Compact SUVs are one of the hottest segments in the automotive market right now. Buyers want to balance the economy of a smaller car with the utility of a crossover SUV and this is the sweet spot, and we've waded through all the choices to bring you a list of the best compact SUVs for the 2025 model year. Read on to find the best place to start your search for a new ride. 

<a href="#1-Honda-CR-V">__1. Honda CR-V__</a>  
<a href="#2-Subaru-Forester">__2. Subaru Forester__</a>  
<a href="#3-Mazda-CX-50">__3. Mazda CX-50__</a>  
<a href="#4-Kia-Sportage">__4. Kia Sportage__</a>  
<a href="#5-Toyota-RAV4">__5. Toyota RAV4__</a>  
<a href="#6-Hyundai-Tucson">__6. Hyundai Tucson__</a>  
<a href="#7-Ford-Bronco-Sport">__7. Ford Bronco Sport__</a>  
<a href="#8-Mazda-CX-5">__8. Mazda CX-5__</a>  
<a href="#9-Nissan-Rogue">__9. Nissan Rogue__</a>  
<a href="#10-Volkswagen-Tiguan">__10. Volkswagen Tiguan__</a> 

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<a name="1-Honda-CR-V"></a>  
### 1. Honda CR-V

![2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid Exterior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/2NvnXaZjFDBTk9IaK7qsoB/1afd95efcdf058cd04f0b8ea4eef6465/2025_Honda_CR-V_Hybrid_Exterior.jpg)

The Honda CR-V appears on many top 10 lists pretty much every year, and the current generation still ranks highly among the best small SUVs. Though the CR-V receives no notable changes for the 2025 model year, it is still our top pick. Honda’s compact SUV has a comfortable interior, good fuel efficiency (excellent in hybrid models), and surprisingly spritely handling. 

![2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid Interior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/4CJ5H0ynHBDIpMOQdH7t4D/ea15f64c7f02930f958405dd1cc31860/2025_Honda_CR-V_Hybrid_Interior.jpg)

Starting as low as $31,450, the CR-V is priced competitively in the segment but it's not among the cheapest options. Non-hybrid models are powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 190 horsepower, which is paired with a CVT and front wheel-drive, with all-wheel drive available as an option (the same goes for all versions). In hybrid trim, the CR-V gets a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, paired with two electric motors for a total output of 204 horsepower. In its most efficient trim, the CR-V Hybrid FWD gets an EPA estimated 43 miles per gallon in the city and 36 MPG on the highway.

Standard tech features include a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while higher trims get a larger nine-inch screen and wireless versions of these apps. The CR-V ranks highly in crash safety testing with a five-star overall score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick Designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Safety and driver assistance features include automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. 

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

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<a name="2-Subaru-Forester"></a>  
### 2. Subaru Forester

![Subaru Forester 6th Generation Front Photo](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/61JKPBuLDpZGzaeZ9r3dUv/b9868583661ea045702252a61799cf56/Subaru_Forester_6th_Generation_Front_Photo.jpg)

The Subaru Forester is all-new for the 2025 model year. With this redesign, Subaru brought the Forester up to scratch for the segment, while remembering what sets it apart from the competition. The Forester comes with Subaru’s ubiquitous standard AWD system and retains its high roof and boxier shape, preserving a generous cargo space behind its hatchback rear door. Updates include revised styling, enhanced tech, and a quieter interior. 

![Subaru Forester 6th Generation Interior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/39NBti7qv0zDknFrdv1pVz/6a5582243495b2c5290ad594f4594648/Subaru_Forester_6th_Generation_Interior.jpg)

Base models start at $31,115, which is high for the segment when comparing some specs, but the Forester includes the standard all-wheel drive system raises its value prospects. Powering all four wheels is a 2.5-liter flat four-cylinder engine making 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT transmission, while hybrid powertrain is expected shortly. Fuel economy is acceptable, with EPA ratings of up to 26 MPG city and 33 on the highway.

Base models are slim on tech with a seven-inch touchscreen, but stepping up a trim level raises the bar considerably, with an 11.6-inch screen and wireless versions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Subaru’s EyeSight safety tech is included on all models with automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control standard. IIHS and NHTSA rankings are not yet available. 

[Browse Subaru Forester listings here](https://www.autolist.com/subaru-forester#year_min=2025&year_max=2025).

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<a name="3-Mazda-CX-50"></a>  
### 3. Mazda CX-50

![2025 Mazda CX-50 Exterior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/4ZLVLz4owKiOSM4iy3Lmgg/09fe29daa9570d442441e9e2dabc4eb1/2025_Mazda_CX-50_Exterior.jpg)

The Mazda CX-50 was an all-new model in 2023 and it received several upgrades for 2025. A larger infotainment display now includes Amazon’s Alexa assistant, safety tech has been updated, and more options have been unlocked across the trip levels. Though the CX-50 has plenty to offer, including near-luxury interior appointments on higher trims, reviewers rave most about the model’s exciting driving dynamics. In top trims, the CX-50’s interior would make Audi, BMW, Cadillac, or Lexus buyers do a double take.

![2025 Mazda CX-50 Interior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/2Y9ueb5KnLiIE3exaGUTKS/8802c7a8d0861ba9707caff5a417e0d6/2025_Mazda_CX-50_Interior.jpg)

With base models ringing up at an MSRP of $31,720 the CX-50 starts on the high end of average for the segment. The standard engine is a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower. A more powerful turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder is available and has 256 horses, while a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive are standard. Base models with the non-turbo engine are the most efficient, with EPA estimates of up to 24 MPG city and 30 MPG highway.

Standard tech features such as a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, an eight-speaker sound system, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are above average for the segment. An impressive suite of safety features includes standard automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control, and the IIHS ranks the CX-50 among its best with a Top Safety Pick designation.

[Browse Mazda CX-50 listings here](https://www.autolist.com/mazda-cx+50#year_min=2025&year_max=2025).

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<a name="4-Kia-Sportage"></a>  
### 4. Kia Sportage

![2025 Kia Sportage Exterior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/7CelCZUl5UnZ6Y1pv3QvZq/7b2b5ddbf043088938fa04234cea8326/2025_Kia_Sportage_Exterior.jpg)

The Kia Sportage is a versatile contender in the market with a variety of powertrains. Even in base trims, the Sportage is well-equipped and a value leader in the segment. The interior is roomy for passengers in either row of seats and there's a decent amount of cargo capacity. The Kia Sportage was an all-new car for 2023, so very little has changed for the 2025 model year.

![2025 Kia Sportage Interior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/5nXh8nFc9z1f4zz2hBZk1O/2ecf534092dd9f835f60aa2c52d8125d/2025_Kia_Sportage_Interior.jpg)

Starting at $28,565, the Kia is among the most affordable entries in the compact crossover SUV segment. The standard powertrain consists of a 2.5-liter cour-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is optional. A hybrid model uses a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and electric motors for a total output of 227 horsepower. Those wanting even more power and efficiency can opt for a plug-in hybrid with 261 horsepower and standard all-wheel drive. PHEV models get an estimated 34 miles of EV range, while mon-hybrid Sportages get EPA ratings of up to 25 MPG city and 32 highway, and hybrid models get up to 42 MPG city and 44 highway.

Base models include an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a larger 12.3-inch screen is available. Safety features include automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. Another value add is Kia’s best-in-class warranty with five years/60 miles of limited coverage and 10 years/100,000 miles of powertrain coverage.

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

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<a name="5-Toyota-RAV4"></a>  
### 5. Toyota RAV4

![2025 Toyota RAV4 Exterior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/394cKNasz5uVPAqIeJrUdZ/160661a302b286b059b0bd3c9ebe9dec/2025_Toyota_RAV4_Exterior.jpg)

The Toyota RAV4 has been a stalwart in the compact SUV segment since it was first introduced to the market, and the latest model is still worthy of consideration, despite the elimination of TRD Off-Road and Adventure trims for the 2025 model year. The model also includes a comfortable and quality interior and a predictable driving experience. 

![2025 Toyota RAV4 Interior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/6VIAkKMdRlJWHfVEtaFeA7/78fb35d85950c1d4e6ad9eaff96eaf5f/2025_Toyota_RAV4_Interior.jpg)

Like the Kia Sportage, the RAV4 has three powertrains from which to choose. The standard engine is a 203-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel-drive is available. Hybrid models add electric motors to that engine for 219 horsepower, along with standard AWD, while a plug-in hybrid model powertrain increases power to 302 horses. Standard models equipped with front-wheel drive are rated at an EPA-estimated 35 MPG highway, hybrid trims get 41 MPG highway, and the PHEV adds up to 42 miles of all-electric range.

Entry-level RAV4s get an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while higher trims offer a 10.5-inch screen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also included. Driver assistance and safety features include automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control, all as standard. If the RAV4 is a little too big for your taste, check out the slightly smaller Toyota Corolla Cross SUV. 

[Browse Toyota RAV4 listings here](https://www.autolist.com/toyota-rav4#year_min=2025&year_max=2025).

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<a name="6-Hyundai-Tucson"></a>  
### 6. Hyundai Tucson

![2025 Hyundai Tucson PHEV Exterior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/2taZHNoGS8KN9N4Dbo25LJ/28edebffbe0b220191de4d94687d5604/2025_Hyundai_Tucson_PHEV_Exterior.jpg)

The Hyundai Tucson shares a lot with its corporate cousin, the Kia Sportage, but in a package that some might find even more appealing. The 2025 Tucson gets a significant redesign, with upgrades to the exterior styling, a refreshed interior, and upgraded tech. Front seats are comfortable and there's plenty of legroom and headroom for rear passengers.

![2025 Hyundai Tucson PHEV Interior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/4K3xsFC8TYs3QVysTffltB/77fa4769f855f4a7e91e93bdc251a7d6/2025_Hyundai_Tucson_PHEV_Interior.jpg)

The Tucson starts at an MSRP of $30,000 in base SE trim. The standard engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 187 horsepower, while an eight-speed automatic transmission drives the front wheels and the Tucson can be equipped with all-wheel drive. A hybrid drivetrain features a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor for a total output of 231 horsepower and a plug-in hybrid model has 268 horses. PHEV Tucsons can travel up to 33 miles in EV mode and Normal Tucsons are reasonably efficient, with up to 25 MPG in the city and 32 on the highway.

A 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system is standard with top-end models getting a massive screen that runs across nearly the entire width of the dash. Regardless of the screen setup, the Tucson includes wireless versions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. All models also receive automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist, but a feature that combines adaptive cruise and lane-centering is optional. Also shared with the Kia is the corporation's excellent warranty: five years/60,000 miles of limited coverage, and 10 years/100,000 miles of powertrain coverage.

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

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<a name="7-Ford-Bronco-Sport"></a>  
### 7. Ford Bronco Sport

![2025 Ford Bronco Sport Exterior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/4ahkuEzV21yPfOMTz2zRp/56c089228e21e752140c11708d0fb75d/2025_Ford_Bronco_Sport_Exterior.jpg)

Though it shares much with its sibling, the Ford Escape, we think the looks, utility, and off-road features of the Bronco Sport make for a more compelling package. The little Bronco’s more upright shape and modicum of off-road prowess add practicality that few compact or subcompact SUVs can match, and Ford added even more off-road goodies for 2025, with a new Sasquatch Package, which includes recovery hooks, skid plates, revised bumpers, a bull bar, 29-inch all-terrain tires, and additional ground clearance. The Bronco edged out its closest competitors the Jeep Compass and Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness, with more off-road prowess and better build quality. 

![2025 Ford Bronco Sport Interior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/1cP9MePtZtwCjB1CI8NFhe/4d8474520486b0f506c38e353275c7e3/2025_Ford_Bronco_Sport_Interior.jpg)

The Bronco Sport starts at $31,590 in base Big Bend trim. The base engine is a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine with 180 horsepower, while a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder with 238 horsepower is also available. All Bronco Sports have an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. In its most efficient trim, the baby Bronco gets EPA-estimated fuel economy of 29 MPG highway and 25 city, while the bigger engine drops fuel efficiency to 26 MPG highway and 21 city.

Standard tech features include a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless versions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Ford’s Sync 4 user interface is among the best in the industry. The Bronco Sport is not left short on safety and driver assistance features, with blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology all included. 

[Browse Ford Bronco Sport listings here](https://www.autolist.com/ford-bronco+sport#year_min=2025&year_max=2025).

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<a name="8-Mazda-CX-5"></a>  
### 8. Mazda CX-5

![2025 Mazda CX-5 Exterior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/MhJremcUS1w1LIxp3dKp4/fe4b8e4e8638ee6531e824b7972904e1/2025_Mazda_CX-5_Exterior.jpg)

Mazda earns two spots on our list, with the slightly smaller CX-5 too good to leave off, despite the inclusion of the CX-50. The CX-5 earns praise for its universally attractive exterior, high-quality interior, and driving excitement. It also has a starting price under $30,000. The model earns praise for its attention to detail with reviewers complimenting the floor-mounted accelerator pedal and steering wheel feel. Mazda shuffled equipment and trims for 2025 but made a few substantial changes.

![2025 Mazda CX-5 Interior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/4TPXRTlpNP3V8IJRxcKNNT/187af0193b1dbf9fa573c4b0bb888529/2025_Mazda_CX-5_Interior.jpg)

Base trims of the CX-5 start at $29,990 and there's a choice of 2.5-liter four-cylinder engines. Base models are naturally aspirated with 187 horsepower and an optional turbocharged engine increases it to 256 horsepower, while a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive are standard. The standard engine gets EPA-estimated fuel economy of 26 MPG city and 31 on the highway. Opting for the more powerful engine shrinks those numbers to 22 MPG city and 27 highway.

All CX-5s have a 10.3-inch infotainment system featuring a center console-mounted controller. Though it may sound low-tech, the system is easy to use without taking your eyes off the road for too long and complimented by voice commands and steering wheel controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included as well. Adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist are standard across trim levels. 

[Browse Mazda CX-5 listings here](https://www.autolist.com/mazda-cx+5#year_min=2025&year_max=2025).

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<a name="9-Nissan-Rogue"></a>  
### 9. Nissan Rogue

![2025 Nissan Rogue Exterior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/6CLH2XfJyb1cy5S9D3JcFC/77bb8713b96e932a99d645900a8f12d7/2025_Nissan_Rogue_Exterior.jpg)

The Nissan Rogue has been among the brand’s top sellers since it first hit the market, and the 2025 example is the best yet. Never one to be left out, Nissan added a ruggedized Rock Creek Edition trim level, which features all-terrain tires, an off-road camera system, a roof rack, and a hill descent driving mode. 

![2025 Nissan Rogue Interior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/2h4p1vfGWgOM0wyhvCIkr9/a5a8ea72f6838b7b0fc78e0c6009da16/2025_Nissan_Rogue_Interior.jpg)

The lone engine option is a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine making 201 horsepower (a second, more powerful engine would likely would bump the Rogue higher on this list). A CVT transmission sends power to the front wheels as standard and all-wheel drive is optional. Front-wheel drive models should see fuel economy of 30 MPG city and 37 highway, while AWD lowers those estimates to 28 MPG city and 35 highway. 

Base models get an eight-inch touchscreen and higher trims get a 12.3-inch unit. Either system gets Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the larger screen also comes with a Google bases user interface. Automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring are standard, but adaptive cruise control is optional. 

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

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<a name="10-Volkswagen-Tiguan"></a>  
### 10. Volkswagen Tiguan

![2025 Volkswagen Tiguan Exterior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/6IaKBelrcY6C0z2oqlWUy8/9907501ae6b78d01d16fcb4e7cf7d30c/2025_Volkswagen_Tiguan_Exterior.jpg)

The 2025 Tiguan enters an all-new generation for the 2025 model year, although we’re working with limited details, as full specs weren't available at the time of writing, but we had to include it in this list, as the 2024 Tiguan would be a worthy competitor even without an update. The new Tiguan is expected to add more technology, multiple drivetrains, a larger overall size, and a competitive price point.

![2025 Volkswagen Tiguan Interior](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/6N1wfmpB4OEqtnq5MT6r4X/6c6ccdb9e864d014b8177182cac393a2/2025_Volkswagen_Tiguan_Interior.jpg)

Pricing is expected to start at around $30,000, and the standard engine is likely to be the same 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine as the prior generation. This engine had 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, which may stay the same or see a slight increase. A plug-in hybrid powertrain is also expected to debut with the new Tiguan. Front-wheel drive will be standard with all-wheel drive available. Fuel economy numbers are not yet available.

A touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is almost certain, but the model will add a rotary knob with its own integrated screen to control some functions, such as volume and drive modes. Safety and driver assistance features have not yet been announced but expect a suite of standard features to compete with any car on this list. 

[Browse Volkswagen Tiguan listings here](https://www.autolist.com/volkswagen-tiguan#year_min=2025&year_max=2025).

Today's compact crossover SUV segment is extremely competitive. This list points out 10 of the best, including the features and specs that make them great for drivers.

Best Compact SUVs and Crossovers for 2025

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