Readers, Today we’re talking about the top 10 subcompact SUVs for 2025. These models offer an ideal blend of reliability, affordability, and efficiency. Let’s explore the standout features of these exciting vehicles, beginning with the newly redesigned 2025 Nissan Kicks.
1. 2025 Nissan Kicks
Overview:
The 2025 Nissan Kicks remains a budget-friendly subcompact SUV with several notable upgrades. Known for its affordability, this year’s Kicks offers improved power and features, making it a stronger contender in the subcompact SUV market.
Key Specifications:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 141 hp @ 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 lb-ft |
| Fuel Economy | 27 MPG City / 34 MPG Highway |
| Cargo Capacity | 23.9 cu ft (FWD) / 50.1 cu ft (rear seats down) |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Base Price | $23,120 (S trim) |
| Drive Type | Front-Wheel Drive / All-Wheel Drive Optional |
| Infotainment | 7-inch touchscreen (Base), 12.3-inch touchscreen (SV & SR trims) |
| Safety Features | Blind-Spot Monitoring, Lane Departure Warning, and ProPILOT Assist (on higher trims) |
Performance and Design:
The 2025 Nissan Kicks is powered by a 2.0L inline 4-cylinder engine, producing 141 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque. This upgrade brings a notable improvement in power, ensuring smoother acceleration. Drivers can expect fuel economy ratings of 27 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway, making it an efficient daily driver.
The Kicks features a refreshed design with an SUV-like profile, including a squared-off front-end design, available all-wheel drive, and increased cargo capacity. For the first time, it offers Snow Mode in AWD variants, giving drivers more versatility in challenging conditions.
Interior and Technology:
Inside, the Kicks now has a driver-focused cockpit with flat display screens and Nissan’s Zero Gravity seat design for added comfort. The top trims, such as the SR, include advanced technology like a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, offering seamless smartphone integration.
Pricing for the 2025 Kicks starts at $23,120 for the base model, with the top trim (SR AWD) priced around $27,570 depending on selected features and options.
2. 2025 Buick Envista
Overview:
The 2025 Buick Envista is Buick’s new entry-level subcompact SUV, offering a fastback-style design with a focus on quiet, smooth driving and ample interior space. It competes with models like the Nissan Kicks, and Mitsubishi Outlander Sport.
Key Specifications:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.2L Turbocharged 3-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 137 hp |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Fuel Economy | 30 MPG combined |
| Cargo Capacity | 20.7 cu ft (FWD), 42 cu ft (rear seats down) |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Base Price | $23,995 (Preferred Trim) |
| Drive Type | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Infotainment | 11-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto |
| Safety Features | Automated Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Monitoring, and more |
Performance and Design:
Buick equips the Envista with a 1.2L turbocharged engine, delivering 137 horsepower. Although it’s not the most powerful engine in the segment, the smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission ensures an efficient and comfortable ride. Front-wheel drive is standard across all trims, with no all-wheel drive option.
This sleek subcompact SUV measures 182.5 inches in length and offers a sloping roofline reminiscent of sportier models, but with the practicality of a larger interior. It offers a smooth ride on all trims, with Buick’s focus on minimizing road noise.
Interior and Technology:
The interior of the 2025 Envista features two digital screens—a large 11-inch infotainment system and an 8-inch digital gauge display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, as does a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot.
The Envista starts at $23,995 for the base Preferred trim, offering significant value for those looking for entry-level luxury without the high price tag.
3. 2025 Mazda CX-30
Overview:
Mazda’s 2025 CX-30 brings luxury-level interiors and agile performance to the subcompact SUV segment. Known for its premium cabin materials and responsive handling, the CX-30 appeals to drivers who value both aesthetics and functionality.
Key Specifications:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L 4-cylinder / 2.5L Turbocharged 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 191 hp (base) / 250 hp (turbo) |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Fuel Economy | 25 MPG City / 33 MPG Highway |
| Cargo Capacity | 20.2 cu ft / 60 cu ft (seats down) |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Base Price | $26,045 |
| Drive Type | All-Wheel Drive (standard) |
| Infotainment | 8.8-inch display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto |
| Safety Features | Automatic Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, and more |
Performance and Design:
Mazda offers two engine options for the 2025 CX-30: a standard 2.0L engine producing 191 horsepower and a more powerful 2.5L turbocharged engine with 250 horsepower. Both engines come paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth shifts and responsive handling. All-wheel drive is standard across all trims, ensuring stability in various driving conditions.
The CX-30’s design incorporates Mazda’s “KODO” design language, with sleek lines and a sporty silhouette. Inside, it offers premium materials, rivaling luxury brands like Audi and BMW, with advanced tech and connectivity features.
Interior and Technology:
Mazda’s 2025 CX-30 features a high-quality interior with an 8.8-inch display controlled via a rotary knob, eschewing touchscreens for a more traditional approach. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across all trims, and the top models add leather upholstery and advanced driver aids.
Pricing starts at $26,045, with the turbocharged versions coming in at higher price points.
4. 2025 Hyundai Kona
Overview:
Hyundai’s 2025 Kona is a versatile subcompact SUV with modern styling, a futuristic interior, and plenty of standard features. It offers a choice between two powertrains and comes with optional all-wheel drive, appealing to a wide range of buyers.
Key Specifications:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L 4-cylinder / 1.6L Turbocharged 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 147 hp (base) / 190 hp (turbo) |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Fuel Economy | 28 MPG City / 35 MPG Highway |
| Cargo Capacity | 25.5 cu ft / 63.7 cu ft (seats down) |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Base Price | $27,450 |
| Drive Type | Front-Wheel Drive / All-Wheel Drive Optional |
| Infotainment | Dual 12.3-inch screens, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto |
| Safety Features | Lane Keeping Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and more |
Performance and Design:
The 2025 Hyundai Kona is available with a 147-horsepower 2.0L engine or a more potent 190-horsepower 1.6L turbocharged engine, both paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is available, providing more stability in adverse weather.
On the outside, the Kona boasts futuristic styling with a bold front end and sleek, sporty lines. Inside, Hyundai offers dual 12.3-inch screens that serve as the gauge cluster and infotainment system, creating a modern, tech-heavy cockpit.
Interior and Technology:
The Kona’s interior feels spacious despite its compact size, and Hyundai has equipped it with the latest tech. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, and the high trims offer additional features like a heads-up display and wireless smartphone charging.
Pricing starts at $27,450, making it one of the more affordable models with a wide range of features and options.
5. 2025 Honda HR-V: Practical and Stylish
Overview
The 2025 Honda HR-V is a refined and practical subcompact SUV that blends Honda’s signature reliability with a stylish exterior. With a starting price of $25,400, this compact crossover is ideal for those seeking a versatile and budget-friendly vehicle. It offers excellent cargo space, advanced safety features, and modern tech to compete with other top subcompact SUVs in its class.
Engine and Performance
The 2025 HR-V is powered by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), it delivers smooth driving dynamics, whether in urban settings or on the highway. Both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) options are available. The fuel economy is impressive, offering 26 mpg city and 32 mpg highway for FWD and 25 mpg city and 30 mpg highway for AWD.
Specs Table: 2025 Honda HR-V
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L 4-cylinder (158 hp) |
| Torque | 138 lb-ft |
| Transmission | CVT |
| Fuel Economy (FWD) | 26 mpg city / 32 mpg highway |
| Fuel Economy (AWD) | 25 mpg city / 30 mpg highway |
| Cargo Capacity | 24.4 cu ft (55.1 cu ft with seats folded) |
| Starting Price | $25,400 |
Interior and Technology
Inside, the HR-V features a clean and functional cabin. The LX base model comes with cloth seats, while the Sport and EX-L trims offer leather-wrapped steering wheels and heated seats. Tech features are robust, with a 7-inch touchscreen standard on the LX and Sport trims, while the EX-L comes with a 9-inch display and built-in navigation. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available in higher trims, making smartphone integration seamless.
The cargo space is another highlight, with 24.4 cubic feet of space behind the second row, which expands to 55.1 cubic feet when the seats are folded down, making it one of the more practical subcompact SUVs for carrying gear.
Safety and Driver Assistance
The 2025 HR-V comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features as part of Honda’s Sensing® package, which includes adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation braking, road departure mitigation, lane-keeping assist, and traffic sign recognition. The EX-L trim also offers blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, ensuring top-notch safety on the road.
The 2025 Honda HR-V offers a well-rounded package, combining practicality, comfort, and advanced safety features. It’s a great choice for those seeking a stylish subcompact SUV with Honda’s hallmark reliability. Now, let’s move on to the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek, another popular option in the subcompact SUV market.
6. 2025 Subaru Crosstrek: Rugged Adventure Meets Modern Comfort
Overview
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek continues its legacy as a rugged and versatile subcompact SUV. Built for adventure and daily driving alike, the Crosstrek is known for its impressive off-road capabilities thanks to Subaru’s standard all-wheel-drive system. With a price range starting at $27,500 and climbing up to $33,500 for higher trims, this year’s model includes modern updates to both its interior and exterior, further refining its appeal.
Engine and Performance
The 2025 Crosstrek offers two engine options:
- A 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque is standard, providing ample power for most driving conditions.
- For those interested in fuel efficiency, a hybrid version blends a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder with an electric motor, yielding 149 horsepower and better fuel economy at an estimated 35 mpg combined. This makes it an appealing option for eco-conscious drivers.
Both engine options come with a CVT transmission and Subaru’s signature all-wheel-drive system, ensuring excellent performance on both highways and rugged trails.
Specs Table: 2025 Subaru Crosstrek
| Specification | Base Engine (2.5L) | Hybrid Engine |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 182 hp | 149 hp (combined with electric) |
| Torque | 176 lb-ft | 149 lb-ft |
| Transmission | CVT | CVT |
| Fuel Economy | 26/33 mpg (city/highway) | 35 mpg combined (hybrid) |
| Cargo Capacity | 20.8 cu ft (up to 55 cu ft with seats down) | |
| Starting Price | $27,500 | $35,000 (estimated for hybrid) |
Interior and Technology
The 2025 Crosstrek combines ruggedness with comfort. Its spacious cabin is outfitted with high-quality materials, offering options like leather upholstery on higher trims. Inside, you’ll find a more advanced infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and larger touchscreen displays—ranging from 6.5 inches on the base model to 8 inches on the Premium trim.
Other tech highlights include wireless charging, USB ports, and a keyless entry system. The Crosstrek also offers numerous safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision warning, making it an ideal family vehicle.
Off-Road Capabilities
As with previous models, the 2025 Crosstrek excels in off-road situations. Thanks to its 8.7 inches of ground clearance and standard X-MODE (which enhances traction on slippery or uneven terrain), it’s designed to handle rough conditions with ease. This makes it a solid choice for adventurous drivers who want a compact SUV that can go beyond city limits.
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek offers an appealing mix of off-road prowess, modern comforts, and efficient engine choices. Whether you’re taking on rugged trails or city streets, the Crosstrek stands out as a capable and versatile option in the subcompact SUV market.
7. 2025 Toyota RAV4: A Versatile and Efficient Hybrid SUV
Overview
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 continues to solidify its place as a top contender in the crossover SUV market. Known for its rugged exterior, fuel-efficient hybrid powertrains, and spacious, tech-forward interior, the RAV4 offers a great balance of performance and practicality. With multiple trims available—including gas, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) options—the RAV4 caters to various driving needs.
Engine and Performance
The 2025 RAV4 offers several powertrain options. The gas model comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 203 horsepower, making it a solid performer for daily driving. The RAV4 Hybrid features a combination of a 2.5-liter gas engine and electric motors that deliver a combined 219 horsepower.
For those seeking more power, the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant delivers an impressive 302 horsepower from its hybrid system, which allows for up to 42 miles of all-electric range on a single charge.
Specs Table: 2025 Toyota RAV4
| Specification | Gas Model | Hybrid Model | Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Inline-4 (203 hp) | 2.5L Inline-4 + Electric (219 hp) | 2.5L Inline-4 + Electric (302 hp) |
| Fuel Economy (AWD) | 27/34 mpg (city/highway) | 38 mpg combined | 94 MPGe combined |
| Electric Range | N/A | N/A | 42 miles |
| Cargo Capacity | 37.6 cu ft (up to 69.8 cu ft with seats down) | ||
| Starting Price | $32,500 (gas) | $33,000 (hybrid) | $45,260 (PHEV) |
Interior and Technology
Inside, the RAV4 offers a spacious cabin with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The interior is refined, featuring soft-touch materials and modern conveniences like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an 8-inch touchscreen on the lower trims, and a 10.5-inch display on higher trims like the XSE.
The PHEV models come with additional tech features such as a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, wireless charging, and an available premium JBL sound system.
Safety and Driver Assistance
The 2025 RAV4 is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which includes standard features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. These advanced safety features are available across all trim levels, ensuring peace of mind whether you’re commuting in the city or taking a weekend trip.
In summary, the 2025 Toyota RAV4 offers a diverse lineup with gas, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options, making it a versatile choice for eco-conscious drivers and adventure seekers alike. With modern technology, a spacious interior, and top-tier safety features, the RAV4 continues to be a standout in the highly competitive SUV market.
8. 2025 Kia Seltos: Compact and Capable
Overview
The 2025 Kia Seltos is a standout in the subcompact SUV market with its sleek design, a spacious interior, and a variety of tech features that deliver great value. With pricing starting at $25,965, the Seltos continues to offer an impressive balance of performance and practicality for urban drivers and small families alike.
Engine and Performance
The Seltos offers two powertrain options:
- Base trims (LX, S, EX) feature a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 146 horsepower. This engine delivers solid fuel economy with up to 31 mpg combined when paired with front-wheel drive (FWD).
- Turbocharged models (X-Line, SX) are equipped with a 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, offering 195 horsepower and paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. These models come with all-wheel drive (AWD) as standard, providing improved performance for those seeking a more powerful drive.
Specs Table: 2025 Kia Seltos
| Specification | Base Engine (2.0L) | Turbo Engine (1.6L) |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 146 hp | 195 hp |
| Fuel Economy | 31 mpg combined (FWD) | 25 mpg combined (AWD) |
| Cargo Capacity | 26.6 cu ft (up to 62.8 cu ft) | Same |
| Starting Price | $25,965 | $32,465 (SX trim) |
Interior and Technology
The Seltos impresses with a 10.25-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard on most trims. The SX trim includes a premium Bose audio system with mood lighting, while the cabin is designed with comfort in mind, offering 38 inches of rear legroom and 62.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats folded down.
Safety and Driver Assistance
The Seltos comes with advanced driver-assistance features like forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims like the SX also include additional features such as a digital key and adaptive cruise control.
9. 2025 Jeep Renegade: Adventure-Ready Compact SUV
Overview
The 2025 Jeep Renegade stands out as a rugged and versatile compact SUV with distinct Jeep DNA. With its recent redesign, the Renegade now boasts a bolder, more sculpted appearance, featuring Jeep’s iconic seven-slot grille and redesigned headlights.
Jeep enthusiasts can expect a practical and comfortable interior, making it a great option for both off-road adventures and city driving. Prices for the 2025 model are estimated to start around $29,445 for the base Latitude trim, with higher trims like the Trailhawk reaching $33,565.
Engine and Performance
The 2025 Renegade offers two engine options:
- A 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 180 horsepower with a fuel efficiency of up to 30 mpg on the highway.
- For those seeking more torque and power, a 1.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 177 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque is available, offering a slightly better fuel economy of 32 mpg on the highway.
All-wheel drive (AWD) remains standard in higher trims like the Trailhawk, which also includes off-road-specific features such as skid plates and all-terrain tires.
Specs Table: 2025 Jeep Renegade
| Specification | 2.4L 4-cylinder | 1.3L Turbo 4-cylinder |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 177 hp |
| Fuel Economy | 30 mpg highway | 32 mpg highway |
| Cargo Capacity | 18.5 cu ft (up to 50.8 cu ft) | Same |
| Starting Price | $29,445 | $33,565 (Trailhawk trim) |
Interior and Technology
The interior of the 2025 Renegade has been enhanced with more upscale materials and user-friendly technology. A Uconnect infotainment system with smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto comes standard, alongside a variety of safety features like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims, such as the Trailhawk Elite package, add luxury elements like leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, and LED lighting.
10. 2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer: Stylish and Tech-Savvy
Overview
The 2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer continues to impress with its well-rounded offering of tech features, practicality, and affordability. Starting at $26,395, the Trailblazer is available in four trims, catering to a variety of driving needs from city commuting to light off-roading.
Engine and Performance
The 2025 Trailblazer features two engine options:
- A 1.2-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder producing 137 horsepower.
- A 1.3-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder generating 155 horsepower with 174 lb-ft of torque. This engine comes with an optional 9-speed automatic transmission.
Specs Table: 2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer
| Specification | 1.2L Turbocharged 3-cylinder | 1.3L Turbocharged 3-cylinder |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 137 hp | 155 hp |
| Fuel Economy | 27 mpg combined | 29 mpg combined |
| Cargo Capacity | 54.4 cu ft | Same |
| Starting Price | $26,395 | $30,595 (Activ trim) |
Interior and Technology
The Trailblazer includes an 11-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard across all trims. Premium features like a heated steering wheel, adaptive cruise control, and all-terrain tires are available in higher trims like the RS and Activ models, which are geared for enhanced performance and off-road adventures
