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Subcompact SUV models are the tiniest SUVs on the market. These small SUVs are perfect for small families in crowded cities. These models often offer great cabin and cargo space for their size and come at affordable prices. Here are the three best subcompact SUV models of 2021.

Best subcompact SUVs of 2021

  1. The 2022 Hyundai Kona
  2. The 2022 Kia Soul
  3. The 2021 Mazda CX-30

Best subcompact SUVs: The 2022 Hyundai Kona is fun to drive

Hyundai Kona subcompact SUVs.
Hyundai Kona subcompact SUV models | Sjoerd van der Wal via Getty Images

The 2022 Hyundai Kona is one of the best subcompact SUVs on the market because it is fun to drive. It uses a four-cylinder 2.0- liter engine that makes 147 horsepower. Its Limited and N-Line trim use a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes 195 horsepower.

The Hyundai Kona gets an amazing 30 miles per gallon in the city and 35 miles per gallon on the highway. It comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system and plenty of standard safety features. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard. The Kona’s vibrant attractive exterior and entertaining ride quality make it one of the best in its class.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona starts at $22,375. It tops out around $30,000 and its final trim includes leather upholstery, plenty of tech, and its most exciting powertrain.

The 2022 Kia Soul does more with less

A green 2022 Kia Soul is driving on the road.
The 2022 Kia Soul | Kia

RELATED: The Least Reliable 2021 Subcompact SUVs According to Consumer Reports

The 2022 Kia Soul is all about comfort. The Kia Soul has incredible cabin space and cargo space for its size. It is also one of the most affordable small SUVs on the market. The 2022 Kia Soul starts at just $19,190.

The Kia Soul features a user-friendly infotainment system. The 2022 Kia Soul tops out at $28,965. It is one of the best subcompact SUVs on the market because it gets a whopping 28 miles per gallon in the city and 33 miles per gallon on the highway.

The Kia Soul provides amazing value for its price and only gets more luxurious and convenient at its higher trim levels. The Kia Soul is so much more than meets the eye.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 performs like a sedan

The Mazda CX-30 | Mazda

RELATED: Consumer Reports Only Recommends 5 2021 Subcompact SUVs

Consumer Reports gave the 2021 Mazda CX-30 a 5/5 predicted reliability rating. The CX-30 features a refined cabin, lots of standard tech, and great ride quality.

The CX-30 is one of the best subcompact crossover SUVs because it borrows many of the defining characteristics of the popular Mazda M3 sedan. The 2021 Mazda CX-30 starts at $23,225. Its $30,050 2.5 Turbo trim makes a zippy 250 horsepower, not too shabby for such a small crossover.

Great subcompact SUVs combine utility with fun and affordability

A blue 2022 Hyundai Kona best subcompact SUV.
The 2022 Hyundai Kona | Hyundai

RELATED: The Best Subcompact SUVs Under $30,000

The best subcompact SUVs on the market provide amazing value for their prices. Many of their highest-trim levels top out at $30,000. The best small SUVs are uniquely designed to provide utility while also being enjoyable to drive.

RELATED: The Cheapest Subcompact SUV to Own Might Surprise You