You're ready for a new car, but you realize you need not only plenty of passenger space but also cargo space. A minivan is an option, but they lack the modern styling you crave. What you need is an SUV. Thankfully, they come in several sizes, from subcompact to full-sized.  Compact SUVs are nice because they drive and handle like a car but have more interior passenger room and cargo space. 

For the most versatility, look for a compact SUV with plenty of legroom in the rear seats for passenger comfort. Then consider how much cargo space is behind the seats and when the seats are folded down. It is also important to look at the engine capability because a loaded-down SUV will be heavy and needs a powerful engine to handle the additional weight. 

These compact SUVs have the most cargo space, making them an ideal choice for someone looking to upgrade from a car to something roomier. 

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### 1. Toyota 4Runner

![2021-toyota-4runner-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/749wDj6qrlgtu4ngP0kuSj/2f23ba235637afbf3157593225f9b8cf/2021-toyota-4runner-ext.jpg)

This midsize SUV is on the smaller side in terms of interior space, but that doesn't mean you lose any cargo capacity. The 4Runner has the most cargo space on this list. Combine this with its impressive off-roading ability, and you have a vehicle that can take you anywhere. It's equipped with a 4.0-liter V6 engine that produces 270 horsepower.

![2021-toyota-4runner-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/6C0ERCkNVRrIVkkSUCYptz/c2ecbe585275dde34b275918706ac58a/2021-toyota-4runner-int.jpg)

Models are available with either two or three rows of seats. There are 46.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 88.8 when they are folded down in the two-row models. If you opt for the three-row model, you only have nine feet of cargo capacity behind the third-row seats but the same total cargo capacity when the seats are folded down. 

[Browse Toyota 4Runner listings here](https://www.autolist.com/toyota-4runner#year_min=2021&year_max=2021).

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### 2. Chevrolet Equinox

![2021-chevrolet-equinox-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/qLysN6fExQy1xMjakRcxd/fd26681ec3a98230f3f204387697d8d8/2021-chevrolet-equinox-ext.jpg)

The Chevy Equinox offers more than just plenty of cargo space in a compact SUV body. It delivers decent fuel economy, long-running reliability, and a ton of standard features. Also appreciate: the roomy passenger seats for both the front and rear seats. 

Powering the Equinox is a 170-horsepower, 1.5-liter turbocharged engine. If you are looking for a bit more power, then consider the optional 252-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged engine.

![2021-chevrolet-equinox-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/ezs4f5IMPCx9odjZErb7a/afc7b4bbb233c265f10b1bb613a11545/2021-chevrolet-equinox-int.jpg)

When it comes to hauling, buyers will have plenty of room for all of your cargo with 30 cubic feet behind the rear seats and a total of 64 cubic feet of cargo space when the second row is folded down. 

[Browse Chevrolet Equinox listings here](https://www.autolist.com/chevrolet-equinox#year_min=2021&year_max=2021).

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### 3. Kia Sportage

![2011-kia-sportage-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/3uXqdam4TmChnA18wM1Xwj/e44a38c1b0c4c67a33434ecc63547808/2011-kia-sportage-ext.jpg)

This compact SUV offers a great ride in with an interior that is big enough for tall adults, no matter where they're seated. The cabin is spacious and full of high-quality materials. The infotainment system is simple to use, making it extremely user-friendly. 

There are two engines available, a 181-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and a  240-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.

![2021-kia-sportage-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/6BEgZWXgQZx4IDC5E1ClA8/e94b6c497a15ca6249c0dd5386f83cde/2021-kia-sportage-int.jpg)

Behind the seatbacks, you have 30.7 cubic feet of cargo space. With the rear seats folded down, you have 60.1 cubic feet of space. For an easier time loading cargo in your Sportage, opt for the EX or SX Turbo trim, which include a power liftgate. 

[Browse Kia Sportage listings here](https://www.autolist.com/kia-sportage#year_min=2021&year_max=2021).

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### 4. Toyota Rav4

![2021-toyota-rav4-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/3y8nJAYtOEmuLGfOaACJsl/d41cc530b667dde4386f4d76ed6378f0/2021-toyota-rav4-ext.jpg)

The Toyota Rav4 stays true to the Toyota reputation of great fuel economy and reliable performance. The cabin may not have the most luxurious materials, but they are high quality, and the cabin is roomy. 

Powering the base (non hybrid) RAV4 is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 203 horsepower. 

![2021-toyota-rav4-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/3ya9VLkgXwk6GhR0MGS0Kf/2782d0e1a15b8d0bf0860e88ee40569c/2021-toyota-rav4-int.jpg)

Behind the second-row seats in the LE, adventure, and TRD Off-Road trims, you have 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space. For the XLE, XLE Premium, and Limited trims, the cargo space is slightly reduced to 37.5 cubic feet. For all trim levels, folding down the second-row seats increases the cargo capacity to 69.6 cubic feet. 

[Browse Toyota Rav4 listings here](https://www.autolist.com/toyota-rav4#year_min=2021&year_max=2021).

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### 5. GMC Terrain

![2021-gmc-terrain-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/092aqnk93eT68qt9borSQ/d01d5bfdb55cce5b8ffd401a535d7835/2021-gmc-terrain-ext.jpg)

The comfortable and roomy Terrain delivers a refined ride with responsive handling. The base 1.5-liter inline-four engine puts out 170 horsepower, which is acceptable for city driving but can be underwhelming for more demanding driving. There is an available 2.0-liter turbo-four engine that makes 252 horsepower for more power. Both engines achieve good fuel economy. 

![2021-gmc-terrain-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/4sVRM6ZapYR27bseMf0fet/b2914860e9bc7ecde9814f2c34c855c1/2021-gmc-terrain-int.jpg)

When it comes to cargo capacity, the Terrain has 29.6 cubic feet of space behind the second row. With the second row folded down, cargo capacity increases to 63.3 cubic feet. 

A unique feature of the Terrain is that the front seat can fold flat, making it easy to transport long items like lumber or surfboards. A hands-free liftgate and power liftgate are both available. 

[Browse GMC Terrain listings here](https://www.autolist.com/gmc-terrain#year_min=2021&year_max=2021).

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### 6. Honda CR-V

![2021-honda-cr-v-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/1hPZkO3o0K7jJVwu1dsQNt/7e1720692a385f2e943ae85d56c473f3/2021-honda-cr-v-ext.jpg)

The 2021 Honda CR-V comes with an upscale cabin. The spacious rear seat has plenty of legroom. Powering the CR-V is a 190-horsepower four-cylinder engine.

![2021-honda-cr-v-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/4dXYFdOmHUB8lBoBXZKGOr/acdfe06be85a8985343d89c88f4d4f72/2021-honda-cr-v-int.jpg)

What is nice about the CR-V is there's a lot of cargo space behind the second row of seats. You have 39.2 cubic feet, which is enough for several large suitcases. A convenient feature is the tie-down anchors that make it easy to secure your cargo. Fold-down the back seats, and space increases to a total of 75.8 cubic feet.  

[Browse Honda CR-V listings here](https://www.autolist.com/honda-cr+v#year_min=2021&year_max=2021).

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### 7. Hyundai Tucson

![2021-hyundai-tucson-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/36ap2PlPwiFtvMehFikV0Z/0b000f86b26d3394196ad45785ddb6b1/2021-hyundai-tucson-ext.jpg)

Take a seat in the cabin of the Tucson and appreciate the ample space available. Adding to the comfort level are premium upmarket materials and quality construction for a cabin that feels modern. Pair this with the composed handling and ride, and you have an excellent compact SUV. 

The four trim levels all sport the same 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 187 horsepower.

![2021-hyundai-tucson-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/tuIOFWwT9PKvPGiiEWf7A/83e093d5f1ff2230fa62e2229577dad2/2021-hyundai-tucson-int.jpg)

The Tucson boasts one of the largest cargo areas in the compact SUV class. It has 38.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. This expands to 74.8 cubic feet when you fold down the rear seats. There is also a hands-free power liftgate available. 

[Browse Hyundai Tucson listings here](https://www.autolist.com/hyundai-tucson#year_min=2021&year_max=2021).

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### #8. Nissan Rogue

![2021-nissan-rogue-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/75AoGl41rw42zI3GdhXnC2/aa5382f30ca584662226dfe03efe628f/2021-nissan-rogue-ext.jpg)

Nissan completely redesigned the Rogue for the 2021 model year. The new model impresses with a spacious interior, smooth ride, and soft handling. In addition, Nissan stepped up the cabin to give it an upscale feel with quality materials and thoughtful touches. 

The Rogue is outfitted with a 181-horsepower, four-cylinder engine. 

![2021-nissan-rogue-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/7yhMx3WOZjGzxgq0uONvfi/75e34a47f1e908fac2f9decb492d7377/2021-nissan-rogue-int.jpg)

When it comes to cargo capacity, the Rogue ranks at the top of its class with one of the largest cargo capacities. You can create a maximum of 74.1 cubic feet with the seats folded. With the rear seats up, you have 31.6 cubic feet. 

The SL and Premium models have Divide-N-Hide, which lets you configure the cargo floor for more hauling flexibility. It increases the cargo capacity to 36.5 cubic feet. Another nice feature of the Rogue is its extra-wide hatch opening, making it easier to load and unload bulky-shaped and oversized items. 

[Browse Nissan Rogue listings here](https://www.autolist.com/nissan-rogue#year_min=2021&year_max=2021).

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### 9. Subaru Forester

![2021-subaru-forester-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/2msu56RoQrHDj3t2RG8Tyu/c062b652a37dc5152a143f99e867bfd7/2021-subaru-forester-ext.jpg)

The sporty Subaru Forester is the perfect compact SUV for those who are looking to get off the beaten path. It comes standard with all-wheel-drive, so you are sure to have plenty of capability. It also has a user-friendly infotainment system, which makes riding in the cabin more enjoyable. 

Powering the Forester is a 182-horsepower four-cylinder engine that achieves good fuel economy.

![2021-subaru-forester-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/2lh5EHcD9WHDQ2YfGHkuE4/31e6556eded6cdf7ff0fccf8efdecc69/2021-subaru-forester-int.jpg)

The base model has a decent amount of cargo space, with 31.1 cubic feet behind the rear seats and a total of 76.1 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down. 

The Premium, Sport, Limited, and Touring models have slightly less cargo space with 28.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 70.9 with the seats folded down. 

[Browse Subaru Forester listings here](https://www.autolist.com/subaru-forester#year_min=2021&year_max=2021).

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### 10. Volkswagen Taos

![2022-volkswagen-taos-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/6ocwU0dfcm38UeUFQXK8it/5ea54e0598c9a231013283a0f8d4dc16/2022-volkswagen-taos-ext.jpg)

The Taos is an all-new model from VW for 2022 (it's smaller than the Tiguan). A long list of features comes standard on the Taos, making the base model an impressive choice. 

Under the hood, you'll find a 1.5-liter turbo that produces 158 horsepower.

Choose the top of the four trim models, and it comes with a ten-color ambient lighting system. A panoramic glass roof is also available. 

![2022-volkswagen-taos-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/1nNpXUBsgO1tDjToJdgkeV/e4d6f616cbda46d40bbf0e420095815a/2022-volkswagen-taos-int.jpg)

The Taos offers plenty of cargo space with 28.1 cubic feet behind the rear seats. Fold those down, and you have up to 66.3 cubic feet of cargo room available. 

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### 11. Ford Escape

![2021-ford-escape-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/5vRtkSztGGRmTJaMJa89G2/23af2d19d026e3cbdc6df26006af1c40/2021-ford-escape-ext.jpg)

The balanced handling and ride quality of the Ford Escape makes it a top-performing compact SUV. A standout feature is the user-friendly infotainment system. There are two engine options for the Escape. 

The standard option is the 1.5-liter three-cylinder capable of 181 horsepower. The SEL and Titanium have an optional 2.0-liter four-cylinder that can produce 250 horsepower. Both engines give you plenty of power for sporty and responsive acceleration. 

![2021-ford-escape-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/1rkz0JSTMZit5qKxO5dm3s/11a2aaef5785d98ba4543ecb94e3131d/2021-ford-escape-int.jpg)

The amount of cargo capacity available will depend on the position of the seats. There's between 33.5 and 37.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and a maximum of 65.4 cubic feet of cargo capacity.

[Browse Ford Escape listings here](https://www.autolist.com/ford-escape#year_min=2021&year_max=2021).

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### 12. Mitsubishi Outlander

![2022-mitsubishi-outlander-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/4XwlnDAemY77JlwaIBdIZu/050cd924f63f9c8a8c58bf456287ad05/2022-mitsubishi-outlander-ext.jpg)

The Mitsubishi Outlander is completely new for 2022 and it's largely based on the aforementioned Nissan Rogue. Thus, it offers an intuitive tech package, roomy passenger space, and premium cabin materials. Its poised performance and handling deliver a relaxed ride. 

Powering the Outlander is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that is capable of 181 horsepower. 

![2022-mitsubishi-outlander-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/70LbzGWhpqnY1UJrTNBkkX/ba57a9cbe2b54dff3e3a45de04ca8b20/2022-mitsubishi-outlander-int.jpg)

The cargo space behind the third row is a bit small at 11.7 cubic feet. However, you can fold down the third row and enjoy 33.5 cubic feet of cargo space. The cargo capacity increases even more to 79.7 cubic feet when both the second and third-row seats are folded down.

[Browse Mitsubishi Outlander listings here](https://www.autolist.com/mitsubishi-outlander#year_min=2022&year_max=2022).

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