If you need something that’ll get you through all four seasons, up a dirt road and back, and still be nimble enough for urban use and small enough to not take up your whole garage, the subcompact SUV niche is perfect for you. These are our picks for the 10 best used subcompact SUVs under $20,000.
1. 2018 Honda HR-V
Honda’s HR-V has quickly become a standard recommendation in the segment thanks to its practical interior, good fuel economy, and strong value. The second-row “Magic Seat” makes the most of the compact interior’s cargo capacity, and the HR-V offers both all-wheel drive (AWD) and a manual transmission, though not at the same time. See used Honda HR-V models for sale near you
2. 2018 Subaru Crosstrek
The Subaru Crosstrek is one of the vehicles on this list for those who need more than mere all-weather ability from their AWD system — and here, it’s standard equipment. In addition to its off-road and all-weather prowess, the Crosstrek also offers a hybrid variant, and a manual transmission is available. The Crosstrek was all-new for 2018, so it’s a good model year to seek out. See used Subaru Crosstrek models for sale near you
3. 2018 Nissan Kicks
Practical yet stylish and also efficient, the Nissan Kicks is a great do-it-all option. With standard emergency braking assist, plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the Kicks offers a competitive set of safety and tech features despite being Nissan’s least expensive SUV. See used Nissan Kicks models for sale near you
4. 2019 Buick Encore
Comfortable and nicely equipped for the money, the Buick Encore is small without sacrificing much. With a focus on style as well as features, the Encore comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as keyless entry and push-button start. Available AWD also makes for better all-season ability. See used Buick Encore models for sale near you
5. 2019 Chevrolet Trax
The Chevrolet Trax is the more affordable, less premium alternative to the Buick Encore — but it’s still more spacious than the Mazda CX-3 and gets better gas mileage than the Jeep Renegade. And with a standard 7-inch touchscreen center display with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, the Trax’s tech will feel plenty current. See used Chevrolet Trax models for sale near you
6. 2018 Mazda CX-3
The Mazda CX-3 is an attractive, sporty, capable subcompact SUV for those who don’t need big rear seats but do need some extra cargo space. It’s also safer than some alternatives thanks to the standard Smart City Brake Support feature. Its interior is upscale and attractive. See used Mazda CX-3 models for sale near you
7. 2017 Nissan Juke
Fun and funky are two of the main concepts behind the Nissan Juke, a sporty subcompact SUV with a unique style. Compact enough for urban use but still usefully spacious inside, the Juke offers all-wheel drive and even a manual transmission for those so inclined. See used Nissan Juke models for sale near you
8. 2015 BMW X1
The BMW X1 packs all of the European appeal you’d expect of the brand, as well as reasonable fuel economy in 4-cylinder models. Agile and fun to drive, the X1 is also a great road-tripper. Those seeking more performance will appreciate the inline 6-cylinder versions. Opt for AWD for all-season use, but don’t expect to go too far afield once the pavement ends. See used BMW X1 models for sale near you
9. 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
With solid construction, a great warranty, and competitive pricing, the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is the easily overlooked alternative in the subcompact SUV segment. While it might not stand out from the crowd in terms of style, the Outlander Sport does come standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and in higher trims, even offers some more advanced driver assistance technology. See used Mitsubishi Outlander Sport models for sale near you
10. 2018 Jeep Renegade
If you’re looking for a subcompact SUV with real off-road chops, the Jeep Renegade is a great option, particularly in Trailhawk guise. It’s more efficient and better to drive on the road than the more expensive Wrangler, and it has a practical interior, too. See used Jeep Renegade models for sale near you
Best Used Subcompact SUVs Under $20,000
- 2018 Honda HR-V
- 2018 Subaru Crosstrek
- 2018 Nissan Kicks
- 2019 Buick Encore
- 2019 Chevrolet Trax
- 2018 Mazda CX-3
- 2017 Nissan Juke
- 2015 BMW X1
- 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
- 2018 Jeep Renegade