The automotive landscape is currently dominated by the rise of the small SUV, also known as the subcompact crossover. These versatile vehicles have surged in popularity, becoming some of the most sought-after new cars on the market. This increased demand has ignited fierce competition among manufacturers, all striving to create the most appealing models by enhancing features, standard equipment, and driving dynamics.
This intense rivalry ultimately benefits car buyers, presenting a wide array of excellent choices at relatively accessible price points. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of 10 of the best small SUVs currently available, presented alphabetically. When making your decision, consider factors such as safety features, passenger and cargo space, predicted resale values, and the availability of all-wheel drive. Let’s explore these top contenders.
2020 Ford EcoSport
Including the 2020 Ford EcoSport in a list of the 10 Best Small Suvs might seem like a nod to the past, especially with newer models constantly emerging. However, the EcoSport still holds its own as an engaging and practical subcompact crossover. While a newer version may be on the horizon, the current EcoSport offers a compelling package for those seeking a blend of agility and SUV versatility.
Its foundation, derived from the Ford Fiesta, contributes to its enjoyable driving experience. Although the Fiesta is no longer available in the United States, its spirit of fun driving dynamics lives on in the EcoSport. Furthermore, the EcoSport offers the option of all-wheel drive, particularly in the SES trim. This trim level also boasts a more powerful 166-horsepower 2.0-liter engine, a sport-tuned suspension for enhanced handling, and blind-spot monitoring for added safety.
2020 Honda HR-V
While resale value might not be the most thrilling aspect of buying a new small SUV, it’s a significant factor to consider. The Honda HR-V excels in this area, consistently demonstrating strong resale values, a testament to Honda’s reputation for reliability and build quality. Beyond financial considerations, the HR-V also impresses with its generous interior space. Rear passengers enjoy a spacious 39.3 inches of legroom, and the maximum cargo capacity reaches an impressive 58.8 cubic feet – rivaling some compact SUVs like the Kia Sportage.
The 2020 HR-V starts at a reasonable $21,915, but upgrading to the Sport trim, starting at $23,615, adds desirable features like a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen and improved smartphone integration. For advanced safety technology, the mid-level EX trim (from $25,065) is recommended. All HR-V models are powered by a fuel-efficient 1.8-liter engine producing 141 horsepower, capable of averaging around 30 mpg. Honda’s renowned reliability and build quality provide peace of mind for owners.
2020 Hyundai Kona
The 2020 Hyundai Kona firmly establishes itself as one of the best in the subcompact SUV segment. Launched in 2018, the Kona is a relatively recent entrant, showcasing Hyundai’s commitment to continuous improvement and delivering increasingly impressive vehicles. Hyundai has successfully shed its past image of prioritizing value over driving enjoyment; the Kona injects a dose of fun into the mix, particularly when equipped with the optional 175-horsepower turbocharged engine.
To access this more potent engine, you’ll need to choose at least the Limited trim, but even at a starting price of around $27,000, it remains competitively priced within the segment. For environmentally conscious buyers, the 2020 Kona Electric is also available in select states, starting around $38,000 before incentives. Electric subcompact SUVs are still a rarity, making the Kona Electric a standout option with an impressive maximum range of 258 miles.
2020 Jeep Renegade
The 2020 Jeep Renegade distinguishes itself as the most rugged and SUV-spirited option among our top 10 small SUVs. The specialized Trailhawk version, in particular, possesses genuine off-road capabilities that surpass most rivals in this class. The 2020 Renegade lineup begins with the Sport trim at $23,770. Despite Jeep’s legendary off-road heritage, the standard configuration is front-wheel drive. However, the Renegade’s design inherently incorporates short overhangs, beneficial for navigating challenging terrain, and a boxy silhouette that maximizes headroom.
While standard equipment might not be as extensive as some competitors, the Renegade offers practical features like parking assistance for both parallel and perpendicular parking spaces. This demonstrates Jeep’s understanding of real-world driver needs, acknowledging that urban maneuverability is often as important as off-road prowess for many buyers.
2020 Kia Sportage
Interestingly, Kia currently lacks a true subcompact SUV in its lineup to directly compete with models like the Hyundai Kona. While the Kia Soul and Niro exist, their front-wheel-drive-only configurations position them more as hatchbacks than traditional SUVs. However, the Kia Sportage, although classified as a compact crossover and slightly larger than the other vehicles on this list of best small SUVs, remains an exceptional vehicle and a worthwhile consideration. Remarkably, the 2020 Sportage, starting just above $25,000, is only marginally more expensive than the smaller 2020 Honda HR-V (starting around $22,000), making it an accessible upgrade in size and features.
The Sportage received a refresh for 2020, incorporating an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, enhancing its technology offerings. It stands out as a remarkably well-rounded and appealing “small” crossover, even if it technically resides in the compact segment.
2020 Mazda CX-3
Choosing a brand-new small crossover SUV doesn’t necessitate sacrificing driving enjoyment. Mazda, among mainstream and even some premium automakers, possesses a unique expertise in chassis tuning, resulting in vehicles that are genuinely fun to drive. The CX-3 exemplifies this Mazda philosophy. It strikes a compelling balance between engaging handling, appealing to driving enthusiasts, and a comfortable ride quality that keeps passengers content.
Beyond its driving dynamics, the CX-3 is also a practical and affordable subcompact crossover, with prices starting in the low $20,000s. Its 2.0-liter engine produces a reasonable 148 horsepower and is paired with a conventional six-speed automatic transmission, preferred by driving purists over the fuel-economy-focused continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) often found in this segment. Subjectively, the CX-3 also boasts a stylish and attractive exterior design.
2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
While much of Mitsubishi’s current vehicle lineup is aging, the Eclipse Cross subcompact crossover stands out as a more recent addition, debuting in 2018. It adheres to Mitsubishi’s established formula of offering a generous amount of standard equipment at a competitive price point. Notably, it also includes a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, an exceptional offering in this vehicle class, providing long-term peace of mind.
While the base trim is value-packed, upgrading to the LE trim is advisable, as it adds heated front seats and essential smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. For those prioritizing safety and convenience, the mid-range SE version, priced at $26,590, includes blind-spot monitoring and a leather-wrapped steering wheel – a tactile upgrade that significantly enhances the driving experience compared to a plastic steering wheel.
2020 Nissan Kicks
Despite its somewhat unconventional name, the Nissan Kicks is a genuinely appealing small SUV/crossover, ideally suited for navigating city streets and suburban environments. It excels in everyday practicality, comfortably accommodating passengers and cargo within its subcompact dimensions.
The Kicks offers a comfortable ride and surprising spaciousness for its class, with adequate rear-seat room for adults. Its 125-horsepower engine prioritizes fuel efficiency, achieving an impressive 33 mpg. The Kicks also stands out with its availability of eye-catching two-tone paint schemes, adding a touch of personalization. Standard equipment is comprehensive, including forward collision mitigation with automatic emergency braking and seven airbags. All these features combine to create a compelling value proposition, starting at $19,685. The SV trim, only about $1,500 more, further enhances the package with 17-inch alloy wheels, blind-spot monitoring, satellite radio, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
2020 Subaru Crosstrek
The 2020 Subaru Crosstrek distinguishes itself by being the only vehicle on this list of 10 best small SUVs to offer all-wheel drive as standard. Coupled with a generous 8.7 inches of ground clearance, the Crosstrek possesses greater SUV-like capability than most of its rivals, making it suitable for light off-road adventures and confident all-weather driving. It has also earned a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), highlighting its commitment to safety.
The Crosstrek is both spacious and practical, offering a good level of standard equipment. One minor drawback is that its engine and transmission combination can feel somewhat underpowered compared to some competitors, despite similar horsepower figures and the use of continuously variable transmissions. However, for those seeking enhanced performance and efficiency, the Crosstrek plug-in hybrid model is available. While pricier at $36,155, it comes generously equipped, and the electric motor’s torque provides a noticeable boost in acceleration.
2020 Toyota C-HR
Toyota’s explanation for the C-HR nameplate—C for coupe and HR for high ride height—is somewhat misleading. The C-HR isn’t truly a coupe, nor does it have a particularly high ride height (5.9 inches of ground clearance). Nevertheless, it remains a compelling option and earns its place among the best small SUVs due to its blend of style, features, and Toyota’s renowned reliability.
While its 144-horsepower engine isn’t geared towards performance enthusiasts, the C-HR handles competently and offers comfortable and supportive seats. Its primary selling point is the extensive list of standard equipment included even in the base LE trim, starting at $22,415. Standard safety features are comprehensive, encompassing 10 airbags, radar-based adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and forward collision mitigation. Technology features include an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto/Amazon Alexa integration, and, new for 2020, satellite radio.
