Top 10 Subcompact SUVs 2024 — Best Overall + Best Value

Direct Answer

For the 2024 model year, the Best Overall subcompact SUV is the Mazda CX-30 ($25,295 to start), thanks to standard all-wheel drive, a genuinely upscale cabin, sharp handling, and strong IIHS crash scores that punch well above its price. The Best Value pick is the Chevrolet Trax ($21,495 to start), a fully redesigned crossover that looks and feels like something costing far more, with usable space and a long features list for the money.

If you want the best fuel economy, the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid returns an EPA-estimated 42 mpg combined while keeping standard AWD. The rest of this guide ranks ten of the strongest real 2024 small crossovers and explains exactly who each one is for.

How We Ranked the Top 10

Rankings weigh the things buyers in this segment actually care about, not spec-sheet bragging rights. Our weighting:

• Value and price — 25%: real 2024 MSRP, standard equipment, and what you get per dollar.
• Reliability and ownership cost — 20%: brand track record, warranty length, and predicted cost to own.
• Efficiency — 15%: EPA city, highway, and combined mpg, plus hybrid availability.
• Space and practicality — 15%: cargo cubic feet, rear-seat room, and daily usability.
• Tech and safety — 15%: infotainment, standard driver aids, and IIHS/NHTSA crash results.
• Driving feel — 10%: ride comfort, steering, and powertrain refinement.

Sources behind these picks include Car and Driver, MotorTrend, Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book (KBB), U.S. News, Cars.com, Consumer Reports, the IIHS, and the EPA. All prices exclude destination unless noted, and every figure below is specific to the 2024 model year.

1. Mazda CX-30 🏆 BEST OVERALL

Starting MSRP: $25,295 | Best for: buyers who want premium feel and all-weather grip without a premium badge

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 comes standard with all-wheel drive on every trim — a rarity at this price. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder makes 191 hp (26 city / 33 highway mpg), and an available turbo 2.5-liter delivers 227 hp on regular fuel or 250 hp on premium (22 city / 30 highway mpg).

Cargo space is a modest 20.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, but the cabin materials, quiet ride, and steering precision feel a class above. The CX-30 has been one of the strongest IIHS crash performers in the segment, and Mazda's 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty is backed by a strong reliability record.

Pros:

• Standard AWD on every trim for confident all-weather driving
• Genuinely upscale interior with the best materials in the class
• Sharp, engaging handling that makes daily drives fun
• Available 227/250-hp turbo for surprising quickness

Cons:

• Below-average cargo room compared with boxier rivals
• Rear seat and cargo floor feel snug for taller passengers

Verdict: The CX-30 wins on the strength of standard AWD, premium feel, and safety — the most well-rounded subcompact SUV of 2024.

2. Honda HR-V

Starting MSRP: $24,600 | Best for: families who prize space, comfort, and resale value

The redesigned 2024 Honda HR-V rides on the Civic platform and offers one of the roomier cabins in the class. Its 158-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder pairs with a CVT and your choice of front- or all-wheel drive (26 city / 32 highway mpg FWD, 25 city / 30 highway mpg AWD).

Cargo capacity is a generous 24.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 58.8 cubic feet folded. The HR-V earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star NHTSA overall rating, and Honda's reputation for reliability and strong resale is a major draw. Honda Sensing driver aids come standard.

Pros:

• Excellent IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and five-star NHTSA ratings
• Roomy, comfortable cabin with class-leading rear-seat space
• Strong predicted reliability and resale value
• Standard Honda Sensing safety suite

Cons:

• Modest 158 hp feels leisurely under hard acceleration
• Touchscreen tech trails the flashiest rivals

Verdict: The HR-V is the practical, safe, comfortable choice — a top pick for buyers who value substance over flash.

3. Toyota Corolla Cross 💎 — Best Hybrid Efficiency

Starting MSRP: $23,610 | Best for: efficiency-focused buyers who want hybrid mpg with AWD

The 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross offers both a gas and a hybrid powertrain. The standout is the Corolla Cross Hybrid, whose 2.0-liter engine plus three electric motors makes 196 hp with standard AWD and returns an EPA-estimated 42 mpg combined — the best efficiency on this list.

Cargo room is 21.5 cubic feet in the hybrid behind the rear seats. The hybrid starts higher (around $28,220 including destination), while the gas model begins near $23,610. Toyota's reliability reputation and TSS 3.0 standard safety tech make it a low-stress long-term pick.

Pros:

• 42 mpg combined hybrid with standard AWD
• 196 hp in the hybrid for surprisingly brisk acceleration
• Toyota reliability and strong resale
• Standard Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 driver aids

Cons:

• Cabin materials are functional rather than premium
• Hybrid trims push the price toward compact-SUV territory

Verdict: The class efficiency champ — choose the hybrid if low running costs and AWD top your list.

4. Subaru Crosstrek

Starting MSRP: $24,995 | Best for: outdoorsy buyers who want ground clearance and standard AWD

The evolutionary 2024 Subaru Crosstrek redesign keeps what fans love: standard all-wheel drive, 8.7 inches of ground clearance, and rugged capability. The base 2.0-liter boxer makes 152 hp, while higher trims get a 182-hp 2.5-liter (up to 27 city / 34 highway mpg).

Subaru's EyeSight driver-assistance suite is now standard across the lineup, and the available 11.6-inch touchscreen modernizes the cabin. It is the go-anywhere choice here, with a stiffer chassis and improved refinement over the prior generation.

Pros:

• Standard AWD plus 8.7 inches of ground clearance for light off-road use
• Standard EyeSight safety suite across all trims
• Rugged, durable reputation that holds value
• Available 182-hp engine for stronger passing power

Cons:

• Base 152-hp engine feels underpowered when loaded
• CVT can drone under hard acceleration

Verdict: The most capable subcompact SUV of 2024 for trails, snow, and dirt — buy it for adventure.

5. Chevrolet Trax 💎 BEST VALUE

Starting MSRP: $21,495 | Best for: budget buyers who want maximum style and space per dollar

The fully redesigned 2024 Chevrolet Trax is the value standout of the year. Nearly a foot longer than before, it now rivals the larger Trailblazer for room while undercutting almost everything on price. A 137-hp 1.2-liter turbo three-cylinder pairs with a six-speed automatic (28 city / 32 highway mpg).

Cargo space reaches 54.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. It is front-wheel drive only — there is no AWD option — but the styling, large available touchscreen, and standard safety tech make it feel far more expensive than it is. Reviewers widely called it one of the most improved vehicles of 2024.

Pros:

• Lowest starting price of any modern entry here
• Upscale styling inside and out that belies the price
• Roomy interior and 54.1 cu ft of folded cargo space
• Generous standard tech for the money

Cons:

• No all-wheel-drive option at any trim
• Modest 137 hp and FWD-only traction

Verdict: The clear value winner — nobody offers this much style, space, and content for the money in 2024.

6. Buick Envista

Starting MSRP: $22,400 | Best for: style-first buyers who want near-luxury looks on a budget

The 2024 Buick Envista shares mechanicals with the Trax but wraps them in a sleeker, more upscale package that one reviewer said "looks like $60,000, costs under $30,000." A 137-hp 1.2-liter turbo three-cylinder drives the front wheels through a six-speed automatic (28 city / 32 highway / 30 combined mpg).

Cargo room measures 20.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats. Like the Trax, it is FWD only, but the swoopy fastback styling, quiet cabin, and Buick's quieter ride tuning make it feel a notch more refined.

Pros:

• Striking, near-luxury styling for the segment
• Strong value with lots of standard content
• Comfortable, quiet ride tuning from Buick
• 30 mpg combined efficiency

Cons:

• No AWD option anywhere in the lineup
• 137 hp is adequate but never quick

Verdict: The best-looking budget crossover of 2024 — pick it if curb appeal and refinement matter most.

7. Hyundai Kona

Starting MSRP: $25,645 | Best for: tech-focused buyers who want bold style and big screens

The fully redesigned 2024 Hyundai Kona grew nearly six inches longer, adding real interior and cargo room — 25.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 63.7 cubic feet folded. A 147-hp 2.0-liter is standard (up to 29 city / 34 highway mpg FWD), while a 190-hp 1.6-liter turbo anchors the top trims.

Standard dual 12.3-inch screens give it one of the most modern cabins in the class, and Hyundai's 5-year/60,000-mile basic and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty is among the best in the business.

Pros:

• Class-leading 25.5 cu ft cargo behind the rear seats
• Standard dual 12.3-inch displays for a high-tech cabin
• Bold, distinctive styling that stands out
• 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty

Cons:

• Base 147-hp engine is merely adequate
• Ride can feel firm on rough pavement

Verdict: The tech-and-warranty value play of 2024 — great for buyers who want screens, space, and long coverage.

8. Kia Seltos

Starting MSRP: $25,715 | Best for: buyers who want available AWD plus a strong warranty

The 2024 Kia Seltos balances space, available all-wheel drive, and Kia's long warranty. Lower trims use a 146-hp 2.0-liter (up to 28 city / 34 highway mpg), while the SX and X-Line get a 195-hp 1.6-liter turbo (25 city / 27 highway mpg). Cargo space is a useful 17.4 cubic feet, and AWD is available (standard on LX, X-Line, and SX).

Kia's 5-year/60,000-mile basic and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty matches Hyundai's and adds peace of mind for long-term owners.

Pros:

• Available 195-hp turbo for genuine quickness
• AWD available across much of the lineup
• 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty
• Roomy, boxy interior that maximizes space

Cons:

• Base engine and CVT feel uninspired
• Turbo trims climb in price quickly

Verdict: A practical, well-warrantied choice — strong for buyers who want AWD and a punchy available turbo.

9. Volkswagen Taos

Starting MSRP: $23,995 | Best for: buyers who want the most cargo room and a German driving feel

The 2024 Volkswagen Taos is one of the largest subcompact SUVs here, with class-leading cargo room: 27.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats in FWD models (24.9 with AWD), expanding to as much as 65.9 cubic feet folded. A 158-hp 1.5-liter turbo four drives the front wheels (28 city / 36 highway mpg) or, with available 4Motion AWD, all four (25 city / 32 highway mpg).

The cabin is roomy and solidly built with a composed, planted ride that feels European. VW includes two years/20,000 miles of complimentary maintenance.

Pros:

• Best-in-class cargo room at up to 65.9 cu ft folded
• 36 mpg highway in FWD form
• Available 4Motion AWD for added traction
• Composed, German-style ride and solid build

Cons:

• AWD trims use a dual-clutch that can feel hesitant
• Interior tech menus take learning

Verdict: The practicality king — choose the Taos if maximum cargo space and highway efficiency lead your list.

10. Nissan Kicks

Starting MSRP: $20,790 | Best for: city drivers who want the lowest price and great mpg

The 2024 Nissan Kicks is the most affordable entry here and an easy city companion. Its 122-hp 1.6-liter four-cylinder pairs with a CVT and front-wheel drive only, but it returns an excellent 31 city / 36 highway / 33 combined mpg. Cargo space is a useful 16.9 cubic feet, and the small footprint makes parking and tight streets a breeze.

It is light on power and offers no AWD, but for buyers who want a cheap, efficient, easy-to-live-with crossover, it delivers exactly that.

Pros:

• Lowest base price in this guide
• 33 mpg combined for low running costs
• Compact footprint ideal for city parking
• Useful 16.9 cu ft of cargo space for the size

Cons:

• Only 122 hp and no AWD option
• Basic interior materials and modest refinement

Verdict: The budget city pick of 2024 — buy it for cheap, efficient, hassle-free urban duty.

Buyer Decision Tree — Which One's Right for You?

What to Look For When Buying a Subcompact SUV

• Decide whether you truly need AWD. If you live where it snows or drive dirt roads, the CX-30, Crosstrek, and Corolla Cross Hybrid all offer standard AWD; the Trax, Envista, and Kicks are FWD only.
• Match the powertrain to your driving. Base engines (HR-V, Kona, Seltos, Kicks) are fine for commuting; turbos (CX-30, Seltos SX) add real punch for merging and passing.
• Prioritize cargo if you haul gear. The Taos, Kona, and HR-V lead on space; the CX-30 and Envista trade room for style.
• Check the warranty math. Hyundai and Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage can offset a slightly higher price over years of ownership.
• Verify safety scores for the exact trim. IIHS and NHTSA results can vary by headlight and equipment package, so confirm the build you want.
• Test the infotainment yourself. Screen size matters less than marketing implies — a smaller, responsive system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto often beats a huge laggy one.

FAQ

Which 2024 subcompact SUV is the best overall? The Mazda CX-30 earns our top spot for combining standard all-wheel drive, a premium-feeling cabin, sharp handling, and strong IIHS crash results at a competitive $25,295 starting price.

What is the best-value subcompact SUV for 2024? The redesigned Chevrolet Trax at $21,495 offers the most style, space, and standard content per dollar, though it is front-wheel drive only.

Which 2024 subcompact SUV gets the best gas mileage? The Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid leads at an EPA-estimated 42 mpg combined, and it keeps standard all-wheel drive. Among gas-only models, the Nissan Kicks returns 33 mpg combined.

Which subcompact SUVs come with standard all-wheel drive in 2024? The Mazda CX-30, Subaru Crosstrek, and Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid all include AWD as standard. The Kia Seltos and Volkswagen Taos offer AWD as an option.

Are subcompact SUVs safe for families? Yes — several earn top marks. The Honda HR-V earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star NHTSA rating, and the Mazda CX-30 is among the strongest IIHS performers in the class. Always confirm ratings for the specific trim you plan to buy.

Which 2024 subcompact SUV has the most cargo space? The Volkswagen Taos leads with up to 27.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats (FWD) and as much as 65.9 cubic feet folded, with the Hyundai Kona close behind at 25.5 and 63.7 cubic feet.

Bottom Line

The 2024 subcompact SUV class is deep, and the right pick depends on your priorities. The Mazda CX-30 is our Best Overall for blending standard AWD, premium feel, and safety in one tidy package. The Chevrolet Trax is the runaway Best Value, delivering striking design and real space for the lowest price here.

Need efficiency? The Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid and its 42 mpg lead the field. Want adventure?

The Subaru Crosstrek. Want maximum cargo? The Volkswagen Taos or Hyundai Kona.

Whichever you choose, test-drive at least two, confirm safety scores for your exact trim, and weigh the long-term warranty advantage Hyundai and Kia bring to the table.

Sources

• Car and Driver — subcompact SUV reviews and rankings
• Edmunds — 2024 Honda HR-V prices and specs
• Kelley Blue Book — 2024 Chevrolet Trax pricing
• U.S. News — 2024 Subaru Crosstrek review
• Cars.com — 2024 Mazda CX-30 specs and MPG
• Edmunds — 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid prices
• CarBuzz — 2024 Hyundai Kona pricing and specs
• Kelley Blue Book — 2024 Kia Seltos pricing and cost to own
• Cars.com — 2024 Volkswagen Taos specs and MPG
• IIHS — small SUV crash-test ratings
• EPA / FuelEconomy.gov — 2024 model fuel-economy data

*Subcompact SUV review — subcompact SUV reviews, rating, best subcompact SUV 2024, and a review of the top small crossover picks for buyers.*