict: "For under $25,000, you can get a spacious, functional crossover with AWD and modern tech and safety features. For just over $30K, you can get every feature offered. Other small crossovers might excel in individual areas, but it’s very hard to beat the well-rounded nature of the 2024 Kia Seltos." - George Kennedy
Read our most recent Kia Seltos review
3. Hyundai Venue
CarGurus expert rating: 7.2 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 35.2% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.7 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stylish design | Sluggish performance |
| Impressive technology | Cramped back seat |
| Excellent value for money | Not much cargo space |
The Hyundai Venue is one of the most budget-friendly new crossovers on the market. Designed for urban life, it offers nimble handling, excellent outward visibility, and a city-friendly footprint that makes parking and maneuvering a breeze. Every Venue comes with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 121 hp and 113 lb-ft of torque, paired to a smooth CVT and front-wheel drive (FWD). Inside, you’ll find a surprisingly stylish cabin for the price, with thoughtful touches like striped seat inserts, white dashboard trim, and intuitive controls. The Venue fits four adults comfortably (five if you squeeze) and boasts up to 31.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, making it practical for daily errands or weekend getaways.
Hyundai doesn’t skimp on tech or value, either. All trims include an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a suite of important safety tech like automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist. Step up to the Limited trim for extras like navigation, satellite radio, and Bluelink+ connected services for as long as you own the vehicle. The Venue’s standout value is further bolstered by Hyundai’s lengthy 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, five years of roadside assistance, and three years of free scheduled maintenance. While performance is modest and rear seat and cargo space are tight, the Venue delivers big on affordability and peace of mind for cost-conscious shoppers.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Affordable to buy and own, the 2024 Hyundai Venue is a budget-friendly choice." - Christian Wardlaw
Read our most recent Hyundai Venue review
4. Kia Soul
CarGurus expert rating: 7.7 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 5 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 30% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.7 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stylish design | Fairly pedestrian performance |
| Spacious | Uncomfortable seats |
| Excellent value for money | Advanced safety features are not standard |
The 2023 Kia Soul is an affordable, practical small car that doesn’t blend into the crowd. With its signature boxy styling and funky details, the Soul balances compact dimensions with impressive interior space. Updates for 2023 bring more standard driver-assist features and refreshed exterior touches, while the upright driving position and clever interior design make the Soul feel larger than it looks. You’ll get up to 24.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats (with the optional dual-level cargo floor and cover), which is outstanding for the segment, and the square shape means easy loading for bulky items.
Under the hood,the Soul comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine making 147 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with a smooth CVT and FWD. While not a performance standout, the Soul delivers a comfortable and composed ride for daily driving, and its fuel efficiency—up to 31 mpg combined in the EX trim—keeps costs low. Inside, the tech features are user-friendly, with a standard 8-inch touchscreen and available 10.25-inch system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and available Harman Kardon audio. Kia’s long warranty and affordable pricing further cement the Soul’s reputation for value, making it an excellent pick for shoppers after style, space, and everyday practicality.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Soul proves economy cars don’t have to be boring." - Stephen Edelstein
Read our most recent Kia Soul review
5. Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness
CarGurus expert rating: 8 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 4.8 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 31.1% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.5 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Standard all-wheel drive | Underwhelming base engine |
| Impressive technology | Interior materials feel cheap |
| Outstanding off-road capability in Wilderness trim |
For 2024, Subaru took its best-selling subcompact crossover and gave it a serious boost in capability for adventure seekers. With its signature rugged styling, lifted 9.3-inch ground clearance, and a ladder-style roof rack rated for 700 pounds of static load, the Crosstrek Wilderness is ready for everything from weekend camping trips to muddy trailheads. Inside, StarTex synthetic leather upholstery is easy to clean and largely waterproof, while all-weather floor mats and additional trunk cupholders make it a practical partner for outdoor lifestyles. The upgraded 2.5-liter flat-four engine produces 182 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT tuned for off-road use and a robust X-Mode traction system—making sure the Crosstrek Wilderness feels just as confident off the beaten path as it does on your daily commute.
Despite its tougher persona, the Crosstrek Wilderness doesn't forget everyday usability. It features a large 11.6-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Subaru's acclaimed EyeSight safety suite offering adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. While cargo space behind the rear seats is a bit modest at 19.9 cubic feet, folding the seats opens up a generous 54.7 cubic feet—enough for gear, groceries, or even a weekend's worth of camping supplies. With a starting price that includes AWD (unlike many competitors), strong resale value, and a user-friendly, adventure-ready interior, the Crosstrek Wilderness stands out as a go-anywhere, do-anything subcompact SUV for active drivers.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek looks like an excellent choice for active, adventurous shoppers." - Matt Smith
Read our most recent Subaru Crosstrek review
6. Hyundai Kona
CarGurus expert rating: 8 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.9% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Plenty of cargo space | Fairly pedestrian performance |
| Standard advanced safety features | Potentially polarizing design |
| Spacious |
Mostly unchanged for 2025, the second-generation Hyundai Kona balances practicality with a fresh, modern design. Thanks to its larger proportions—about 6 inches longer than before—the Kona delivers real-world benefits like increased rear legroom (38.2 inches) and a cargo area that holds 25.5 cubic feet with the rear seats up, expanding to a class-leading 63.7 cubic feet when folded. Inside, you'll find clever storage solutions, a sense of openness, and plenty of standard tech, including a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on every trim.
When it comes to performance, most trims use a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (147 hp, 132 lb-ft of torque) paired with a fuel-efficient CVT, while higher trims offer a punchier 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (190 hp, 195 lb-ft of torque) with an eight-speed automatic. AWD is available for $1,500 extra and brings a more sophisticated rear suspension setup. The Kona also earns high marks for safety, with advanced driver aids standard across the lineup and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Factor in Hyundai’s generous 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and strong value at every price point, and the 2025 Kona is well-suited for small families, urban drivers, or anyone needing a flexible, affordable crossover.
The CarGurus Verdict: "That there are no major changes beyond a couple of new trim levels for the 2025 Hyundai Kona is neither a surprise nor a bad thing. Not a surprise because this second-generation model only made its debut one year ago, making it too soon to expect any major updates. And not a bad thing because, frankly, this second-generation Kona was already a great subcompact SUV." - Chris Knapman, editorial director
Read our most recent Hyundai Kona review
7. Mazda CX-30
CarGurus expert rating: 7.7 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 4 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 35% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stylish design | Poor fuel economy (Turbo) |
| Fun to drive | Cramped back seat |
| Great safety ratings | Not much cargo space |
The Mazda CX-30 stands offers style, sporty driving dynamics, and impressive safety technology. Mazda continues to refine its smallest SUV, recently adding new Select Sport and Carbon Turbo trims, standard AWD, and a larger available infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Inside, the CX-30 punches above its weight with quality materials, a thoughtfully designed dashboard, and a cabin ambiance that rivals entry-level luxury SUVs. While front-seat occupants will find comfort and support, rear-seat and cargo space remain tight, offering 20.2 cubic feet of space behind the back seat—adequate for daily errands but less than some competitors.
On the road, the CX-30 delivers the kind of fun, agile handling that Mazda enthusiasts appreciate. The turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine provides up to 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque (on premium fuel), paired with a responsive six-speed automatic and standard AWD. This powertrain makes the CX-30 one of the more athletic picks in its class, though fuel economy for the turbo model lags behind rivals, with a combined EPA estimate of 25 mpg (and potentially less in real-world conditions). Safety is a CX-30 highlight, with blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a suite of advanced driver assists now standard across all trims. Top crash-test ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the IIHS make it a strong choice for families prioritizing peace of mind.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Sticking to its corporate traditions with the 2024 CX-30, Mazda delivers style, refinement, safety, and rewarding driving dynamics in the small crossover SUV segment. As expected, rear-seat room and cargo space are tight, but otherwise, the Mazda CX-30 is a delightful little SUV." - Christian Wardlaw
Read our most recent Mazda CX-30 review
8. Buick Envista
CarGurus expert rating: 7.8 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 4.8 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.7% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.1 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stylish design | AWD not available |
| Comfortable | Not much cargo space |
| Excellent value for money | Poor ergonomic design |
Buick’s Envista was all-new for 2024. It stepped in as the brand’s entry-level crossover, replacing the Encore and slotting just below the Encore GX. Distinctive for its sloping roofline and coupe-inspired profile, the Envista brings an upscale look that sets it apart from more traditional small SUVs. Inside, you’ll notice a streamlined dashboard, soft-touch materials, and a layout that feels a notch above the Chevrolet Trax with which it shares its platform. The ST trim adds sporty black accents and 18-inch wheels, and all trims feature a user-friendly 11-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard.
Under the hood, every Envista comes with a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine delivering 137 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic and FWD. Despite its compact size, the Envista offers increased rear legroom and shoulder room compared to the outgoing Encore, thanks to a longer wheelbase. Cargo space is rated at 20.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats—less than some rivals but enough for everyday errands. Fuel economy is a strong point, with an EPA-estimated 30 mpg combined, and standard safety tech includes automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist. While AWD isn’t offered, the Envista stands out for value, comfort, and style in the entry-level crossover segment.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Envista upgrades its donor platform to something a little bit more than basic without compromising value. It also stretches the crossover template further than any vehicle in its segment, creating a decent alternative to the small sedans and hatchbacks Buick and many other brands have abandoned. It's a small, sensible car that gives buyers something extra." - Stephen Edelstein
Read our most recent Buick Envista review
9. MINI Countryman
CarGurus expert rating: 6.8 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 5 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Multiple powertrain options | Dissatisfying steering |
| Stylish design | Poor ride quality |
| Fun to drive | Unintuitive technology |
The MINI Countryman was just redesigned for 2025 and features a distinctive personality, expressive styling, and playful attitude. Now larger and more grown-up, it’s still packed with all the cheeky quirks you expect from a MINI. The Countryman Cooper S All4 comes equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 241 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and standard AWD. Inside, the cabin balances modern tech and classic MINI flair, highlighted by a unique round 9.4-inch OLED touchscreen and a choice of vibrant trims and materials. With 25 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and a maximum of 56.2 cubic feet with them folded, the Countryman is practical for everyday family use.
While the ride is lively and the handling characterful, shoppers should note the Countryman’s lack of traditional refinement. The steering can feel vague, and road noise is more noticeable than in many rivals, but the fun-to-drive spirit remains intact—especially in “Go Kart” mode with the optional adaptive suspension. The Countryman is well-equipped for safety, boasting a suite of advanced driver aids and earning a 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick. In terms of value, it sits at the entry level of the luxury market, so buyers need to appreciate its uniqueness and design appeal, as more practical options are available elsewhere for less.
The CarGurus Verdict: "We begrudgingly accept its quirks in exchange for its personality, but many people likely won’t." - Christian Wardlaw
Read our most recent MINI Countryman review
10. Volkswagen Taos
CarGurus expert rating: 6.3 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 4.3 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 35% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stylish design | Irritating, underpowered drivetrain |
| Spacious | Infotainment system user experience |
| Plenty of cargo space | Questionable value for the money |
The Volkswagen Taos combines a premium, stylish design with the kind of roomy, practical interior that busy families and commuters crave. Volkswagen’s most affordable crossover was introduced just a year earlier and quickly became a best-seller, thanks to its comfortable seating for four adults, generous cargo space, and high driving position. In SEL trim with 4Motion AWD, you’ll find upscale touches like leather seats, bold 19-inch alloy wheels, and a panoramic sunroof, all contributing to the Taos’ near-luxury feel. Cargo capacity is a generous 24.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 60.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, making it one of the roomiest options in its class.
Under the hood, every Taos is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder producing 158 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. While the engine delivers respectable fuel economy—our test Taos averaged 26.8 mpg in real-world driving—it falls short of the punchier rivals at this price point. The driving experience is defined by nimble, confidence-inspiring handling, though the dual-clutch transmission can be unpredictable at times. Standard safety tech is a strong point, with features like forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and available adaptive cruise control. However, the infotainment system’s user experience leaves something to be desired, so most drivers will want to rely on Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for daily use.
The CarGurus Verdict: "We like the Volkswagen Taos well enough. With more power, added drivetrain refinement, and a new infotainment system interface, we might love it." - Christian Wardlaw
Read our most recent Volkswagen Taos review
FAQs
What is the best subcompact SUV for 2025? Based on expert ratings, the 2025 Hyundai Kona is often cited as a top contender, praised for its practicality, affordability, and modern styling. Other highly-rated models include the Kia Seltos and Subaru Crosstrek, which are recognized for their space, features, and capability.
Which subcompact SUV has the most cargo space? The 2025 Hyundai Kona leads the class with a maximum of 63.7 cubic feet of cargo volume with the rear seats folded. The Kia Seltos is a close second with 62.8 cubic feet of space.
What is the safest subcompact SUV? The Honda HR-V, Hyundai Kona, and Mazda CX-30 have all earned a TOP SAFETY PICK+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for 2025, representing the highest level of safety performance.
Are subcompact SUVs reliable? Reliability can vary by model, but several subcompact SUVs have strong track records. The Subaru Crosstrek and Honda HR-V are often highlighted for their solid reliability scores from outlets like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports.
Which subcompact SUV is the most affordable? The Hyundai Venue and Kia Soul are typically among the most affordable subcompact SUVs, offering a strong set of features and excellent value for their low starting prices.
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