Top 10 Compact SUVs 2024 — Best Overall + Best Value
Curated byKory White · Fractional CRO · Maryland
PULSEKNOWLEDGE LIBRARY
The 10 best compact suvs 2024 are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.
1. Toyota RAV4 2024
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 ranks first as the best overall compact SUV because it offers the widest powertrain choice in the class: gas, hybrid, and plug-in Prime. The base 2.5-liter engine makes 203 hp, while the hybrid delivers 219 hp and up to 40 MPG combined, and the Prime offers roughly 42 miles of electric range. Cargo space reaches 69.8 cubic feet, and it earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick for 2024. Starting MSRP is $28,675.
This is for buyers who want the safest long-term bet across all ownership metrics. It trades away a noisy base engine and potential dealer markups on hybrid and Prime trims. Compared to the Honda CR-V below, the RAV4 offers more powertrain flexibility and better resale, though the CR-V has a more refined cabin and slightly better hybrid city fuel economy.
2. Honda CR-V 2024
The 2024 Honda CR-V ranks second for its class-leading interior space and refined ride, making it the comfort benchmark of the segment. The gas model's 1.5-liter turbo makes 190 hp, while the hybrid produces 204 hp and achieves up to 43 MPG city. It earned a 5-star NHTSA overall rating and includes Honda Sensing as standard. Starting MSRP is $29,500, with a roomy rear seat and a low, wide cargo floor.
This is for families who prioritize passenger comfort and daily drivability over powertrain variety. It trades away the RAV4's plug-in option and slightly higher resale value. Compared to the Mazda CX-5 below, the CR-V offers more cargo space and hybrid efficiency, but the CX-5 delivers sharper handling and standard all-wheel drive at a lower starting price.
3. Mazda CX-5 2024
The 2024 Mazda CX-5 ranks third because it delivers the best driving dynamics in the class, with sharp steering and a premium interior that punches above its price. The 2.5-liter four makes 187 hp, while the available 2.5 Turbo boosts output to 256 hp on premium fuel. All-wheel drive is standard across the lineup, a rarity at this price point. Starting MSRP is $29,300, and it remains a perennial IIHS Top Safety Pick contender.
This is for driving enthusiasts who want near-luxury feel without the luxury badge. It trades away cargo space—only 17.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats—and offers no hybrid option. Compared to the Subaru Forester below, the CX-5 is more engaging to drive and more upscale inside, but the Forester provides far more cargo room and standard AWD with better fuel economy.
4. Subaru Forester 2024
The 2024 Subaru Forester ranks fourth for its segment-leading cargo space and standard all-wheel drive, making it the most practical outdoor-oriented pick. Its 2.5-liter boxer engine makes 182 hp and returns up to 33 MPG highway, with the Wilderness trim adding off-road hardware. Cargo capacity tops out at 74.2 cubic feet, and the tall greenhouse provides outstanding visibility. Starting MSRP is $26,895, with EyeSight driver assist standard.
This is for outdoorsy buyers who need maximum cargo and all-weather capability. It trades away power—182 hp makes highway merges leisurely—and offers no hybrid for 2024. Compared to the Hyundai Tucson below, the Forester has more cargo space and standard AWD, but the Tucson offers hybrid and plug-in variants and a longer 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
5. Hyundai Tucson 2024
The 2024 Hyundai Tucson ranks fifth for its wide powertrain menu, including gas, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid variants, plus a class-best warranty. The base 2.5-liter four makes 187 hp, while the hybrid and plug-in offer meaningful electric-only range. It features bold styling, a roomy cabin, and a 5-year/60,000-mile basic and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Starting MSRP is $27,250, with standard SmartSense driver aids.
This is for shoppers who want hybrid and plug-in choices with long-term coverage. It trades away a refined base engine and some interior control ergonomics, with touch-capacitive controls that can frustrate. Compared to the Kia Sportage below, the Tucson offers similar mechanicals and warranty, but the Sportage undercuts it on price and provides slightly more cargo space behind the rear seats.
6. Kia Sportage 2024
The 2024 Kia Sportage is our Best Value pick because it offers the most content and warranty per dollar in the segment. It shares its platform with the Tucson but starts at $27,490, with a 2.5-liter four making 187 hp and a hybrid variant delivering 227 hp with up to 43 MPG combined. Cargo space is a generous 39.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats, and the cabin design feels a class above the price.
This is for value hunters who want maximum features and coverage for the lowest effective cost. It trades away some interior material quality, with budget-grade plastics in spots, and base FWD efficiency trails hybrid leaders. Compared to the Mazda CX-50 below, the Sportage is cheaper and more efficient, but the CX-50 offers standard AWD, a more premium interior, and a more engaging driving experience.
7. Mazda CX-50 2024
The 2024 Mazda CX-50 ranks seventh for its blend of Mazda's premium polish with a more rugged, outdoorsy capability. It rides lower and wider than the CX-5, with off-road drive modes and standard all-wheel drive on every trim. The base 2.5-liter engine makes 187 hp, while the 256-hp turbo adds real punch. Cargo space measures 31.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats, and it carries strong IIHS crash performance. Starting MSRP is $30,300.
This is for buyers who want CX-5 refinement with a more adventure-ready stance. It trades away rear headroom due to its lower roofline and offers no hybrid option. Compared to the Nissan Rogue below, the CX-50 is more engaging to drive and more upscale, but the Rogue is more fuel-efficient at 33 MPG combined and offers a quieter, more comfortable ride.
8. Nissan Rogue 2024
The 2024 Nissan Rogue ranks eighth for its impressive efficiency from a small turbo engine, delivering 33 MPG combined without a hybrid system. Its 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder makes 201 hp, paired with a CVT for smooth power delivery. The cabin is quiet and well-finished, with a flexible Divide-N-Hide cargo system and 31.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats. Starting MSRP is $28,720, with Nissan Safety Shield 360 standard.
This is for commuters who want strong fuel economy and a comfortable daily driver. It trades away resale value compared to the Toyota and Honda leaders, and the three-cylinder engine has an audible thrum under load. Compared to the Chevrolet Equinox below, the Rogue is more efficient and refined, but the Equinox undercuts it on price with a simpler, more affordable package.
9. Chevrolet Equinox 2024
The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox ranks ninth for its straightforward, affordable approach to the compact SUV segment. Its 1.5-liter turbocharged four makes 175 hp and earns about 28 MPG combined, with front-wheel drive standard and AWD optional. The cabin is roomy and practical with 29.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats, and Chevy Safety Assist is standard. Starting MSRP is $27,995, with solid NHTSA crash scores.
This is for budget shoppers who want a simple, reliable family crossover without extra frills. It trades away power—175 hp is the weakest in this top 10—and interior materials feel budget-grade in spots. Compared to the Volkswagen Tiguan below, the Equinox is cheaper and more efficient, but the Tiguan offers a more composed ride, an available third row, and a longer 4-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty.
10. Volkswagen Tiguan 2024
The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan rounds out the top 10 for its composed European ride and the rare availability of a third row in this class. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged four makes 184 hp and earns about 24 MPG city and 31 MPG highway, with 4Motion AWD available. Cargo space is strong at up to 73.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Starting MSRP is $28,995.
This is for buyers who value ride quality and need occasional extra passenger seating. It trades away fuel economy, which trails the efficiency leaders, and the modest 184 hp feels strained when fully loaded. Compared to the Chevrolet Equinox above, the Tiguan is more refined and versatile, but the Equinox is cheaper and simpler, making it a better fit for pure budget buyers.
How we ranked these
We ranked each 2024 compact SUV across six weighted categories: reliability and ownership cost (25%), safety (20%), efficiency and powertrain (20%), cargo and comfort (15%), tech and value (10%), and price-to-performance (10%). Data came from published specs and testing by Car and Driver, MotorTrend, Edmunds, KBB, U.S. News, Consumer Reports, IIHS, NHTSA, and the EPA. Base MSRPs were kept specific to 2024.
We deliberately ignored subjective brand loyalty, dealer markups, and regional incentives because they vary by market and buyer. We also excluded raw horsepower as a primary metric, since most drivers rarely use the difference between 175 and 256 hp in daily driving. Instead, we prioritized real-world efficiency, safety, cargo usability, and total cost of ownership, which matter more over a typical ownership period.
What to look for
When choosing between these, focus on powertrain flexibility first. The RAV4 and Tucson offer gas, hybrid, and plug-in options, while the CX-5 and Forester are gas-only. Next, weigh cargo space against driving dynamics: the Forester leads at 74.2 cubic feet, but the CX-5 handles far better. Finally, compare warranties—Hyundai and Kia offer 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage, while others lag.
The mistake most buyers make is fixating on starting MSRP without considering total ownership cost. A cheaper Equinox may cost more in fuel and resale depreciation than a pricier RAV4 Hybrid. Also, don't ignore standard AWD on the Forester, CX-5, and CX-50 if you live in snowy regions—it's a $1,500-$2,000 value that most rivals charge extra for.
Related questions
What is the best overall compact SUV for 2024?
The Toyota RAV4 takes our Best Overall title for its blend of reliability, resale value, safety, and a full range of gas, hybrid, and plug-in Prime powertrains starting at $28,675. It earned IIHS Top Safety Pick recognition and offers up to 69.8 cubic feet of cargo space, making it the safest all-around bet for most shoppers.
Which 2024 compact SUV is the best value?
The Kia Sportage, starting at $27,490, offers the most content per dollar, a class-best 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, and an efficient hybrid option rated up to 43 MPG combined. Its 39.6 cubic feet of rear cargo space and sharp cabin design make it our clear Best Value pick.
Which compact SUV gets the best gas mileage in 2024?
Hybrids lead the pack. The Honda CR-V Hybrid reaches up to 43 MPG city, while the RAV4 Hybrid and Kia Sportage Hybrid post combined ratings near 39 to 43 MPG. The non-hybrid Nissan Rogue also impresses with 33 MPG combined from its turbo three-cylinder.
Do any 2024 compact SUVs come with all-wheel drive standard?
Yes. The Subaru Forester, Mazda CX-5, and Mazda CX-50 all include all-wheel drive on every trim, which is unusual at this price point. Most rivals, including the RAV4 and CR-V, make AWD optional, so standard AWD can be a deciding factor for buyers in snowy climates.
Which 2024 compact SUV has the most cargo space?
The Subaru Forester leads at up to 74.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, with the VW Tiguan close behind at 73.4 cubic feet. The Toyota RAV4 offers 69.8 cubic feet. Behind the rear seats, the Kia Sportage's 39.6 cubic feet is among the best in the class.
Are compact SUVs safe?
Most are. Look for IIHS Top Safety Pick recognition and NHTSA 5-star overall ratings. The RAV4, CR-V, and Mazda models consistently post strong crash-test results with standard driver-assist systems like automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist, so verify standard safety content before buying.
What is the difference between the Mazda CX-5 and CX-50?
The CX-5 is the more traditional compact SUV with a taller roofline and more cargo space (17.9 cubic feet behind rear seats). The CX-50 is lower, wider, and more rugged, with off-road drive modes and 31.4 cubic feet of cargo space. Both have standard AWD and similar powertrains, but the CX-50 trades some rear headroom for a sportier stance.
FAQ
What is the best overall compact SUV for 2024?
The Toyota RAV4 takes our Best Overall title for its blend of reliability, resale value, safety, and a full range of gas, hybrid, and plug-in Prime powertrains starting at $28,675. It earned IIHS Top Safety Pick recognition and offers up to 69.8 cubic feet of cargo space, making it the safest all-around bet for most shoppers.
Which 2024 compact SUV is the best value?
The Kia Sportage, starting at $27,490, offers the most content per dollar, a class-best 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, and an efficient hybrid option rated up to 43 MPG combined. Its 39.6 cubic feet of rear cargo space and sharp cabin design make it our clear Best Value pick.
Which compact SUV gets the best gas mileage in 2024?
Hybrids lead the pack. The Honda CR-V Hybrid reaches up to 43 MPG city, while the RAV4 Hybrid and Kia Sportage Hybrid post combined ratings near 39 to 43 MPG. The non-hybrid Nissan Rogue also impresses with 33 MPG combined from its turbo three-cylinder.
Do any 2024 compact SUVs come with all-wheel drive standard?
Yes. The Subaru Forester, Mazda CX-5, and Mazda CX-50 all include all-wheel drive on every trim, which is unusual at this price point. Most rivals, including the RAV4 and CR-V, make AWD optional, so standard AWD can be a deciding factor for buyers in snowy climates.
Which 2024 compact SUV has the most cargo space?
The Subaru Forester leads at up to 74.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, with the VW Tiguan close behind at 73.4 cubic feet. The Toyota RAV4 offers 69.8 cubic feet. Behind the rear seats, the Kia Sportage's 39.6 cubic feet is among the best in the class.
Are compact SUVs safe?
Most are. Look for IIHS Top Safety Pick recognition and NHTSA 5-star overall ratings. The RAV4, CR-V, and Mazda models consistently post strong crash-test results with standard driver-assist systems like automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist, so verify standard safety content before buying.
What is the difference between the Mazda CX-5 and CX-50?
The CX-5 is the more traditional compact SUV with a taller roofline and more cargo space (17.9 cubic feet behind rear seats). The CX-50 is lower, wider, and more rugged, with off-road drive modes and 31.4 cubic feet of cargo space. Both have standard AWD and similar powertrains, but the CX-50 trades some rear headroom for a sportier stance.
Which 2024 compact SUV has the longest warranty?
Hyundai and Kia offer the best coverage: a 5-year/60,000-mile basic and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Volkswagen provides a 4-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, which is longer than the segment norm of 3-year/36,000-mile basic and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain.
Is the Toyota RAV4 Prime worth it?
If you can charge at home and qualify for federal tax credits, the RAV4 Prime's 42 miles of electric range and 302 hp make it a compelling plug-in hybrid. However, dealer markups can erase the value, so compare the final out-the-door price against the regular hybrid, which already returns 39-40 MPG.
What should I look for when test driving a compact SUV?
Test the infotainment system for responsiveness and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Check rear-seat legroom and cargo space with your own items. Drive on rough roads to assess ride quality, and accelerate hard to see if the engine feels adequate. Also, confirm which safety features are standard on the trim you're considering.
Sources
- https://www.caranddriver.com/toyota/rav4
- https://www.motortrend.com/cars/chevrolet/equinox/2024
- https://www.edmunds.com/kia/sportage/
- https://www.kbb.com/toyota/rav4/
- https://www.usnews.com/cars-trucks/best-cars/compact-suvs
- https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/
- https://www.iihs.org/ratings
- https://www.nhtsa.gov/ratings
- https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.shtml
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