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The Best Small SUVs for City Life (and One to Avoid)

Have you been thinking about buying a new SUV? Come with us and check out the top picks in this category. We know small SUVs are popular, and it’s easy to see why when they blend so well in terms of looks and cost.

Because of their high driving position, many people prefer SUVs, and the small version comes with a compact and versatile design, making it easy to drive in the city. We have detailed information about them, and this is the top choice list. See why these cars are more valuable than the competition.

small SUV
Photo by Mike Mareen from Shutterstock

1. Lexus LBX

If you were thinking Lexus only makes big and expensive cars, what we’re going to tell you is going to blow your mind. They came up with a small SUV at an affordable price tag with the same luxurious appearance and astonishing performance.

You’ll find the most luxurious small SUV interior, even if the rear seats are a bit snug. The LBX is well-equipped, and it has plenty of standard features while delivering an excellent driving experience. What you’ll get is a well-weighted steer and a grippy front end. Another thing to enjoy is the silence that comes with the electrical part because it’s a hybrid. Especially at low speed, you’re going to have the quietest ride on the road.

Another highlight is fuel economy, as the LBX achieves 65.7 mpg. Also, it’s characterized by reliability, and it has been top-ranked for this topic over the past years. There is a great mix of materials that is giving the car a gorgeous look, not only in terms of interior beauty but also overall.

2. Volkswagen T-Roc

Another impressive car is the T-Roc, and it makes comfort a main priority. It stands out with its features in entry-level Life trim, those being smaller 16-inch alloy wheels coming with high-profile tires that are perfect for smoothing out the bumps you can find on the road.

It includes automatic lights and wipers as well as dual-zone climate control. You can’t miss out on Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, adaptive cruise control, and what can be more comfortable and healthy than the adjustable lumbar support?

This leads to a comfortable and higher driving position. The interior may not be as luxurious as other cars famous for this, but you can refresh it by having the possibility to add soft-touch materials to key areas. Experts are praising its cheap engine with the turbocharged 1.0-liter units that are unexpectedly powerful.

3. Smart #1

Here we have the first fully electric SUV, a lot different than the old electric Smart with limited range and potential struggles outside the city.

The Smart #1 comes with a 62kWh battery, and it offers an official range going up to 273 miles, of course, depending on the version. The standard is 268 bhp, and it makes the motorway speeds a breeze, along with the high-performance Brabus that ramps up to 422 bhp, accelerating from 0-62 mph in 3.9 seconds. This is a match for the Audi RS3’s hot hatchback speed.

You won’t have a very high driving position, but there is excellent visibility provided by the upright and slender windscreen pillars. With an upmarket, modern, and stylish interior, it feels like an Apple product. Experts are making comments about the perfect size and thickness of the wheel, which reminds them of the old Smart Roadster.

small SUV
Photo by Kittyfly from Shutterstock

4. Skoda Karoq

This car deserves a top spot on your list if you’re looking to maximize value in a small SUV.  The price is competitive compared to its rivals, and it comes equipped with multiple tempting features. Even the base model incorporates a 17-inch alloy wheel and dual-zone control, along with automatic wipers and lights. When you upgrade to SEL trim, you will get larger wheels and rear seats that are super adjustable with minimal extra cost.

We recommend you choose the 1.5 TSI 150 petrol engine that is positioned in the mid-range. The reason is the strong performance, which doesn’t raise the running costs. If you want to compare it with something, we can say that the remarkable smooth ride is even surpassing its close relative, the Seat Ateca. Experts are impressed by the Varioflex rear seats, which are able to slide, recline independently, or be completely removed.

5. Range Rover Evoque

When you want to feel like you’re in a large SUV but have the advantage of a compact car, the perfect fit for you can be the Range Rover Evoque.  With great visibility over traffic in an elevated seat, you might feel like you’re commanding the road. Every little detail reflects the premium quality and also the demands of family use.

You can opt for the hybrid power of a traditional petrol or diesel engine, with the last one being especially handy for towing purposes. No matter what you choose, you will experience impressive ride comfort, capable of off-road use but perfect for the city. Expert’s comments about this car are related to the textile material used. While leather is a standard for the Range Rover today, the first 1970 model featured fabric upholstery. This historical moment mirrors the Evoque, which offers the option of luxurious wool seats.

6. Volvo EX30

Here we have a debut in the bespoke electric car market. It offers a remarkably smooth driving experience thanks to responsive pedals for acceleration and braking. Surpassing the Smart #1, Volvo provides a great balance between handling and ride comfort.

Even if the Smart #1 offers more features and has a user-friendly dashboard and a more spacious interior, the ride itself is worth it. Experts are advising you to opt for the optional flax décor to enhance the interior of your EX30.

7. Hyundai Kona Electric

This SUV body showcases an eco-friendly design by being fully electric. It’s represented by a sport with futuristic aesthetics that offers up to 215 bhp, and it has an official range of up to 319 miles. This is a great choice for long journeys because it is equipped with a soft suspension that smooths out road imperfections.

It has ample seat and wheel adjustments that ensure the driver has an ideal driving position. For rear-seat passengers, there are enough extra spaces compared to other similar cars, such as the Peugeot e-2008 or Jeep Avenger.

small SUV
Photo by Mike Mareen from Shutterstock

The small SUVs to avoid:

Jeep Renegade

Even if it has its strengths, offering space and off-road capability, with diesel fuel-efficient engines, this SUV comes at a high price compared to the market, and the ride experience lacks refinement.

Small or standard, SUVs are cars for families, so if you drive your family from one place to the other all the time, along with your pets, you may need to keep your brand new car clean and away from fur. This is a mattress for your dog seat that you can find on Amazon to protect your interior from accidents and unwanted shedding.

The Bumper Flap of the SUV liner for dogs will protect your interior against scratches when your dog crawls into the trunk or lies on the edge of the turn. It gives more space in the back while it protects the leather seat covers. It also prevents your pet from coming in the front seats and keeps everyone secure.

Read next: 6 Common Driving Habits That Can Harm Your Car

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