Top 10 Compact SUVs 2021 — Best Overall + Best Value

Direct Answer

For the 2021 model year, the Toyota RAV4 is our Best Overall compact SUV, starting at $26,050. It blends Toyota reliability, strong resale, a roomy 37.6 to 69.8 cubic feet of cargo, available hybrid and plug-in Prime powertrains, and an IIHS Top Safety Pick rating into the most well-rounded package in the class.

Our Best Value pick is the Chevrolet Equinox, starting at $23,800, which undercuts nearly every rival on price while still delivering AWD availability, 63.9 cubic feet of cargo, and a generous standard tech list.

If you want the efficiency crown, the RAV4 Hybrid (41 mpg city) and the new-for-2021 RAV4 Prime plug-in (42 miles of electric range, 302 hp) are the standouts. If standard all-wheel drive matters most, the Subaru Forester is the easy answer. Below we rank the ten best 2021 compact SUVs and explain exactly who each one fits.

How We Ranked the Top 10

We weighted each 2021 model on six factors, pulling specs and ratings from manufacturer press kits and independent testers rather than marketing copy:

• Reliability & ownership cost — 25%. Predicted dependability, resale strength, and routine maintenance burden, drawing on Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, and Kelley Blue Book resale data.
• Safety — 20%. IIHS crashworthiness and Top Safety Pick status plus NHTSA overall star ratings and standard driver-assist content.
• Efficiency & powertrain — 20%. EPA combined mpg, hybrid and plug-in availability, electric range, and the strength of the gas engines, per EPA fueleconomy.gov.
• Cargo & comfort — 15%. Cargo cubic feet behind both rows, rear-seat room, and ride quality, per Car and Driver and Edmunds testing.
• Tech & value — 10%. Standard infotainment, smartphone integration, and warranty coverage.
• Price-to-performance — 10%. Starting MSRP measured against the hp, features, and content a buyer actually receives.

Sources cross-checked include Car and Driver, MotorTrend, Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book, U.S. News, IIHS, and the EPA. All prices are 2021 model-year base MSRP in USD, before destination, and all specs are specific to the 2021 model year.

1. Toyota RAV4 🏆 BEST OVERALL

Starting MSRP: $26,050 | Best for: buyers who want one SUV that does everything well and holds its value

The 2021 RAV4 pairs a 203-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder with FWD or AWD, returning an EPA-rated 30 mpg combined on the gas model. Step up to the RAV4 Hybrid and you get 219 combined hp plus 41 mpg city and 40 combined; the brand-new RAV4 Prime plug-in delivers 302 hp, a 0-to-60 sprint near 5.7 seconds, and up to 42 miles of electric-only range at 94 MPGe.

Cargo runs 37.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 69.8 with it folded, and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 driver aids are standard. The 2021 RAV4 earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick when fitted with the upgraded headlights, and Toyota's reputation for long-term reliability and class-leading resale seals its place at the top.

Pros:

• Three powertrains — efficient gas, 41-mpg hybrid, and a 302-hp Prime plug-in — under one roof.
• Class-leading resale value and Toyota's deep reliability track record.
• IIHS Top Safety Pick with standard active-safety suite.
• Roomy 69.8 cubic feet of maximum cargo space.

Cons:

• Base four-cylinder can feel coarse under hard acceleration.
• Cabin materials trail the Mazda CX-5 on plushness.

Verdict: The most complete compact SUV of 2021, and the safest all-around bet whether you want gas, hybrid, or plug-in.

2. Honda CR-V

Starting MSRP: $25,350 | Best for: families who prioritize interior space and a smooth ride

The 2021 CR-V uses a 190-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter four with a CVT, earning 30 mpg combined in FWD form and 29 with AWD. The CR-V Hybrid adds a 212-hp two-motor system rated at 40 mpg city and 38 combined. Where the Honda truly shines is packaging: it offers a class-leading 39.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and an enormous 75.8 cubic feet folded, plus a roomy, quiet, comfortable cabin.

Honda Sensing driver-assist tech is standard across the lineup, and the CR-V carries strong IIHS scores along with Honda's well-earned dependability reputation.

Pros:

• Best-in-class cargo room at up to 75.8 cubic feet.
• Standard Honda Sensing safety suite on every trim.
• Available 40-mpg hybrid for efficiency-minded buyers.
• Spacious, comfortable rear seat and quiet ride.

Cons:

• Infotainment screen and graphics feel dated for 2021.
• Turbo-four sounds strained when pushed.

Verdict: The cargo and comfort champion of the class, and a top pick for growing families.

3. Mazda CX-5

Starting MSRP: $25,370 | Best for: drivers who want a premium feel and engaging handling

The 2021 CX-5 stands out for the way it drives and the way its cabin looks and feels. The standard 2.5-liter four makes 187 hp, while the available turbocharged 2.5 produces 227 hp on regular fuel or 250 hp on premium, giving the CX-5 genuine punch. EPA figures land at 26 mpg combined for the base AWD model and 24 combined for the turbo.

Cargo is more modest at 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.6 folded, but the upscale interior, standard i-Activsense safety tech, and IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus credentials make it feel a class above its price. AWD is available across the range.

Pros:

• Upscale interior that rivals luxury-brand crossovers.
• Available 250-hp turbo engine for strong real-world pace.
• IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus with standard driver aids.
• Sharp, composed handling that leads the segment.

Cons:

• Smaller cargo hold than RAV4, CR-V, and Rogue.
• Touchpad-free rotary infotainment takes acclimation.

Verdict: The driver's and design lover's choice, punching well above its price on refinement.

4. Subaru Forester

Starting MSRP: $24,795 | Best for: all-weather buyers who want standard AWD and great visibility

Every 2021 Forester comes with standard symmetrical all-wheel drive and standard EyeSight driver assistance — a combination no rival matches at this price. A 182-hp 2.5-liter flat-four pairs with a CVT for an EPA-rated 29 mpg combined (26 city, 33 highway). The Forester's tall greenhouse delivers outstanding outward visibility, and its 8.7 inches of ground clearance plus X-Mode make it genuinely capable on trails and snow.

Cargo measures 28.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 76.1 folded. It earns an IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus and pairs that with Subaru's loyal owner base.

Pros:

• Standard all-wheel drive and EyeSight safety on every trim.
• IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus rating.
• Excellent outward visibility and easy cabin access.
• 8.7 inches of ground clearance for light off-road and snow.

Cons:

• CVT and modest power make highway passing leisurely.
• Interior styling is functional rather than exciting.

Verdict: The best foul-weather and outdoorsy pick, with safety and AWD baked in as standard.

5. Nissan Rogue

Starting MSRP: $25,650 | Best for: shoppers who want a fresh redesign with clever interior storage

Fully redesigned for 2021, the Rogue brings a sharper look, a nicer cabin, and smart packaging. A 181-hp 2.5-liter four drives FWD or AWD through a CVT for an EPA-rated 30 mpg combined (FWD) or 29 (AWD). The headline is the interior: a two-tier cargo system yields up to 74.1 cubic feet folded, and the available rear doors open nearly 90 degrees for easy child-seat access.

Nissan's ProPilot Assist, available from the SV trim up, adds hands-on lane-centering with road-sign recognition. The 2021 Rogue earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick.

Pros:

• Fully redesigned for 2021 with an upgraded cabin.
• Clever divide-and-hide cargo system and near-90-degree rear doors.
• Available ProPilot Assist semi-autonomous driving aid.
• IIHS Top Safety Pick rating.

Cons:

• No hybrid option offered for 2021.
• CVT mutes the otherwise adequate engine.

Verdict: A strong all-around redesign that beat the field in some 2021 comparison tests, ideal for family-storage buyers.

6. Ford Bronco Sport

Starting MSRP: $26,820 | Best for: weekend adventurers who want real trail capability in a compact footprint

All-new for 2021, the Bronco Sport delivers genuine off-road chops with standard all-wheel drive. The base 1.5-liter turbo-3 makes 181 hp and returns an EPA-rated 26 mpg combined, while the Badlands trim's 2.0-liter turbo-4 jumps to 245 hp and 23 combined. Its boxy body yields 32.5 cubic feet of cargo behind the rear seats and 65.2 folded, with handy MOLLE straps and a flip-up glass hatch.

Badlands and First Edition trims add a more capable AWD system, twin-clutch rear drive, and extra G.O.A.T. Terrain modes. NHTSA awarded the Bronco Sport a five-star overall crash rating.

Pros:

• Real off-road capability with standard AWD and terrain modes.
• Available 245-hp turbo-4 in Badlands for serious pace.
• Upright, versatile cargo area with adventure-ready touches.
• Five-star NHTSA overall safety rating.

Cons:

• Boxy shape and AWD trim efficiency trail car-based rivals.
• Base 1.5-liter turbo-3 feels modest fully loaded.

Verdict: The most trail-ready compact SUV of 2021 and a fun, distinctive choice for outdoorsy buyers.

7. Hyundai Tucson

Starting MSRP: $23,700 | Best for: value buyers who want the longest warranty in the class

The 2021 Tucson closes out its generation as a low-priced, easy-to-own value play. A 161-hp 2.0-liter four is standard, with a 181-hp 2.4-liter four on higher trims; the larger engine earns an EPA-rated 24 to 25 mpg combined. Cargo is generous at 31 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 61.9 folded.

The headline remains Hyundai's coverage: a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty plus an industry-best 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. The 2021 Tucson earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick with the right headlights and offers SmartSense driver aids.

Pros:

• Industry-best 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
• Low starting price with strong standard feature content.
• Easy-to-use infotainment with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• IIHS Top Safety Pick with upgraded headlights.

Cons:

• Outgoing-generation design feels dated next to the 2022 redesign.
• Power and efficiency only middling for the class.

Verdict: A budget-friendly, worry-free pick whose warranty alone justifies a spot on the list.

8. Kia Sportage

Starting MSRP: $24,090 | Best for: value shoppers who want a long warranty with a bit more style

A close cousin of the Tucson, the 2021 Sportage offers similar mechanicals with a sportier look. The standard 181-hp 2.4-liter four returns an EPA-rated 25 mpg combined, while a turbocharged 2.0-liter making 240 hp is available on the SX Turbo. Cargo measures 30.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 60.1 folded.

Like Hyundai, Kia backs the Sportage with a 5-year/60,000-mile basic and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, and it earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick when properly equipped. Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto round out the value story.

Pros:

• 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
• Available 240-hp turbo for buyers who want extra punch.
• Well-equipped for the money with standard smartphone integration.
• IIHS Top Safety Pick when properly equipped.

Cons:

• Cargo space trails the segment leaders.
• Aging platform ahead of its later redesign.

Verdict: A stylish, warranty-rich value alternative to its Hyundai twin.

9. Volkswagen Tiguan

Starting MSRP: $25,245 | Best for: buyers who want an available third row in a compact package

The 2021 Tiguan distinguishes itself with a standard (FWD) or optional (AWD) third-row seat — a rarity in this class. A 184-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four pairs with an 8-speed automatic for an EPA-rated 25 mpg combined (FWD) or 24 (4Motion AWD). Two-row models offer 37.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 73.5 folded.

The Tiguan's cabin feels solid and Germanic, and VW backs it with a 4-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick with the right headlights.

Pros:

• Available third-row seat for occasional extra passengers.
• Generous 73.5 cubic feet of two-row cargo space.
• Solid, upscale-feeling cabin and 8-speed automatic.
• Strong 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty.

Cons:

• Turbo-four feels underpowered for the Tiguan's size.
• Third row is strictly for small children.

Verdict: The pick for buyers who occasionally need a few extra seats without jumping to a midsize SUV.

10. Chevrolet Equinox 💎 BEST VALUE

Starting MSRP: $23,800 | Best for: budget-minded buyers who want the lowest price of entry

The 2021 Equinox earns our Best Value nod by undercutting nearly the entire class on starting price while still covering the essentials. A 170-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter four drives FWD or AWD for an EPA-rated 28 mpg combined (FWD) or 27 (AWD). Cargo measures 29.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 63.9 folded.

Standard tech includes a Chevrolet Infotainment 3 touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto plus standard automatic emergency braking. The Equinox earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick when equipped with the available LED headlights, making it a lot of SUV for the money.

Pros:

• Lowest starting MSRP among the mainstream class leaders.
• Standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Available AWD and standard automatic emergency braking.
• IIHS Top Safety Pick with the available LED headlights.

Cons:

• 170-hp engine is the weakest of the group.
• Interior materials feel budget-grade in spots.

Verdict: The most affordable way into a well-equipped compact SUV, and the smart value buy of 2021.

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

What to Look For When Buying a Compact SUV

When you shop a 2021 compact SUV, focus on the factors that actually shape ownership:

• Total cost of ownership, not just sticker price. Resale value, fuel economy, and repair frequency matter more over five years than a few hundred dollars at signing — RAV4 and CR-V lead on resale, Tucson and Sportage lead on warranty.
• Powertrain match to your driving. A hybrid pays off for high-mileage commuters; a plug-in like the RAV4 Prime suits short daily trips with home charging; turbo engines reward buyers who tow or merge on fast highways.
• Real cargo numbers. Compare cubic feet behind the second row, where you actually carry groceries and gear, not just the folded-flat maximum.
• AWD reality. AWD helps in snow and on loose surfaces, but for most buyers good all-season or winter tires matter more than the drivetrain badge — AWD matters less than marketing implies for dry-climate drivers.
• Verified safety ratings. Look for an IIHS Top Safety Pick and a five-star NHTSA score, and confirm the trim you want includes the headlights and driver aids that earn those ratings.
• Warranty coverage. Hyundai and Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage is a real differentiator if you plan to keep the vehicle a long time.

FAQ

What is the best compact SUV for 2021? The 2021 Toyota RAV4 is our Best Overall pick. It combines proven reliability, top-of-class resale value, three powertrain choices (gas, hybrid, and the new Prime plug-in), generous cargo room, and an IIHS Top Safety Pick rating, making it the most well-rounded choice in the segment.

Which 2021 compact SUV is the best value? The Chevrolet Equinox, starting at $23,800, is our Best Value pick. It offers the lowest entry price among the mainstream leaders while including wireless Apple CarPlay, available AWD, and standard automatic emergency braking. The Hyundai Tucson at $23,700 is a close runner-up thanks to its 10-year powertrain warranty.

Which 2021 compact SUV gets the best gas mileage? The RAV4 Hybrid leads non-plug-in models at 41 mpg city and 40 combined, with the CR-V Hybrid close behind at 40 city and 38 combined. The RAV4 Prime plug-in tops them all with up to 42 miles of electric range and a 94 MPGe rating.

Which 2021 compact SUVs come with standard all-wheel drive? The Subaru Forester and Ford Bronco Sport both include all-wheel drive as standard equipment on every trim. Most other models in this list, including the RAV4, CR-V, CX-5, Rogue, and Equinox, offer AWD as an extra-cost option.

Are 2021 compact SUVs safe? Yes. Most models here earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick Plus when equipped with the recommended headlights, and several, including the Bronco Sport, carry a five-star overall NHTSA rating. Standard driver-assist suites such as Toyota Safety Sense, Honda Sensing, and Subaru EyeSight are common across the class.

Which 2021 compact SUV has the most cargo space? The Honda CR-V leads with 39.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 75.8 cubic feet with them folded, edging out the Subaru Forester at 76.1 maximum and the Nissan Rogue at 74.1.

Bottom Line

The 2021 compact SUV class is deep, but a few clear winners stand out. The Toyota RAV4 is the Best Overall pick for its rare blend of reliability, resale strength, safety, and powertrain breadth that spans gas, hybrid, and a 302-hp Prime plug-in. The Chevrolet Equinox is the Best Value, undercutting nearly every rival while still covering the essentials.

From there, choose by need: the CR-V for cargo and comfort, the CX-5 for premium feel, the Forester for standard AWD, the Bronco Sport for trail capability, the Rogue for its clever redesign, the Tucson and Sportage for warranty value, and the Tiguan for an available third row.

Match the powertrain and feature set to how you actually drive, confirm the safety equipment on the trim you want, and any of these ten will serve you well.

Sources

• Car and Driver — 2021 Compact SUV Reviews and Ratings
• MotorTrend — 2021 SUV Buyer's Guide
• Edmunds — 2021 Compact SUV Specs and Reviews
• Kelley Blue Book — 2021 SUV Pricing and Values
• U.S. News & World Report — Best Compact SUVs 2021
• IIHS — 2021 Vehicle Safety Ratings and Top Safety Picks
• EPA fueleconomy.gov — 2021 Compact SUV MPG Data
• Toyota USA Newsroom — 2021 RAV4 Prime Pricing and Specs
• Honda News — 2021 CR-V and CR-V Hybrid Specs and Features
• Cars.com — 2021 Compact SUV Research and Specifications

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