Sport utility vehicles are king in America, driving some automakers to avoid making new desdans and hatchbacks in favor of SUVs aimed at the top of reliability, safety, and comfort rankings. 

The best subcompact SUVs do all of that with the added benefit of great tech and safety features. These are our picks for the best models in the segment.

<a href="#1. 2025 Chevrolet Trax">__1. 2025 Chevrolet Trax__</a>
<a href="#2. 2025 Honda HR-V">__2. 2025 Honda HR-V__</a>
<a href="#3. 2025 Hyundai Kona">__3. 2025 Hyundai Kona__</a>
<a href="#4. 2025 Kia Seltos">__4. 2025 Kia Seltos__</a>
<a href="#5. 2025 Subaru Crosstrek">__5. 2025 Subaru Crosstrek__</a>
<a href="#6. 2025 Mazda CX-30">__6. 2025 Mazda CX-30__</a>
<a href="#7. 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross">__7. 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross__</a>
<a href="#8. 2025 Buick Envista">__8. 2025 Buick Envista__</a>
<a href="#9. 2025 Kia Soul">__9. 2025 Kia Soul__</a>
<a href="#10. 2025 Nissan Kicks">__10. 2025 Nissan Kicks__</a>

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<a name="1. 2025 Chevrolet Trax"></a>
### 1. 2025 Chevrolet Trax

![2025 Chevrolet Trax Exterior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/GpuVPwOWzA89Xh2mLHXvv/2ecba4cbdd717761f7ccda7774a7fc8c/2025_Chevrolet_Trax_Exterior.jpg)

Many expected Chevy to discontinue the Trax after the 2023 model year, but the automaker surprised everyone with a completely overhauled its subcompact SUV for 2024. There are no significant changes for 2025, but it remains a compelling option because of its feature content and low manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP). 

![2025 Chevrolet Trax Interior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/7ciXJaFvneiZ27D19FLjOl/470f1709dfc1171fc62ce2771687f90c/2025_Chevrolet_Trax_Interior.jpg)

It’s powered by a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine, making 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission only sends power to the front wheels, as Chevy doesn't offer all-wheel drive (AWD) in the Trax. All-wheel drive is available for the Chevrolet Trailblazer, a similarly sized subcompact SUV.

The five-seat Trax has cloth upholstery as standard, but more expensive configurations step up to synthetic leather upholstery, while heated front seats and a heated steering wheel are available. The front seats are spacious and comfy enough, though they could use more padding and support, especially on longer trips. 

Cargo space is generous, measuring 25.6 cubic feet behind the second-row seats and up to 54.1 cubic feet with the back seats folded flat. An eight-inch touchscreen comes standard, but buyers can upgrade to a larger 11-inch display in more expensive trims. An eight-inch digital gauge cluster is also available, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard.

[Browse 2025 Chevrolet Trax listings here](https://www.autolist.com/chevrolet-trax#year_min=2025&year_max=2025).

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<a name="2. 2025 Honda HR-V"></a>
### 2. 2025 Honda HR-V

![2025 Honda HR-V Exterior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/5IyEgRW0ukWcDV8WKtWzJT/9abbd6bae21fc4c9b2790954387caf76/2025_Honda_HR-V_Exterior.jpg)

Honda updated the HR-V a few years back, giving it updated styling and a more refined interior that shares many elements with the latest Civic and Accord sedans. It comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, making 158 horsepower and 138 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is available. 

![2025 Honda HR-V Interior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/3RVvsCnKI6N0py7kmQgUia/67e18f3c87aa5789c1639747a1733dd8/2025_Honda_HR-V_Interior.jpg)

It's no drag racer, but the four-cylinder does a decent job of moving the subcompact HR-V. The crossover SUV takes longer than expected to reach highway speeds, and passing can feel like a chore once you're there.

The HR-V seats five people on standard cloth upholstery, but higher trims add genuine leather. Heated front seats are available, and the HR-V offers a decent amount of space in both rows. Three adults may feel the pinch of limited hip room in the back seat compared to the larger Honda CR-V, but it's comfortable in most situations. 

A seven-inch touchscreen and seven-inch digital gauge cluster come standard, offering wired smartphone connectivity. A larger nine-inch display is available, bringing wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless charging, HD radio, SiriusXM radio, and more.

[Browse 2025 Honda HR-V listings here](https://www.autolist.com/honda-hr+v#year_min=2025&year_max=2025).

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<a name="3. 2025 Hyundai Kona"></a>
### 3. 2025 Hyundai Kona

![2025 Hyundai Kona Exterior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/2LvvhGcG9sIgjX2U0QD4eq/809543ff52df3380a617d18bf829d1a7/2025_Hyundai_Kona_Exterior.jpg)

While it’s still a funky, futuristic-looking crossover, the Kona has recently become more refined and less polarizing. Hyundai offers two powertrain options, including the base configuration with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder making 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. A turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder is available, which produces 190 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. 

![2025 Hyundai Kona Interior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/5Adjt4QpujtMTDUL42ksr7/6403a36b8bb17ae39464358f000b8424/2025_Hyundai_Kona_Interior.jpg)

The base powertrain comes with a CVT, while the turbo engine gets an eight-speed automatic. Acceleration is decent with the non-turbo four-cylinder, but the turbo is a much better companion for most daily driving scenarios. All Konas offer decent ride quality and reasonably agile handling. 

Those who want the best fuel efficiency can opt for plug-in hybrid, hybrid, or electric versions, and there’s always the Hyundai Venue for people with smaller budgets. The Hyundai Tucson is slightly larger, in a class with the Mitsubishi Outlander and others, but it’s available with a plug-in hybrid powertrain and the same 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

The Kona seats five people on paper but yields a much more comfortable experience when limited to four. Cloth upholstery and synthetic leather are available, and top trims get heated and ventilated front seats. A 12.3-inch touchscreen comes standard, along with a 4.2-inch driver display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and higher trims add a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.

Hyundai also added more cargo space with the latest redesign, giving the Kona one of the more generous cargo capacities in the segment. It offers 25.5 cubic feet behind the second row and up to 63.7 cubic feet with the back seats folded flat. 

[Browse 2025 Hyundai Kona listings here](https://www.autolist.com/hyundai-kona#year_min=2025&year_max=2025).

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<a name="4. 2025 Kia Seltos"></a>
### 4. 2025 Kia Seltos

![2025 Kia Seltos Exterior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/2yL6WFbRFoyuxR3hA23y3B/d7c9a73bda733b8d104cd4bafbb8b476/2025_Kia_Seltos_Exterior.jpg)

Kia gave the Seltos a mild refresh for 2025, bringing new standard features and a more upmarket interior. The base engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, making 146 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. A turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder is available, making 195 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. 

![2025 Kia Seltos Interior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/7FIz0v0XgbVEUvNYSi9ToL/fe60b6807ee37e4735416d9a5c458ae5/2025_Kia_Seltos_Interior.jpg)

Similarly to the Hyundai Kona, the Kia Seltos’ turbo engine makes a much better companion in most situations, but the base powertrain doesn’t feel like a punishment. A CVT sends power to the front or all four wheels for the non-turbo engine, while turbo models come with an eight-speed automatic.

The Seltos comes standard with cloth upholstery, while higher trims get synthetic leather. Though advertised as a five-seater, the subcompact crossover is much more comfortable with four or fewer passengers on board. Cargo space is generous, with 26.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 62.8 cubic feet with the back seat folded flat. 

Kia equips an eight-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch digital driver display screen as standard. A 10.25-inch touchscreen and 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster are also available. The infotainment system isn’t as flashy as some competing interfaces, but it’s responsive and easy to use while driving.

[Browse 2025 Kia Seltos listings here](https://www.autolist.com/kia-seltos#year_min=2025&year_max=2025).

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<a name="5. 2025 Subaru Crosstrek"></a>
### 5. 2025 Subaru Crosstrek

![2025 Subaru Crosstrek Exterior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/0EFGXeGu0URjJnXMJvD4W/60b640e45ab02955daa1316fd8ed4ef2/2025_Subaru_Crosstrek_Exterior.jpg)

The Subaru Crosstrek brings an impressive blend of space, practicality, comfort, and off-road capability, making it unusual among its peers. Subaru offers two powertrain options, including the base 2.0-liter four-cylinder, making 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque. A 2.5-liter four-cylinder is available in higher trims, making 182 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. Both engines pair with a continuously variable transmission and standard all-wheel drive. 

![2025 Subaru Crosstrek Interior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/2hle00Mxrw7oNYU388zZqy/cb5b8e4eab30118d7a87df8b7212974a/2025_Subaru_Crosstrek_Interior.jpg)

Neither engine is particularly exciting, but the larger 2.5-liter unit offers better acceleration and responsiveness. The CVT dulls performance and causes the engines to drone at highway speeds.

Subaru equips cloth upholstery as standard, but more expensive trims get premium cloth, synthetic leather, or genuine leather upholstery options. Depending on the trim level, some variants get water-resistant upholstery, making them perfect for hauling dogs and gear after enjoying the great outdoors. The front seats are wide, well padded, and supportive, but the back seats can be restrictive for taller adults.

A dual seven-inch screen infotainment system comes standard, but most trims get a larger 11.6-inch portrait-oriented display that integrates most vehicle controls and functions in one place. However, Subaru’s infotainment system sometimes feels clunky, and the mass of features in one display can be confusing.

[Browse 2025 Subaru Crosstrek listings here](https://www.autolist.com/subaru-xv+crosstrek#year_min=2025&year_max=2025).

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<a name="6. 2025 Mazda CX-30"></a>
### 6. 2025 Mazda CX-30

![2025 Mazda CX-30 Exterior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/m04u1iFTO8AeGpXq8aCrv/fe28e2bfa5aedbcda87ca14049514492/2025_Mazda_CX-30_Exterior.jpg)

The CX-30 offers a surprisingly upscale interior and an engaging driving experience that makes it feel more expensive than its rivals. Mazda equips a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 191 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque as standard. A turbocharged version of that engine is available, which makes up to 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium fuel. 

![2025 Mazda CX-30 Interior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/7iIqzSNDmVMxSeXz9kzcCI/aa1c66bd4a7344eee84ee15d3eb9d4c9/2025_Mazda_CX-30_Interior.jpg)

Both engines pair with a six-speed automatic transmission, and Mazda made all-wheel drive standard for all SUVs. The non-turbo four-cylinder may be down on power compared to its turbocharged counterpart. Still, it offers enough grunt for everyday driving, including in-town commuting and highway cruises.

Though it’s listed as a five-seater, it’s more of a lifted Mazda3 hatchback, and the CX-30 is much more accommodating for four or fewer passengers. The front seats are supportive and deep enough for most, but the back seat suffers a lack of headroom, due to the CX-30’s sloping roof. Cargo space is below the segment average, at 20.2 cubic feet behind the back seats and 45.2 cubic feet with the seats folded flat. 

Cloth upholstery and power-adjustable front seats are standard, while higher trims add synthetic or genuine leather. Heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and ventilated front seats are available. 

Mazda equips a seven-inch digital gauge cluster and an eight-inch touchscreen as standard, which brings wired smartphone mirroring. Other standard tech features include HD radio, SiriusXM, a Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless charging, and more. A larger 10.25-inch touchscreen is available, but touch functionality is limited to certain features.

[Browse 2025 Mazda CX-30 listings here](https://www.autolist.com/mazda-cx+30#year_min=2025&year_max=2025).

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<a name="7. 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross"></a>
### 7. 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross

![2025 Toyota Corolla Cross Exterior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/5QXFCm2iLFXPvDcEO4r7kf/f07ea35f2ddcbf327d55eb8c013dc1d1/2025_Toyota_Corolla_Cross_Exterior.jpg)

The Toyota Corolla is one of the best-selling cars, so it’s not surprising that the automaker decided to turn it into a subcompact crossover. It’s powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 169 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque, which reaches the front or all four wheels via a CVT. 

![2025 Toyota Corolla Cross Interior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/3H3V1OTzqZXJwnD6mhojvp/44e649774aabd9ad1e1bcd1d52eaa6bf/2025_Toyota_Corolla_Cross_Interior.jpg)

The Corolla Cross offers a relatively smooth ride and decent handling, but the steering lacks feel. Additionally, the engine can be noisy, thanks to the CVT, and the Corolla Cross could use more power in most situations.

The Corolla Cross’ interior is surprisingly spacious, with a good amount of space in the front and rear seats. It’s not as roomy as a Volkswagen Taos or larger compact SUVs like a Toyota RAV4, but doesn’t feel punishing for back-seat passengers. 

Cloth comes standard, but higher trims get synthetic leather upholstery and heated front seats are available. An eight-inch touchscreen is standard, bringing wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM radio, HD radio, six speakers, and more. Wireless charging and additional USB ports are available.

[Browse 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross listings here](https://www.autolist.com/toyota-corolla+cross#year_min=2025&year_max=2025).

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<a name="8. 2025 Buick Envista"></a>
### 8. 2025 Buick Envista

![2025 Buick Envista Exterior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/59EdxUQyDDjmThYV4FFnNl/0acd57cbc96b3ae6b0f63aaba8182b92/2025_Buick_Envista_Exterior.jpg)

The Envista is a new addition to the Buick lineup, having only gone on sale last year. It replaced the aging Encore at the entry point of Buick’s catalog, and brings a long list of standard tech and safety features, a smart interior, and striking exterior styling. 

![2025 Buick Envista Interior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/2yLEvy7mva5rOLgictn2E2/06cbb79ece9cedb9666fd7d4286bb168/2025_Buick_Envista_Interior.jpg)

This Buick has a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine with 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. Power reaches the front wheels only through a six-speed automatic transmission. 

Though small, the three-cylinder does a decent job around town, but its star fades at higher speeds, where passing takes more effort than expected. At the same time, the Envista has a comfortable ride, and handles surprisingly well for a softly-sprung SUV.

The Envista offers seating for five across two rows, and has a longer wheelbase than competing vehicles, giving it a smoother, more stable ride and more interior space. However, three across in the rear seat may feel a little pinched, as two in the back have much more room. The Buick Encore GX offers a slightly more traditional SUV shape with a slightly higher starting price. 

An 11-inch touchscreen comes standard, along with six speakers, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and more. Available tech includes an eight-inch digital gauge cluster, SiriusXM radio, OnStar telematics system, a cabin humidity sensor, active noise cancellation, and wireless smartphone charging.

[Browse 2025 Buick Envista listings here](https://www.autolist.com/buick-envista#year_min=2025&year_max=2025).

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<a name="9. 2025 Kia Soul"></a>
### 9. 2025 Kia Soul

![2025 Kia Soul Exterior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/3E0gVxEtifSWrdBExDdqBR/f751be548c5e7b942b04ef1b890f3812/2025_Kia_Soul_Exterior.jpg)

We’re a long way from the Soul’s early days when dancing hamsters dominated commercials for the vehicle. Though it’s still a somewhat funky people-hauler, the Soul is now all grown up, offering reasonable headroom, interior space, and plenty of compelling tech features. 

![2025 Kia Soul Interior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/3v2p4rzxphrvZUcaImIjln/90699ccfc0de3fd7a9266ba18b1ae4b7/2025_Kia_Soul_Interior.jpg)

It’s powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, which reaches only the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission. The Soul isn’t the most agile or quickest SUV on the road, but there’s enough power for most driving activities, and the CVT works well at keeping the engine working hard.

The Soul has seating for five, and its tall roofline affords a generous amount of headroom. Cloth upholstery comes standard, but higher trim levels add synthetic leather and heated front seats. Cargo space is near the top of the subcompact SUV segment, at 24.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 62.1 cubic feet with the back seats folded flat. 

An eight-inch touchscreen comes standard, bringing six speakers, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, USB ports, and more. More expensive configurations step up to a 10.25-inch touchscreen, a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, navigation, wireless charging, two USB ports, remote start, and more.

[Browse 2025 Kia Soul listings here](https://www.autolist.com/kia-soul#year_min=2025&year_max=2025).

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<a name="10. 2025 Nissan Kicks"></a>
### 10. 2025 Nissan Kicks

![2025 Nissan Kicks Exterior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/3Xo3YnoM2BxerJmPeuNwfe/3dcefbf3be200d91a3ce498a6fdd6458/2025_Nissan_Kicks_Exterior.jpg)

Nissan redesigned the Kicks for 2025, giving it grown-up styling, fantastic fuel economy, and a classy cabin that could easily come from a much more expensive vehicle. Power comes from a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 141 horsepower and 140 pounds of torque. That output reaches the front or all four wheels through a CVT. All-wheel drive is a new addition to the Kicks line, too. 

![2025 Nissan Kicks Interior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/2GgL0ozuQrs2riqgZ3TuqU/9a24368f8701f4b074c78128c8f58233/2025_Nissan_Kicks_Interior.jpg)

That said, acceleration is lacking, and the Kicks takes longer than expected to get up to speed on the highway. The upside is that it’s a comfortable crossover with a smooth ride and confident handling. Gas mileage is decent, too, at up to 35 mpg on the highway in some configurations.

Cloth upholstery comes standard, while higher trims get synthetic leather. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel are also available. The Kicks benefits from Nissan’s excellent seat design, and the front seats, in particular, are comfortable and spacious. A seven-inch touchscreen and seven-inch digital gauge cluster come standard, but Nissan offers a 12.3-inch display and 12.3-inch gauge cluster.

[Browse 2025 Nissan Kicks listings here](https://www.autolist.com/nissan-kicks#year_min=2025&year_max=2025).

Subcompact crossover SUVs serve as both sedan and SUV with an attempt to find a happy middle. This list will provide you with the best options for 2025.

Best Subcompact Crossover SUVs for 2025

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