Buying an SUV doesn't mean putting up with a big, unwieldy vehicle. Our experts have compiled this list of the best small SUVs currently around.
The best small SUVs and crossovers now cover all the bases and are very popular with those downsizing from larger cars or as second cars to be used as a runabout. They include cars like the Nissan Juke, Renault Captur and Volkswagen T-Cross.
Much of their appeal comes from being easier to park and drive (especially if you do most of your driving around town) than larger cars thanks to their more compact dimensions and raised driving position. They're generally cheap to run, too, with low tax, insurance and fuel costs.
Then there are slightly larger, more expensive models such as the Mazda CX-30 and BMW X1. As well as having extra space, their taller bodies make it easier to step in and out of, and to load kids into their child seats.
If you're ready to buy we've got over 30,000 used SUVs for sale, while if you want more choice, we have over 90,000 used cars for sale. If you're looking to finance a new car, check out our guide to the best PCP car deals.
Best small SUVs in 2025
1. Ford Puma
Just a brilliant little SUV
Pros
-
Peppy engines and sharp handling
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Practical boot with impressive ‘megabox’
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All versions are loaded with standard equipment
Cons
-
Not as spacious inside as some alternatives
-
A Skoda Kamiq rides better
-
Wind noise at higher speeds
The Ford Puma is one of the best small SUVs there is. It's a simply brilliant alternative to the Nissan Juke that can be picked up used for less than £12,000 on heycar.
Being a Ford, it's a lot of fun to drive, with handling akin to the now-defunct Ford Fiesta on which it's based. There's a superb mix of petrol engines on offer, including some with mild-hybrid assistance, EV power and even a hot Puma ST model.
But the Puma isn't just about darting along country lanes; it's pretty comfortable and refined everywhere else, and manages respectable fuel economy.
While it's not as big as some alternatives, the Ford Puma is still a very practical little car. Its party piece is the so-called 'Megabox', a deep, plastic-lined well underneath the boot floor, which even comes with a drain plug so you can use it for washing your wellies or cleaning the dog after a muddy walk. An impressively likeable crossover SUV.
"With frisky engines, sharp styling and impressive kit levels, the Ford Puma sits proudly at the top of the small SUV sector"
Matt Robinson, Car Reviews Editor
2. Volvo XC40
Family-friendly premium SUV perfection
Pros
-
Stylish good looks
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Excellent all-round performer
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Decent value for money
Cons
-
Not a practical as some small SUVs
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Now only available as front-wheel drive
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Infotainment could be easier to use
You might associate Volvo with boxy old estate cars, but today it makes some of the sexiest SUVs on the market.
The XC40 is a good example: it's an uber-stylish small SUV that'll make you feel good about life every time you drive it thanks to its desirable image and plush interior.
The chunky-looking alternative to a BMW X1 or Audi Q3 has been available with a wide range of engines over the years, plus as a pure-electric model (this started life as the XC40 Recharge, but it's since been renamed EX40 to fit in with the naming convention of Volvo's other electric models). The XC40 is now only available with a pair of mild hybrid petrol choices. It's not the sharpest handling SUV, but it is composed and comfortable.
Of course, being a Volvo, one of the XC40's selling points is its safety record. Not only does it perform extremely well in independent crash tests, it's also available with a whole host of clever tech to prevent you from being involved in an accident in the first place. It's certainly one of the best small SUVs you can buy today.
"This is an SUV that does it all, with a welcome dose of style and upmarket luxury to boot"
Matt Robinson, Car Reviews Editor
3. Skoda Elroq
A brilliant electric family car
Pros
-
Good range and great to drive
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Plenty of space in the cabin and boot
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Very competitively priced
Cons
-
Some unwanted tyre noise
-
Heat pump not standard
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Limited choice of battery and trims at launch
The Skoda Elroq is the Czech brand's second all-electric SUV, behind the Enyaq, and it's the smaller of the two offerings.
It's no less desirable, though, being the first car to feature Skoda's new design language, which looks smarter and more modern than previous efforts.
The Elroq is offered with three battery/motor options with varying levels of power and range, but even the most modest of them will take you up to 232 miles on a full charge according to official WLTP figures, while at the top of the range, the Elroq is good for a range of 360 miles.
Otherwise, the Elroq is a case of Skoda doing what Skoda does best. There's plentiful space in the passenger compartment and a usefully large 470-litre boot. Skoda's trademark 'Simply Clever' features are present and correct, too, which genuinely do make everyday life a little bit easier.
And despite the Elroq's keen pricing, neither equipment nor quality have been scrimped on, so the car feels more luxurious that you might expect. Dynamic polish hasn't been sacrificed, either: the Elroq feels comfortable and controlled on the road, while the electric powertrains are punchy and refined.
4. Toyota Yaris Cross
Stylish yet frugal small SUV
Pros
-
Efficient hybrid power means it'll be cheap to run
-
Stylish exterior
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Likely to be very reliable
Cons
-
A bit pricier than alternatives
-
Not the most spacious small SUV
-
Ride is a little firm
The Toyota Yaris Cross does exactly what it says on the tin: it takes the excellent Toyota Yaris supermini and instils some crossover-SUV design cues and a more practical body.
The Yaris is one of our favourite small cars, so it's no surprise the Yaris Cross makes the grade among small SUVs. Its stylish design hides a solid (if unexciting) interior, while being a Toyota, it should prove very reliable, and there's a warranty that could last ten years/100,000 miles if it's not.
The Cross is more spacious than the Yaris on which it's based, although the rear is still a little cramped and the boot isn't the biggest in this class.
A big part of the Yaris Cross's appeal is its standard hybrid powertrain. Using Toyota's self-charging tech, there's no need to faff about charging and over 60mpg is achievable without much bother. Although it's not huge fun, the rest of the driving experience is smooth and composed.
"It's fun to drive, has a solid interior and comes fully-loaded for the money"
Matt Robinson, Car Reviews Editor
5. Dacia Duster
A value-for-money SUV that's greener and better than ever
Pros
-
Full-hybrid power option
-
Surprisingly good off-road ability
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Keen pricing
Cons
-
Some cheap build elements
-
Pointless LPG version
-
Slow infotainment response
Ever since the original model's arrival in the UK in 2012, the Dacia Duster has represented exceptional value.
That's no different with the latest, third-generation version, with a starting price well under £20,000, and now it has a good sense of style to go with that bang-for-buck nature.
The latest Duster's chunky looks are enhanced by neat details such as Y-shaped daytime running lights and 'Starkle' recycled plastic used for some of the body cladding. With various wipe-clean surfaces inside, it's a car you don't need to worry about getting mucky, whether you're climbing aboard in muddy boots or your toddler is smearing the remains of a custard cream into the upholstery. Just be aware the Duster's low starting price does show in certain areas of the cabin.
Standard-fit equipment in the mid-spec Expression trim covers most bases, and if you want, a hybrid version is available. It's also better than most small SUVs if you do actually stray away from paved roads.
"The third-generation of Dacia Duster builds on the success of its predecessors, and admirably so"
Phill Tromans, Contributor
6. BMW X1
Stylish SUV represents little compromise
Pros
-
Spacious and upmarket cabin
-
Fun to drive with extensive engine range
-
PHEV models have great range
Cons
-
Can quickly get expensive
-
Infotainment isn't as easy to use as before
-
Some rivals have a comfier ride
The previous-generation BMW X1 was a popular and well-liked small SUV, but the latest version, which arrived on the market late in 2022, is even better.
It's really practical and bigger than you might expect, with lots of space in the front, sliding seats in the rear, and a boot big enough to deal with all family-car duties. The technology has come on quite a bit, too, as has the fit and finish of the interior, which is among the best of any premium small SUV.
You have a wide choice of engines, with petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid and even a fully electric model called the BMW iX1. This replaces the old BMW i3, ditching the quirky design but bringing a much more useful 272 miles of range on a charge.
To drive, the BMW X1 is just about the best-handling small SUV there is. If you're a parent who's not quite ready to totally give up on driver appeal, you'll love the way it gets down the road, although models with the sportier suspension and bigger wheels are firmer than some of the cars in this list.
"In three generations, the BMW X1 has transformed from a bit of a disappointment into one of the best small posh SUVs money can buy"
Matt Robinson, Car Reviews Editor
7. Jeep Avenger
Fun and frugal electric SUV
Pros
-
Funky styling and cheerful attitude
-
Really good to drive
-
Decent value for money
Cons
-
Limited practicality
-
Too many low-rent cabin plastics
-
Poor safety rating
The Avenger is a great small SUV and it will never need to visit a petrol pump if you choose the electric version that we favour (it's also available as a hybrid).
While it may bear the Jeep badge, this isn’t an SUV made for true off-roading. Its diminutive frame is best suited to city streets, although it can also stretch its legs on the motorway when required.
A range of up to 244 miles means the Avenger can zip around town without any charging worries, and it’ll even cope with a few longer stretches, too, making it a highly practical EV. Stop at a fast charger and you’ll be able to replenish from 20% to 80% in as little as 24 minutes.
The Avenger impresses with its nippy driving style and elevated ride height, giving you a good view of the road ahead. There’s enough poke to keep you engaged around town, and if you do find yourself on less familiar surfaces, the Avenger comes with a suite of all-terrain modes and a hill descent system.
There’s a decent amount of kit in the entry-level Longitude model, but we’d opt for the mid-tier Altitude trim if budget allows, as it gets you 17-inch alloys, adaptive cruise control, and a reversing camera among other goodies.
"The electric Jeep Avenger is a really impressive car, with excellent driving manners, perky electric performance and a competitive driving range"
Ivan Aistrop, Contributor
8. Kia EV3
Premium feel and great styling without breaking the bank
Pros
-
Stylish exterior and interior design
-
Large battery
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Spacious
Cons
-
Not that engaging to drive
-
Irritating ADAS
-
Heat pump only available on top-spec guise
Following in the wheel tracks of the EV6 and EV9, the Kia EV3 brings the Korean firm's electric vehicle knowhow to the small SUV segment.
A measure of how impressively good the EV3 is that it scooped the overall winner's medal in the UK Car of the Year Awards, so it's a worthy member of this list.
As with its larger siblings, the Kia EV3 is very easy to live with thanks to its funky yet functional cabin. It's also very sturdily made and well equipped whichever trim you opt for.
Power comes from a 201PS electric motor that's ideal for town and country driving, and it will happily pull on the motorway with next to no noise. The only slight point we'd raise is it's not as much fun to drive as a Peugeot e-2008, but then the Kia's potential 372-mile range is hard to argue against
Also, the Kia EV3 comes with great looks, easy-to-use tech, and an excellent standard warranty.
"The Kia EV3 is another impressive entry in the Korean brand's growing electric portfolio"
Matt MacConnell, Contributor
9. Alfa Romeo Junior
Great style and also good value
Pros
-
Feels like decent value for money
-
Distinctive styling will get you noticed
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Entertaining yet comfy to drive
Cons
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Rear seat space is on the cramped side
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Mish-mash of interior finishes are disappointing
-
Dashboard screens layout needs a rethink
In the past, Alfa Romeo models have been allowed a little more leeway for some of their shortcomings because of their undeniable good looks and style. With the Alfa Romeo Junior, there are no need for such excuses or justifications - it's a very good small SUV, plain and simple.
Naturally, the Junior is one of the best looking cars in this segment, while beyond the skin deep attraction you'll find a choice of mild hybrid or full electric power options. With the EV model, you can pick from 156- or 280PS versions, while the 1.2-litre petrol engine for the mild hybrid turns out a more modest 136PS.
Moving from the hybrid to the EV version of the Junior ups your minimum spend by £5500, though for company drivers this will be more than worth opting for the battery-powered Alfa.
Either way, the Junior lives up to Alfa's reputation for fine handling cars, and it's also good for cabin and boot space. Only the slightly confusing dash design and some mediocre materials in the cabin hold the Junior back from a higher placing here.
"All the passion you want from Alfa Romeo coupled to common sense from hybrid and electric power options"
Ivan Aistrop, Contributor
10. Hyundai Kona
Affordable SUV will turn heads
Pros
-
Great infotainment system
-
Spacious interior and good boot
-
Lots of standard equipment
Cons
-
Looks are divisive
-
Pretty average on the road
-
Some iffy cabin materials
Like a few other cars in this list, the latest Hyundai Kona is a car that's grown quite a bit in comparison to its predecessor, and is actually quite a bit bigger than you might think. That helps greatly on the practicality front, and makes the Kona a better family car than ever before.
It also looks like nothing else on the road these days, with a bold, futuristic design: love it or not, there's no denying it stands out. The interior isn't quite as interesting to look at, but it feels sturdily built and is stuffed with luxury kit.
The Kona is available with petrol power, self-charging hybrid power (there's no plug-in hybrid version, though), or as a fully electric car. The petrols are pretty flawed, unfortunately, but the hybrid is fine, while the electric version is the pick of the bunch, with eager acceleration and a smoother ride.
"The second-generation Hyundai Kona is a fantastic all-rounder that’s wrapped up in a body that looks like it’s from another planet"
Ivan Aistrop, Contributor
The best small SUV on sale depends on your requirements. We reckon the Ford Puma is one of the best small SUVs, especially if you're looking for a car that's relatively affordable, looks stylish and is fun to drive. The Toyota Yaris Cross is an excellent alternative, particularly as it's a hybrid model with low running costs. Toyota has an extremely strong reliability record, too.
You should also look at VW Group small SUVs such as the Volkswagen T-Cross, SEAT Arona and Skoda Kamiq, all of which are impressive all-rounders that won't break the bank. Alternatively, consider premium small SUVs like the Volvo XC40, BMW X1 and Lexus UX.
The Toyota Yaris Cross is one of the most reliable small SUVs you can buy, along with the slightly bigger Toyota C-HR. Toyota is widely accepted to be one of the most reliable car manufacturers, regularly performing well in ownership surveys such as HonestJohn.co.uk's annual Satisfaction Index.
You should also look at Toyota's premium brand Lexus, particularly the Lexus UX small SUV. A Honda HR-V would be a good alternative, or the Mazda CX-30. Both are very reliable choices.
That rather depends on what you define as an SUV (Sports Utility Vehicle). The Suzuki Ignis and Toyota Aygo X are city cars with plenty of SUV design cues and raised seating positions, but whether or not they're genuine SUVs is a matter of opinion (although the Suzuki can be had with four-wheel drive). The Suzuki Jimny and Fiat Panda 4x4 are less Sport and more Utility Vehicles, but they certainly fit the bill as tiny off-roaders.
Find a Ford Puma for sale
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Find a Toyota Yaris Cross for sale
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Find a Jeep Avenger for sale
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Find a Hyundai Kona for sale
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