The SUV market has grown enormously in recent years, with a huge range of models available – ranging from affordable Dacias to luxurious Rolls-Royces.
But it’s small SUVs that continue to prove especially popular and with a broader range of models to choose from than ever, it can be tough settling on the right car. There are models that stand out more than others, though. Here are the 10 best small SUVs to buy in 2021.
Ford Puma – from £22,045
Ford’s Fiesta supermini couldn’t be a much better place to start when it comes to making a crossover, so it’s no surprise that the Fiesta-based Puma is one of the best small SUVs on the market today.
With a fun driving experience, impressive mild-hybrid powertrains that deliver both efficiency and performance and a roomy interior, it’s one of the best all-rounders in its class.
Enquire on a new Ford PumaSkoda Kamiq – from £18,755
SUVs have quickly become a key part of Skoda’s range, and it’s the Kamiq that’s the smallest of the lot. Don’t think that’s a bad thing, though, as this model still looks the part, is very well-equipped and has a particularly well-built interior.
If you want plenty of interior space, the Kamiq is an ideal choice too, thanks to loads of rear seat room and a large 400-litre boot.
Enquire on a new Skoda KamiqMini Countryman – from £24,800
Though the Countryman perhaps isn’t so ‘Mini’, that doesn’t stop it being one of the best small SUVs on the market today. Carrying the same fun styling and enjoyable driving experience as the rest of the brand’s line-up, it’s an ideal option if a standard Mini Hatch is just too small for you.
With a big boot, well-built interior and impressive performance on the high-spec versions, it’s an ideal option if you have a bit more cash to spend each month. There’s also a plug-in hybrid version available, which offers an electric range of around 30 miles.
Enquire on a new Mini CountrymanMG ZS EV – from £26,095 (including electric car grant)
MG prides itself on value for money, and that’s exactly what the brand’s ZS delivers. The regular petrol model is roomy and also well-equipped as standard, but our vote would go to the electric model, which delivers low running costs and a more enjoyable driving experience.
With a starting price of £26,095, it’s one of the most affordable EVs on the market, while a 163-mile electric range should prove plenty for many drivers.
Enquire on a new MG ZS EVVolkswagen T-Roc – from £24,305
Volkswagen’s SUV range has expanded dramatically in recent years, and whether you opt for the smallest T-Cross or the largest Touareg, all make great choices.
But it’s the mid-size T-Roc that gets our vote, not least thanks to its funky styling and generous standard equipment levels. It’s also got a practical interior and doesn’t feel any different to a normal hatchback to drive – the latter being a rarity on a high-riding SUV.
Enquire on a new Volkswagen T-RocCitroën C3 Aircross – from £17,320
Citroen has always aimed to do things differently, and that’s exactly what the C3 Aircross achieves. Putting an emphasis on style and personalisation as well as comfort, it’s rather different to other cars on this list, but very likeable nonetheless.
You also get plenty for your money, while a recent update to it has given it a bolder look and more modern interior with a larger touchscreen and improved ergonomics.
Enquire on a new Citroen C3 AircrossSeat Arona – from £20,110
Though the Seat Arona might not excel when it comes to practicality, if you want a small SUV that looks the part and is great fun to drive, it’s a model that’s certainly worth your consideration.
It’s also good value for money, while standard equipment is especially generous – with features such as a large touchscreen, rear parking sensors and wireless smartphone charging included across all versions.
Enquire on a new Seat AronaPeugeot 2008 – from £21,365
Peugeot is a brand that’s improved dramatically in recent years, and you only need to look at the latest 2008 crossover to show this. Boasting a stylish design and very upmarket interior, it’s able to stand out in this class for all the right reasons.
Alongside standard petrol and diesel engines, the 2008 is also available as an electric model – boasting an electric range of up to 206 miles.
Enquire on a new Peugeot 2008Dacia Duster – from £11,995
If you want an SUV but are on a budget, you won’t do any better than the Dacia Duster, with its £11,995 starting cost drastically undercutting just about all models on this list - though its low-rent interior does help to explain the price.
That said, the Duster remains a practical, chunky-looking model that’s also surprisingly good to drive. There are even rugged ‘4x4’ models available if you fancy something with genuine off-road ability.
Enquire on a new Dacia DusterRenault Captur – from £19,300
Last but not least is the Renault Captur – a model that’s improved immeasurably as part of the latest generation. With its stylish design, well-built interior and roominess, it will tick lots of boxes for buyers in this class.
There are also a range of hybrid models available for those that fancy something electrified, with the E-Tech plug-in hybrid delivering some especially low running costs.
Enquire on a new Renault Captur