Best small SUVs 2026
A small SUV has become one of the best options for a new car in 2026. Advances in design have allowed the smallest, less than 4.3-metre long models to be as practical as the MPVs, hatchbacks and small estates they have replaced.
People buy refined, car-like off-roaders because they love the high seating position and visibility rather than the ability to climb mountains. That's why small SUVs prove so popular, keeping all the good stuff but taking up the same space as a small hatchback.
Small SUVs tend to offer more leg room and head room than their hatchback equivalents while small electric SUVs use the space freed up by the engine to increase cabin area.
As these cars now dominating showrooms and you'll find a small SUV from almost every manufacturer. In many cases, they've replaced familiar small hatchbacks. That means there are dozens to choose from, so to help you on your way we've gathered the best small SUVs we've reviewed that offer great value for 2026.
You may also like
Kia EV3
- The best small SUV is cutting-edge, cool and electric
- Lessons in packaging, design and efficiency applied
- Long range and flexible space
If you want the best small SUV to buy in 2026, the Kia EV3 should be your first port of call. This 4.3-metre long small electric SUV takes full advantage of a purely-electric design to deliver a light, airy interior and 460-litres of boot space, alongside a combined WLTP range up to 375 miles. That's assuming you choose the larger 81.4kWh battery adding around £3000 to the base price.
All Kia EV3s are front-wheel drive with a 201PS motor and support up to 350kW charging. Top of the range models feature V2L (vehicle to load), meaning they can be connected to domestic solar panels or turbines and act as a battery for the home, or as a power source for camping. A heat pump is an option on the GT Line S to improve winter range.
To get a sunroof, heat pump and remote-parking features the GT Line S approaches £48,000, but the entry-level EV3 Air with 51.4kWh battery features pothole-smoothing 17-inch wheels, warm fabric seats, matte-finished wheel arch protection and includes useful adaptive cruise, driver assistance and safety tech. It might be the better choice for hard-working family life and commuting.
Ford Puma
- Stylish and fun small SUV has a winning character
- Some neat details enhance practicality
- Electric and hybrid models, plus quick ST option
This is Britain's favourite car – the Ford Puma. Initially sold alongside the Ford Fiesta that it's based on, it now replaces the traditional small Ford. Buyers were already voting in favour of the Puma and it's easy to see why, when for a small premium the 4.2 metre long five-door car offers so much more space than the Fiesta for around 10cm extra length.
Extra legroom and headroom is expected, but the leap in boot space from around 292 litres to 456 litres is a welcome upgrade. That's partly down to the clever 'MegaBox' which adds 80 litres of waterproof, washable space under the boot floor. Choose the new electric Ford Puma Gen-E and rather than losing space to a battery the boot space increases to 523 litres thanks to a larger 145-litre GigaBox. Its great for muddy boots and pushchairs. There's an additional 43L 'frunk' where the engine used to be to store charging cables and accessories.
The electric Ford Puma's roughly 170 to 200 mile range is useful, but not great, so the option of mild hybrid petrol models is welcome. Although the high-performance 200PS Puma ST is no longer offered, there is a 170PS ST PowerShift automatic version which retains a lot of the everyday fun associated with fast Fords. Power isn't everything and the Puma's most appealing aspect for many is how much fun it is to drive, regardless of specification.
Skoda Kamiq
- The best value if you want VW Group technology
- The Skoda Kamiq is classy rather than cute
- Recent facelift keeps it fresh and distinctive
Masters of platform sharing, Volkswagen Group's stewardship of Skoda has resulted in some brilliant, affordable family cars and the Skoda Kamiq is one of the best. Based on similar components to the Skoda Scala and VW Polo, the Kamiq's strongest rivals are the related VW T-Cross and Taigo. It's got a longer wheelbase than either and the upright body makes it extremely spacious for a car less than 4.3m long.
In addtition to generous rear passenger space the Skoda Kamiq offers 400 litres of boot space. That’s bigger than a Volkswagen Golf and the load space itself is more than a metre wide, swallowing pushchairs without blinking an eyelid. The engine range is entirely petrol, with all of them turbocharged for good mid-range pulling power and impressive efficiency.
Every Skoda Kamiq gets alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors and front emergency assist (collision warning and automatic braking) which can be upgraded with lane-keeping and traffic-jam assist. The styling resembles a scaled-down large Skoda SUV, and 'Simply Clever' features live up to the name – where else do you get thoughtful touches like an umbrella hidden in the door?
Toyota Yaris Cross
- Closer to the original RAV4 than you'd expect
- Hybrid only, with all-wheel drive option
- Fun to drive, reassuring to own with long warranty
The Toyota Yaris Cross takes the basis of the excellent Toyota Yaris and builds it into a larger SUV that isn't far off the dimensions of the original 1994 RAV4 that make this genre popular. The styling has more in common with the larger Toyota RAV4 SUV as well, though inside it visibly owes a lot to the Yaris.
As you would expect from Toyota the Yaris Cross features a petrol-electric hybrid (also known as a ‘self-charging hybrid’), so they're all automatic whether you choose the entry-level 116PS model, or the Excel and GR Sport 130PS. If you want more upmarket surroundings, the Lexus LBX offers the Yaris Cross size and attitude with more equipment and slightly more power.
Choose the all-wheel drive model and you get a low-power e-motor that helps in snow and wet grass, saving fuel and weight, rather than a bulky 4x4 setup. It's only offered on higher-specification versions. Although the Yaris Cross and Lexus LBX have higher basic list prices than many rivals, once options are added for comparable specification they look like great value.
Volkswagen Taigo
- A touch of upmarket style at a budget price
- Volkswagen's coupe-SUV is a credible Ford Puma rival
- The shape of things to come?
The strongest sign that SUV is no longer a type of car, but has simply become 'car', is the appearance of different bodystyles such as 'coupes'. And we're even seeing that among small SUVs with the Volkswagen Taigo bringing fastback style to the affordable end of the market.
Clearly a sportier variety of the Volkswagen T-Cross, the Taigo has some details that echo the luxury touches of Audi, SEAT and Porsche to complement the sloped rear window that places style ahead of practicality.
That's not to say it's impractical. The VW Taigo's 440-litre boot is usefully sized and shaped, with high sides, while the low roof height means it's easier to use lifestyle accessories like roof boxes. You can choose between 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre models up to 150PS and all are front-wheel drive. It's competitively priced against the Ford Puma and in-house alternatives making this an good choice for those wanting something a little different.
Toyota C-HR
- Striking looks and low running costs are C-HR highlights
- Handling and steering make it rewarding to drive
- Ten-year, 100,000 mile warranty is reassuring
When Toyota launched the C-HR, its distinctive two-door illusion and low-cut roof caught the attention of hybrid buyers who felt the Prius was a little dull. The second-generation Toyota C-HR gives it the performance to match the looks. Current UK models are front-wheel drive, with a choice of 1.8-litre 140PS or 2.0-litre 193PS hybrid plus a range-topping 223PS plug-in hybrid. If you'd prefer an EV, there's an electric Toyota C-HR+ version.
This is a small SUV that gives you the driving experience of a bigger car, with some compromises reflecting the 21st century sports-coupé positioning. Positioned between the Toyota Yaris Cross and RAV4, the Toyota C-HR's 388-litre boot drops to 364 litres on the 2.0-litre model and 310-litres in the plug-in hybrid, making this small SUV one that's best suited for occasional family use.
Despite the small capacity the boot is a good shape, flat rather than upright, with easy access from the large tailgate. Driver and front passenger comfort is the priority, at the expense of rear passenger space. C-HR prices start at around £32,000 before discounts, rising to just under £50,000 for a GR Sport plug-in hybrid with all the options. There are better hot-hatches for the money, but if you want one of the best plug-in hybrids and still enjoy driving it won't disappoint.
Citroen C3 Aircross
- Soft-riding small SUV with seven seat option
- Stellantis origins mean proven tech, strong value
- A spacious box on wheels with 'off-road' attitude
This is one of the cheapest cars on the market in the UK. And yet, it's in the best grouping of the most aspirational models. So what's so good about the Citroen C3 Aircross? It's the first of a next-generation platform that's also shared with the Fiat Grande Panda and Vauxhall Frontera, allowing both petrol and electric to be offered. And because it's a Citroen it has unique, comfort suspension that's well suited to Britain's decaying roads.
That marks it out from the almost identical Vauxhall Frontera, yet the Citroen C3 Aircross is also a little cheaper on paper. We'd recommend driving both before deciding and also check out the reviews for your local dealer as customer support can make a big difference to how much you enjoy your car. Thinking about the Fiat Grande Panda? It's smaller, with no seven-seat option, but it's undeniably great value and has some neat styling details.
In an aspirational class of cars these are the budget option. So while you can get most options and stack up the equipment if you pay more, the trim materials and quality stay the same. Before spending on big upgrades, check out what you'd get as standard in a more expensive alternative, but nothing can match the C3 Aircross, Vauxhall Frontera or Fiat Panda for value for money if you don't care about luxuries and gadgets.
Volkswagen T-Roc
- Second generation T-Roc open for orders
- Discounts on the previous model
- Facelift and technical improvements add appeal
When Volkswagen committed fully to the small SUV, the first on the market was the Golf-based Volkswagen T-Roc. It's far from VW's first foray - that would be the VW Golf Country - a jacked-up Golf on a raised chassis with 4x4 which was never officially sold in the UK.
Buying a new small VW SUV in 2026 means waiting for the new VW T-Roc to ship, but the previous model is still in showrooms and you'll get a good deal on popular specifications. One reason to consider the outgoing T-Roc is VW T-Roc Convertible. It's currently unique on the market, though it doesn't offer all-wheel drive, and the nearest thing to an Range Rover Evoque Convertible offered by any other manufacturer.
If you have older children, the Polo-based VW T-Cross might make more sense – it has slightly more rear legroom – but the VW T-Roc has a bigger boot, more standard equipment and offers all-wheel drive in used 4Motion versions along with a high-performance T-Roc R.
Dacia Duster
- One of the few 4x4 options for small SUV buyers
- Competitive price does not mean it feels cheap, either
- Undeniable value for money with few rivals
For PCP buyers with big deposits, or those leasing, the Dacia Duster may not look like great value. But for cash buyers or anyone who wants a small SUV that retains the once-required four-wheel drive off-road ability, there's nothing quite like it. In a package just 4.35m long the Dacia Duster packs a minimum of 430 litres of boot space (up to 517 litres in FWD petrol versions) and room for five adults, or 1545 to 1608 litres with the rear seats folded.
The most sensible choice for everyday drivers is probably the fully loaded 140PS hybrid. That's a 1.3-litre hybrid automatic with front-wheel drive that costs little more than entry level models of most rivals at around £27,000. For fans of 4x4 and off-roading the 130PS mild-hybrid with all-wheel drive starts from less than £25,000.
Compliant ride with safe, predictable handling means the Duster is well-suited to typical British roads while the wide range of accessories includes a £2000 'pod camper' style kit. Rugged, affordable and practical, the Dacia Duster fits the original template for a small SUV perfectly but it's not quite sharp and refined enough to complete with SUV-styled hatchback and coupé replacements.
Kia Niro
- A solid all-rounder to suit many tastes and uses
- Long warranty, generally good dealers
- Efficient electric option adds appeal
With the Niro, Kia's found a loyal and happy group of owners who keep returning and the large number of Niros on the road no doubt contributes to its popularity. It's evolved from a slightly gawky model into a rather distinctive small SUV that slots between the Kia Sportage and smaller Kia Stonic. It also offers traditional engines, hybrids, PHEV and there's also an electric Kia Niro EV.
The Kia Niro EV stands out for its impressive range, achieving 4.4 miles per kWh in our own tests. Unlike the Kia EV3's cutting-edge tech it doesn't offer the fastest charging speeds, but it's a familiar, easy to drive small electric car that's ideal for moving away from petrol without feeling alienated. All current Kia Niro models benefit from modern interior style and tech influenced by the Kia EV6.
The seven-year warranty means buying a nearly-new or approved-used Kia Niro can feel as secure and safe as buying a new car from rival brands. The 451-litre boot, robust interior and comfortable seats complete a very competent package – though, despite the SUV style there are no all-wheel drive models.
Which is the most reliable small SUV?
Honda, Toyota and Nissan are among the most reliable car brands and their well-proven small SUVs rank among the most reliable. Toyota in particular has a superb reputation for reliability – even its high-tech hybrid drive systems generally prove faultless. This is backed up by Toyota's 10-year warranty that is renewed every year with a scheduled service from a main dealer up to 100,000 miles or 10 years old even if the car was bought second hand and had missed a service.
These are new cars, though – so they should be reliable. Most manufacturers are moving toward longer warranties, either as an option at purchase (Citroen), a general shift (Kia's seven-year warranty, more firms offering five years as standard) or through service packages.
Can you get a small SUV with all-wheel drive?
Most small SUVs are front wheel drive. This saves fuel, cuts emissions and allows a flatter floor but it also reflects that very few drivers need 4x4, either for weather or off-road driving. Traction control and appropriate tyres are all you need in most road conditions. However, the Toyota Yaris Cross can be specified with AWD using a small rear motor for additional traction at low speeds while the Volkswagen T-Roc R is all-wheel drive for performance. For off-road driving, the Dacia Duster offers true 4x4 ability – and it's one of the cheapest small SUVs you can buy new.
How much does a good small SUV cost?
As small SUVs have taken the place of small cars generally, the prices have increased so yes – it is harder to get a cheap new small car, rather than a sparse hatchback. However, where there is a hatchback equivalent, the small SUVs rarely cost much more and they may end up with lower monthly prices for lease or PCP deals due to their popularity.
The Dacia Duster starts from around £22,000, with the Citroen C3 Aircross a little cheaper. Shop around for nearly-new deals and you might find these for less than £20,000. Most brands offer small SUVs from around £24,000, with higher-spec models and premium marques starting at £30,000. If you've added options to a basic model and it's approaching that sort of price, look at the 'more expensive' car carefully – it might work out to be better value for the features you want - and worth more at resale.
Electric models are still expensive for longer-range models, but if you do regular, short drives at slow speeds and have cheap rate or off-grid electricity the extra cost may well be worth it. Cars like the Kia EV3 can rival petrol models for range between fill-ups and their cutting-edge design feels special in a market where many manufacturers are rehashing old tech to keep these cars affordable and profitable.
What's the best small SUV?
