Small SUVs are typically built to be ready for rough roads, but that doesn’t always translate into the roomiest setups. These ones challenge that perception.
SUVs offer a higher ride height and often boast better all-terrain capability than sedans or hatchbacks, but despite their added heft, not all of them are particularly spacious inside. To make matters worse, plenty also offer lower gas mileage figures than lower-slung cars, although the most frugal 2025 models can now get well over 30 mpg. Smaller SUVs are often more efficient, although buying a compact SUV to save on fuel can sometimes mean compromising on space.
However, there are some exceptions to the rule. These five compact SUVs were selected by Consumer Reports as being among the most spacious in their class, with plenty of room for both passengers and their luggage. SlashGear’s review team has put each car to the test, assessing qualities like their ride comfort, tech features, and capability both on and off the road. This is what we thought about each of CR’s latest batch of top picks.Hyundai Tucson
Hyundai frequently updates its lineup with styling tweaks, new tech, and additional options, and the Tucson is no different. For 2025, the Tucson is available as a hybrid or gas model, with a minor exterior makeover that includes new daytime running lights. The interior is updated too, with a new 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen that includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. In our first drive of the 2025 Tucson hybrid, we found its infotainment system to be intuitive to use, and the updated upholstery options gave the Limited trim a surprisingly upmarket feel.
Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options are available, with the latter being paired with beefier tires and a 2.5-liter gas engine in the all-terrain XRT trim. Despite serious off-roading being out of the question, the XRT also offers center locking differentials too. Meanwhile, the hybrid powertrain will be the mill of choice for buyers looking to keep their fuel bills to a minimum, offering up to 38 mpg combined.
The Tucson offers plenty of space for taller occupants in both the front and rear rows, and our 6-foot-1-inch writer found both rows comfortable. Both the ICE and Hybrid models have a maximum of 41.2 cubic feet of cargo capacity with the rear seats up. Hyundai also offers a plug-in hybrid version of the Tucson, but it’s less roomy and notably pricier, and so isn’t as good a value proposition as either the hybrid or ICE variants. The base trim starts from $30,200 (including a $1,495 destination fee) for 2025.
