Automobiles have become increasingly popular in the early to mid 2010s, with the auto segment now significantly outstripping sales of sedans and other smaller cars. Manufacturers are even jumping on the bandwagon and phasing out their sedan models in favor of SUVs. Naturally, more and more people are gravitating towards subcompact SUVs as they provide most of the benefits of their larger counterparts while being reasonably affordable. Here are the top three options MotorTrend recommends getting.
1. 2023 Subaru Crosstrek is one of the best compact SUVs to buy
It makes it top the list mainly because of the value for money. describes it as a practical, robust and comfortable compact SUV and it’s easy to see why. As for practicality, it has 21 cubic feet of storage space behind the rear seats. While that’s not much, it’s expandable up to 55 cu-ft, which should be enough for most use cases.
he even describes the vehicle as a pleasure to drive, thanks to a smooth ride, comfortable seats and a relatively quiet cabin.
2. 2023 Hyundai Kona
It gets a 9.1 out of 10 in MotorTrend’s rating system, making it the second highest-rated compact SUV. For context, the Subaru Crosstrek scores a 9.2 out of 10. One reason for its high rating is the available turbocharged four-cylinder engine which makes it a fast, agile and slightly sporty vehicle.
Second, the Kona handles quite well in corners and is surprisingly fun to ride. Also, unlike most cars with excellent handling, the Hyundai SUV keeps most of the bumps and bumps in the road out of the cabin.
Overall, the car offers incredible value for money and impressive fuel economy for an SUV. After all, its gas mileage is 30 mpg in the city and 35 mpg for highway driving.
The only notable drawbacks include the small, rear seats.
3. 2022 Ford Bronco Sport is another of the best subcompact SUVs to buy
It received tons of praise from most critics, with MotorTrend giving it a 9 out of 10 in its rating system. It should be one of your go-to options if you’re looking for an off-road capable subcompact SUV.
Engine options include a base 181hp turbocharged three-cylinder engine and a 250hp turbocharged four-cylinder. They also make 190 lb-ft and 277 lb-ft of torque, respectively.
Fuel efficiency isn’t the Bronco Sport’s strong suit as an all-terrain vehicle. It gets 25 mpg in the city and can get up to 28 mpg on the highway. Also, the interior trim consists mostly of plastic components, which may not be to everyone’s liking. However, it makes up for it with the performance and included technology. It also handles surprisingly well on tarmac with decent handling and a quiet cabin.
Any of these three will do if you’re looking for a high-quality subcompact SUV. However, the best choice may depend on how you intend to use it. The Ford Bronco Sport is the SUV to buy if you are looking for an adventurous vehicle.
If you want a hybrid subcompact SUV for the everyday/adventure driver, the Subaru Crosstrek fits the bill. If it’s a daily driver you’re after, the Hyundai Kona looks excellent for the job.
