The best small SUVs: 2025 rating

SUVs have long been popular with drivers due to their versatility, off-road capability, and comfort. Particularly popular are compact models that offer the perfect balance between maneuverability and power.

In recent years, the compact SUV market has expanded significantly, and manufacturers are offering more and more models with advanced technology, modern design, and high-quality engines. Experts have released a rating of the best cars in this segment.

Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V is a compact crossover that has been produced since 1995. It combines high practicality, comfort, and reliability, making it one of the most popular SUVs in its class. Experts advise choosing the CR-V Hybrid model with 204 hp, which has a 2-liter engine and two electric motors. But the basic 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is also a reliable choice, producing 190 hp.

Mazda CX-50

The CX-50 is a stylish and modern compact crossover that Mazda introduced in 2022. Experts advise choosing a turbocharged engine. It has a power of 256 hp and accelerates to 100 km/h in 6.6 seconds. Also, a new hybrid model will join the lineup in 2025, borrowing the transmission from the Toyota RAV4 hybrid. Mazda stands for high-quality materials, well-thought-out interior, and modern technologies (Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, panoramic roof). Mazda is traditionally famous for its sporty driving behavior, and the CX-50 also has improved steering and chassis tuning.

Volkswagen Tiguan

In 2025, a new version of the Volkswagen Tiguan will be released. Experts expect it to have similar characteristics to its predecessor. The 2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces more horsepower and reaches 201 hp, and the exterior is more modern. Inside, there is a larger infotainment system screen. Thanks to the combination of modern design, advanced technology, and powerful fuel-efficient engines, the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan remains an attractive choice in the compact crossover segment.

Toyota RAV4

There's a reason why Toyota sells hundreds of thousands of RAV4s every year. While not the most enjoyable vehicle to drive, it combines affordability, practicality, and reliability to meet the needs of most buyers. There are many available trim levels, including TRD Off-Road, but experts believe that the RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid (formerly called RAV4 Prime) is the best choice. It uses hybrid power to deliver a total of 302 hp, which is enough to accelerate the SUV to 100 km/h in just 5.4 seconds.

Mazda CX-5

While the CX-50 is Mazda's latest and greatest compact SUV, the similarly sized CX-5 remains a great choice in this segment. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine provides ample power, but experts recommend the optional turbocharged engine available on higher trims. All versions are equipped with all-wheel drive as standard.

Kia Sportage

The new Sportage is a bit soft to drive, but has a beautifully stylish exterior. "All the touch points are of high quality and create a sense of luxury that you won't find in many competitors," experts say. However, drivers who need speed will be disappointed by the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 hp. It accelerates to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds. Plug-in hybrid models offer more power and better economy.

Hyundai Tucson

The Hyundai Tucson offers a refined, comfortable ride and an interior with many useful tech features. Experts advise checking the touchscreen buttons on the dashboard before buying, as some drivers may not like the lack of volume control or real buttons. The basic 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine should be enough, but if you like speed, choose any of the available hybrid models. The more powerful plug-in model has a total output of 261 hp, while the standard hybrid has 226 hp, which is enough to accelerate to 100 km/h in 7.1 seconds.

Ford Bronco Sport

Despite the fact that the Ford Bronco Sport shares some styling elements with its bigger brother, the Bronco, it is far from being as maneuverable off-road. The Escape-based Bronco Sport can only be driven on light roads. Of the two available powertrains, experts advise choosing the more powerful 2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and provides 250 hp.

Subaru Forester

Subaru has unveiled the updated Forester 2025, which has received significant improvements in design, technology, and functionality. The updated exterior features a more aggressive front end, new LED headlights, and distinctive wheel arches that give the car a modern look. For the first time, Forester has a hybrid powertrain, providing increased fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. Experts also noted that driving becomes quieter and more relaxed thanks to additional soundproofing material. Unfortunately, there is no such turbocharged engine as in the previous Foresters, and the Wilderness model, which is focused on off-road, still has the old body style.

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