20 Best Small SUVs for 2024 (2024)

Price: $38,595

The Audi Q3 is the smallest of the Audi SUV family, but packs in modern technology features. Driver safety is a key feature in the technology but is also accompanied by upscale finishes like the responsive touchscreen, and plenty of first-row headroom for the accommodating 8-way adjustable seats. The fastback design of the rear hatch reduces the cargo room availability but still allows for 48 cubic feet of total cargo area.

Price: $41,495

The BMW X1 is the subcompact luxury SUV that defines the meaning of small but mighty. Its extroverted design and refined tech finishes command attention wherever it goes. The huge 10-inch digital instrument cluster piggy-backed next to the 10-inch infotainment screen makes for an impressive display. The broad expanse of the panoramic moonroof makes this baby Beemer SUV seem like King Kong in a sea of capuchins.

Price: $37,595

The BMW X2 is less practical than its junior, the X1, but is more fun-loving with plenty of personality and style. Following the BMW SUV coup craze, the back end limits the cargo area and rear visibility, but its drivability makes up for its shortcomings. The 228-hp turbocharged 4-cylinder engine has an impressive 0-60 in 6.4 seconds.

Price: $23,495

Buick finally decided to slick back its hair with the redesign of the Envista. Goodbye to the bulky bubble of Grandma Doris’ bingo buggy. The lure for younger buyers to buy a Buick may finally be working. The biggest excitement is the starting price of less than $25,000 while being equipped with a turbocharged, 1.2-liter, inline-3. Style, practicality, and pricing are packaged into this modest modern vehicle for the driver of any age.

Price: $39,890

The Cadillac XT4 is a luxury compact crossover SUV known for its bold design, upscale interior, and balanced performance. It offers a premium driving experience with advanced technology features, a comfortable cabin, and a range of safety options. Positioned as a stylish and practical choice in the luxury SUV market, the XT4 appeals to drivers seeking both luxury and versatility in a compact package.

Price: $21,495

A solid choice for the driver who wants to stretch the most out of a new car, but not their wallet. After a total redesign for 2024, the Chevrolet Trax has heads turning for this once subpar subcompact. Powered by a turbocharged 1.2-liter, inline-3 engine and six-speed automatic transmission, it's capable of pumping out 137-hp, and 0-60 mph in 8.8 seconds while still getting you a combined 30 mpg.

Price: $25,590

The Honda HR-V is an adequate choice for drivers looking for modern finishes who don't need to be overwhelmed with today's tech, but still need to get from A to B. What the Honda HR-V offers is a versatile interior thanks to its magic seats and multiple cargo area configurations. This clever subcompact is a smart choice for its safety features and a good warranty backed up by one of the best makers in the game.

Price: $42,275

The Kia Niro EV is the smallest and most affordable SUV from the Kia family and it packs an impressive driving range on a single charge. The EPA claims the Niro EV can go 253 miles, a figure comparable to larger and heavier SUVs, and can charge from 10-80 percent on a level 2 fast charger in 45 minutes. This sleek and sophisticated sub-compact crossover is a worthwhile choice for anyone searching for a small electric SUV.

Price: $28,315

The popularity of the Kia Niro is due to its adaptability to any type of driver. Available as a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or pure EV, there’s a Niro for everyone. Its smooth and quiet ride is just a bonus knowing you’re getting an impressive 49 mpg (in the hybrid version) for under $30,000. Headspace is also not a problem in the contemporary design of the Niro making it feel even bigger than it is, beating out larger SUVs like the Honda CR-V and the larger Kia Sportage.

Price: $43,975

With quick acceleration and sporty handling, the Kia EV6 can bring enjoyment to EV driving. The spacious cabin provides enough legroom for drivers, passengers, and cargo for group adventuring without cramping anyone’s style. The real superstar is its ability to charge from 10-80 percent in less than 20 minutes at a 350 kW fast charger.

Price: $25,865

Beefier looking than most of the competitors on this list, the Kia Seltos proves that this subcompact SUV is far from ordinary. Superior room in the second row provides passengers more head and leg room comfort than most in the small SUV category. Recommended for shorter commutes as the seats are not the most supportive for long hauls, but perfect for everyday cruising.

Price: $21,595

We all know it’s not the best looking or best handling, and yes, it still reminds us of urban hamsters, but despite all the cringe the Kia Soul has one of the best amounts of space, and headroom, and is fun to drive. This quirky compact has 147-hp to offer, and a natural feeling CVT. It's worth dealing with the hamster jokes, and worth the money.

Price: $40,605

The Lexus NX proves to have a trim for every luxury SUV enthusiast. Available with both hybrid and traditional gasoline powertrains, offering customers a choice between fuel efficiency and performance. Outfitted in a sleek and modern design and still encompassing Lexus’ reputation for comfort, the Lexus NX represents a good luxury value for the money.

Price: $26,370

The Mazda CX-30 is the perfect car for city dwellers who need a quick get-around SUV. 20.2 sqft of cargo area, and more than double that with the rear seats down provides ample storage to tackle any journey. The chic interior matched with the sporty handling of Mazda's responsive engine can make anyone realize they’ve made a valuable investment.

Price: $45,800

Big-time luxury in a small SUV. Spacious for both passengers and cargo, the Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class provides a good option for an entry-level luxury SUV. Surprisingly, a very tight third row is an option for this 221-hp subcompact crossover, but you'd lose some of the cargo space advantages of the boxier rear end. The 2024 model has added a mild-hybrid engine that also increases fuel economy with a combined EPA grade of 28 mpg.

Price: $60,200

More room, and more Zoom for the Mercedes-AMG GLB35. The engine has been upgraded to provide 302-hp, and an impressive 0-60 in 5.2 seconds. The AMG Speedshift paddles provide even quicker shifts, and rev-matching capabilities, which always make driving a bit more special. The ultra-modern co*ckpit and wide digital displays are continuously proving to be easy to read, easy to understand, and easy on the eyes.

Price: $43,000

Another entry-level luxury SUV, the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class is the smallest in the Mercedes-Benz SUV fleet of vehicles. Despite its size, the GLA-Class provides big-time interior comfort and refinement. The Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX), is a user-friendly infotainment system that can learn from you, by either telling or tapping the innovative interface. The sporty seats outfitted with premium luxury materials give you plenty of support on the long drives you could do in this capable SUV.

Price: $57,000

Pumping out a powerful 302-hp in its turbocharged engine, the Mercedes-AMG GLA-Class is a fast and nimble luxury SUV. Offering a host of performance features, this may not be the perfect commuter SUV, but if powering through 0-60 in just 5 seconds is your thing, then please proceed. The heated and cooled seats, with multiple seat adjustments, are inclusive of any sized driver's support and comfort.

Price: $26,540

The spacious and practical Subaru Crosstrek might not take you deep off-road or rock climbing in the Moab, but it can handle wet, slicked surfaces, or unpaved road surfaces with superior traction control. More capable of dealing with rougher terrains than most of its rivals, the Crosstrek is offered in a lifted suspension version with more rugged features with the Wilderness package. Whether it's running kids to soccer practice, or hiking the local park trails, the Crosstrek can get you to the familiar and the road less traveled.

Price: $41,495

The Volvo XC40 is a diminutive SUV with an immense presence. Premium finishes and functional styling with the evermore Swedish style give the XC40 a light-as-air feeling in the cabin. This mild hybrid requires no plugin but still allows for lesser fuel consumption and reduced emissions.