The 2016 Ford Escape ranks near the top of the compact SUV class because of its spacious cabin, carlike handling, and peppy available turboc read more » 8.3SCORE $12,120 - $15,700 AVG PRICE PAID 22. Our in-house team of seasoned car professionals gives you the lowdown on vehicle performance, safety, comfort and more. Thanks to their educated point of view, here's the list of the Highest Rated. Small SUVs are some of the most popular used cars in the UK right now. Here's our pick of the best.

Small SUVs are some of the most popular used cars in the UK right now. Here's our pick of the best...

Best used small SUVs (and the ones to avoid)

The soaring sales of SUVs are testament to the fact that almost everyone wants one these days. And the chances are if you’re reading this, you do too.

We don’t blame you – today’s best SUVs combine a high driving position that gives you a vantage point to see out clearly; while the practical and versatile interior space of these vehicles means there’s room for the whole family. But, of course, you’ll probably also want a car that’s light and easy to drive, and not so large that it’s impossible to park – which is where smaller SUVs, like the ones we’ve featured here, come in.

Now, we know that not everyone wants to buy brand new, especially when there’s a plethora of great options on the used market. Thanks to booming sales, there’s now a massive choice, which can be a bit confusing – which is why we’re here, and why we’ve rounded up our 10 best used small SUVs to help you work out which one’s best for you.

Got a motoring question? Our experts are standing by to help, just tweet us your question using #askwhatcar

For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals from What Car?, sign up to our weekly newsletter here

Best used small SUVs

10. Kia Soul

Aimed at the sort of person who likes to stand out but needs a practical vehicle, the Kia Soul is a likable vehicle that’s spacious, well equipped and distinctive to look at. Its average ride quality and so-so handling mean the Kia Soul isn’t great to drive, but if you can live with that, you get a small SUV that offers huge amounts of room in every seat, and, thanks to its boxy profile, a large boot.

We found: 2015 1.6 CRDi Connect, 27,107 miles, £9000

Best used small SUVs

There’s also plenty of equipment, and it all comes backed up by a seven-year, 100,000-mile warranty – so even if you buy a three-year-old example, you’ll still have four years’ warranty left to run. And with seriously low prices, the Soul looks like fabulous value too.

Best used small SUVs

9. Suzuki Vitara

Thanks to squared-off corners, a raised ride height and the option of four-wheel drive, the Suzuki Vitara at least has some of the off-road abilities people associate with SUVs; abilities that many of its rivals seem to have forgotten. That doesn’t mean to say that the Vitara drives like an old-school 4x4, because it doesn’t. The balance between ride and handling is well judged and is even quite rewarding, which is quite unusual for a small SUV. The brilliant 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol is a very nipply engine, but, it’s only available with four-wheel drive and higher spec car, so can be expensive. This makes the 1.6-litre petrol a better buy financially, and it’s as economical as the smaller engine.

We found: 2017 1.6 SZ-T, 11,000 miles, £12,991

Best used small SUVs

The Vitara is well equipped, but we’d suggest going for the SZ-T because you get an integrated sat-nav and media system, 17in alloy wheels and rear privacy glass. The interior isn’t particularly stylish, but there are some thoughtful touches, such as an attractive analogue clock and gloss black trim. Suzuki also has a good reputation for reliability, so there shouldn’t be anything to trouble you.

Best used small SUVs

8. Audi Q3

As you might expect from a car with four rings on its nose, the Audi Q3 is quite pricey for what is essentially quite a small SUV with reasonably limited space in the back. But, what you’re paying for is a comfortable ride, and a great choice of engine options to suit all budgets, and all offer impressive fuel economy and useful punch. There’s even the option of quattro four-wheel drive for slippery conditions.

We found: 2013 2.0 TDI SE, 33,000 miles, £14,992

Best used small SUVs

You also get an interior that feels like it’s constructed solidly from top-quality materials. It isn’t the best in terms of layout, and the infotainment system is very dated now. But it holds its value well, which means you shouldn’t lose too much money during ownership.

Best used small SUVs

7. Citroen C4 Cactus

Stylish, softly sprung and quite characterful, the Citroen C4 Cactus is more of an on-road bias small SUV because it cannot be had with four-wheel drive. The upside is that all engines offer excellent fuel economy which means running costs are rather low. It’s also quite big, so if you need to regularly carry four or five people, there will be fewer complaints in the C4 Cactus than there will be in some of its rivals.

We found: 2016 1.2 PureTech 110 Flair, 16,000 miles, £9617

Best used small SUVs

The interior has been de-cluttered of buttons thanks to a touchscreen infotainment system. It takes a little getting used to, but it does help with the simple design theme. One word of warning, the back windows don’t roll downt, but merely pop out a little to aid ventilation. But, on the whole, it’s a pleasant small SUV that’s very cheap to buy and run.

Best used small SUVs

6. Peugeot 3008

Comfortable, spacious, and equipped with one of the most flexible boots in the business – there are lots of reasons to like the Peugeot 3008. True, in its most popular form – without the Dynamic Roll Control suspension that came on larger-engine versions – it isn’t all that much fun to drive. But it’s still comfortable enough for most people, and what’s more, it’s fantastic value as a used buy, costing a great deal less than many of its rivals.

We found: 2015 1.6 HDI 115 Active, 13,000 miles, £9792

Best used small SUVs

The 1.6 diesel is the best engine to go for because it feels just as responsive as the larger 2.0-litre diesel, but is much more economical and slightly more refined too. The interior is covered in soft-touch materials and looks rather classy, even if some of the stereo controls are a little hard to read on the move. The 3008 has a big boot and it has a split-tailgate that’s a great place to perch if you’re having a picnic.

Best used small SUVs

5. Renault Kadjar

Based on the Nissan Qashqai, the Renault Kadjar is a small SUV for those who value practicality, because the Kadjar actually has a slightly bigger boot than its sibling. It also scores well with families since the doors open nice and wide, which helps when putting a child in their car seat. On the road, the Kadjar is no firecracker, but it is quite comfortable and rather economical when it’s paired with the 1.5-litre diesel engine.

We found: 2016 1.5 dCi Dynamique Nav, 7,000 miles, £12,197

Best used small SUVs

As mentioned before, the Kadjar is a little more spacious inside than a Qashqai, but it does have a transmission tunnel that robs the middle seat passenger of leg space. Make sure you find a Kadjar with ‘Nav’ tagged on the end of its specification name, because that means you’ll have a car with sat-nav.

Best used small SUVs

The Nissan Qashqai is great to drive, comfortable, and feels like a high-quality product inside. Its compact dimensions and easy controls make it a doddle to drive in town. As it was always one of Britain's best-selling cars, there are plenty around, too, so finding a good one shouldn't be too tricky, and it's terrific value, too.

We found: 2013 1.5 dCi Acenta, 36,000 miles, £8480

Best used small SUVs

While it isn’t quite as spacious as some SUVs, there's plenty enough room for most families. There’s enough room for a folding pushchair, a travel cot and a couple of overnight bags in the boot, and if you opt for an Acenta spec car you get a split-level boot floor to hide items away from prying eyes.

Best used small SUVs

3. Volkswagen Tiguan

While it doesn’t particularly wow you in any area, the Volkswagen Tiguan is an SUV which goes about its business with exceptional competence. You get a choice of excellent engines, and while it isn’t all that exciting to drive, it’s rides smoothly on long journeys yet still handles tidily on a country road.

We found: 2015 2.0 TDI Bluemotion Tech Match, 18,000 miles, £13,360

Best used small SUVs

Plus, being a Volkswagen, you get a clear, easy-to-use dashboard constructed from solid, expensive-feeling plastics. There’s space enough for five and the rear seat slides forwards and backwards to help you choose between extra luggage space or rear legroom. All-in-all, it’s a fine small SUV for families.

Best used small SUVs

2. Skoda Yeti

We really think the Skoda Yeti is one of the best used cars you can buy, let alone one of the best small SUVs. It’s economical, feels well put together, great value, and fun to drive. It doesn’t ride quite as well as some other SUVs, but it's by no means uncomfortable, and with so much else going for it, it’s a forgivable flaw.

We found: 2015 1.2 TSI SE, 20,000 miles, £11,732

Best used small SUVs

It’s immensely practical, with loads of room in the rear seats and boot thanks to that boxy back end; what’s more, those rear seats slide, fold and even tumble to give you immense practicality. The design of the dashboard isn’t going to win any awards, but the plastics are more than up to the job of dealing with the sort of abuse young families will throw at it and it’s all logically laid out and simple to use.

Best used small SUVs

1. BMW X1

The BMW X1 was one of the first premium small SUVs, but this particular generation of X1 truly warranted its superior status. All the bits and pieces you touch on a regular basis in the X1 have a feel of solidity and high quality. To drive, the X1 is really a step ahead of its rivals. With precise, well-weighted steering and excellent body control, you really do feel like you’re driving a smaller hatchback rather than an SUV.

We found: 2016 sDrive 18d SE Auto, 22,000 miles, £21,000

Best used small SUVs

What’s more, there’s plenty of space in the X1 for a family. The rear seats have plenty of flexibility – sliding, reclining and folding in a multitude of ways that enables you to make the best use of the available space. There’s even an electric tailgate as standard on the X1, a very nice touch.

Sure, there are cheaper small SUVs, but the X1 is worth the extra money because of its broad range of abilities. And, once you’ve bought it, running costs are surprisingly low given the X1’s premium billing. A great used buy and worthy of its top spot on this list.

And the small SUVs to avoid…

And the small SUVs to avoid…

Vauxhall Antara

Don’t be fooled by the slick looks: the Vauxhall Antara is noisy, slow, uncomfortable, and poorly equipped. It isn't even all that cheap, and it's impossible to recommend.

And the small SUVs to avoid…

Suzuki Jimny

Great off-road, but appalling on it, the Suzuki Jimny is an SUV from another age, and way off the pace in almost every area.

Related cars

The VW Tiguan R offers bombastic performance and impressive po...

Labeling a vehicle “the best” in its segment is no easy task. There are many factors to consider, and it may be subjective, so in this article, we classify the best compact SUV of 2016 based on different aspects, including how it holds its value through the years, its value in relation to cost (if it’s the best buy) and in terms of safety.

What compact SUV holds its value the best?

We have prepared a list of 10 SUVs or Sports Utility Vehicles that have the lowest depreciation. The list will give you a short description of the vehicle and its depreciation value after five years. The list will start from top 10 down to the top spot. Generally, SUVs lose 51.6% of their value over five years. But the cars on our list depreciate around 30% to 50.1%.

Jeep and Toyota have dominated the top 5 spots on the list. The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited took the top spot, thanks to its 30% depreciation value in five years, that’s more or less $12,188 difference. Toyota has secured 4 spots on our list.

According to experts, Toyota’s high resale values are a good affirmation of its strong reputation for longevity and reliability.

10. Subaru Outback

• 50.1% depreciation
• Difference: $15,837

The Subaru Outback is commonly known to be one of the most reliable four-wheelers in the category.

9. Toyota Land Cruiser

• 48.6% depreciation
• Difference: $41,151

The Toyota Land Cruiser is a superb luxury large SUV for various reasons. However, it is not so great for many other things. This Toyota is one of the most competent off-road vehicles on the market. You can take the rough and beaten path in a mostly well-equipped and luxurious interior.

There is plenty of muscle to tap with the Land Cruiser’s powerful V8 engine. The Land Cruiser offers a comfortable ride on paved roads, however, its old-fashioned body-on-frame construction and heavy steering may not be so attractive to some drivers. In addition, the Land Cruiser is not the easiest vehicle to maneuver through tight city streets and suburban parking spaces.The second-row seats are spacious, but they are not very comfortable. On the other hand, the third row is also not that comfortable due to its limited space.

8. Mercedes-Benz G-Class (AMG trims)

• 45.9% depreciation
• Difference: $69,476

Mercedes-Benz G-Class is a decent luxury large SUV. It is definitely among the best off-roaders you can find. It is balanced with a rugged, adventuring spirit with coddling luxury and top-tier refinement. There are a few shortcomings though, such as a small cargo space and poor fuel efficiency estimates, however, those things won’t matter if you are a solid G-Wagen shopper.

According to experts, the G-Class models are well-known for their off-road capabilities, and off-road SUVs tend to hold their value way better than their less-rugged rivals.

7. Mercedes-Benz G-Class

• 45.2% depreciation
• Difference: $56,421

Experts say, “The G-Class is also an attractive vehicle that is viewed as a status symbol, and since its body style has not changed significantly, a five-year version is almost impossible to differentiate from a late-model one.”

6. 6. Honda CR-V

Best Small Suv 2016 Models

• 44.9% depreciation
• Difference: $13,487

The Honda CR-V is a great compact SUV, and it is as balanced as you can get in this segment. The latest iteration of Honda’s small crossover is not really a compact vehicle as it features a huge cargo hold and near class-leading passenger space. The high end materials further add to the magnificent cabin.

The CR-V retains its value thanks to its reputation for reliability and longevity, like the Subaru Outback.

5. Toyota Highlander

• 44.6% depreciation
• Difference: $19,469

The Toyota Highlander is a good midsize SUV. The Highlander has a bunch of strong points, which includes a comfy ride and an upscale interior. It also has some glaring weak points, like the cramped third-row seats. But, in most other aspects, like the acceleration, interior quality, and handling, the Toyota Highlander trails the rest.

4. Toyota RAV4

• 44.6% depreciation
• Difference: $12,886

For shoppers looking for a family-friendly crossover,we strongly suggest having the RAV4 on their short list. But it has one of the highest starting prices among compact SUVs. This Honda is a bit more affordable, and it offers a more roomy cargo bay than nearly every other class rival. On the other hand, if you have extra in your budget, consider the RAV4 Hybrid. It has an incredible fuel economy and has smoother off-the-line acceleration than the regular RAV4.

3. Toyota 4Runner

• 36.5% depreciation
• Difference: $15,132

The Toyota 4Runner is a great off-road-oriented vehicle, however, by most other aspects, it is not a great used midsize SUV. It features a standard V6 engine and spacious cargo space, it also has a decent predicted reliability rating. However, the 4Runner comes with slightly higher prices for the class. It comes with a few standard and available active safety features, a drab cabin, and a small infotainment screen. This Toyota also has poor fuel efficiency, mixed test results, and a rough ride over bumpy surfaces.

2. Jeep Wrangler

31.5% depreciation

Difference: $10,203

Jeep redesigned the Wrangler for the 2018 model year, launching the SUVs JL generation. It has seen a few updates since then. The 2019 model was the first to have an available adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning. For 2020, they added two new special editions, as well as an optional turbodiesel engine that is anticipated to be out by midyear. It is likely that you can save money by shopping for an older model like the 2018 or 2019 Wrangler, and still be able enjoy similar features and performance as the 2020 model.

1. Jeep Wrangler Unlimited

Consumer Reports Best Small Suv 2016 Reviews

• 30% depreciation
• Difference: $12,188

The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is a unique addition to the entire lineup of Jeep, with an off-road oriented driveability and sheer ruggedness. The Wrangler Unlimited is the five-door version of the Jeep Wrangler. It aims more practicality compared to the regular three-door Jeep Wrangler.

What is the best 2016 SUV to buy?

On this list are the best SUVs From the 2016 Model Year

THe most popular segment in the market today is the SUVs. They come in all shapes and sizes, from inflated sedans to truck-like “sport” vehicles, and from spacious eight-seaters to cute subcompacts. They are roadworthy and versatile, yet feature-packed and comfortable.

While many SUVs are outstanding, well-rounded contenders, some of these vehicles excel better in certain areas than others. Some features only two rows, others have three, and still others give you the option to choose how many rows you need. Bear in mind that three-row SUVs are not designed to comfortably accommodate adults in the third row, however, you should not have any problems if you need the space for children.

Here’s our top 5 best 2016 SUVs to Buy:

5. 2016 Honda HR-V

• Overall score: 8.1 out of 10
• MSRP: $19,215 – $25,990

The all-new 2016 Honda HR-V’s roomy interior offers a comfortable ride, and there is a lot of extra space for cargo. The practical HR-V boasts an abundance of great technology features, even if there are only a few safety features. According to experts and reviewers, the climate and audio controls are touchy. Its 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine delivers adequate power and returns excellent fuel economy.

4. 2016 GMC Terrain

• Overall Score: 8.1 out of 10
• MSRP: $23,975 – $35,925

The GMC Terrain underwent an exterior refresh for its 2016 model year. It has a stylish, cushioned interior with roomy seats, however, cargo space is less than what many of its peers have. This GMC has one of the top reliability ratings among compact SUVs. Experts and test drivers fancy the optional, powerful V6 engine.

The Terrain emanates comfort over sportiness. It does not handle curvy roads well, exhibiting recognizable body roll. The top of the line interior features plenty of high tech amenities, even though the infotainment system can be slow to respond.

3. 2016 Chevrolet Equinox

• Overall Score: 8.1 out of 10
• MSRP: $22,600 – $31,690

The Chevrolet Equinox gained some feature updates for 2016, including a rearview camera and a standard 7-inch touch screen. Available features include blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert. One of its strong points is the class-topping predicted reliability rating.

It is known for its performance, but the family-friendly Equinox excels in various areas. The base engine is weak and handling may be dull, but the optional V6 offers sufficient power. You will get versatile seating, roomy and a smooth, quiet ride in the compact SUV.

2. 2016 Hyundai Tucson

• Overall Score: 8.5 out of 10
• MSRP: $22,700 – $31,300

The completely redesigned Hyundai Tucson provides ample room for large adults in both rows. The ride is quiet and comfortable, and critics fancy the cabin’s simple, and clean layout.

The entry level four-cylinder engine is slightly underpowered, however, you can upgrade to a turbocharged four-cylinder that provides a decent amount of acceleration for everyday driving. This Hyundai boasts an abundance of advanced safety features, and its safety scores are superb.

1. 2016 Kia Sorento

• Overall Score: 8.5 out of 10
• MSRP: $25,100 – $43,300

The fully redesigned 2016 Kia Sorento has outstanding safety and reliability scores.

The Elegant cabin is constructed of high-end materials, and Kia’s infotainment system is easy to learn and easy to use. There are additional physical buttons and knobs to control features like audio and climate.

Though the base four-cylinder engine is slightly not potent, both optional engines, a V6 and a turbocharged four-cylinder, packs plenty of power. This midsize SUV comes with three row seats, however, the third row is cramped for adults, and it will cost around $7,000 to move up to the EX V6 trim to get it.

What is the safest small SUV 2016?

1. 2016 BMW X1 4-door SUV

• Safety rating: 10 out of 10 stars

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has given the BMW X1 a Good safety score in all its crash tests, and it named the SUV a 2016 Top Safety Pick+. The X1 is available with front and rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, parallel park assist, adaptive cruise control, and Active Driving Assist which consists of forward collision warning with brake assist and lane departure warning.

2. 2016 Buick Encore 4-door SUV

• Safety rating: 9.8 out of 10 stars

The 2016 Encore has decent safety scores. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has given the SUV a perfect five-star rating overall, same for its front and side impact tests. The Encore gained four stars in its rollover crash test. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety named the Encore a 2016 Top Safety Pick. It earned an Acceptable rating, which is the second-highest score offered, for small overlap front crash safety–passenger side. It earned Good ratings, the highest offered, in all other tests conducted.

Every Encore model comes standard with a rearview camera. Available safety features include rear cross traffic alert, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and front and rear parking sensors.

3. 2016 Fiat 500X 4-door SUV

• Safety rating: 10 out of 10 stars

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has given the 2016 Fiat 500X a Good safety rating in all its conducted tests and named it a 2016 Top Safety Pick+, the organization’s highest award. The 2016 500X has not been crash tested yet by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Fiat provided the 500X with plenty of advanced safety features, including an available rear parking sensors, rear view camera, bild spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning with brake assist.

4. 2016 Honda CR-V 4-door SUV

• Safety rating: 9.8 out of 10 stars

The 2016 Honda CR-V is among the best compact SUVs who got the highest safety ratings in the class. The NHTSA has given it an overall safety rating of five out of five stars. It gained five stars in the frontal and side crash tests and four stars in the rollover test.

Like many other compact crossovers, the CR-V, comes standard with a rearview camera. Available features include forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, Honda LaneWatch (a passenger-side bild spot camera), lane departure warning, dane keep assist, and a collision mitigation braking system.