The American automotive landscape is increasingly dominated by SUVs and crossovers, and within this popular category, compact models are reigning supreme. These vehicles perfectly blend the practicality and versatility of larger SUVs with the fuel efficiency and maneuverability of smaller cars. It’s no surprise that even luxury brands are now competing fiercely in this segment, while mainstream manufacturers are seeing record sales. Today’s Top Compact Suvs and crossovers deliver the environmental advantages of smaller vehicles without sacrificing interior space and overall utility, making them a smart choice for a wide range of drivers.
However, navigating the compact SUV market can be tricky due to the lack of standardized sizing. Unlike compact sedans which generally hover around 180 inches in length, the top compact SUVs and crossovers vary more significantly in size, although our curated list focuses on models at or under that 180-inch mark. Let’s dive into the best options available and explore what makes each of these compact SUVs stand out in a crowded market.
BMW X1: The Athletic Performer in the Compact SUV Class
The BMW X1 debuted as the smallest of BMW’s acclaimed “sport activity vehicle” lineup and quickly secured its place among the top compact SUVs and crossovers. At just 176.5 inches long, the X1 masterfully blends BMW’s renowned driving dynamics with impressive cargo space, offering up to 47.7 cubic feet for your gear. A key feature is its versatile 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat, allowing for flat folding, near-vertical positioning, or reclining up to 31 degrees – adapting to various passenger and cargo needs.
Beyond versatility, the X1 boasts performance. It comes standard with a robust twin-turbo V6 engine delivering 240 horsepower and an impressive 34 mpg on the highway. For those seeking even more power, an available 300-hp 3.0-liter inline-6 engine still manages a respectable 27 mpg on the highway. BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system is also available, along with premium options from the xLine, Sport Line, and M Line packages. Starting at a competitive $30,800, the BMW X1 is an athletic and luxurious entry in the top compact SUVs segment.
Buick Encore: Refined Comfort and Compact Dimensions
The Buick Encore stands out in the top compact SUVs category with its nimble size (168.4 inches long) and subtly more traditional SUV silhouette. Its upright design language aligns seamlessly with Buick’s successful modern aesthetic, featuring a distinctive waterfall grille and strong character lines flowing to prominent rear wheel arches. Inside, the Encore emphasizes premium comfort and clever storage solutions, offering hidden compartments and up to 48.4 cubic feet of cargo space. Standard premium features are abundant, including Bluetooth, Buick’s IntelliLink infotainment system, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a rearview camera.
As one of the more affordable options among the top compact SUVs, the Buick Encore starts at $24,200. It’s powered by a fuel-efficient turbocharged 1.4-liter Ecotec inline-4 engine, producing 138 hp and 148 lb.-ft. of torque while achieving an EPA-estimated 28 mpg combined. The Encore offers a blend of Buick’s signature refinement in a conveniently compact package.
Ford Escape: America’s Best-Selling Compact SUV
The Ford Escape is not only a leader among the top compact SUVs and crossovers, but it has also consistently been America’s best-selling SUV overall. This popularity is driven by its appealing combination of modern design, fuel-efficient engine options, and advanced technology. The Escape’s sales figures speak for themselves, achieving record monthly sales and consistently outperforming its rivals.
The Escape’s success is well-deserved. It offers a sophisticated and contemporary design, available EcoBoost engines for enhanced performance, and impressive fuel economy ratings of up to 26 mpg combined. Exclusive technologies like a foot-operated power liftgate add to its convenience. With a starting price of $22,470, the Ford Escape delivers exceptional value and remains a top contender in the top compact SUVs market.
Jeep Wrangler: The Off-Road Champion of Compact SUVs
For drivers seeking adventure, the Jeep Wrangler is a unique and compelling option among the top compact SUVs. While it might surprise some with its compact dimensions (152.8 inches for the two-door, 173.4 inches for the four-door Unlimited), the Wrangler’s off-road prowess is unmatched in this segment. Starting at $22,195, the Wrangler offers trail-rated performance that traditional crossovers simply cannot match.
However, the Wrangler is more than just an off-roader. The modern models offer a comfortable and well-equipped cabin, complemented by a refined powertrain featuring the award-winning 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine. Furthermore, the Wrangler stands alone among the top compact SUVs in offering the exhilarating experience of open-air driving with multiple top options. It’s the perfect choice for those who demand both on-road comfort and genuine off-road capability.
Kia Sportage: Value and Style in a Compact SUV Package
The Kia Sportage distinguishes itself in the top compact SUVs segment with its striking design and exceptional value proposition. Showcasing Kia’s dynamic design language, the Sportage offers a compelling blend of features and affordability.
Starting at $19,000, the 175-inch Sportage is generously equipped with standard features including a 176-hp 2.4-liter inline-4 engine achieving 30 mpg highway, a comprehensive audio system with smartphone integration, power amenities, air conditioning, and a spacious cargo area with 54.6 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded. Available upgrades include a potent 260-hp turbocharged engine, Kia’s UVO telematics system, a rearview camera, navigation, leather seating, and stylish 18-inch wheels. The Kia Sportage is a smart choice for buyers seeking a well-rounded and feature-rich compact SUV at an attractive price point.
Toyota RAV4: Reliability and Space in a Compact SUV
The Toyota RAV4 is a long-standing favorite in the top compact SUVs category, known for its legendary Toyota reliability and practicality. While it sits at the larger end of the compact spectrum at 179.9 inches, the RAV4 offers exceptional interior space and a reputation for dependability.
With a starting price of $23,300, the RAV4 comes well-equipped with Toyota’s Display Audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a capable 176-hp 2.5-liter inline-4 engine that achieves 31 mpg highway and offers a 1,500-lb towing capacity. The RAV4 truly shines in cargo capacity, providing a generous 38.4 cubic feet behind the second row and a cavernous 73.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. For buyers prioritizing reliability, space, and practicality in a top compact SUV, the Toyota RAV4 remains a solid choice.
Mazda CX-5: The Fuel-Efficient and Fun-to-Drive Compact SUV
For those prioritizing fuel economy and driving enjoyment in the top compact SUVs segment, the Mazda CX-5 is a standout option. The CX-5 excels in delivering a dynamic driving experience combined with impressive MPG ratings.
When equipped with the manual transmission and Mazda’s SKYACTIV technology, the CX-5 achieves up to 35 mpg on the highway. Even with the automatic transmission, fuel economy remains excellent. The CX-5 is also surprisingly spacious for its compact size (179.3 inches), offering 64.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 34.1 cubic feet with them upright. Starting at $21,195, the Mazda CX-5 offers a compelling blend of fuel efficiency, driving dynamics, and practicality, making it a top pick among top compact SUVs.
Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: The Value-Packed and Compact Crossover
The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport represents a compelling value proposition in the top compact SUVs and crossovers market. As Mitsubishi’s best-selling model, the Outlander Sport offers a blend of attractive styling, compact dimensions, and engaging driving dynamics. Notably, it is manufactured in the USA at Mitsubishi’s Illinois facility.
The Outlander Sport features refreshed exterior styling, enhanced interior materials for a more eco-friendly cabin, and improved noise insulation. Despite these upgrades, the Outlander Sport remains one of the most affordable options in the top compact SUVs segment, with a starting MSRP of $19,170. For budget-conscious buyers seeking a stylish and well-equipped compact crossover, the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is worth considering.
MINI Countryman: The Most Compact and Funky SUV
The MINI Countryman lives up to its MINI heritage by being the most compact option on our list of top compact SUVs and crossovers. Measuring in at just 161.75 inches, the Countryman offers nimble handling and distinctive MINI styling in an SUV format.
Despite its diminutive size, the Countryman provides a surprising 42.2 cubic feet of cargo space, exceeding some larger competitors. All-wheel drive is available, particularly in the performance-oriented John Cooper Works models. The Countryman caters to drivers seeking a unique and fun-to-drive compact SUV with a premium feel. Starting at $22,700 and offering up to 30 mpg combined, the MINI Countryman delivers a blend of style, efficiency, and MINI charm within the top compact SUVs category.
Nissan JUKE: The Bold and Sporty Compact Crossover
The Nissan JUKE is arguably the most polarizing design in the top compact SUVs and crossovers segment, but its bold styling is matched by its sporty driving dynamics. While it might have the smallest cargo area on this list, the JUKE compensates with its fun-to-drive character and attractive price point.
Starting at $20,280, the JUKE is more affordable than the MINI Countryman and offers a punchy 188-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter engine. Fuel economy is also respectable at 29 mpg combined. For those seeking a compact SUV that prioritizes sporty performance and distinctive styling over maximum cargo space, the Nissan JUKE is a compelling choice among the top compact SUVs. The NISMO variant further enhances the JUKE’s performance credentials with even more horsepower.
Conclusion:
The top compact SUVs and crossovers represent a diverse and compelling segment in the automotive market. From the sporty BMW X1 to the off-road-ready Jeep Wrangler, the value-packed Kia Sportage, and the fuel-efficient Mazda CX-5, there’s a compact SUV to suit a wide range of needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize fuel economy, cargo space, off-road capability, or sporty driving dynamics, this list of top compact SUVs provides a great starting point for your research. Explore these models further to find the perfect compact SUV that fits your lifestyle and driving demands.
