Find the perfect small SUV for your lifestyle, from compact crossovers with high safety ratings to luxury models with premium features.
Top-Rated Small SUVs
When it comes to finding the perfect small SUV, there are numerous options to choose from. But, which ones stand out from the crowd? In this section, we’ll delve into the top-rated small SUVs that offer a combination of safety, fuel efficiency, and value for money.
Compact Crossovers with High Safety Ratings
Safety is a top priority for many car buyers, and rightly so. A small SUV with a high safety rating can provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones. The Honda HR-V, for example, boasts a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and is a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Similarly, the Mazda CX-3 has a perfect 5-star rating from the NHTSA and is an IIHS Top Safety Pick+. These compact crossovers are not only stylish but also provide a safe haven on the road.
Fuel-Efficient Options with Impressive MPG
Who doesn’t love saving money on gas? Fuel efficiency is a critical factor for many car buyers, especially those with long commutes or road trippers. The Hyundai Kona, for instance, offers an impressive 32 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. The Ford EcoSport is another fuel-efficient option, with an estimated 29 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway. These small SUVs prove that you don’t have to sacrifice style for savings at the pump.
Best Value for Money in the Segment
Getting the best bang for your buck is always a great feeling. The small SUV segment offers some incredible value-for-money options. The Nissan Kicks, for example, is an affordable small SUV that packs a punch. With a starting price under $20,000, it offers an impressive array of standard features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The Kia Soul is another great value option, with a fun-to-drive personality and a long list of standard safety features. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned driver, these small SUVs provide excellent value without breaking the bank.
Small SUVs with Spacious Interiors
When it comes to small SUVs, space is often a top priority. After all, who doesn’t want a vehicle that can comfortably fit passengers and cargo without feeling cramped? The good news is that many small SUVs on the market today offer surprisingly spacious interiors, perfect for daily errands, road trips, or simply hauling gear for outdoor adventures.
Cargo Capacity and Storage Options
So, how do these small SUVs manage to provide ample cargo space? For starters, many feature clever storage solutions, such as adjustable cargo shelves, hidden compartments, and foldable seats. The Honda HR-V, for example, boasts a generous 24.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind its rear seats, which can be expanded to 58.8 cubic feet with the seats folded flat. The Nissan Kicks, on the other hand, offers a divide-n-hide cargo system, allowing you to stash valuables out of sight. These thoughtful design elements make a significant difference in terms of cargo capacity, ensuring you can fit all your essentials – and then some.
Passenger Space and Comfort Features
It’s not just about cargo space, though. Small SUVs with spacious interiors often prioritize passenger comfort, too. The Hyundai Kona, for instance, offers generous legroom and headroom in both the front and rear seats, making it an excellent choice for road trips or carpooling. The Mazda CX-3 takes comfort to the next level with its premium materials, heated seats, and a driver-focused cockpit design. These features all contribute to a more enjoyable driving experience, whether you’re cruising around town or hitting the open road.
Infotainment Systems and Tech Features
Finally, a spacious interior wouldn’t be complete without cutting-edge infotainment systems and tech features to keep you connected and entertained on the go. The Toyota C-HR, for example, boasts an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a premium audio system. The Ford EcoSport takes it up a notch with its SYNC 3 system, which includes an 8-inch touchscreen, voice-activated controls, and a rearview camera. These advanced features ensure that you’ll always be in touch with the world outside – and fully enjoying your time behind the wheel.
Off-Road Capable Small SUVs
Are you ready to take your adventures to the next level? If so, you’ll need a small SUV that can handle the toughest terrain. From rocky mountains to muddy trails, off-road capable small SUVs are designed to tackle it all. But what makes these vehicles stand out from the rest?
SUVs with Four-Wheel Drive and AWD Options
One of the most critical features of an off-road capable small SUV is its drivetrain. A four-wheel drive (4WD) system or all-wheel drive (AWD) option is a must-have for traversing challenging terrain. These systems allow power to be distributed evenly between all four wheels, providing better traction and control on slippery or uneven surfaces. But what’s the difference between 4WD and AWD? Think of 4WD as a more aggressive system that’s designed for extreme off-roading, while AWD is a more subtle system that’s better suited for everyday driving in inclement weather.
Ground Clearance and Approach Angles
Ground clearance is another crucial factor in an off-road capable small SUV. A higher ground clearance means you’ll have more room to maneuver over obstacles like rocks, logs, and deep ruts. But it’s not just about the numbers – the approach angle is also important. This refers to the angle at which the vehicle approaches an obstacle. A higher approach angle means you’ll be less likely to scrape the underside of your SUV on steep inclines or rough terrain. So, which small SUVs offer the best ground clearance and approach angles?
Towing Capacity and Payload Ratings
Finally, if you plan on hauling heavy trailers or toys, you’ll need an off-road capable small SUV with a high towing capacity and payload rating. Towing capacity refers to the maximum weight of a trailer that the vehicle can safely tow, while payload rating refers to the maximum weight of cargo and passengers that the vehicle can carry. These numbers are critical if you plan on taking your adventures to the next level – whether that’s hauling a boat to the lake or a trailer to the mountains. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered – we’ll highlight the top off-road capable small SUVs with impressive towing capacity and payload ratings.
Luxury Small SUVs with Premium Features
When it comes to luxury small SUVs, there’s no shortage of premium features that can elevate your driving experience. Imagine sinking into a plush leather seat, surrounded by advanced safety features and premium infotainment systems that make you feel like you’re cruising in a private lounge on wheels. But what exactly sets these luxury small SUVs apart from their more affordable counterparts?
Leather Upholstery and Heated Seats
One of the most noticeable differences in luxury small SUVs is the quality of the interior materials. Instead of the standard cloth or synthetic fabrics found in more budget-friendly models, luxury small SUVs often feature rich, supple leather upholstery that wraps around you like a warm hug. And when the temperature drops, heated seats become a luxurious indulgence that’s hard to resist. But it’s not just about aesthetics – premium materials can also increase the durability and resale value of your vehicle.
Advanced Safety Features and Driver Aids
Luxury small SUVs also tend to come equipped with advanced safety features that provide an added layer of protection on the road. These may include advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring, which can help prevent accidents and minimize the risk of injury. Some models may even offer cutting-edge features like 360-degree camera systems, which provide a bird’s-eye view of your surroundings, or semi-autonomous driving capabilities that take the pressure off during long road trips.
Premium Infotainment Systems and Sound
Finally, luxury small SUVs often boast premium infotainment systems that rival those found in high-end home theaters. Imagine being surrounded by crystal-clear sound, courtesy of speakers from renowned brands like Harman Kardon or Bose. And with advanced features like wireless charging, voice command, and seamless smartphone integration, staying connected and entertained on the go has never been easier. Whether you’re commuting to work or road-tripping with friends, a premium infotainment system can turn your daily drive into a joyride.
Most Affordable Small SUVs
When it comes to buying a small SUV, one of the primary concerns for many buyers is the price tag. Fortunately, there are several options available in the market that won’t break the bank. In this section, we’ll explore the most affordable small SUVs that offer great value for money.
Sub-$20,000 Options with Standard Features
If you’re on a tight budget, you’ll be pleased to know that there are several small SUVs available in the market for under $20,000. These models may not offer all the bells and whistles, but they still come with a range of standard features that make them great value for money. For instance, the Chevrolet Trax offers a range of standard safety features, including a rearview camera and forward collision alert, all for a starting price of around $19,000. Similarly, the Ford EcoSport offers a range of standard features, including a touchscreen infotainment system and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration, for a starting price of around $19,500.
Low-Cost Maintenance and Repair
One of the biggest advantages of buying an affordable small SUV is the low cost of maintenance and repair. These vehicles typically have smaller engines and fewer complex features, which means they require less maintenance and are less expensive to repair. For instance, the Jeep Renegade has a relatively simple engine and transmission, which makes it easy to maintain and repair. Additionally, many affordable small SUVs also offer longer warranties and maintenance plans, which can provide added peace of mind for buyers.
Incentives and Discounts for First-Time Buyers
If you’re a first-time buyer, you may be eligible for a range of incentives and discounts that can make your purchase even more affordable. Many manufacturers offer discounts and low-interest financing options for first-time buyers, which can help make your purchase more manageable. Additionally, many dealerships also offer their own incentives and discounts, so it’s always worth shopping around to find the best deal. For instance, Hyundai offers a range of incentives and discounts for first-time buyers, including a $500 discount on select models and low-interest financing options.