Jump to:
[dipl_testimonial_slider testimonial_number=”7″ show_rating=”off” show_author_image=”off” show_author_designation=”off” show_author_company_name=”off” testimonial_per_slide=”5″ slides_per_group=”5″ space_between_slides=”14px” equalize_testimonials_height=”on” autoplay=”off” show_arrow=”on” previous_slide_arrow=”<||divi||400″ next_slide_arrow=”=||divi||400″ show_control_dot=”on” arrows_custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|true|true” arrow_background_color=”#FFFFFF” arrow_background_border_color=”#FFFFFF” testimonial_card_bg_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” show_opening_quote_icon=”off” testimonial_per_slide_tablet=”2″ testimonial_per_slide_phone=”2″ testimonial_per_slide_last_edited=”on|phone” slides_per_group_tablet=”” slides_per_group_phone=”2″ slides_per_group_last_edited=”on|phone” space_between_slides_tablet=”14px” space_between_slides_phone=”0px” space_between_slides_last_edited=”on|phone” slider_container_custom_padding_tablet=”” slider_container_custom_padding_phone=”|0px||0px|false|false” slider_container_custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” testimonial_card_custom_padding_tablet=”” testimonial_card_custom_padding_phone=”|0px||0px|false|false” testimonial_card_custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_orientation=”left” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”|0px||0px|false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”0px|||||” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”|0px||0px|false|false” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][/dipl_testimonial_slider]
Jump to:
Overview
What is the best small SUV? In a global market which receives new car options every month, it can be quite hard to find the perfect one for yourself. One of the top parameters you can use to sort compact SUV models is their speed.
In this article, we are going to list the fastest small SUV models according to their 0-60 mph time. So if you’ve been looking for a compact sports utility vehicle that reaches from point A to B in the blink of any eye while also keeping you comfy, read on!
- 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
- 2021 Acura RDX
- 2022 Infiniti QX50
- 2022 Audi Q4 e-tron 50
- 2021 Ford Bronco Sport
- 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime
- 2022 Hyundai Kona N
- 2022 BMW X2 M35i
- 2022 Volvo C40 Recharge
- 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLA 45
Table of Contents
Fastest Small SUV Comparison Table
SUV Name
2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
2021 Acura RDX
2022 Infiniti QX50
2022 Audi Q4 e-tron 50
2021 Ford Bronco Sport
2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime
2022 Hyundai Kona N
2022 BMW X2 M35i
2022 Volvo C40 Recharge
2021 Mercedes-AMG GLA 45
Price
$30,995
$39,445
$40,175
$51,095
$34,855
$39,565
$35,445
$47,445
$59,845
$48,600
Engine
Turbo 1.6L + 2 electric motors
Turbo 2.0L I4
Turbo 2.0L I4
2 electric motors
Turbo 2.0L I4
2.5L I4 + 3 electric motors
Turbo 2.0L I4
Turbo 2.0L I4
2 electric motors
Turbo 2.0L I4
Rating
7/10
7.5/10
8/10
8/10
8.5/10
8.5/10
9/10
9.5/10
9.5/10
10/10
Fuel economy
37 mpg
23 mpg
26 mpg
95 MPGe
23 mpg
38 mpg
22 mpg
26 mpg
85 MPGe
25 mpg
Performance (0 to 60 mph time)
7.1 s
6.6 s
6.5 s
6.2 s
5.9 s
5.4 s
4.9 s
4.6 s
4.3 s
3.9 s
NHTSA Safety Rating
4 stars
5 stars
5 stars
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
J.D. Power Score
82/100
76/100
N/A
N/A
83/100
N/A
79/100
N/A
N/A
78/100
#1. 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 [10/10]
Type: Subcompact luxury, Price: $55,550, Reliability score: 78/100
Source: media.mbusa.com
Why We Picked It: After seeing so many gorgeous contenders, you might be asking what is the best small SUV. AMG has done such a great job on the GLA 45 that you may not even feel the difference from the A-Class from which it is derived. Elegant design, amazing dynamics, strong acceleration– compared to other SUVs and sports cars, the baby Mercedes SUV is a true engineering marvel.
Pros
Tasteful visual customization all around
Faster 0-60 mph than many sports cars
Excellent handling even for an AMG car
Cons
Voice assistant could be more intuitive
Few driving assists are standard items
Ride dynamics is too stiff for an SUV
Specs
- Acceleration(0-60 mph): 3.9 seconds.
- Engine: Turbocharged 2.0L I4. Combined power of 382 hp and torque of 354 lb-ft.
- Fuel economy: 23 mpg city; 29 mpg highway; 25 mpg combined.
- Cargo space: 15.4 ft³ behind the rear seat row; 50.5 ft³ behind the front seat row.
- Towing capacity: Official information not available.
Features specialization:
- Carbon-fiber interior trim
- Voice recognition
#2. 2022 Volvo C40 Recharge [9.5/10]
Type: Subcompact luxury, Price: $59,845, Reliability score: Not available
Source: www.volvocars.com
Why We Picked It: Yes, there is a coupé on this list of SUV cars. The C40 Recharge has less internal space than the XC40, we know that, but the truth is that anyone who wants a stylish option will fall in love with it quite easily. After all, we are talking about 402 hp enclosed in a sporty design and paired with cutting-edge technology for everything and a performance-car acceleration time.
Pros
Gorgeous coupé SUV external design
Same EV powertrain of the Polestar 2
Several versatile tricks in the cabin
Cons
Dynamic behavior is not so engaging
No option of third row of seats
Coupé design creates sizable blind spots
Specs
- Acceleration(0-60 mph): 4.7 seconds.
- Engine: Two electric motors. Combined power of 402 hp and torque of 487 lb-ft.
- Fuel economy: 92 mpg city; 79 mpg highway; 85 mpg combined.
- Cargo space: 14.6 ft³ behind the rear seat row; 42.6 ft³ behind the front seat row.
- Towing capacity: 3970 lb.
Features specialization:
- Android-based infotainment
- Backlit trim panels
#3. 2022 BMW X2 M35i [9.5/10]
Type: Subcompact luxury, Price: $47,445, Reliability score: Not available
Source: www.bmwusa.com
Why We Picked It: Since the X1 is the typical small family SUV, BMW decided to have fun with the 2022 X2, especially the M35i version. Its downsized engine is as strong as a typical V6 while the signature BMW handling begs for you to drive the X2 on tight turns. On the other hand, the ride might be stiff and, as you can imagine, anyone seeking practicality should look for the X1 brother.
Pros
Agile handling for the SUV category
M35i version has excellent performance
Surprisingly adequate fuel economy
Cons
X1 is the most practical sibling by far
No electrified powertrain whatsoever
Sporty suspension makes the ride stiff
Specs
- Acceleration(0-60 mph): 4.6 seconds.
- Engine: Turbocharged 2.0L I4. Combined power of 301 hp and torque of 331 lb-ft.
- Fuel economy: 23 mpg city; 30 mpg highway; 26 mpg combined.
- Cargo space: 21.6 ft³ behind the rear seat row; 50.1 ft³ behind the front seat row.
- Towing capacity: Official information not available.
Features specialization:
- Harman/Kardon stereo
- Performance bucket seats
#4. 2022 Hyundai Kona N [9/10]
Type: Subcompact generalist, Price: $35,445, Reliability score: 79/100
Source: www.hyundaiusa.com
Why We Picked It: If you are not looking for the cheapest small SUV, this one is going to bring you lots of fun. Think of the 2022 Hyundai Kona N as a hot hatch on stilts: visual customization appears everywhere, the small footprint makes it delightful on a twisty road, and the turbo 2.0L engine has an overboost function which is just irresistible. It is not the smoothest SUV on the streets, though.
Pros
Just as engaging as a typical hot hatch
Overboost button delivers 10 extra hp
Beautiful exclusive visual customization
Cons
Ride noise is rather high on the highway
Suspension can be considered too stiff
No option of all-wheel drive
Specs
- Acceleration(0-60 mph): 4.9 seconds.
- Engine: Turbocharged 2.0L I4. Combined power of 276 hp and torque of 289 lb-ft.
- Fuel economy: 20 mpg city; 26 mpg highway; 22 mpg combined.
- Cargo space: 19.2 ft³ behind the rear seat row; 45.8 ft³ behind the front seat row.
- Towing capacity: Official information not available.
Features specialization:
- Harman/Kardon stereo
- Overboost function
#5. 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime [8.5/10]
Type: Compact generalist, Price: $30,995, Reliability score: 82/100
Source: pressroom.toyota.com
Why We Picked It: Toyota’s reputation is enough to deem it the most reliable small SUV. However, the 2021 RAV4 Prime can charm you in other ways: the excellent EV range at the Prime version, the surprisingly strong acceleration, and the comfortable cabin for up to five occupants. However, it is still a RAV4, so it is a bit too expensive, and you should not expect sporty behavior of any kind.
Pros
Impressive 0-60 acceleration for an SUV
Nice selection of standard driver assists
Appropriate room for five occupants
Cons
Prime version has a high base price
Desirable optional items are expensive
Dynamic behavior is rather uninspiring
Specs
- Acceleration(0-60 mph): 5.6 seconds.
- Engine: 2.5L I4 + three electric motors. Combined power of 302 hp and torque of 165 lb-ft.
- Fuel economy: 36 mpg city; 40 mpg highway; 38 mpg combined.
- Cargo space: 33.5 ft³ behind the rear seat row; 63.2 ft³ behind the front seat row.
- Towing capacity: 2500 lb.
Features specialization:
- Ambient lighting
- Faux-leather upholstery
#6. 2021 Ford Bronco Sport [8.5/10]
Type: Compact generalist, Price: $34,855, Reliability score: 83/100
Source: media.ford.com
Why We Picked It: The Bronco Sport deserves the title of best performance small SUV because it manages to be fast and capable. The turbocharged 2.0L takes it to 60 mph in less than six seconds, which is a beautiful bonus to a vehicle whose cabin has many tricks to maximize its utility, and a platform which receives improvements at the Badlands trim to offer serious off-road capabilities.
Pros
Rugged design is quite charismatic
Badlands trim is excellent off the road
Cabin is versatile thanks to many tricks
Cons
Highway ride behavior is rather harsh
Rivals are roomier on the back seat row
Backup camera is not well integrated
Specs
- Acceleration(0-60 mph): 5.9 seconds.
- Engine: Turbocharged 2.0L I4. Combined power of 250 hp and torque of 277 lb-ft.
- Fuel economy: 21 mpg city; 26 mpg highway; 23 mpg combined.
- Cargo space: 29.4 ft³ behind the rear seat row; 60.6 ft³ behind the front seat row.
- Towing capacity: 2200 lb.
Features specialization:
- Differential lock
- Washable upholstery
#7. 2022 Audi Q4 e-tron 50 [8/10]
Type: Compact luxury, Price: $51,095, Reliability score: Not available
Source: www.audiusa.com
Why We Picked It: What could be the best small luxury SUV if not this one? The Q4 e-tron builds up on Audi’s large SUV line by offering two options of fully electric powertrain, two body styles (SUV and Sportback), and several trim levels packed with many standard items. It may not be as practical as the Q5 ICE-powered sibling, but it is surely a compelling choice to keep up with the new times.
Pros
Many high-tech items are standard
Two body styles with the same trims
Lots of electronic driving-assist systems
Cons
External design is too predictable
Less cargo room than in the Q5 sibling
Weak performance on the base setup
Specs
- Acceleration(0-60 mph): 6.2 seconds.
- Engine: Two electric motors. Combined power of 295 hp; combined torque not officially available.
- Fuel economy: 100 MPGe city; 89 MPGe highway; 95 MPGe combined.
- Cargo space: 24.8 ft³ behind the rear seat row; 53.1 ft³ behind the front seat row.
- Towing capacity: Official information not available.
Features specialization:
- Adaptive suspension
- Wireless charging
#8. 2022 Infiniti QX50 [8/10]
Type: Compact luxury, Price: $40,175, Reliability score: Not available
Source: www.infiniti.com
Why We Picked It: The refreshed QX50 is among the best family small SUV models. It is beautiful on the outside and the inside, accommodates five people and cargo with plenty of space, and offers a comfortable ride that could be somewhat quieter. While the new turbocharged 2.0L engine has a revolutionary concept, it has not delivered an impressive performance for the category’s standard.
Pros
Handsome and athletic external design
Spacious cabin for five people and cargo
Comfortable seats especially up front
Cons
Subpar performance from the engine
Noisy ride because of the transmission
Infotainment system is not so intuitive
Specs
- Acceleration(0-60 mph): 6.5 seconds.
- Engine: Turbocharged 2.0L I4. Combined power of 268 hp and torque of 280 lb-ft.
- Fuel economy: 24 mpg city; 30 mpg highway; 26 mpg combined.
- Cargo space: 31 ft³ behind the rear seat row.
- Towing capacity: Official information not available.
Features specialization:
- Available Bose stereo
- Dual-screen infotainment
#9. 2021 Acura RDX [7.5/10]
Type: Compact luxury, Price: $39,445, Reliability score: 76/100
Source: www.acuranews.com
Why We Picked It: We believe Acura should appear more often in small SUV rankings. The 2021 RDX combines athletic design, well-equipped cabin and modern powertrain to quite nice handling for the SUV standards. It could go further in terms of performance, but the truth is that it makes quite a compelling package if you are looking to put more emotion into your everyday drives.
Pros
Great value for the luxury segment
Excellent handling when using SH-AWD
Long list of standard items
Cons
A-Spec trim is mostly about appearance
Transmission is rather slow at times
Touchpad controller is not intuitive
Specs
- Acceleration(0-60 mph): 6.6 seconds.
- Engine: Turbocharged 2.0L I4. Combined power of 272 hp and torque of 280 lb-ft.
- Fuel economy: 21 mpg city; 26 mpg highway; 23 mpg combined.
- Cargo space: 29.5 ft³ behind the rear seat row; 58.9 ft³ behind the front seat row.
- Towing capacity: Official information not available.
Features specialization:
- 12-speaker stereo
- Handling-focused AWD
#10. 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid [7/10]
Type: Compact generalist, Price: $30,995, Reliability score: 82/100
Source: www.hyundaiusa.com
Why We Picked It: One of the best SUVs for the money, the new Hyundai Tucson Hybrid has been completely redesigned for 2022. The Tucson now follows Hyundai’s latest guidelines, which dictate imposing design, refined cabins, and great equipment packages. There are two hybrid powertrains available and the self-charging one has surprised us with a rather quick acceleration. Definitely hard to resist this small SUV.
Pros
External design is quite impressive
Several trim and powertrain options
Great standard equipment package
Cons
No performance versions whatsoever
No option of third row of seats
Best versions are costly for the category
Specs
- Acceleration (0-60 mph): 7.1 seconds.
- Engine: Turbocharged 1.6L I4 + electric motor. Combined power of 228 hp and torque of 258 lb-ft.
- Fuel economy: 38 mpg city; 38 mpg highway; 38 mpg combined.
- Cargo space: 38.7 ft³ behind the rear seat row; 80.3 ft³ behind the front seat row.
- Towing capacity: 2000 lb.
Features specialization:
- Stylish creased design
- Wi-Fi hotspot
[dipl_separator _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/dipl_separator]
Which is the most reliable engine for a small SUV?
BMW X2 M35i has the most reliable engine for a small SUV. It is powered by a turbocharged 2.0L I4, generating a combined power of 382 hp and torque of 354 lb-ft.
Which is the cheapest and fastest small SUV?
Among the fastest small SUVs, Hyundai Tucson Hybrid is the cheapest of the lot, starting at $30,995.
Are there more Affordable Fast SUVs?
Yes, you can get fast SUVs that are also affordable. For example, Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, Ford Bronco Sport, and Hyundai Kona N are all available under $40k.
What is the fastest accelerating SUV?
Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 is the fastest accelerating small SUV. It goes from 0-60 mph in only 3.9 seconds.
Which small SUV has a good acceleration?
Mercedes-AMG GLA 45, Volvo C40 Recharge, and BMW X2 M35i are some of the small SUVs with good acceleration. These vehicles go from 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds, 4.3 seconds, and 4.9 seconds respectively.
Who makes the fastest compact SUV?
German luxury automaker Mercedes makes the fastest compact SUV. In the current SUV market, Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 is considered to be the fastest.
Which small SUV has the best gas mileage?
Among electrified models, Audi Q4 e-tron 50 has the best gas mileage– 95 MPGe. Among non-electric models, the fastest SUV with best gas mileage is Toyota RAV4 Prime.
What is the most reliable small SUV?
Ford Bronco Sport is the most reliable SUV so far, boasting a JD Power reliability rating of 83/100.
What is the fastest luxury SUV?
Mercedes-AMG GLA 45, Volvo C40 Recharge, and BMW X2 M35i are the fastest luxury SUVs.
Related content
FAQs
1. What's the fastest small SUV?
Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 is the fastest small SUV boasting excellent acceleration, a reliable engine, and impressive fuel economy.
2. Which of the smallest and fastest Suvs has the most reliable engine?
Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 and BMW X2 M35i have the most reliable engines. Both the models use a turbo 2.0L I4 engine.
3. What's the fastest 0 to 60 SUV?
Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 is the fastest 0 to 60 SUV.
4. Which brand offers the best safety features in small SUVs?
Toyota offers the best safety features in small SUVs. The RAV4, for example, has been named as a Top Safety Pick by IIHS.
5. What is the fastest 4 cylinder small SUV?
Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 is the fastest 4 cylinder small SUV, powered by a turbocharged 2.0L I4 engine.
6. Top 3 Differences You Need to Know when you buy an SUV? (Gas mileage, emissions, tires & brake)
When you’re buying a small SUV, you have to keep the 3 following points in mind: gas mileage, emissions, and tires and brakes. Your lookout should be for the model with the highest mpg rating with lowest possible emissions. As for the last point, look for a compact model with suitable tires that meet your requirement (city cruising/ off-roading), and one that comes with ABS feature.
