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Shopping cars within 250 mi of your nearest EchoPark.
14001 Karlov Ave
Crestwood, IL 60445
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Published October 01, 2026
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The best small SUVs pair an easy-to-park size with real cargo room, good fuel economy, and a comfortable ride for daily driving. Models like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Mazda CX-5 are worth a close look for their mix of interior space, reliability, and resale value.
The right pick depends on what matters most to you, whether that's gas mileage, cargo space, or a more fun drive.
Small and compact SUVs are a popular choice for shoppers who want more room than a sedan without the price or parking hassles of a bigger SUV. This guide breaks down used small SUVs by strength, along with what to look for and how to buy one with confidence.
The table below compares popular small and compact SUVs on the used market by price range, seating, fuel economy, and what each one does best. Fuel-economy figures are EPA combined estimates for the gas versions in the model years covered here, and they vary by engine and drivetrain.
| Model | Relative Used Price | Seating | Fuel Economy (combined mpg) | Standout Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honda CR-V | Mid-range | 5 | 27-30 | Interior space and reliability |
| Toyota RAV4 | Mid-range | 5 | 28-30 | Resale value and hybrid option |
| Mazda CX-5 | Budget to mid-range | 5 | 24-28 | Upscale interior and driving feel |
| Subaru Forester | Budget to mid-range | 5 | 28-29 | Standard all-wheel drive |
| Hyundai Tucson | Budget | 5 | 23-29 | Value and warranty coverage |
| Kia Sportage | Budget | 5 | 21-26 | Feature-rich trims |
| Ford Escape | Budget | 5 | 26-30 | Efficient turbocharged engines |
A good used small SUV holds up over time, keeps gas costs down, and holds its value. Reliability ratings from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power are a good place to start, since they track repairs and owner-reported problems by model year.
Fuel economy matters too. Many compact SUVs are used for commuting, and a few extra miles per gallon add up over years of ownership.
Cargo space and rear-seat room vary more between compact SUVs than most shoppers expect. Compare second-row legroom and cargo space with the seats up and folded before you choose.
The Toyota RAV4 has a long record of strong reliability ratings and is known for holding its value. The 2019 redesign and later model years brought updated safety tech, and hybrid trims get noticeably better gas mileage.
It's a good fit if you want a dependable daily driver you plan to keep for years.
The Honda CR-V pairs a roomy cabin with a reputation for durability across generations. The 2017 through 2019 models offer a comfortable ride and a large cargo area, and 2020 and later models add more standard safety features.
It suits families and commuters who care more about interior room than sporty driving.
Every Subaru Forester comes with all-wheel drive. That makes it a practical choice if you often drive in rain, snow, or on rough roads. Big windows and a low window line also make it easy to see out.
It's a good fit if you want all-weather confidence without moving up to a bigger SUV.
The Hyundai Tucson comes well equipped, rides smoothly, and often costs less than several rivals. Hyundai's long powertrain warranty applies in full only to the original owner, so check what coverage remains on the exact vehicle.
It's a good match if you're on a budget but still want modern features.
The Kia Sportage shares a platform with the Tucson but has its own styling and a similar list of features for the price. Higher trims add extras like leather seats and larger touchscreens, which are less common at this price.
It fits shoppers who want more features without paying more.
The Ford Escape Hybrid pairs a compact size with EPA ratings of up to 41 mpg combined, which makes it a good option for commuters. Cargo space is competitive, though the back seat is a bit tighter than some rivals.
It works well if you drive a lot of miles and want to keep gas costs down.
The RAV4 Hybrid pairs Toyota's reliability reputation with better gas mileage than the standard gas engine. It also has a bit more power, which helps offset the weight of the hybrid battery.
It's a fit if you want better fuel economy without giving up the RAV4's practicality.
The Mazda CX-5 is more fun to drive than many compact SUVs, and its interior feels nicer than the price suggests. Higher trims add leather seats and an available turbocharged engine for more power.
Want an SUV that's fun to drive, not just practical? The CX-5 is worth a look.
Shopping for a used small SUV at EchoPark starts with browsing inventory online. EchoPark cars are listed with no-haggle transparent pricing that's typically up to $3,000 less than the competition.
Qualifying vehicles also pass through a 190-point quality inspection and road test before they're offered for sale. Each listing includes a full vehicle history report, so you can see its background before you buy.
Working within a budget? Get a trade-in offer on your current car to lower what you finance,1 or apply for financing online so you know your numbers before you visit.
When you're ready, your Experience Guide will walk you through a test drive and explain your options and costs upfront.
If you're not fully happy with your purchase, EchoPark's 7-day Happiness Guarantee lets you return the car within 7 days or 250 miles, whichever comes first, for a refund of the purchase price.2
Browse used small SUVs online or visit a nearby EchoPark Experience Center to test drive one in person.
The Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V are two of the most reliable small SUVs, based on long-running reliability ratings from organizations like Consumer Reports. Both have a strong reliability record across multiple generations, but check the ratings for the exact model year before you buy. Our Honda CR-V vs. Toyota RAV4 comparison breaks down how they differ.
The terms usually mean the same thing. Both describe SUVs like the RAV4, CR-V, and CX-5 that sit between subcompact crossovers and midsize SUVs. Subcompact SUVs, like the Honda HR-V, are a step smaller in cargo space and seating room.
A small SUV can be a good first car. It has a higher seating position, good visibility, and modern safety features on newer model years. The tradeoff is a higher price and insurance cost than a compact sedan, so budget matters when deciding.
It depends on the model, model year, mileage, and trim. Value picks like the Tucson, Sportage, and Escape usually cost less, while the RAV4 and CR-V tend to cost more. Hybrids and higher trims sit at the top of the range, so check current inventory for prices on the model you want.
Many small SUVs hold their value well, especially models with strong reliability reputations like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. Value still depends on trim, mileage, and local demand, so compare similar listings before you buy.
Check the service history and tire and brake wear, and make sure the vehicle has had a thorough mechanical and safety inspection. A vehicle history report can flag prior accidents and ownership changes that aren't visible on a test drive. Each EchoPark listing includes a full vehicle history report, and our guide to AutoCheck vs. CarFax explains what each report covers.
Yes. EchoPark offers financing through a network of financing companies, including Ally, Wells Fargo, and select credit unions, with options for buyers across a range of credit histories. Terms and rates depend on your credit history and the lender, and you can apply online before you visit.
All-wheel drive is worth considering if you often drive in snow, rain, or on unpaved roads, since it adds grip in slippery conditions. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, front-wheel-drive models usually get better gas mileage and cost less. Our AWD vs. 4WD guide explains the difference.
1 Offer is valid for 7 days or 500 miles, whichever comes first. Get an extra $500 when you sell your car to EchoPark within 48 hours of receiving your offer. Car must be in the same condition as when the offer was made.
2 Return the vehicle to EchoPark in the same condition within 7 days or 250 miles, whichever comes first, for a refund of the purchase price.
