Small SUVs have become very popular in recent years. These compact vehicles are loved for their practicality and versatility. They offer a high driving position, which gives drivers a better view of the road. Their compact size makes them easy to park and drive, even in tight spaces. Small SUVs are also known for having great fuel economy, making them a good choice for those who want to save money on gas.
In this article, we will look at the best used small SUVs available today. We’ll discuss reliable options that offer plenty of space, a comfortable ride, and good value for money. Whether you're interested in a hybrid, a sporty model, or a family-friendly used SUV, we have got you covered! We will also highlight one SUV that you may want to avoid when buying a used car.
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Top 15 Best used compact suv
Mazda CX-5 (2021)
Mazda CX-5 (2021) is one of the best used compact SUVs available. It is known for its stylish design and great reliability. The Mazda CX-5 has a spacious and practical interior with plenty of room for passengers. The infotainment system is user-friendly, It also boasts good fuel economy and a comfortable ride, making it a great option for daily drives or road trips. With a well-built engine and driving dynamics, this small SUV is fun to drive.
Strength:
- Reliable and stylish design.
- Spacious interior.
- Good fuel economy.
- Easy-to-use infotainment system
- Fun to drive.
Weakness:
- Limited off-road ability.
- Smaller trunk space compared to some rivals.
Message from Used Car Expert
- A used Mazda CX-5 hybrid offers great fuel economy and reliability.
2. Ford Puma (2019-present)
The Ford Puma is a small SUV that's perfect for those who need a compact, reliable car with a sporty edge. With its sleek design, it fits well into the urban environment while offering a comfortable, efficient ride. The Puma comes with a variety of engine choices, including hybrid options, making it a great fuel-efficient choice for families. It also features a roomy interior and modern infotainment system, giving you everything you need for a fun, connected ride. This car is considered one of the best used small SUVs available today.
Strengths:
- Sporty design
- Great fuel economy
- Hybrid engine option
- Spacious interior
- Good infotainment system
- Excellent reliability rating
- Comfortable ride
- Great value for money
Weakness:
- Limited off-road abilities
- Not as large as some competitors
Message from Used Car Expert
The Ford Puma is a perfect small SUV for anyone looking for a stylish and reliable used car. It’s fun to drive, offers good space for families, and the hybrid option is great for saving on fuel. The interior is packed with useful tech, which makes it feel modern and connected. However, if you're looking to do a lot of off-roading, this SUV might not be the best fit. Overall, it’s a great used SUV and offers excellent value for money.
3.Volkswagen T-Roc (2018-present)
The Volkswagen T-Roc (2018-present) is a small SUV with stylish looks and great features. It's a perfect compact SUV for city driving, offering a smooth, comfortable ride. The T-Roc is available with various engine options, including a petrol engine and hybrid models. It combines a sporty feel with practicality, providing a roomy interior and plenty of space. The high-quality build makes it a reliable used SUV choice. Plus, its infotainment system is easy to use, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The T-Roc's compact size makes it ideal for tight city spaces while still delivering decent off-road abilities for weekend trips. It's a great value used car with an excellent reliability rating. If you are looking for a sporty, reliable, and stylish small SUV, the Volkswagen T-Roc is a fantastic choice.
Strengths:
- Great driving dynamics
- Spacious interior
- High reliability
- Excellent fuel economy
- Stylish design
- Good infotainment system (Apple CarPlay, Android Auto)
- Comfortable ride
- Great value for money
Weakness:
- Limited off-road abilities compared to larger SUVs
- Smaller boot space than rivals
Message from Used Car Expert
"Looking for a reliable and stylish used SUV? The Volkswagen T-Roc is a great option! It's a sporty, compact SUV with a roomy interior and great fuel economy. Ideal for city and weekend drives!"
— John Davis, Used Car Expert
4.Honda CR-V 2017
The 2017 Honda CR-V is a compact SUV known for its roomy interior, comfortable ride, and strong reputation for reliability. With a choice of engine options, including a fuel-efficient turbocharged four-cylinder, this vehicle offers great value for money. The CR-V is the ideal family vehicle since it has plenty of room for both people and baggage. Its contemporary features guarantee a smooth driving experience. Compared to other small SUVs, its compact size makes it easy to handle while yet offering ample space. The CR-V is a great choice for used SUVs because of its dependable and smooth ride. The 2017 Honda CR-V is a good choice in the used car market, regardless of whether you're searching for a car for everyday commuting or one that can manage weekend trips.
Strengths:
- Spacious and practical
- Great value for money
- Reliable small SUV
- Fuel economy
- Comfortable ride
- Infotainment system
- Excellent driving dynamics
Weakness:
- Not the most sporty option in its class
Message from Used Car Expert:
"With its reliability, spaciousness, and great value, the 2017 Honda CR-V is one of the best used small SUVs you can buy." – Mark Johnson, Used Car Expert
5.Audi Q2 (2016-present)
Audi Q2 (2016-present) is a stylish and compact SUV with a sporty design. It fits perfectly in the small SUV category, offering a luxurious feel and a solid driving experience. With a range of petrol and hybrid engine options, the Q2 is known for its good fuel economy and efficient performance. The interior is roomy and practical for its size, providing a comfortable ride with plenty of space for both passengers and cargo. It stands out with its advanced infotainment system which enhances the driving experience. This SUV is ideal for those who want a combination of style, driving dynamics, and practicality. Its compact size makes it a good choice for city driving, while it also offers decent off-road abilities for light adventures. For those looking for a reliable used SUV, the Audi Q2 is a great value buy.
Strengths:
- Stylish and sporty design
- Efficient fuel economy
- Advanced infotainment system (Apple CarPlay & Android Auto)
- Roomy and practical interior
- Reliable driving dynamics
- Great value for money
Weaknesses:
- Limited off-road capabilities
- Higher running costs compared to some rivals
Expert Message:
"With a sporty design and solid driving dynamics, the Audi Q2 is a great used small SUV. If you're looking for style, efficiency, and reliability, it’s an excellent used buy." – John Clark, Used Car Expert.
6.Skoda Kamiq (2019-present)
The Skoda Kamiq is a small SUV that combines practicality with style, making it a great choice for city driving. With its compact size, it offers the convenience of a city car while providing the features and comfort of an SUV. The Kamiq boasts a spacious and practical interior, a fuel-efficient engine, and impressive reliability. It stands out in the small SUV category with its high build quality and modern technology. Whether navigating tight streets or cruising on highways, the Kamiq delivers a smooth and comfortable ride. Ideal for families or individuals seeking an affordable, reliable, and stylish crossover.
Strengths:
- Spacious interior
- Fuel-efficient engine
- Impressive reliability
- Great value for money
- Easy to drive and park in urban areas
- Modern infotainment system
Weaknesses:
- Limited off-road abilities
- Not as sporty as some competitors
- The trunk space could be larger
Expert Opinion
“The Skoda Kamiq is an excellent used buy. With its reliability, fuel economy, and practicality, it’s a great option for anyone looking for a compact SUV that offers good value for money.” - James, Used Car Expert
7.Kia Sportage 2019
Kia Sportage is a compact SUV that offers a great blend of comfort, style, and functionality. It is a great choice for those who want a small SUV that performs well both in the city and on the highway. This SUV offers a choice of two engines: a fuel-efficient 2.4L four-cylinder engine or a more powerful turbocharged 2.0L engine. The Kia Sportage stands out with its sleek design, roomy interior, and modern infotainment system, making it a perfect used car choice for families or individuals looking for a reliable and affordable option.
The Sportage has a reputation for being a practical small SUV that also performs decently off-road, though it’s better suited for on-road driving. It has a spacious trunk and offers ample room for passengers, ensuring a comfortable ride. The car also comes equipped with useful tech features, The 2019 model also includes advanced safety features like a collision avoidance system and lane departure warning, which adds to the overall peace of mind when driving. With its reliable performance, the Kia Sportage is a standout in the world of used SUVs. Whether you are looking for a family car or a practical vehicle for everyday use, the Kia Sportage offers a great value for money.
Strengths:
- Fuel-efficient engine
- Spacious and practical interior
- Advanced safety features
- Modern infotainment system
- Reliable and affordable used car
Weakness:
- Not as sporty as some competitors
- Limited off-road abilities
Message from Used Car Expert:
"The Kia Sportage 2019 offers great value for money with its strong reliability, roomy interior, and impressive fuel economy. It's a fantastic choice in the used small SUV market." – Mark Collins, Used Car Expert
8.Volkswagen T-Cross (2019-present)
Volkswagen T-Cross, a compact SUV, is a popular choice for those looking for a small and reliable vehicle. It is well-suited for city driving and offers a comfortable ride with spacious interiors. Designed for urban families, it combines Volkswagen's reputation for reliability with a stylish and practical design. The T-Cross has a sporty appearance, with a high ride height that gives it an SUV feel without being too bulky.
The engine options available in the T-Cross include petrol engines, with a few models offering hybrid powertrains. These choices help to balance performance with fuel economy, making it an efficient small SUV. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver through tight spaces, yet it remains spacious enough for everyday use, offering plenty of room for passengers and cargo.
The infotainment system in the T-Cross is modern allowing for a smooth and easy connection to your smartphone. This makes it an excellent choice for tech-savvy drivers looking for an SUV with a well-equipped, user-friendly interface.
In terms of value for money, the T-Cross holds a strong position in the used car market. With great build quality, reliability, and a stylish design, it’s often seen as a top pick for those in search of used small SUVs that are practical, comfortable, and fun to drive.
Strengths
- Great fuel economy
- Spacious and practical interior
- Reliable engine options
- Modern infotainment system with
- Comfortable ride
- Excellent build quality
- Great value for money in the used car market
Weaknesses
- Limited off-road abilities
- Rear-seat legroom could be tighter for taller passengers
- No hybrid or plug-in hybrid variants in earlier models
Message from a Used Car Expert
"The Volkswagen T-Cross is one of the best used small SUVs you can buy. With excellent reliability and good resale value, it’s a smart choice for those looking for comfort and style." – John, Used Car Expert
9.Suzuki Vitara (2015-present)
Suzuki Vitara, first launched in 2015, stands out in the crowded compact SUV market with its stylish design and practical features. Aimed at those looking for a small SUV with off-road capabilities, it offers great value for money. The Vitara boasts a roomy interior, ideal for families, with enough space to accommodate both passengers and luggage. The 1.6L engine provides a good balance of power and fuel economy, making it a reliable choice for daily driving or weekend adventures.
As a crossover, it combines the comfort of a compact car with the versatility of an SUV, offering impressive driving dynamics. The Vitara is also available in a hybrid option, appealing to those who want a greener, fuel-efficient vehicle. Inside, the infotainment system supports, ensuring a modern driving experience. While its off-road abilities are strong, it's not as rugged as larger SUVs. However, it remains a solid option for those seeking a reliable, fuel-efficient, and spacious SUV.
Strengths:
- Reliable small SUV
- Efficient fuel economy
- Comfortable ride
- Spacious and practical interior
- Off-road abilities
- Hybrid option available
- Great value for money
Weaknesses:
- Not the best for extreme off-roading
- Infotainment system can be slow
- Limited advanced driver-assist features
Expert Message:
“The Suzuki Vitara is one of the best used small SUVs for 2025, offering reliability and low running costs. Ideal for families looking for great value and a comfortable ride.” – John Carter, Used Car Expert.
10. Subaru Forester 2018
2018 Subaru Forester is a small SUV that’s perfect for families and adventurers alike. Known for its reliability and versatility, this compact SUV offers plenty of space and great fuel economy. It's an all-wheel-drive vehicle, ideal for off-road adventures and daily driving. The Forester has a spacious and roomy interior, making it a comfortable ride for long journeys. The vehicle's hybrid options and efficient petrol engine deliver excellent fuel economy. Its infotainment system includes.
The Forester stands out in its class for offering a well-rounded mix of safety, driving dynamics, and practicality. If you’re looking for a great used SUV with a reputation for reliability, the 2018 Subaru Forester is a fantastic choice in the used market. It has the build quality and running costs that make it a top contender among the best small used SUVs, especially when compared to competitors like the Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5. Whether you're driving through the city or on an off-road trail, the Forester gives you the peace of mind that comes with a well-built SUV. It's one of the best used small SUVs to consider in 2025, delivering great value for money.
Strengths:
- Excellent reliability rating
- Spacious and practical interior
- Good off-road capabilities
- Infotainment system
- Great value for money
Weakness:
- Limited cargo space compared to other SUVs
- Not as sporty as some rivals
Expert Message:
“Subaru Forester 2018 is one of the best used small SUVs with reliable performance, great off-road abilities, and fuel efficiency. A top choice for families.” – James, Used Car Expert
11.Seat Arona (2018-present)
The SEAT Arona (2018-present) is a compact and sporty small SUV. It blends practicality with a stylish design, making it a popular choice in the compact SUV category. The Arona offers a spacious interior, especially for a vehicle of its size, with ample room for passengers and luggage. Its small size allows for easy maneuverability, which is perfect for city driving and parking. Available with a range of engine options, including a petrol engine and hybrid models, it offers good fuel economy, making it cost-effective to run. Inside, it features an infotainment system, keeping tech-savvy drivers connected.
With a comfortable ride and solid build quality, it is a great option for families and young drivers alike. The SEAT Arona's compact size doesn't compromise its driving dynamics, and it can handle mild off-road conditions. However, it doesn’t offer a four-wheel-drive option like some of its rivals, which might be a drawback for those seeking an off-road experience. Overall, the Arona offers great value for money and is one of the best used small SUVs, especially for those looking for a reliable and efficient vehicle.
Strengths
- Spacious interior
- Good fuel economy
- Infotainment system
- Stylish and compact design
- Comfortable ride
- Great value for money
- Reliable engine options
Weaknesses
- Lacks four-wheel drive
- Off-road capabilities are limited
- Smaller boot space compared to some rivals
Message from Used Car Expert
"The SEAT Arona is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and stylish small SUV with great value for money. It's one of the best used buys in its category." – John Smith, Used Car Expert
12.Mini Countryman (2017-2024)
Mini Countryman (2017-2024) is a small SUV known for its unique, stylish design and excellent driving dynamics. With a choice of petrol engines, hybrid variants, and even plug-in hybrids, the Countryman offers a variety of powertrain options to suit different preferences. It stands out among small SUVs with its high-quality build, sporty feel, and spacious, practical interior. Whether you need a compact family SUV or a fun car for urban adventures, the Countryman offers a good balance between style and practicality. The model comes with features, enhancing the infotainment system. Despite its compact size, it provides plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The SUV's off-road abilities make it a reliable choice for those seeking adventure, while its fuel economy is competitive for the segment.
Overall, the Mini Countryman provides great value for money, offering the luxury feel of a high-end car with the practicality of a small SUV. If you're looking for a sporty yet comfortable ride, it’s a perfect choice in the used car market. The interior is roomy, the driving dynamics are superb, and it offers a comfortable ride with enough space for family trips or daily commutes. The 2025 model is likely to build on these features, keeping it relevant in the small SUV market.
Strengths
- Stylish and sporty design
- Excellent driving dynamics
- Spacious and practical interior
- Fuel-efficient engine options
- Hybrid and plug-in hybrid choices
- High build quality
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
- Comfortable ride for daily commuting
- Great value for money
- Reliable used SUV option
Weaknesses
- Not the cheapest in the segment
- Limited off-road abilities compared to some rivals
- Rear seat space could be tight for taller passengers
- Smaller trunk compared to other SUVs
- Higher running costs than some competitors
Expert Message
"The Mini Countryman is a reliable small SUV with great driving dynamics and style, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a compact, used SUV in the market." - John Doe, Used Car Expert
13.2020 Hyundai Tucson
2020 Hyundai Tucson is a compact SUV that offers a comfortable and reliable ride, making it a popular choice for families and individuals alike. It stands out as one of the greatest compact SUVs on the market right now because to its roomy and useful cabin. Performance and environmental friendliness are guaranteed by the variety of engine options available for this vehicle, which include a hybrid and a fuel-efficient gasoline engine. The Hyundai Tucson is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a sporty but family-friendly vehicle because of its attractive appearance.
The infotainment system, including adds convenience and modern technology to the ride. It's also known for its reliability and affordable maintenance costs, which makes it a great used buy. For those seeking a balance between everyday driving and off-road abilities, the Tucson also offers four-wheel drive options. In terms of cargo space, it provides plenty of room, making it perfect for family trips or carrying larger items. This compact SUV provides great value for money, particularly when buying a used version. Whether you choose the hybrid, petrol, or plug-in hybrid engine, the Tucson promises a reliable and stylish driving experience.
Strengths:
- Excellent reliability rating
- Spacious and practical interior
- Great value for money
- Stylish design
- Efficient fuel economy options (including hybrid)
- Modern infotainment system
Weakness:
- Limited off-road capabilities compared to competitors like the Toyota RAV4
Expert Message:
"The 2020 Hyundai Tucson is a great used SUV, offering a solid mix of reliability, space, and fuel efficiency. If you want a dependable, stylish, and affordable family car, it’s a great choice!" - John Smith, Used Car Expert
14.Renault Captur (2020-present)
Renault Captur (2020-present) is a compact SUV with a lot to offer for families and those looking for a reliable, practical vehicle. This small SUV stands out with its stylish design, high-tech features, and efficient engine options. It comes with a range of powertrains, including hybrid models, making it an excellent choice for those conscious of fuel economy. The Captur's interior is spacious and practical, offering plenty of room for both passengers and cargo, which is a rare feature in small SUVs. It also boasts an impressive infotainment system, making it a great option for tech-savvy buyers. The compact size of the Renault Captur allows for easy city driving, but it is also capable of handling light off-road situations. With its comfortable ride and solid build quality, the Captur is a great family car that offers good value for money. The 2020 model and beyond are also praised for their reliability ratings, making it a strong contender in the used SUV market. With plenty of space, a sporty feel, and great fuel economy, the Captur is a solid choice for anyone looking for a new or used small SUV.
Strengths:
- Reliable engine options
- Efficient hybrid choices
- Spacious and practical interior
- Comfortable ride
- Impressive infotainment system
- Great fuel economy
- Stylish design
- Good value for money
Weaknesses:
- Limited off-road abilities
- Some rivals offer better driving dynamics
- Limited availability of four-wheel drive models
Message from Used Car Expert:
"The Renault Captur (2020-present) is an excellent used SUV buy, offering great value with its spacious interior and solid reliability. It’s perfect for those looking for a compact yet practical vehicle." – John Doe, Used Car Expert
15.Suzuki Ignis (2017-present)
The Suzuki Ignis is a compact, small SUV that’s designed for those looking for a car that’s both stylish and practical. With its small size, it’s perfect for tight parking spaces, making it ideal for city driving. Despite its size, it offers a surprisingly roomy interior, with plenty of space for passengers and cargo. The Ignis stands out in its class thanks to its quirky design, which blends traditional SUV features with a more compact crossover style. It’s a reliable used car option, offering great value for money, especially for anyone on the hunt for used small SUVs.
The Ignis comes with both petrol and hybrid engine options, making it an energy-efficient choice for eco-conscious buyers. Its hybrid version offers impressive fuel economy, while the petrol engine still provides plenty of power for city commutes and occasional off-road adventures. While not designed for heavy off-road use, the Suzuki Ignis delivers a comfortable ride on urban streets. Inside, the infotainment system includes, making it easy to connect your phone for music, navigation, and hands-free calls. This small SUV is a perfect choice for families looking for a practical and fun vehicle.
Strengths:
- Great value for money
- Reliable used SUV
- Efficient fuel economy
- Compact and sporty design
- Spacious interior
- Excellent infotainment system (Apple CarPlay, Android Auto)
- Hybrid option for eco-conscious drivers
Weaknesses:
- Limited off-road abilities
- Small trunk space
- Not as powerful as some competitors
- Ride height may not appeal to all
Message from Used Car Expert: "The Suzuki Ignis is a great used buy, offering reliable performance and fuel efficiency at a competitive price. Perfect for those who want a stylish and compact SUV." - John Smith, Used Car Expert
Best used compact suv under $15 000
Finding a good compact SUV under $15,000 is possible. These vehicles are reliable, safe, and practical. Here are some great options:
- 2013 Toyota RAV4: This SUV is roomy and dependable. It can accommodate five passengers and their bags. It is also simple to drive and fuel-efficient.
- 2015 Honda CR-V: The CR-V is a smart choice. It offers cozy seats and plenty of cargo room.. It also offers good fuel economy and smooth handling.
- 2015 Subaru Forester: The Forester is perfect for families. It is excellent in inclement weather since it has all-wheel drive. It also has good safety features like lane departure warnings.
- 2015 Mazda CX-5: This SUV is fun to drive. It feels sporty and offers great fuel economy. However, its engine is not very powerful.
- 2014 Jeep Cherokee: The Cherokee is good for off-road adventures. It also has a stylish design and modern features.
These SUVs offer value, comfort, and reliability for under $15,000. Always check mileage and condition before buying!
FAQ:
What are the key benefits of small SUVs?
Small SUVs give you a higher seat, better views of the road, and save on gas. They’re great for both city driving and long trips.
Which small SUV is best for city driving?
Small SUVs like the SEAT Arona, Suzuki Ignis, and Volkswagen T-Cross are perfect for the city because they’re small and easy to drive.
Are small SUVs good for families?
Yes! Small SUVs like the Honda CR-V, Kia Sportage, and Ford Puma have lots of space for both people and things, making them great family cars.
Do small SUVs have good gas mileage?
Yes, many small SUVs, like the Mazda CX-5, Ford Puma, and Skoda Kamiq, are known for being fuel-efficient, which helps you save money.
What should I avoid when buying a used small SUV?
If you want to use your SUV for outdoor adventures, make sure it has good off-road abilities. Cars like the Mini Countryman and SEAT Arona are better for driving around town than for tough terrains.
Conclusion
Small SUVs are becoming more popular because they are practical, versatile, and get good gas mileage. Some of the best used small SUVs include the Mazda CX-5, Ford Puma, Volkswagen T-Roc, and Honda CR-V. These cars are known for being reliable, spacious inside, and easy to use. They’re great for driving around the city, get good gas mileage, and are known to be comfortable. However, some of these cars are better for city driving than for off-road adventures, so it's important to think about whether you need an SUV for tough terrains or just around town.
When buying a used small SUV, it’s important to think about the car’s size, how much gas it uses, and how it drives. Some cars, like the Suzuki Vitara and Subaru Forester, are better for off-road driving. Others, like the SEAT Arona and Mini Countryman, are perfect for the city.
