SUVs have been increasing in popularity since the early to mid-2010s, with the car segment now significantly outpacing sedans and other smaller cars. Manufacturers are even jumping on the bandwagon and phasing out their sedan models in favor of SUVs. Naturally, more people are turning to subcompact SUVs as well, as they provide most of the benefits of their larger counterparts while still being reasonably affordable. These are the top three options MotorTrend recommends you get.
1. The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek is one of the best subcompact SUVs to buy
The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek makes it to the top of the list primarily for value for money. motor trend He describes it as a practical, rugged and comfortable subcompact SUV and it’s easy to see why. As for practicality, it has 21 cubic feet of storage space behind the rear seats. While this isn’t much, it can be expanded to 55 cubic feet, which should be enough for most use cases.
As for ruggedness, the car is built with off-road driving in mind with standard all-wheel drive, optional manual transmission, and trail-ready suspension. 8.7 inches of ground clearance lets you tackle most trails with ease. Plus, depending on trim, you might even get hill descent control as one of the extras.
Comfort is another high point for the small SUV. Kelley’s Blue Book He even describes the vehicle as pleasant to drive, thanks to a smooth ride, comfortable seats, and a relatively quiet cabin.
2.2023 Hyundai Kona
The 2023 Hyundai Kona scores a 9.1 out of 10 on MotorTrend’s rating system, making it the second-highest rated subcompact SUV. For context, the Subaru Crosstrek scores a 9.2 out of 10. One reason for its high rating is the available turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes for a quick, agile, and slightly sporty vehicle.
According to car and driver, the Kona handles corners quite well and is surprisingly fun to drive. Plus, unlike most great-handling cars, Hyundai’s SUV keeps most blemishes and potholes out of the cabin.
Overall, the car offers incredible value for money and impressive fuel economy for an SUV. After all, your gas mileage is 30 mpg city and 35 mpg highway.
The only notable drawbacks include the small cargo space and the rear seats.
3. The 2022 Ford Bronco Sport is another of the best subcompact SUVs to buy
The 2022 Bronco Sport has received tons of praise from most critics, with MotorTrend giving it a 9 out of 10 in its rating system. It should be one of your go-to options if you’re looking for a subcompact SUV with off-road capability.
Engine options include a base turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 181 hp and a 250-hp turbocharged four-cylinder. They also produce 190 lb-ft and 277 lb-ft of torque, respectively.
Fuel efficiency isn’t the Bronco Sport’s strong point as an off-road vehicle. It gets 25 mpg in the city and can get up to 28 mpg on the highway. Also, the interior trim is mostly made up of plastic components, which may not be to everyone’s liking. However, it makes up for this with the included performance and technology. It also drives surprisingly well on tarmac with decent handling and a quiet cabin.
Any of these three will work if you’re looking for a high-quality subcompact SUV. However, the best option may depend on how you intend to use it. The Ford Bronco Sport is the SUV to buy if you’re looking for an adventurous vehicle.
If you want a hybrid subcompact SUV with adventure/daily driving capability, the Subaru Crosstrek fits the bill. If it’s a daily driver you’re after, the Hyundai Kona seems great for the job.