Popular Small SUVs to Avoid and What to Buy Instead

Small and compact SUVs are everywhere because they promise great visibility, decent cargo space, all-wheel-drive confidence, and the practicality of SUV ownership that many drivers want and expect. Just look next door and across the street.

However, just because a model is popular in your neighborhood, it doesn't mean it's a smart buy. Some of the most well-known SUVs out there don't hold up when it comes to reliability, comfort, or everyday usability.

The good news? You don't have to settle. According to a recent Consumer Reports newsletter, here are better-rated, longer-lasting, and more enjoyable alternatives if you know where to look.

We focus on popular models in their category (though they may not be the top sellers) and present two recommended alternatives."

To keep it simple, CR automotive analysts broke down which small SUVs you may want to avoid, along with two smarter choices for each:

1. A better choice: a popular model that performs well in testing and gets higher reliability ratings.
2. An under-the-radar alternative: a hidden gem you might not have considered, but one that outshines its competition.

Furthermore, every recommended SUV listed here comes with today's must-have active safety features like automatic emergency braking (AEB), blind spot warning (BSW), and rear cross-traffic warning (RCTW), unless noted otherwise.

Subcompact SUV to Avoid: 2025 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

• $27,345 – $31,595
• 24 mpg overall (17 city / 31 highway)
• Ranked #11 of 15 Subcompact SUVs

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross looks slick with its coupe-like design. But once you're behind the wheel, things get disappointing. The overall feel, ride and visibility is disappointing. Power is also underwhelming with its 1.5-liter turbo engine that is just "okay" around town, but struggles at highway speeds.

The interior does have some positives, like easy entry/exit and roomy rear seats. And Mitsubishi thankfully ditched the confusing touchpad infotainment setup. But at the end of the day, you're still left with lackluster performance and unimpressive fuel economy compared to rivals.

A Better Choice: 2025 Subaru Crosstrek

• $26,560 – $33,360
• 29 mpg overall (20 city / 41 highway)
• Ranked #1 of 15 Subcompact SUVs

The Subaru Crosstrek is basically an Impreza hatchback with more ground clearance, a smoother ride, and standard all-wheel drive. It handles with confidence, the interior is practical, and controls are refreshingly straightforward.

Acceleration does not make for an exciting ride with the base engine, but the Crosstrek makes up for it with excellent efficiency (29 mpg overall) and a much more comfortable driving experience. It's also easy to live with thanks to its well-thought-out cabin and strong resale value.

The Under-the-Radar Alternative: 2025 Hyundai Kona

• $24,550 – $33,600
• 26 mpg overall (18 city / 36 highway)
• Ranked #7 of 15 Subcompact SUVs

The Hyundai Kona's redesign has morphed into one of the most versatile picks in its class. It's roomier than before, offers user-friendly tech, and rides firmer compared to its predecessor. The 2.0-liter engine isn't powerful, but the transmission simulates shifts nicely, making the drive feel more natural.

Although it's not as sharp in handling as the older Kona, it still performs well in safety tests and comes with an easy-to-use infotainment setup. If you want something different than the Crosstrek that still nails the value you want, the Kona is a road-worthy alternative.

Compact SUV to Avoid: 2025 Ford Escape Hybrid

• $29,515 – $38,400
• 34 mpg overall (30 city / 38 highway)
• Ranked #24 of 33 Compact SUVs

At first glance, the Ford Escape Hybrid seems like a winner: Strong fuel economy, nimble handling, smooth power delivery. But the problem is with ownership experience. Reliability scores are among the lowest of any compact SUV, with many owners reporting headaches involving the powertrain, infotainment, and even overall build quality.

The ride itself is composed, but sharp bumps can feel harsh. Worse, the touchscreen controls lag badly and take over too many functions, making everyday use frustrating. Add in the discomfort of flat, unsupportive seats, and the Escape Hybrid just doesn't deliver the comfort or dependability shoppers want in a car.

A Better Choice: 2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid

• $34,650 – $41,100
• 35 mpg overall (31 city / 38 highway)
• Ranked #3 of 33 Compact SUVs

The Honda CR-V Hybrid is a smarter investment for almost every buyer. It's just as efficient as the Escape Hybrid, but far more reliable. Honda's hybrid system feels refined, even mimicking traditional gear shifts, and real-world mpg matched its impressive ratings.

Inside, the CR-V Hybrid shines with great visibility, tons of cargo space, and some of the simplest-to-use controls on the market. It's a little pricier, but higher predicted reliability and resale value make it a long-term money saver.

Under-the-Radar Alternative: 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid

• $33,970 – $40,050
• 37 mpg overall (30 city / 43 highway)
• Ranked #9 of 33 Compact SUVs

Here's one you might not be considering but should: the Mazda CX-50 Hybrid. It borrows Toyota's proven hybrid system (also used in the RAV4 Hybrid), giving it strong power and impressive 37 mpg efficiency.

Mazda's tuning keeps handling sharp, steering quick, and the ride firm yet comfortable. The cabin feels a cut above in quality compared to most rivals. The main drawback? Mazda's infotainment system isn't as intuitive as competitors'. Still, if you value driving dynamics and style along with efficiency, the CX-50 Hybrid is a standout.

Choose Smart, Not Just Popular

When shopping for the best small SUVs, don't be fooled by what's trending at the dealership lot or down the street. Models like the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross and Ford Escape Hybrid may look appealing, but long-term reliability and everyday usability matter more.

The Subaru Crosstrek, Honda CR-V Hybrid, Hyundai Kona, and Mazda CX-50 Hybrid all prove that you can get fuel efficiency, comfort, safety, and reliability, without worrying about buyer's remorse later on.

For additional Consumer Reports-recommendations, here are a few for your consideration:

1. The Most Comfortable SUVs of 2025 Recommended by Consumer Reports
2. The Best Fuel-Efficient SUVs You Can Buy Today
3. Consumer Reports Best Used Toyota Cars Under $10,000

COMING UP NEXT: I've Been a Mechanic at a GM Dealer for Over 6 Years Now, Went to Tech School Right Out of High School. The Shop I'm at Now Keeps Hiring Lube Techs at $20/Hour, Because McDonald's Pays $16/Hour, and They're Trying to Keep Good Flat-Rate Techs for less pay

Timothy Boyer is an automotive reporter based in Cincinnati who currently researches and restores older vehicles, often incorporating engine modifications for improved performance. He also covers modern cars—including EVs—with a focus on DIY mechanics, tool use and selection, and other topics related to automotive repair. Follow Tim on Twitter (@TimBoyerWrites) and Facebook for daily updates and insights on new and used cars and trucks.