Something I learned from years driving the family around in full-size SUV is that I like an SUV. But after a couple of decades of 3-row SUV driving, it was time to downsize. I didn’t need the space, the seating or the less-than-healthy fuel economy. When it’s just me, sometimes my husband and often the dog, plus groceries, luggage or an occasional flea market find, 5 passenger compact SUVs can do it all.
Think of a compact SUV as a mid-size car: 5 passenger seating, a roomy rear seat, ample cargo space and a nice ground clearance. These are smaller than a full-size 3-row SUV but larger than a subcompact SUV, the smallest of the SUV category.
There are a lot of choices, from frugal to fancy, from off-road ready to city-centric, from basic to feature-filled. The great thing is that the most recent models all have touch screens, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a full suite of driver assistance and safety systems, such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring and emergency braking. Most, unless noted, offer all wheel drive as an option, typically for an extra $1,500-$2,000. Here are the best compact SUVs under $32,000 so you can pick the right one for you.
This story is 100% human researched and written based on actual first-person knowledge, extensive experience and expertise on the subject of cars and trucks. No AI was used.
Freshly Updated for 2025 Hyundai Tucson, Priced from $28,355
It wasn’t all that long ago that the Hyundai Tucson was fully remade, with a new look, new interior and a signature headlight design integrated into the front grille. But for 2025 the Hyundai Tucson takes it all up a notch with even more tech, including “Baby mode” which evens out the drive experience so as not to wake the baby or disturb the fur baby in the back seat. Add to that a hybrid model that starts at $33,000, light off-road capability and modern tech, including a fingerprint recognition system, and it’s easy to see why the Hyundai Tucson is such a popular choice.
Now With More Bronco Vibes: Bronco Sport, Priced from $28,795
This one was a hit right out of the box: The Bronco Sport, which brings all the Bronco feels to a more comfortable, less rugged SUV. Then, Ford leaned heavy in to the Bronco life. They added heritage details and colors and entered the Bronco in the rigorous Rebelle Rally—and it won. Now for 2025, buyers can have their own rally-ready Bronco Sport by adding the Sasquatch package with skid plates, off-road tires and more. Or, they can relax in this fun, not the run of the mill compact SUV and just enjoy the SUV life.
All New, But Still, It’s Got You: 2025 Chevrolet Equinox, Priced from $26,800
The Chevrolet Equinox is an SUV that can make me teary. For what it means to people who need an SUV that isn’t overly pricey. For the capability—all wheel drive, cargo space, 175 HP, safety features—that means you can do it all. And when Chevrolet redesigned the 2025 Chevy Equinox, they added more of all of the above: A new Activ trim designed for city and off-pavement driving, built-in Google with voice activation and a nicely designed interior that’s both comfortable and beautiful. Even at the base LT model it’s loaded with features that set it apart. And that will take care of you so you can take care of what matters most to you.
Smart and Sexy Compact SUVs: Honda CR-V , Priced from $30,100
Adding more style and sporty looks to its reputation for reliability was the challenge for Honda when they redesigned the Honda CR-V a couple of years ago. But adding to the appeal is more tech and hybrid driving. The Honda CR-V also came away with a new face featuring sleek daytime running lights and headlights, a new front grille and a new interior anchored by a dash-spanning honeycomb panel and a floating center screen. The Honda CR-V is confidently powered by a 4-cylinder turbo that generates 190 HP or a hybrid system, priced from $34,650, that produces 204 hp. Either way, this SUV looks and feels good.
Confidence in AWD: Subaru Outback, Priced from $28,895
Subaru fans will tell you they love their Subies. But why? It starts with standard all wheel drive, a hallmark for the brand from its first days. AWD translates to confidence: You can go where you want when you want, undeterred by mud, snow or rutted roads. Inside, the Subaru Outback is comfortable, nicely appointed and easy to clean—so bring all the dogs. Powered by 4-cylinder engine that generates 182 HP and featuring Subaru’s full suite of safety systems including its Eyesight camera system, this little compact SUV is confidence on wheels.
All Things to All Drivers: Toyota RAV4 Compact SUVs, Priced from $28,675
Gas or hybrid. Plain or fancy. Rugged or plush. 18 exterior colors. 13 trims to choose from under $40,000. It’s your call in the Toyota RAV4, one of the OGs of compact SUVs. While it’s been a while since Toyota gave the RAV4 a full makeover—the brand is known for going the distance between redesigns—the RAV4 has been continually updated with features and lifestyle editions, giving buyers lots of choices. What hasn’t changed is the reliability and return on investment; this SUV is known for holding its value better than any other in this segment.
Stylish, Sweet, Sporty: Mazda CX-5, Priced from $28,570
A lot has been said about the Mazda CX-50, the slightly larger, slightly sportier, slightly pricier sibling to the Mazda CX-5. And while Mazda has replaced some of its single-digit named models with double digit models (the CX-9 was replaced by the CX-90), the CX-5 is a stalwart. This solidly sporty compact SUV has developed a loyal following with its truly premium look and feel. Inside the CX-5 you’ll feel pampered by design and premium details, even in the base model. It’s been a while since Mazda remade the CX-5 and a revamp is due soon, likely an evolution of the most popular SUV in the Mazda family.
Krushing It, Kia Style: Kia Sportage, Priced from $27,190
When the remade Kia Sportage made its debut in 2023, heads turned and opinions shifted: This popular compact finally stepped out on its own, both in style and substance. No longer a smaller version of a larger sibling, the Kia Sportage was defined by a unique front end, angular lighting and a commanding interior, all engaging Kia’s modern design language but standing on its own. Add to that the X-Line and X-Pro that deliver more capability and rugged good looks and it’s easy to understand why this compact SUV is so popular.
The Most Fun SUV on the Road: Dodge Hornet, Priced From $31,400
Dodge has never been one to shy away from the boldness of power, and that stands in the brand new Dodge Hornet. This compact SUV is powered by Dodge’s Hurricane engine that puts out an astounding 268 HP—more than the base model BMW 530i, which is nearly twice the price. Dodge takes the helm of power seriously, though, equipping the Hornet with a floating tech screen that holds its most advanced multimedia system and leatherette seats, though buyers only have one choice in the interior: black. Still that’s a lot of fun for the money.
Freshly Tech’d and Spec’d, Nissan Rogue, Priced from $29,230
For 2024 Nissan gave the Rogue a light makeover, focusing on technology “Hey Google” voice activated assistance, a larger center screen, and a new 4-cylinder turbo that generates 201 HP. Inside and out, the Nissan Rogue takes design cues from the remade Pathfinder, with an elegant interior and sporty exterior details. Those who want to go even more capable can opt for the rugged Rock Creek Edition which adds off-road details and all wheel drive, but keeps the price in check, at $35,420.
The Jeep That Does it All: Jeep Compass, Priced from $29,500
This is the best selling Jeep around the world and for good reason: The Jeep Compass is easy to drive, agile an all things Jeep, with 5 options to choose from. Even the most capable top of the line Trailhawk comes in at a very approachable $33,895, meaning you don’t have to break the bank to get off the grid. But the base model Jeep Compass Sport edition is nothing to sneeze at; powered by a 4-cylinder turbo engine, it generates a respectable 200 HP and comes standard with 4WD. That’s the most power and capability you can get for $25K.
The best part of downsizing to a compact SUV? Not having to pay the freight for a larger SUV that costs more to insure, more to fuel and more to buy. Leaving more in the budget for more adulting.
