The Best Compact SUVs in 2025
Looking at all the compact SUVs and crossovers available on the market, the team at The Car Guide has identified the three models that represent the best buys for 2025.
These are by far some of the most popular vehicles in Canada thanks to their combination of size, practicality, comfort and fuel economy. Many of them are also available with one or two hybrid options.
- Also: The Best Subcompact SUVs in 2025
- Also: 2025 Toyota RAV4 Gets Minor Price Hikes Ahead of Full Redesign
1. Toyota RAV4
Just like last year, the Toyota RAV4 sits at the top of our ranking of the best compact SUVs in Canada in 2025. There are no changes for the 2025 model year, mind you. The next generation is expected to debut later this year as a 2026 model.
The current RAV4 looks a bit dated inside and out when compared to some of its more recent competitors. That said, it remains a safe and smart pick in the segment, with pretty much everything you need to meet the needs of small families. Beyond the somewhat boring dashboard, the interior proves spacious and accommodating, while the trunk can fit 946-1,062 litres of cargo depending on the model.
On the road, this Japanese compact SUV is a pleasure to drive, with a comfortable ride and safe handling in summer and winter alike. The gas-powered models are louder under hard acceleration, so we prefer the hybrid variant (HEV), which is quieter and also more responsive thanks to extra torque at low revs. Obviously, it’s more fuel-efficient, too, achieving a combined 6 L/100 km.
The RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV, formerly known as RAV4 Prime) is unchanged yet remains highly relevant. Blessed with an 18.1kWh high-voltage battery, it can travel up to 68 km without burning any fuel. Oh, and it comes with 302 horsepower.
Ultimately, the biggest problem with Toyota's SUV is that car thieves love it just as much as regular people, resulting in significantly higher insurance premiums. We advise you to check with your auto insurer before buying or leasing a RAV4 and to use a combination of theft prevention devices if you do bring one home.
2. Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V was our No.2 best buy last year and it stays that way for 2025. Slightly more dynamic than the RAV4, Honda's SUV stands out with pleasant handling courtesy of sharper, more responsive steering.
Inside, the CR-V is quite spacious and practical where the passenger compartment and the trunk are concerned. The latter can fit over 1,000 litres of gear. The cabin is also nicer and more modern than the RAV4’s, while the infotainment system is both conveniently positioned and intuitive to use.
Although less fuel-efficient than the RAV4 Hybrid, the CR-V Hybrid still proves more frugal than any gas-powered compact SUV. No plug-in hybrid variant is available, however, and prices are pretty steep, which is why the CR-V lands in second place in our ranking. By the way, just like the RAV4, Honda’s SUV is highly coveted by thieves, so don’t forget that.
3- Hyundai Tucson/Kia Sportage
As in the past two years, the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage round out our top 3 in the compact SUV segment. Both Korean vehicles are available in a wide range of models with gasoline, hybrid and plug-in hybrid options to choose from.
For 2025, the Tucson benefits from several notable enhancements including a refreshed exterior, a more ergonomic dashboard with additional physical buttons, a brand new and more adventurous XRT model, as well as a more powerful (+7 hp) PHEV model. The Sportage will get a mid-cycle update of its own… for the 2026 model year. Look for cosmetic revisions on the outside, key changes to the cabin, improved connectivity and a slightly more powerful PHEV model following the lead of the 2025 Tucson.
Speaking of which, the Tucson PHEV and Sportage PHEV deliver 53 km and 55 km of pure electric range, respectively. While not close to matching the RAV4 PHEV’s range, these two models are still great for drivers who can easily and regularly keep their vehicle plugged in at home.
On the road, we find the Tucson to be more engaging to drive than the Sportage, but not by much. Both SUVs offer generous interior space and a large trunk. Last but not least, they come with a 5-year/100,000km vehicle warranty whereas the CR-V and RAV4 are backed for 3 years or 60,000 km.
For more information and ratings, don’t miss our Best Buys section.