bot Best Small SUVs to Buy in UK 2024

Best Small SUVs to Buy in UK 2024

28-12-2023
Best Small SUVs to Buy in UK 2024
The small SUV market continues to grow as this sector increases in popularity. According to SMMT motor industry facts report 2023, small SUVs are the second-bestselling segment in the UK, capturing about 23% of the market in 2023.

Our in-house experts have carefully selected a range of makes and models offering great versatility and value in this sector of the market.

What are the benefits of buying a small SUV?

A small SUV offers a versatile mix of passenger and cargo space, making them suitable for a variety of lifestyles and activities. Because of its compact size, fuel economy is better and makes it easier to manoeuvre. A range of drive options means it will cope with diverse driving conditions. Safety is a priority and interior space is adaptable. If towing is a necessity for you then many small SUVs come with this capability. Because of the higher driving position visibility is improved.

If these key factors suit your needs, our expert guide can help you consider the best small SUV options available.

Our experts have carefully evaluated each top pick based on crucial factors like practicality, features, and overall brand reliability. This includes considering your budget, needs, driving style, and desired vehicle size for optimal practicality. We've also analysed cutting-edge infotainment systems, fuel efficiency, and comfort features to ensure every choice offers convenience and satisfaction. Notably, our list caters to diverse preferences, featuring both fuel-efficient hybrids and powerful non-hybrid options.



Toyota Yaris Cross

Retail Price: £29,124
Motorfinity Price: £24,903
Savings: £4,221
Nominated by: Jack Rayson 

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Practicality is one of the key reasons customers are now shifting to small SUVs compared to saloons, and the Toyota Yaris is one of the most durable and spacious options on the list, thanks to the Toyota reliability tag. Toyota Yaris Cross is a sibling of the Toyota Yaris hatchback and does carry out all its attributes- it is a frugal, practical and efficient car. 

At Motorfinity, it is our best selling SUV for the year 2023 because of its amazing features and benefits, making it a customer favourite.

The Yaris Cross hybrid technology powertrain offers good performance and a strong fuel economy. The EPA- estimated fuel economy is up to 58 mpg combined (FWD) and 52 mpg combined (AWD).


hybrid design toyota yaris cross in yellow two tone colour


The vehicle is very spacious and does tick all the boxes regarding practicality. The boot space is enough for long, comfortable trips for the whole family, and the rear seats with enough head and leg room make the journeys smoother and more comfortable. In Yaris Cross you can accompany four adults comfortably for longer trips and 5 for shorter ones. 

The other area in which it is mirrored to Yaris hatchback is the interior. The dashboard design is quite identical. The built quality is excellent and durable and does not, at any level, give a feel of budgeted SUVs, precisely when it comes to the built quality.

This highly efficient and comfortable city SUV thrives on urban adventures. Its compact size and zippy 1.5L 3-cylinder engine make navigating city streets and parking a breeze. 

jack rayson
Jack Rayson Recommends
Yaris Cross Variant: 1.5 Hybrid Excel 5dr Cvt

Why This Small SUV Deserves Your Spotlight?
Most Fuel Efficient hybrid power train in the list.
Amazingly comfortable and fuel efficient.

Seat Arona

Retail Price starts from: £27,230
Motorfinity Price starts from: £23,156
Savings: £4,074
Motorfinity Leasing price: £299.69
Nominated by: Ben Bilton

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The other sibling of a well-renowned vehicle, i.e. Seat Ibiza, is Seat Arona. It's simple, sleek and very economical. 

Its more vital point must be its interior; with its price range, the interior is genuinely high quality. With a modern infotainment system- one of the best on the list, the Seat Arona offers complete value for money. Other interior qualities worth mentioning are head and legroom, driver focused design, ample cargo space, making it ideal for longer journeys.

The drive quality is smooth. The handling is very agile, making it ideal for various driving conditions, whether windy roads or city traffic; the car covers you in almost all aspects.


blue seat arona 1.0 TSI


The exterior is simple and might be bland and too ordinary for some—even the new facelift variant; the changes are made mainly on the interior. 

Overall, it does appeal to various audience segments because of its handy features. It can be a perfect fit for individuals, couples or small families looking for a stylish and practical SUV for everyday driving. 

Ben Bilton
Ben Bilton Recommends
Recommended Variant: 1.0 Tsi Se Technology 5dr
 
Why This Small SUV Deserves Your Spotlight?
A perfect family vehicle which can appeal to everyone in the family. 
  • A complete value for money.

Toyota CHR

Retail Price starts from: £31,290
Motorfinity Price starts from: £24,500
Savings: £6,790
Motorfinity Leasing Price: £305.50
Nominated by: Amy Johnson

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Modern, dynamic and spirited. The CHR 2024 upgrades the already popular CHR from Toyota. The vehicle is more stylish than ever, one of the best hybrid power trains in the market, making it an attractive choice in the small SUV segment. 

The CHR is on the list because of its modern and futuristic design and highly appeals to the audience seeking more than just a utilitarian vehicle.

Like the Yaris Cross, the vehicle is highly economical thanks to the efficient hybrid power train. The car's base model retains the 1.8L hybrid power train system, but the 2024 variant brings up a new 2.0-litre option with all-wheel drive and more power. The high-power variants offer a fantastic driving experience, further enhancing the experience.

toyota chr 2024 variant


The CHR is one of the most expensive small SUVs on the list. It ticks all the boxes by providing a modern and sleek look- one of the best for small SUVs- and an all-around fantastic driving experience, but all comes at a price.

Brady O'Donnel
Brady O'Donnell
Recommended Variant: 1.8 Hybrid Icon 5dr CVT
 
Why This Small SUV Deserves Your Spotlight 
Modern Dynamic Look and smart functional design
Comfortable Driving experience

Mazda CX-5

Retail Price starts from: £26,549
Motorfinity Price starts from: £24,895
Savings: £2,654
Motorfinity Leasing Price starts from: £382.63
Nominated by: Faye

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The powerful and efficient driving and other aspects offer complete value for money, making the Mazda CX-5 an attractive choice in the small SUV segment. 

The price and the amenities that come with the price tag have a unique value proposition. All-wheel drive, leather upholstery, modern tech, and heated seats all make the top contenders in the small SUV segment. 

The exterior is modern and well-designed, and the vehicle does not look utilitarian in any aspect. It is equipped with something for everyone, making it a true all-rounder. In the 2024 variant, the car has even overcome its limitations and is much improved upon, and the vehicle does take the spot in the list.

grey mazda cx 5 motorfinity


The vehicle also comes in various trims and specs, making it a car for everyone. Every trim is made with different attributes, attracting diverse audiences. Also, the car comes in 2.0 petrol and 2.2 diesel engine options, which makes it highly powerful in its segment.


Faye
Faye Recommends
Recommended Variant: 2.0 e-Skyactiv G MHEV Centre-Line 5dr
 
Why This Small SUV Deserves Your Spotlight?
Value for money
Powerful engine
A complete all rounder

Vauxhall Cross land

Retail Price starts from: £30,330
Motorfinity Price starts from: £27,221
Savings: £3,109
Motorfinity Leasing Price: £397.81
Nominated by: Chris Marren

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An SUV that is made for everyday use, it is blended with modern technology, making it an attractive choice when it comes to practicality and modernity. 

The design is unique and does stand out. The bold vizor grille gives the Cross land a broader and more aggressive stance. It is a signature design element of newer Vauxhall models, offering a recognisable identity. All the design elements in the Cross land come together to give the car a modern, practical and somewhat sporty visual presence. It stands out from its plain rival but still maintains the traditional SUV design elements.

vauxhall crossland motorfinity

The vehicle has two engine options: 1.2L turbocharged with 108 bhp and turbocharged three-cylinder with 128 bhp. These engine options are suitable for most everyday driving needs but are weak compared to the other SUVs on the list.

chris marren
Chris Recommends
Recommended Variant: 1.2 Turbo GS 5dr
 
Why This Small SUV Deserves Your Spotlight?
Fun and dynamic driving experience. 
Modern and comfortable interior.
Highly practical.

Volkswagen T-Roc

Retail Price starts from: £33,839
Motorfinity Price starts from: £29,252
Savings: £4,587
Motorfinity Leasing Price: £316.88
Nominated by: Daniel Briggs

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The other vehicle on the list based on a popular hatchback is the Volkswagen T-Roc, based on the most popular Volkswagen Golf.

Regarding the design, it is the most exciting Volkswagen and stands out. It is bold and stylish- sharp lines, distinctive headlights, and an optional two-tone roof offering a dynamic and modern look. The SUV-inspired ruggedness has to be the most vital point as it is a feature often missed by the small SUVs in its class. 

Compared to the exterior, the interior does not create that much impact but is a valuable and thoughtful design. The interior is simple and equipped with modern tech, including a standard touchscreen display, wireless charging, digital instrument cluster, and available head-up display, making it an attractive choice in the small SUV category.

blue volkswagen t roc motorfinity


The SUV has four different engine options: 1.0L 3-cylinder petrol, 2.0L four-cylinder petrol, 1.5L 4-cylinder petrol, and 2.0L 4-cylinder diesel, which cater to various needs. There is also an upcoming hybrid, which shows Volkswagen's motive to attract multiple audiences and increase its reach.

Daniel Briggs
Daniel Recommends
Recommended Variant: 1.5 Tsi Evo R-line 5dr
 
Why This Small SUV Deserves Your Spotlight 
Modern and Stylish exterior.
Advanced tech.
High practicality.


This article presents a curated list of vehicle models that our experts at Motorfinity believe offer exceptional value, considering both their price and functionality. The selections are driven solely by the personal opinions of our seasoned professionals and are made without any bias towards a specific brand. 

Each vehicle on the list has its USP and can offer immense value based on your specific needs. 


Motorfinity 

At Motorfinity we provide exclusive car discount on new cars to UK key forces, you can enjoy up to 32% discounts on all makes and models. 

Are you eligible?

Our nation’s Armed Forces, Veterans, Emergency Services, NHS, Police and Prison Services, the Education and Social Care sectors and more form our eligible audience.



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