12 Best Used Small SUVs

More and more brands have moved away from small hatchbacks to focus on larger SUVs, and it’s easy to see why. They’re easy to drive, great for everyday use, and come in all shapes and sizes. But not everyone wants something that big. That’s why small SUVs have become so popular — a high driving position and extra practicality without the troubles of a big car.

With so many to choose from, we’ve found some of the best small SUVs on the used market to help you out.

1. Skoda Kamiq

The Skoda Kamiq is exactly what Skoda does best — it’s a practical SUV that gives you more interior space for your money than most of its rivals. For a small SUV, it has a roomy boot and plenty of legroom in the back. It’s well-equipped to serve as a main family car without feeling cramped.

Running costs are refreshingly low, too. There’s no hybrid system, but the 1.0-litre petrol engine doesn’t use too much fuel. It’s got enough power for everyday driving; it’s just not built for excitement. The interior isn’t flashy, but it’s solid, well-put-together, and made to handle family life.

2. Ford Puma

The Ford Puma is a small SUV that gets a lot right. It’s enjoyable to drive, with sharp handling borrowed from the much-missed Fiesta. The petrol engines are powerful, some with mild-hybrid tech for better efficiency, and the ST model adds extra excitement. Any version is easy to drive in town, relaxed on the motorway, and good on fuel.

It’s not the biggest SUV, but it’s packed with smart features. The highlight is Ford’s ‘Megabox’ — a hidden storage well under the boot floor that’s waterproof and has a drain plug, perfect for muddy boots, wet gear, or rinsing off the dog.

3. Peugeot 2008

Peugeot has built a strong name with its hatchbacks, but its modern SUVs are just as good. The 2008 entered the small SUV market with a stylish look, a tech-filled interior, and an easy-to-use design. Inside, the driver and passenger will be met with soft materials and a cabin that feels well-built overall.

It’s based on the 208, so it has the same unique i-Cockpit layout. The longer wheelbase provides more space in the back and a massive boot. The engines are efficient, though the smaller petrol ones struggle when the car’s fully packed.

4. Volkswagen T-Cross

The Volkswagen T-Cross is a fantastic option for those who want a family car that’s a bit more rugged than a Polo or Golf. It’s the entry-level SUV in Volkswagen’s range, which sits below the T-Roc and Tiguan, with smaller engines and simpler features to keep the price down. The model is built on the same platform as the Polo and shares a lot with other Volkswagen Group cars like the SEAT Ibiza, Arona, and Skoda Kamiq.

Like most small SUVs, the T-Cross isn’t made for tough off-roading. It was designed to behave more like a hatchback but with extra space and style.

5. Toyota Yaris Cross

The Yaris is already a top choice, so it’s no surprise the Yaris Cross fits right in among other small SUVs. To be exact, there are few small SUVs like the Yaris Cross — the reliable supermini that adds a crossover-SUV design with more practicality.

As a Toyota, it’s built to last, and with a 10-year/100,000-mile warranty, it’s easy to trust. The Cross also offers more space than the Yaris, though the back seats are still a bit tight, and the boot space isn’t the biggest in its class. One of the Yaris Cross’s best features is its standard hybrid powertrains.

6. Toyota C-HR

The Toyota C-HR is one of the first mainstream small SUVs to blend a rugged feel with a sleek, coupe-like design. It shares the same platform as the Prius. Like the Prius, it also provides a bit of excitement and a hybrid option for better efficiency.

The interior is well-built and offers decent space, though the sloping roofline makes the back seats feel a little cramped. You’ll also enjoy Toyota’s reputation for reliability and a five-year warranty.

7. Suzuki Vitara

The Suzuki Vitara comes with a lively 1.4-litre petrol engine that’s boosted by mild-hybrid tech. It’s all paired with a six-speed gearbox that shifts quite precisely. It’s quicker than you might expect for a small SUV, as it hits 0-62mph in 9.5 seconds — faster than both the entry-level Ford Puma and VW T-Cross.

The ride is firm but well-controlled and absorbs most bumps and potholes without being uncomfortable. Inside, it’s not exactly a plush interior, but it feels practical, with durable materials, glossy black plastics, and patterned fascias.

8. BMW X1

The BMW X1 has long been a popular choice for those looking for a premium small SUV. Its bold, standout design makes it a bit more interesting than many of its rivals. Inside, there’s more than enough space for front and rear passengers, and the boot has room for your family’s gear. The interior is well-built.

You’ll find a variety of engine options, from petrol and diesel to plug-in hybrid, and even an electric version, the BMW iX1. When driving, the X1 offers excellent handling, so you get a bit of excitement behind the wheel. The sportier versions make the ride feel a bit firmer.

9. Jeep Renegade

The Jeep Renegade is a small SUV with a big personality. The Trailhawk model is the most capable, with all-wheel drive and extra settings to handle tricky terrain. The regular petrol and diesel versions stick to front-wheel drive. The plug-in hybrid models come as all-wheel-drive versions as standard.

It’s not the smoothest or most refined vehicle on the road, and the interior feels a bit too snug, with some cheap-feeling materials. But what it lacks in polish, it makes up for with loads of standard features, low running costs, and a design that refuses to blend in with the usual soft-edged crossovers.

10. Nissan Juke

You can’t go far in the UK without spotting Nissan’s small SUVs. The Juke has been a massive hit, which means there’s no shortage of models on the used market — great news if you’re after a second-hand car with plenty going for it.

The bold, head-turning design still feels modern, and you get a choice of petrol and diesel engines. Sure, this compact SUV isn’t the roomiest inside, but its size makes it perfect for squeezing through city streets. Just keep in mind that the chunky styling affects rear visibility, so it’s worth seeing if that’s a deal-breaker before you commit.

11. Audi Q2

Audi’s bigger SUVs get most of the attention, but the Q2 has plenty to offer. These small SUVs still feel like a proper Audi, with a stylish design, robust build quality, and plenty of in-car tech. It’s also easier to own. Fuel-efficient engines help keep costs down and deliver a smooth, comfortable drive.

The Q2’s interior feels well-built for the price and premium badge, with soft-touch materials in key areas. Some of the harder interior plastics on the doors and centre console are less impressive, but the car is put together nicely.

12. Citroen C3 Aircross

The Citroen C3 Aircross is like a tougher, more practical, small SUV version of the C3 hatchback. It has the same boxy shape but adds a bold front grille, chunky bumpers, and plastic cladding to give it a more rugged look.

At the back, the longer roof and bigger rear end mean more space inside. There’s extra legroom and a good-sized boot — 460 litres compared to the C3 hatch’s 310. If you need even more room, there’s a seven-seat version, and it’s one of the most affordable cars with that option.

Conclusion

Small SUVs work well for all kinds of drivers. The higher seating position gives a clearer view of the road and makes driving feel more confident, especially if a regular hatchback feels too low. They’re also a great choice if mobility is a concern. Parents with young kids will appreciate the more accessible height, too.

Remember to use Carplus for your search and secure the perfect small SUV!