Best small SUVs 2025

Finding the best small SUV for you and your family isn’t always easy.  

In fact, because it’s one of the most popular classes of car, you’re spoilt for choice.  

Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 best small SUVs you should look at. The best part? You could close your eyes and pick any one of these and we’re sure you’ll be happy. 

Since you have the luxury of choice, keep reading to find out what sets each one apart and find your true perfect match.  

What are the best small SUVs? 

• Ford Puma 

• Renault Captur 

• VW T-Roc 

• Volvo XC40 

• Range Rover Evoque 

• Škoda Kamiq 

• BMW X1 

• Hyundai KONA 

• Audi Q3 

• Mercedes GLA 

10 of the best small SUVs you should consider

Ford Puma 

One of the cutest cars of this class, the Puma mixes youthful design with practical features. And it takes over the (now discontinued) Fiesta as the best-selling new car in the UK.  

Inside this small used Ford SUV, front passengers are greeted by comfortable seats, and while rear passenger space is a little smaller than class average because of the sporty styling, the boot is brilliantly large. 

Our pick of the bunch is the ST-Line Vignale trim, which gets all the bells and whistles like a panoramic sunroof and a B&O sound system, without the added costs that come with the full-fat ST. 

• Read our Ford Puma review 

Renault Captur 

Like a Clio, the Renault Captur can do it all really well. The main thing that sets them apart is the Captur’s higher ride and seating position, which is proof of just how good the little sibling is. 

It's practical, has a 444-litre boot (when the floor is at its lowest setting) and offers plenty of space for rear-seat passengers, making those longer drives more bearable. 

The go-to trim for us would be the Techno, which gets the choice of hybrid, petrol and diesel (in older cars) engines, as well as plenty of charging ports to keep rear-seat passengers occupied and a seven-inch infotainment screen. 

• Read our Renault Captur review 

VW T-Roc 

Based on the Golf, the VW T-Roc is truly a tried-and-tested design that we already know will work well – another example of a brand bulking up its already-brilliant hatchback. 

In true VW fashion, it’s understated yet practical and well-built, fitting seamlessly into family life. Plus, it has the option of a seven-speed DSG automatic or six-speed manual gearbox for added choice. 

The trim we’d go for is the R-Line, as seen in Sam’s video above, which gets the sporty looks of the T-Roc R but without the costs that come with the extra performance. 

• Read our VW T-Roc review 

Volvo XC40 

You might argue that the XC40 is the sensible choice from this bunch because, well, it’s a used Volvo. In other words, it’s packed full of kit and tech, and it’s as safe as houses, so every journey is smooth sailing. 

But we'd argue that it's also the looker of the class, especially in higher-rank trims, thanks to that Scandi styling. 

Speaking of which, we’d choose the Plus which sits in the middle of the range, getting leather seats, powered front seats and a built-in air purifier. 

• Read our Volvo XC40 review 

Range Rover Evoque 

Class and off-roading capabilities don’t always go hand-in-hand, unless King Charles takes his Bentley green-laning or, of course, we’re talking about Range Rover. In this case, we’re talking about its baby SUV, the Evoque.  

With a smart, plush cabin, supple ride and all the other trimmings you’d expect from a Range Rover, it’s hard to ignore the Evoque as a cracking pick. 

Our favourite is the top-spec Autobiography trim. If you’re getting a Range Rover, you may as well get the best of the best, which comes loaded with everything from the factory to let you enjoy driving it. 

• Read our Range Rover Evoque review 

Škoda Kamiq 

Technically related to the T-Cross (both made by the Volkswagen Group) but cheaper, a Škoda Kamiq is where the smart money goes. 

This used Škoda is spacious and practical, and deliberately simpler inside than its German cousin. But that doesn't detract from how rounded and capable it is as a small SUV. 

We’d opt for the mid-range SEL version because it has slightly larger 18-inch wheels, ambient lighting and the all-important uprated 10.25-inch infotainment screen. 

And, most importantly, it’s a Škoda, so look out for petrol cap ice scrapers and funnels for screenwash under the bonnet. 

• Read our Škoda Kamiq vs. SEAT Arona review 

BMW X1 

Sharing its platform with the equally as popular MINI Countryman, the BMW X1 is a refined and easy-to-live-with machine. 

With a selection of different engines on offer, a smooth automatic gearbox and loads of standard kit, you’d be hard-pressed to find one that didn’t tick all your boxes. 

Our favourite trim is the M Sport because it gets the looks of a sporty car (think better wheels, leather seats and the Technology pack) without the added cost.  

• Read our BMW X1 review 

Hyundai KONA

Usually, it’s Hyundai’s above-average five-year warranty that draws people in, and while it still is a massive perk, you just need to look at the KONA to see why it makes this list. 

From its quirky looks to its generous levels of standard kit and comfortable cabin, the Hyundai KONA is a real winner for both budget and dependable driving. Some people might even think you’re from the future if they see you driving it. 

Our favourite trim is the N-Line S because you get 18-inch alloy wheels, Alcantara and leather seats, a premium BOSE sound system and full LED headlights. 

• Read our Hyundai KONA review 

Audi Q3 

The Audi Q3 has come on leaps and bounds since its inception in 2011 – Audi doesn’t like to give up before perfecting a formula (just compare its first TT which needed the addition of a rear spoiler to make it more stable at higher speeds).  

More modern examples now feature larger 10.1-inch touchscreens, comfortable leather seats, a whole host of creature comforts and a decent 530-litre boot. Being an Audi also means it’s well-built, drives nicely and will hold its value. 

For the ultimate package, we’d go for the range-topping Vorsprung trim, which includes heated rear seats, a BOSE sound system, larger 20-inch alloys and matrix LED headlights. 

• Read our Audi Q3 review 

Mercedes GLA 

We feel the Mercedes GLA is often overlooked as an option for the best small SUV. Many will think it’s down to the tricky opposition, but the truth is that the GLA is just a bit of a hidden gem. 

If you want all the best bits of an executive saloon like the C-Class but in a smaller package and higher seating position, get a GLA. It’s great for families, and it’s one of the most comfortable picks on this list for our potholed roads. 

With that in mind, we’d go for the AMG Line, which gets steps up to the larger dual-screen setup inside as well as some AMG trinkets dotted about both the interior and exterior. 

• Read our Mercedes GLA review 

Find used small SUVs 

If you’re in the market for a used SUV, you’ve come to the right place. 

Whether you want to pop in and see us at one of our Stores, or simply use our app or website, you can find your next car the faff-free way. 

If one of the cars above has tickled your fancy, why not read up on some of our car reviews too? 

Read more about small SUVs: 

• What's the cheapest small Audi SUV?

• Best cheap small SUVs