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There are plenty of great subcompact SUV options out for 2023. The question is, which models should you favor, and how should you spec them? Here are three new 2023 subcompact SUV models that are great options for under $25,000.

A fully loaded 2023 Kia Soul still falls below $25K

A blue 2023 Kia Soul subcompact SUV is parked.
The 2023 Kia Soul | Kia

So, let’s say you have a budget of around $25,000 for a new subcompact SUV. You’re in luck. Plenty of upper trim level subcompact SUV models still fall under $25,000 (without taxes and additional fees).

The 2023 Kia Soul starts at just $19,890. It comes in four different trim levels. The 2023 Kia Soul EX final trim starts at $24,190.

The 2023 Soul EX uses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine to make 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. The subcompact SUV achieves 29 miles per gallon in the city and 35 miles per gallon on the highway.

The Soul EX comes standard with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a wireless phone charger, and a smart key with push-button start. It has a roomy interior and provides great value for the money.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 is a sporty subcompact SUV option

A blue 2023 Mazda CX-30 subcompact SUV is driving on the road.
The 2023 Mazda CX-30 | Mazda

Mazda is synonymous with class and refinement. The Japanese automaker produces vehicles that are luxury-adjacent.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 is one of the best subcompact SUV options on the market. It’s affordable, yet upper trim levels offer a level of quality that is usually reserved for luxury models.

The 2023 CX-30 starts at $22,950. It uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine to make 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The CX-30 gets 26 miles per gallon in the city and 33 miles per gallon on the highway.

The Mazda CX-30 is exciting to drive. It has a refined interior and great standard tech features. You can only get the base model for under $25K, but it provides enough value for most drivers.

The 2023 Hyundai Kona SEL starts under $25,000

A blue 2023 Hyundai Kona subcompact SUV is parked.
The 2023 Hyundai Kona | Hyundai

The 2023 Hyundai Kona SEL starts at $23,800. It uses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine to make 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. The subcompact SUV achieves 30 miles per gallon in the city and 35 miles per gallon.

The Kona SEL comes standard with proximity key entry and push-button start, roof rails, and heated side mirrors with LED turn-signal indicators. The Hyundai Kona has a unique exterior design, great standard features, and fun driving dynamics.

Kelley Blue Book praises the Kona’s value proposition and fuel economy. It’s easily one of the best subcompact SUVs on the market. There are plenty of great subcompact SUVs that start under $25,000.

If you’re looking for the classiest option, the CX-30 is the way to go. If you want the quirky fun option, the Hyundai Kona is the one to get. If you’re looking for the best budget option, the 2023 Kia Soul EX is hard to beat.

Let us know your pick for the best subcompact SUV under $25,000 in the comment section below.

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