There are many people on the market looking for the best SUVs to buy. Of course, this also means that some of them want subcompact options. Luckily, there are a few notable auto mechanics on the internet who have some advice to offer. Recently, one mechanic out of Texas shared his thoughts on 16 of the most popular subcompact SUVs. Specifically, he shares if he thinks they’re worth people’s time and money. 

Auto mechanics know the best SUVs to buy

As most people know, SUVs remain one of the best and most popular options to buy. This is the case for several reasons. Notably, people pick SUVs due to their size and capabilities. Recently, one of the auto mechanics from Royalty Auto Service took to TikTok to give his opinion on Edmunds’ list of the best extra-small SUVs for 2024 and 2025. While he agrees with some of the list, he is puzzled how some made it. The list goes from worst to best.

The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport may be one of the best SUVs to buy

Auto mechanics have a love-hate relationship with Mitsubishi. Some would say the Outlander Sport is one of the best SUVs to buy due to the cost. However, this one gives it a maybe. So far, the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport has sold about 11,705 units in 2024, which means many people don’t trust the SUV.

The Jeep Compass is not one of the best SUVs to buy

As with many Stellantis cars, the Jeep Compass has a bit of a mixed-bag reputation. Some love it, but others feel it’s too expensive to maintain. This mechanic says it’s not worth the buyers’ time. So far, it has sold 84,472 units in 2024 for the U.S. market, making it pretty popular. However, some auto mechanics may feel differently.

The Nissan Kicks gets a “no”

The Nissan Kicks is another popular model for the price. However, this mechanic says, “That’s a maybe. Ish.” Still, he leans toward “No.” It has sold 52,143 units so far this year, which means many feel it’s one of the best SUVs to buy.

The Hyundai Venue gets a “no”

Many people swear by the Hyundai venue. After all, it’s a fun little SUV that has a bit of personality. This mechanic says, “Do I really need to say no to that?” Notably, he has been against Hyundai and Kia models before. So far, 21,287 people have driven home in a new Venue this year, which many auto mechanics would say was a bad idea.

The Toyota Corolla Cross could be one of the best SUVs to buy

Of course, many would say that the Toyota Corolla Cross is one of the best SUVs to buy. According to this mechanic, “I would give a Toyota a thumbs up.” It has sold 76,670 units in 2024.

The Honda HR-V gets a “yes”

Everyone loves Honda. In many cases, it seems the beloved automaker can do no wrong. Like many auto mechanics, this one says the HR-V is one buyers should consider when looking for a new subcompact SUV. So far, this is the most popular SUV on the list, as it has sold 126,317 units in 2024.

The Subaru Crosstrek gets a “yes”

The Subaru Crosstrek is often considered one of the best SUVs to buy. Luckily for the automaker, this renowned mechanic agrees and thinks buyers should look into it. Regarding its popularity, about 147,775 people bought one this year.

The Kia Seltos gets a “no”

He does not think the Kia Seltos is one of the best small SUVs to buy. He even shakes his head as he says it. The Kia Seltos has sold 52,443 units in 2024. 

The Buick Envista may not be one of the best SUVs to buy

The Buick Envista is also a somewhat popular small SUV. For the most part, auto mechanics seem to have mixed reactions to it. This one says it’s not a great option. 

The Kia Soul gets a “no”

He says this is not one of the best SUVs to buy. However, he fondly recalls the hamster commercials. Of course, it remains decently popular as it moved 44,716 units this year. 

The Hyundai Kona gets a “no”

He, like many auto mechanics, would not recommend the Kona. However, many people swear by it. So far, it has sold 70,193 units, which is actually pretty solid. 

The Chevrolet Trax is also a “no”

He shakes his head “no” to the Chevrolet Trax. In fact, this mechanic is surprised by the SUVs Edmunda listed near the top. So far, it has sold an impressive 149,761 units in 2024. 

It’s a “no” for the Buick Encore

He passionately says this is not one of the best SUVs to buy. This one has extremely low sales in 2024. 

The Mazda CX-30 gets a “yes”

This mechanic says the Mazda Cx-30 is one of the best SUVs to buy. Of course, Mazda is regarded as being reliable. It has sold 80,796 units this year. 

The Chevrolet Trailblazer gets a “no,” but the Volkswagen Taos gets a “maybe”

He says he does not recommend it. Notably, they included the Volkswagen Taos as being number one. However, it does not appear on the Edmunds list. Still, he gave it a “maybe.”