Summary

• Sub-compact SUVs combine the maneuverability and efficiency of smaller cars with the utility and cargo space of larger SUVs, making them ideal for individuals, or smaller families.
• While sub-compact SUVs may lack power and cargo space compared to larger SUVs, they still provide a fun driving experience, versatility for different terrains, and higher seating positions for better city navigation and parking.

Compact SUVs have pretty much taken the world by storm. Their reign was initially forecasted with the introduction of the Toyota RAV4 in the mid-nineties, but it took a while for these vehicles to really step into the automotive limelight. These days, these automobiles are the most popular body style when it comes to buyer intent, and generally, all-around utility.

As such, the question begs to be answered: if compact SUVs have made such huge waves in the automotive industry, did automakers think we'd need another, smaller category, called sub-compact SUVs? Well, the answer's simple. Sub-compact SUVs represent the best of a utility vehicle and a smaller automobile: The more petite size makes it more maneuverable and keeps the vehicle efficient, while still having enough room and cargo space to meet the needs of a single person, a couple, or a smaller family.

Additionally, they also sport the same versatility as their bigger brothers. They can be fun to drive on the road, some might even handle rougher terrain better, and above all, they're small but have the same higher sitting position as compact SUVs, enabling drivers to navigate better in city traffic, and park more effortlessly in tight parking spots.

Still, the question remains to be answered: Which models are the best sub-compact SUVs?

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10 2024 Kia Seltos

Starting Price: $24,390

This tiny and stylish crossover comes with more style than the previous model with more cargo space, more power under the hood, better safety features, and more tech, at a more sensible price. The sporty little vehicle comes with five seats and five trim levels, with its fuel economy hovering around 26 MPG combined. The base price starts at around $24,390, which is sensible money for a crossover, with an eight-speed transmission, and safety features like lane departure, occupancy sensor, and height-adjustable safety belts.

Specifications

Typically, drivers praise the new Seltos for being a bit more daring and more imaginative than its predecessors or its direct competitors (the Volkswagen Taos and the Mazda CX-30) but criticize the small, 1.6-liter turbocharged, four-cylinder engine, which even though packs some punch with its 195 horsepower, simply make the little sub-compact SUV somewhat of a lackluster experience.

Also, if you consider that Kia also has the Sportage, Soul, and Niro in their compact and small hatchback/crossover lineup, things can get a bit confusing when choosing the right model, let alone trim from the Korean brand.

9 2023 Volkswagen Taos

Starting Price: $24,155

Coming in at number nine, the 2023 Volkswagen Taos brings a lot more to the table than most drivers might suspect from a sub-compact SUV. The VW offers a unique, European driving experience, combined with a wide variety of driving aids (like forward collision warning and adaptive cruise control, to name a few), and ample interior space.

Specifications

With the base price starting at $24,155, the Taos has quickly become one of VWs most popular models, as it also boasts a certainly European demeanor on the road and in its design, and comes with added standard safety features for 2023. The Taos is also a quite efficient car with owner EPA estimates ranging from 28 to 31 MPG, making it an optimal choice who are looking for something safe, efficient, and reliable with a European flair to it.

On the downside, your only engine option is a four-cylinder, 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, which can be off-putting for those who don't really like forced induction or like some more "oomph" under the hood.

8 2023 Hyundai Venue

Starting Price: $19,650

The Hyundai Venue is among the least expensive sub-compact SUVs on the market today and comes with great utility and a plentiful list of standard equipment for the bargain price point. The cabin is roomy, the safety ratings are high, and the 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine gets a combined MPG of 31, which makes it more than ideal for a first-time driver.

Specifications

The Venue also comes with three trim levels, the most popular being the SEL IVT, starting at only $21,400. The advanced safety features, low starting price, and fuel efficiency would make this an even better option, but drivers often criticize the Venue for not having all-wheel drive (all trims are front-wheel drive) and that the engine simply runs out of steam too quickly. For in-town use, the 121 horsepower engine with 113 pound-feet of torque should be more than enough, but if you prefer more juice from a sub-compact SUV, chances are, the Venue might not live up to expectations.

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7 2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale

Starting Price: $42,955

As an extremely important model for Alfa Romeo, the classic and invigorating Italian design language is hard to spot on the new Tonale, and the looks aren't the only thing that showcases what the Italians are good at the new Tonale also has surprisingly engaging handling, and comes standard with all-wheel drive.

What makes this a highly appealing choice is the plug-in hybrid powertrain. More specifically, the 1.3-liter four-cylinder turbo engine and the electric motor pump out 285 horsepower, which, coupled with the sharp handling will probably manage to draw a smile on any car enthusiast's face. The electric engine's range alone is around 35 miles, while the two engines get roughly a combined 29 MPG.

Specifications

With a starting MSRP of $42,995, the Alfa Romeo isn't the least expensive vehicle on this list, but it definitely brings a different experience from the vehicles we've mentioned up until now. It also comes with nice safety features like lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.

On the downside, the limited cargo space might make the Alfa Romeo less practical than the rest of the list, but the performance and the handling might be able to make up for that.

6 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross

Starting Price: $23,610

If you want a sub-compact SUV that's reliable, gets excellent fuel economy, and boasts a wide range of awesome safety features, the Toyota Corolla Cross may be your best choice. Coming in six different trim levels, you can even opt for a hybrid drive, giving you even better fuel economy.

Specifications

The general idea behind the Corolla Cross was to take the brand's popular, long-running sedan and put its best features into a crossover. The result is a practical utility vehicle, which combines efficiency, safety, and technological advancement. Front-wheel drive is standard on the crossover, but buyers can also opt for all-wheel drive, and as mentioned already, a hybrid powerplant. The base starting price of $23,610, makes the Corolla Cross a hard deal to beat.

Still, the back seats can feel cramped, with little available space, and the performance is sluggish on non-hybrid models, but chances are, the target market for the crossover won't be disappointed even if the engine does lack a bit in the torque and horsepower departments.

5 2023 Mazda CX-30

Starting Price: $22,950

The Mazda CX-30 has been a popular vehicle ever since its launch in its class, and it's no surprise why. The stylish design, the agile handling, and the impressive turbocharged engine make for a fun vehicle that also has room enough to support five adults. Still, some argue that the legroom in the rear seats can be better (along with the overall cargo space of the SUV), but all in all, the CX-30 is arguably one of the best-looking and best-driving models in its segment and all that for a base starting market price of $22,950.

Specifications

Out of all seven trim levels, the Carbon Edition is the most popular, which sports a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, that's estimated to deliver around 26 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway.

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4 2024 Chevrolet Trax

Starting Price: $20,400

The Chevy Trax didn't make any serious waves (especially regarding looks, at least) when launched in the US in 2015, but it became a solid option for buyers who wanted a sub-compact SUV and had limited budgets. After taking a break in 2023, the Trax will return in 2024 and the brand aims to redefine the way people look at the tiny SUV, which previously seemed an out-of-proportions hatchback. For the 2024 model year, the Trax returns with a considerably larger body (2.0 inches wider and 11 inches longer than the previous model), coming in five trim levels, with a starting price of $20,400.

Specifications

The large cargo area, sharp new styling, and the combined mileage of around 30 MPG can make for a very appealing deal, especially if buyers are looking for something that won't break the bank. As a matter of fact, the Trax is among the most affordable sub-compact SUVs, which makes it an excellent purchase. Still, the lackluster 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbo engine with front-wheel drive (the only engine option) will probably make some drivers simply crave more.

3 2024 Dodge Hornet

Starting Price: $30,735

If you're looking for sharp styling, an engaging drive, and a bit more "oomph" under the hood, the 2024 Dodge Hornet may be able to provide you with the excitement that often seems to be lacking in the sub-compact SUV category.

Specifications

Based on the Alfa Romeo Tonale, the new Hornet aims to combine performance and refinement, all with a full-blown Dodge attitude. The end result is a pretty rev-happy 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that's capable of generating 295 pound-feet of torque and 268 horsepower. And if you are looking for even more juice, you can opt for the R/T with a hybrid powertrain, delivering a total of 288 horsepower. To seal the deal, you also get standard all-wheel drive.

So, what's the tradeoff? The R/T's electric range is only 30 miles, and the combined mileage of 24 MPG might turn a few potential buyers away, but still, with a base MSRP of $30,735, this is probably the best combination of power and affordability.

2 2023 BMW X1

Starting Price: $39,100

The 2023 BMW X1 aims to raise the bar in the sub-compact SUV category even higher, and the Bavarians aren't joking: The X1 has received a redesign for the 2023 model year, making the already spacious vehicle even larger, with a more aggressive look and stance.

Specifications

Looks and available cargo space aren't the only things BMW changed for 2023. Now, all X1 trims come with standard all-wheel drive, and even the base engine is capable of generating 241 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. These figures alone make it one of the best-performing vehicles on the list and coupled with the superior handling, you've got yourself a pretty exciting and engaging drive. And if you are looking for an ever sportier touch, you can opt for the M Sport package, which features special tires, wheels, adaptive suspension, an aero kit, sports seats, and shift paddles.

With a starting price of $39,100, the X1 can be a desirable luxury deal, and the long line of safety and tech features make it great consideration. Still, some might say that the best features are only available in expensive packages.

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1 2024 Honda HR-V

Starting Price: $24,100

Concluding our list is the 2024 Honda HR-V, which aims to improve every aspect of the previous models. Already one of the best-selling sub-compact SUVs in the U.S., the HR-V features a spacious cabin, improved performance, and more safety features, and comes standard with some coveted driver-assist technologies like pedestrian detection, hill descent assist, and forward collision warning.

Specifications

The design of the HR-V is undoubtedly European-inspired, with a stylish, and sharp design language, exuding an upscale experience both outside and inside the vehicle. Still, apart from the looks, safety features, and tech, most will agree that what really sets apart the Honda is the smooth ride and the peppy 2.0-liter four-cylinder, naturally aspirated engine that might not be the best-performing motor with 158 horsepower and 138 pound-feet of torque, but makes for a smooth and sophisticated driving experience.

With a starting MSRP of $24,100, the HR-V can be an alluring option for most buyers looking for a reliable and spacious sub-compact SUV.