Best Subcompact SUVs

Car and Driver's rankings are arrived at from the results of our extensive instrumented testing of several hundred vehicles each year and from our expert editors' subjective impressions gained in real-world driving. We've ranked the best subcompact SUVs based on roughly 200 data points encompassing acceleration, handling, comfort, cargo space, fuel efficiency, value, and how enjoyable they are to drive. We take rankings seriously because we want you to know everything about the vehicles that you're interested in.

Read about how we test and evaluate vehicles here.

Top Ranked Subcompact SUVs at a glance

C/D Rating: 10/10

2026

Chevrolet Trax

$23,495 - $27,195

Shop Now

C/D Rating: 9.5/10

2026

Mazda CX-30

$27,470 - $39,395

Shop Now

C/D Rating: 8.5/10

2026

Kia Seltos

$25,285 - $32,985

Shop Now

Shop the Top 3 Subcompact SUVs

See full list

2026 Chevrolet Trax

/10

C/D RATING

Starting at

$23,495

SHOP NEW Trax

EPA MPG

30 combined

C/D SAYS: The Chevrolet Trax is one of the least expensive new cars on the market, but its quality construction and pleasant driving experience are a step above its asking price. Learn More

#1 in Best Cars for Families for Under $40,000

#1 in Best Crossover SUVs

#1 in Chevy SUVs and Crossovers

#3 in Most Affordable SUVs

2026 Mazda CX-30

9.5

/10

C/D RATING

VIEW PHOTOS

Starting at

$27,470

SHOP NEW CX-30

EPA MPG

25 combined

C/D SAYS: A near-luxury interior and plenty of behind-the-wheel verve set the Mazda CX-30 apart from its subcompact SUV rivals, but its small cabin hampers utility. Learn More

#1 in Mazda SUVs and Crossovers

#2 in Best SUVs Under $30,000

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

2026 Kia Seltos

8.5

/10

C/D RATING

VIEW PHOTOS

Starting at

$25,285

SHOP NEW Seltos

EPA MPG

N/A

C/D SAYS: The 2026 Kia Seltos SUV is relatively efficient and affordable but not terribly engaging, putting it somewhere in the middle of the crowded subcompact-SUV segment. Learn More

2026 Volkswagen Taos

8.5

/10

C/D RATING

VIEW PHOTOS

Starting at

$27,975

SHOP NEW Taos

EPA MPG

28–31 combined

C/D SAYS: The Volkswagen Taos is a nimble and roomy option for those looking for a subcompact SUV with a touch of Teutonic flair. Learn More

#3 in Volkswagen SUVs and Crossovers

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

2026 Buick Envista

8.5

/10

C/D RATING

VIEW PHOTOS

Starting at

$26,495

SHOP NEW Envista

EPA MPG

30 combined

C/D SAYS: The 2026 Buick Envista subcompact SUV offers youthful, contemporary styling and an efficient powertrain at a remarkably affordable price. Learn More

#1 in Buick SUVs and Crossovers