Many people looking for the best SUVs to buy will opt for subcompact options. Oftentimes, they’re cheaper than their larger counterparts, and many find them easier to drive. However, there are a few drawbacks to these smaller sport utility vehicles that drivers should know before investing in one.

What is a subcompact SUV?

Millions of people will shop for the best subcompact SUVs this year. Despite this, many buyers don’t know what constitutes this genre of vehicles. Notably, this group represents the smallest SUVs on the market, even more so than those in the compact category. According to Knight Has It, these vehicles usually measure about 170 inches in length. Naturally, the exact size can vary. 

Some of the best subcompact SUVs:

• Chevrolet Trax
• Mazda CX-30
• Buick Envista
• Subaru Crosstrek
• Nissan Kicks

Even the best subcompact SUVs can be less safe

Buyers looking for the best SUVs to buy typically want something safe. Of course, much of this peace of mind comes from technology these days. However, size also plays a part. Buyers should know that although subcompact SUVs can be perfectly safe, there is more of a risk regarding car accidents. This is especially the case because their smaller size offers less protection from impacts. 

The IIHS highlighted that as of 2020, driver deaths in small cars were relatively high when compared to other vehicles. 

These SUVs have smaller engines

People looking for the best SUVs should know that subcompact options typically have smaller engines. This won’t be a significant issue for many buyers, but those wanting speed and power may want to look elsewhere. There are some exceptions, but subcompact SUVs often use either 2.0-liter or 2.5-liter engines. In some cases, these small vehicles use engines with even smaller displacements. This also plays a part regarding towing capacity.

For example, the 2025 Chevrolet Trax uses a turbocharged 1.2-liter engine that makes 137 horsepower. It takes more than nine seconds to get from 0 to 60 miles per hour. 

Less storage

People looking for the best subcompact SUVs to buy probably don’t care about cargo storage. Sure, they want extra space above a sedan, but this isn’t the most crucial factor for their vehicles. Still, drivers should consider this before buying a small SUV. In some situations, people may have to move large items, and a subcompact SUV won’t often cut it. However, there are instances where a compact might. This is especially true when people move and may not want to rent U-Hauls. In other words, you don’t always know what you need until you realize you don’t have it. 

In summary, buyers should spend considerable time considering what types of vehicles to get. Subcompact SUVs have much to offer, but they also have notable drawbacks.