If you require more room than what a car can provide, but also seek to save money, compact SUVs present a more inexpensive option to bigger automobiles. Not only do they have a stylish and contemporary appearance, but they also offer more passenger space as well as ample room for any valuable items you might need to transport. Furthermore, they provide many of the same amenities as their larger counterparts but at a much lower price point. If you are in need of a vehicle that can fulfill all of your requirements without damaging your finances, a compact SUV is the best choice.
There are numerous options available on sale today, but the category of small and compact SUVs is exceptionally vast. We can assist you in saving time by presenting the top recommendations for a small SUV.
Compact crossovers are not only competent but also capable of transporting your dogs to the park or your children to their baseball practice. With the wide assortment of vehicles available for purchase today, there is something that suits the needs of everyone. Whether you prioritize technology, safety, or towing capacity, our preferred options encompass them all.
2022 Hyundai Tucson
The Best Small SUV Overall
When an automaker puts too much emphasis on design, it often indicates an attempt to overcompensate for a mediocre vehicle. However, the 2022 Hyundai Tucson defies this convention with its distinct look and an impressive array of features that make it the best small SUV worth recommending.
With its sleek exterior design, the 2022 Hyundai Tucson impresses with a sophisticated and well-crafted interior. The cabin boasts high-quality materials and an overall stylish look. The Tucson’s tech features are also impressive, highlighted by an 8-inch touchscreen that can be upgraded to 10.3 inches with an optional package. In terms of performance, the SUV comes standard with a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine producing 187 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, with the option of adding all-wheel drive. Starting at a price point of less than $30,000, the Tucson is an affordable option that won’t stretch your budget thin.
Check out our review of the 2022 Hyundai Tucson, an innovative compact SUV with a bold exterior design. Find it on TrueCar.
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2022 Ford Bronco Sport
The runner-up for the best small SUV overall
The honeymoon phase is over, but the 2022 Ford Bronco Sport still holds a prominent place in our minds for its exceptional qualities as a smart and stylish small SUV recommendation.
The design of the Ford Bronco Sport shares some features with the bigger Bronco model, however, it distinguishes itself with its square-shaped appearance on its unified body frame. Despite having a completely autonomous front and rear suspension, the Bronco Sport is surprisingly efficient when it comes to off-road driving. Additionally, if you opt for the more energetic 250-horsepower turbocharged inline-4 engine, this SUV can accelerate impressively.
Check out TrueCar
2022 Genesis GV70: The Ultimate Compact Luxury SUV
The Genesis GV70 is an exemplary compact luxury SUV that boasts all of the features that made its predecessor, the GV80, a hit, but with a smaller size and more accessible price point.
The 2022 Genesis GV70 is an exceptional luxury SUV that adeptly outshines the German mainstays in its class. Its exterior is sleek and stylish, while the interior boasts a wealth of distinctive design elements that captivate the eye. Additionally, there are numerous impressive technological features included with this vehicle. While the base model boasts an impressive 300 horsepower, those seeking more excitement can opt for the 375-horsepower twin-turbo V6.
Check out the preview for the 2022 Genesis GV70, the new and exciting successor. View it now on TrueCar.
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2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
Runner-up for the top small luxury SUV
For a luxurious driving experience, one need not spend exorbitant amounts on a massive vehicle. Instead, a smaller luxury car is a more practical investment whilst still offering comfort and convenience. In this category, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 outdoes the rest.
The 2022 GLC300 inherits numerous significant enhancements from its midcycle refresh in the 2020 model year, featuring a more modern appearance and a multitude of novel interior technologies. Notably, the most recent iteration of the GLC300 is equipped with Mercedes-Benz’s outstanding MBUX infotainment system, boasting a highly responsive interface, visually appealing design, and an assortment of intriguing features, such as augmented-reality navigation guidance. With optional extra payments, it is possible to equip the vehicle with a plethora of advanced driver assist functionalities as well.
The GLC300 is a luxurious vehicle that offers an incredibly smooth ride. Even without air suspension, this Mercedes-Benz can easily handle rough roads while providing a comfortable driving experience. Equipped with a base 2.0-liter turbocharged I4 engine, it generates an impressive 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. Additionally, its rear-drive form allows for a fuel efficiency of nearly 30 miles per gallon when cruising on the highway.
View it on TrueCar.
2022 Porsche Macan: The Best Small Performance SUV
Porsche is all set to unveil an updated version of its Macan in the upcoming year, which will include its much-awaited electric variant. However, even with a minor update in the past year, this older performance SUV remains the most appealing choice in its category.
The 2022 Porsche Macan receives several enhancements such as minor tweaks to the front and rear bumpers. The previous switchgear has been removed, replaced by a sleeker dashboard featuring the latest PCM infotainment system iteration. The entry-level Macan houses a turbocharged inline-4 with an output of 261 horsepower. Although the Turbo variant is no longer available, the highly impressive GTS version experiences a power boost to 434 horsepower.
Check out our initial driving impressions of the 2022 Porsche Macan in our first drive review. Check it out on TrueCar. The 2022 Porsche Macan S achieves the ideal equilibrium.
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2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
The top small hybrid SUV
2021
The Hyundai Tucson is already a beautiful compact SUV, but equipping it with a hybrid gas-electric powertrain offers us another reason to appreciate this little vehicle.
Some aspects of the 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid extend beyond its hybrid version, such as its appealing exterior and interior, which is surprisingly luxurious for its segment. Additionally, the infotainment technology is excellent. However, the most impressive components lie beneath the hood, where a 1.6-liter turbocharged I4 engine is combined with a 1.5-kilowatt-hour battery, delivering a total output of 226 horsepower. The model also boasts a combined EPA fuel economy rating of 37 mpg, which we had no trouble achieving. Moreover, it is reasonably priced, commencing at $30,235 for its well-equipped base Blue trim.
Check out our review on the 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, which is just as sleek as it is eco-friendly.
View on TrueCar.
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2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime
The Best Compact Plug-in Hybrid SUV
Do you think a Toyota RAV4 can have 300 horsepower? Well, with the RAV4 Prime, it’s possible. Although this SUV is not particularly focused on performance, it has more than enough power to satisfy.
The 2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime adds electrification to the typical SUV formula. The combination of a 2.5-liter gasoline engine and a 134-kW electric motor results in a net output of 302 horsepower, while still prioritizing efficiency. With a capability of up to 42 miles of electric-only travel and a combined 38 mpg when the electric power is depleted, the RAV4 Prime proves to be a cost-effective small SUV with a price tag of around $40,000.
Check out TrueCar
The 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV, as noted in our recent test drive, is the best small electric SUV and builds upon the strengths of Chevy’s original Bolt. With updated and more attractive exterior and advanced cabin technology, this vehicle has instantly become a winner for the Big Bowtie. Andrew Krok from CNET reports.
The Bolt EUV boasts a 65-kWh battery and a 200-horsepower, 266-pound-foot electric motor, providing an expected driving range of 259 miles. This puts it on par with the Hyundai Kona Electric and considerably ahead of the Nissan Leaf Plus. Its standout feature is undoubtedly Super Cruise, which enables hands-free driving on pre-mapped highways throughout the United States. This feature is unmatched in the segment, making the Bolt EUV a noteworthy offering. Fortunately, it also boasts an impressive vehicle design to match.
Check out our review of the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV, featuring impressive rear legroom. See it now on TrueCar.
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Volvo
Volvo, with its 2022 C40 Recharge, has earned recognition as the second-best small electric SUV in the market. The C40 Recharge is the first electric-only vehicle by Volvo, as well as the initial crossover coupe by the company. The SUV boasts of a leather-free interior, providing buyers with a more eco-friendly option. The C40 Recharge’s remarkable features give a glimpse of Volvo’s new direction as a brand, and are all combined to give a winning experience.
The Volvo C40 Recharge employs dual electric motors that generate an impressive 408 horsepower and 487 pound-feet of torque. Its aerodynamic design results in slightly reduced noise compared to the XC40, and it delivers a comfortable ride regardless. Along with its updated styling, the C40 Recharge boasts Volvo’s newest Google-powered infotainment system, a significant improvement over the previous Sensus Connect configuration. Although not the most affordable electric vehicle available, with a base price just under $60,000, it serves as an excellent example of what lies ahead.
Check out our review of the 2022 Volvo C40 Recharge Pure Electric.
View it on TrueCar.
Volvo’s C40 Recharge is an electric crossover that boasts impressive style.
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2022 Nissan Kicks: The Most Efficient Compact SUV without Hybrid Powertrain
The 2022 Nissan Kicks is the ideal choice for those seeking a highly efficient compact SUV without the need for complicated electrification. It is currently the most fuel-efficient SUV in its class, even without a hybrid powertrain. Photo credit: Steven Ewing/CNET.
With its standard 1.6-liter engine, front-wheel drive, and a continuously variable transmission, the 2022 Nissan Kicks achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 31 miles per gallon in the city, 36 mpg on the highway, and 33 mpg in combined driving, edging out the Lexus UX 200 and the Hyundai Venue by a smidge. To surpass this efficiency, one would need to aim higher and explore hybrid models.
However, opting for the Kicks for its value doesn’t entail compromising on other features. The car offers impressive fuel efficiency, among several other factors that make it a great choice. It comes packed with a range of driver assistance features as a standard, ensuring a smooth ride, while the seats are comfortable enough for long journeys. The vehicle also includes a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple’s CarPlay and Android Auto features as standard, with better trims boasting a larger 8-inch display. Additionally, it handles twisty mountain roads well too.
Check out TrueCar.
Kia
2022 Kia Soul
The most cost-effective compact SUV
Although the newest version of Kia Soul has become notorious on TikTok with many young adults teasing this square-shaped crossover, they are overlooking its exceptional value as a top-notch compact SUV.
The 2022 Kia Soul retains the original Soul’s defining trait of resembling a literal box with wheels, providing ample room for passengers and cargo due to its straight edges. While its attractive starting price of $20,545 draws crowds, the availability of elevated trim levels allows for customization to more luxurious or athletic options. Even the base model offers an impressive array of standard features encompassing comfort and safety technology. It is noteworthy that this starting price is less than half of the current average transaction price for new cars.
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Jeep
The 2022 Jeep Cherokee is the ultimate small SUV for towing. While most compact SUVs can tow up to 3,000 pounds, the Jeep Cherokee surpasses that figure, making it one of the few small crossovers that is capable of towing heavier loads.
With its optional V6 engine, the 2022 Jeep Cherokee can tow up to 4,500 pounds, which is roughly the weight of an empty dump trailer or a big flatbed trailer carrying around 1,000 pounds of cargo. This is on top of other items on the lighter end of the spectrum, like A-frame campers and enclosed utility trailers.
Check out TrueCar for details!
2022 Jeep Cherokee: Enhanced Features with Unchanged Appearance.
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2022 Ford Bronco Sport
The most suitable subcompact off-road SUV
Despite not being as large as its bigger sibling, the Bronco Sport by Ford has all the necessary features to conquer difficult terrain.
The 2022 Ford Bronco Sport, specifically in its most robust Badlands version, delivers an impressive 8.8 inches of ground clearance and can ford water up to 23.6 inches deep. The SUV’s roof rack can support up to 150 pounds of camping equipment, and various driving modes optimize the throttle response and other settings for maneuvering through diverse terrains, with this feature being a standard in all Bronco Sport trims.
Moreover, the on-road performance of the Bronco Sport is not compromised by its exceptional off-road capabilities. This is thanks to its flexible ride and abundant power supplied by the optional 2.0-liter turbocharged I4 (with a standard 1.5-liter turbo I3). Additionally, the vehicle is packed with style, particularly in the interior, which offers a harmonious balance of endurance and adaptability.
Check out TrueCar.
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2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class
The most remarkable three-row compact SUV
It’s quite difficult to come across a genuinely compact SUV with a third row, but the Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class not only ticks all the right boxes, it will also be available in an electric version in just a few months.
The Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class SUV has a more square-shaped design that takes inspiration from the flagship GLS-Class utility vehicle’s elongated roof. Despite being a small vehicle, its proportions have allowed for a third row of seats, which may not offer the greatest legroom but still serves its purpose. As a Mercedes-Benz, the GLB is equipped with all the usual opulent features found in luxury cars. Furthermore, in 2022, buyers will have the opportunity to acquire the EQB, a compact SUV with three rows of seats and an electric motor for propulsion.
Check out TrueCar’s 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB250, which offers a grand and stylish appearance despite its small size.
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2022 Tesla Model Y is the perfect small SUV for technology enthusiasts, according to Tim Stevens from CNET. Tesla’s latest SUV is packed with impressive features, especially if you’re interested in powertrain technology. You have the option to choose a Long Range Model Y variant that can run an estimated 326 miles or a Model Y Performance with a range of 303 miles. The latter provides a powertrain that can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds.
And there is also the Autopilot feature. Equipped with multiple radar, ultrasonic sensors, and numerous cameras, Autopilot is among the most advanced driver assistance systems existing today, greatly reducing the monotony of being stuck in traffic and alleviating the stress on the driver. A 15-inch touchscreen comes as standard, delivering over-the-air updates, built-in navigation, and even games. Although our experience with our long-term Model Y has revealed some imperfections, it remains a highly-desired feature for technology enthusiasts.
Checking out the Tesla Model Y at Roadshow’s long-term test.
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2022 Subaru Forester: The Top Compact SUV for Cargo Capacity
If you’re looking for a compact SUV that can accommodate a lot of cargo, a curved design won’t do. The more straight-lined a vehicle is, the more space you have to work with. Although the Subaru Forester may not be the most stylish SUV around, its angular shape ensures there’s plenty of cubic feet inside for all your needs.
The 2022 Subaru Forester provides an impressive 31.1 cubic feet of space behind the second row, but it falls short of class-leading competitors such as the Honda CR-V which offer closer to 40 cubic feet of storage. Nevertheless, the Forester demonstrates its cargo-carrying prowess when the second row is folded down, boasting a class-leading capacity of 76.1 cubic feet, surpassing even larger vehicles such as the Toyota RAV4 (69.8 cu. ft.) and the three-row Volkswagen Tiguan (73.5 cu. ft.).
Check out TrueCar
The 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness: Feeling comfortable on off-road terrain.
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The 2022 Mazda CX-5 is the top pick for the Small SUV category in terms of safety. Our recommendation is based on the rigorous testing conducted by the safety experts at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), which has the most stringent testing standards in the US. Among all the small SUVs that have received the Top Safety Pick Plus recommendation from the IIHS, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 is at the forefront.
Several vehicles obtain the top score on IIHS’ crash tests, however, the organization updated its side-crash test for 2022. Only a small number of vehicles were tested according to the new criteria, and among them, solely the CX-5 achieved the highest score of Good.
Check out our review of the 2022 Mazda CX-5, which now comes exclusively in all-wheel-drive and features subtle design enhancements. Find it on TrueCar.
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2023 Kia Niro: The Compact SUV to Keep an Eye Out for
Despite no major changes in the compact SUV segment in the past year, there are a number of new vehicles that have grabbed our attention. Among them, the 2023 Kia Niro appears to be one of the most attractive options.
The fundamental concept behind the Niro remains unchanged – a compact crossover available in hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric versions. Yet, whereas the previous Niro seemed unexciting, this latest iteration appears as though it descended from an extraterrestrial vessel. The Niro’s striking new front-end and the magnificent “Aero Blade” extending over the entire rear quarter panel are evidence of this. Additionally, the interior incorporates new design elements from the EV6 electric crossover, resulting in an exquisite appearance. This is definitely a model to watch closely.
Check out TrueCar
The 2023 Kia Niro Impresses in New York
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Comparison of the top small SUVs for 2022:
NameBase engineOutputFuel economy (mpg, city/hwy/combined)Base priceBest overall small SUV 2022 Hyundai Tucson2.5-liter I4187 hp / 178 lb-ft26 / 33 / 29$27,045Runner-up Best overall small SUV 2022 Ford Bronco Sport1.5-liter I3181 hp / 190 lb-ft25 / 28 / 26$29,860Best small luxury SUV 2022 Genesis GV702.5-liter I4300 hp / 311 lb-ft22 / 28 / 24$42,595Runner-up Best small luxury SUV 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class2.0-liter I4255 hp / 273 lb-ft22 / 29 / 25$44,900Best small performance SUV 2022 Porsche Macan2.0-liter I4261 hp / 295 lb-ft19 / 25 / 21$56,250Best small hybrid SUV 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid1.6-liter I4 hybrid226 hp / 258 lb-ft38 / 38 / 38$30,995Best small plug-in hybrid SUV 2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime2.5-liter I4 hybrid302 hp net94 MPGe (38 mpg gas-only)$41,015Best small electric SUV 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUVSingle electric motor200 hp / 266 lb-ft115 MPGe$34,495Runner-up Best small electric SUV 2022 Volvo C40 RechargeDual electric motor408 hp / 487 lb-ft87 MPGe$59,845Best fuel-efficient small SUV 2022 Nissan Kicks1.6-liter I4122 hp / 114 lb-ft31 / 36 / 33$21,025Best affordable small SUV 2022 Kia Soul2.0-liter I4147 hp / 132 lb-ft29 / 35 / 31$20,545Best small SUV for towing 2022 Jeep Cherokee2.0-liter I4270 hp / 295 lb-ft23 / 31 / 26$35,590Best small SUV for off-roading 2022 Ford Bronco Sport1.5-liter I3181 hp / 190 lb-ft25 / 28 / 26$29,860Best small SUV with three rows 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class2.0-liter I4221 hp / 258 lb-ft24 / 32 / 27$39,650Best small SUV for tech lovers 2022 Tesla Model YDual electric motor384 hp / 376 lb-ft122 MPGe$66,190Best small SUV for cargo space 2022 Subaru Forester2.5-liter H4182 hp / 176 lb-ft26 / 33 / 29$26,320Best small SUV for safety 2022 Mazda CX-52.5-liter I4187 hp / 186 lb-ft24 / 30 / 26$27,475Best small SUV to watch for 2023 Kia Niro1.6-liter I4 hybrid139 hp / 195 lb-ftTBATBA
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CNET considers the newest Hyundai Tucson a champion.
Hyundai
Our selection process
It’s simple – we test them out. CNET’s team of editors drives an abundance of vehicles throughout the year, striving to experience as many different cars, trucks, and SUVs as possible. With years of collective expertise assessing the latest automobiles, the SUVs mentioned on this list are the ones we would love to possess in each category.
Every “best” list has its limitations. Our loans are only granted for a week at a time, although some of our long-term renters may keep the vehicles parked in their driveways for up to a year. This makes it difficult to determine the reliability of the vehicles and other key factors in the long run. Pricing can also be problematic, especially for high-demand cars with low initial volumes like the Bronco. Dealers may adjust the price as they see fit, so be sure to compare pricing across different dealers in your area. Additionally, it’s important to test drive as many cars as possible to ensure that our recommendations meet your needs to the fullest extent.
Learn more:
Top SUVs for 2022Top subcompact SUVs for 2022Top trucks for 2022Top midsize cars for 2022Top electric cars for 2022Top convertibles for 2022
Frequently Asked Questions about Small SUVs
Which small SUV is ranked number one?
The Hyundai Tucson and Ford Bronco Sport rank highest among the small SUVs we have tested, though each outlet, including us and J.D. Power, applies distinct criteria for evaluating vehicles. It should be emphasized that the scores should not be viewed as definitive. Rather, utilize our suggestions as a reference when making your decision. Your requirements are unique to you, and it is crucial to ensure that your criteria are embodied in the automobile you ultimately acquire.
Which are the top small SUVs in the market?
The ones mentioned in the list above! To be honest, there are plenty of impressive compact SUVs out there. The finest small utility vehicles provide polished drivetrains, exceptional functionality and generous tech features in the cabin. However, your requirements are crucial, so ensure that the vehicle you choose fits in with them.
Which small SUV is the most dependable to purchase?
Assessing reliability can be challenging as it varies from person to person, and at CNET Cars, we typically only examine automobiles for a week — the standard in most reviews. To help address this inquiry, we’ll refer to J.D. Power’s latest Vehicle Dependability Study, which evaluates vehicle dependability after three years of ownership. According to the 2022 VDS, the most dependable mass-market vehicles hail from Kia, Buick, Hyundai, Toyota, and Dodge in that order. Genesis, Lexus, Porsche, Cadillac, and Lincoln top the list for luxury options.
