SUVs are often associated with sky-high price tags, but that’s often not the case.

Many exceptional small and compact models are hitting dealerships in 2016, making it possible to own a larger vehicle without a hefty monthly payment.

These vehicles offer countless benefits, which is why they’ve become a top-selling category for car buyers, according to KBB.com.

Key Takeaways for 2016 Small Compact SUVs

  • Versatility: SUVs offer a balance of space, comfort, and off-road capability.
  • Fuel Efficiency: Modern compact SUVs provide excellent fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance.
  • Affordability: Many small and compact SUVs are budget-friendly, offering great value for money.
  • Safety Features: SUVs often come equipped with advanced safety features, enhancing driver and passenger protection.
  • Practicality: Ideal for families and individuals needing extra space for cargo and passengers.

Why Choose Smaller SUVs? A Quick Rundown

Smaller SUVs offer the best of both worlds: more space to live your life without the hassle of driving a big car.

Unlike their larger counterparts, these SUVs won’t drain your wallet at the pump or make it difficult to squeeze into a tight parking spot.

Whether you need a little extra space to accommodate your growing family, hold your camping gear, or fit all your friends in the car, you can count on these small and mighty vehicles to deliver.

SUVs come in all shapes and sizes, so there’s no need to settle for one that’s larger than necessary.

AxleGeeks created a list of the 12 best small and compact 2016 SUVs on the market, to help you comparison shop. These cars are all under $26,000 MSRP and we sorted them from most to least expensive.

Keep reading to find the best small vehicle to meet your needs, whether you’re looking for fuel efficiency, trunk space, towing capacity or horsepower.

Top 11 Small & Compact SUVs to Buy Right Now

Here’s a quick list of some notable small and compact SUVs along with their starting prices and key features:

  1. 2016 Jeep Patriot Sport – $17,295: Known for its affordability and decent fuel efficiency.
  2. 2016 Honda HR-V LX – $19,115: Offers slightly more trunk space than its competitors and reasonable fuel efficiency.
  3. 2016 Mazda CX-3 Sport – $19,960: Stands out for its fuel efficiency and compact size.
  4. 2016 FIAT 500X Pop – $20,000: Notable for its horsepower and a modern European design.
  5. 2016 Mazda CX-5 Sport – $21,795: Known for excellent fuel economy and more trunk space.
  6. 2016 Kia Sportage LX – $22,150: Offers good hauling capacity and standard features for its class.
  7. 2016 Chevrolet Equinox L – $22,600: Provides good fuel economy but lacks a bit in power.
  8. 2016 Hyundai Tucson – $22,700: Impressive cargo capacity and above-average fuel economy.
  9. 2016 Jeep Cherokee Sport – $23,295: Offers solid horsepower and good fuel efficiency.
  10. 2016 Ford Escape S – $23,590: Offers more trunk space and reasonable towing capacity.
  11. 2016 Subaru Forester – $25,295: Provides excellent trunk space and fuel efficiency, making it a great all-rounder.

#12. 2016 Subaru Forester

The 2016 Subaru Forester boasts 32 percent more trunk space than its peers and gets a notable 25 mpg combined.

The compact SUV/crossover’s $25,295 price tag makes it more affordable than its class average, but its horsepower and towing capacity are underwhelming.

#11. 2016 Ford Escape S

The 2016 Ford Escape is a bit cheaper than its competitors, starting at $23,590. It offers owners 31 percent more trunk space than its peers.

The compact SUV/crossover’s towing capacity and horsepower fall short, but it gets an above average 26 mpg combined.

#10. 2016 Jeep Cherokee Sport

The 2016 Jeep Cherokee Sport has a notable fuel efficiency of 26 mpg combined and boasts an impressive 184 HP.

The compact SUV/crossover’s $23,295 starting price makes it more affordable than class average, but it has 5 percent less trunk space than its class standard.

#9. 2016 Hyundai Tucson

The 2016 Hyundai Tucson can haul an impressive 1,261 lbs. of cargo, but its towing capacity falls short at just 1,500 lbs.

The compact SUV/crossover’s $22,700 starting price is well below class average; it has 19 percent more trunk space than expected; and it gets a notable 27 mpg combined.

#8. 2016 Chevrolet Equinox L

The 2016 Chevrolet Equinox L is $10,650 cheaper than class average, starting at $22,600. The midsize SUV/crossover gets an impressive 27 mpg combined, but its horsepower, hauling and towing capacity fall short of its class standards.

#7. 2016 Kia Sportage XL

The 2016 Kia Sportage LX has an impressive hauling capacity of 1,328 lbs. and a typical 2,000 lbs. towing capacity.

The compact SUV/crossover’s $22,150 starting price makes it cheaper than its peers, while its fuel efficiency, horsepower and trunk space are considered standard.

#6. 2016 2016 Mazda CX-5 Sport

The 2016 Mazda CX-5 Sport boasts a notable 30 mpg combined and has 31 percent more trunk space than its peers.

The compact SUV/crossover’s $21,795 starting price falls well below class average, but its horsepower and hauling capacity fail to meet expectations.

#5. 2016 FIAT 500X Pop

The 2016 FIAT 500X Pop’s $20,000 price tag makes it more affordable than its peers. Its fuel efficiency is typical at 29 mpg combined, but the small SUV/crossover boasts a noteworthy 160 HP and 184 ft-lbs. torque.

#4. 2016 Mazda CX-3 Sport

The 2016 Mazda CX-3 Sport has an above average fuel efficiency of 32 mpg combined and its $19,960 starting price is less than its peers.

The small SUV/crossover offers a typical amount of horsepower, but its hauling capacity and trunk space fall short.

#3. 2016 Jeep Compass

The 2016 Jeep Compass Sport is much cheaper than its class average and boasts an impressive 26 mpg combined. The compact SUV/crossover has a typical towing capacity, but its horsepower, hauling capacity and trunk space don’t measure up.

#2. 2016 Honda HR-V LX

The 2016 Honda HR-V has a starting price of $19,115, which is considerably cheaper than its peers. It also offers drivers 4.7 percent more trunk space. The small SUV/crossover has a typical fuel efficiency of 29 mpg combined, but its horsepower and torque don’t meet expectations for its class.

#1. 2016 Jeep Patriot Sport

The 2016 Jeep Patriot Sport has an impressive 26 mpg combined fuel efficiency and its $17,295 price tag is significantly cheaper than the class average. The compact/SUV crossover has a typical towing capacity, but its horsepower and trunk space are underwhelming.

5 Pro Tips for Choosing Your Next Compact SUVs

  1. Research Models: Compare different SUV models to find one that meets your needs and budget.
  2. Consider Fuel Efficiency: Opt for models with better fuel economy to save on long-term costs.
  3. Check Safety Ratings: Look for SUVs with high safety ratings from reputable organizations.
  4. Test Drive: Always test drive multiple models to assess comfort, handling, and features.
  5. Negotiate Price: Don’t hesitate to negotiate the price and look for available incentives or discounts.

Key Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Overlooking Total Cost: Consider all costs, including maintenance, insurance, and fuel.
  2. Ignoring Space Needs: Ensure the SUV has enough space for your cargo and passenger needs.
  3. Skipping Research: Failing to research can lead to choosing a model that doesn’t meet your requirements.
  4. Not Testing: Always test drive to ensure it meets your comfort and driving preferences.
  5. Focusing Only on Price: Balance cost with features, safety, and performance to get the best value.