Best used small SUVs and 4x4s to buy now

Few areas of the new car market have exploded in popularity like the small SUV sector. Over the last decade, these models have continually been some of the best-selling cars in the UK, and this means that the best used small SUVs can now be found in abundance for some very tempting prices.

In general, small SUVs derive their underpinnings from superminis, a more conventional category of small car – which makes them rather easy and pleasant to drive without taking up much more space on the road. Their chunky 4x4-inspired looks and high rooflines also make them appealing to buyers, as well as being more practical – in most cases they’re genuinely roomy enough to handle family life. 

So space and style are two of the biggest considerations here, but so are low running costs and reliability. Above all else, though, these cars have to be affordable. The initial sting of depreciation has been felt by the first owner, so every model here boasts a competitive price range.

The best used small SUVs and 4x4s

Our expert road testers have rounded up the eight finest used small SUVs that you can buy right now, so read on below to find out more…

1. Ford Puma (SUV, Mk1)

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Ford has built its fair share of great cars over the years, most of which have sold in huge numbers. However, the Fiesta and Mondeo are dead, and the Focus will soon be, but as long as we have the Puma there’s still plenty to be happy about.

There are so many SUVs on the market nowadays that it’s very easy to feel overwhelmed by the choice, but the Puma stands out with its endless list of virtues; it’s great to drive, looks interesting, is well equipped, and it’s terrific value as a used buy. Throw in a big boot plus a well laid-out cabin, and it’s no wonder the Puma was the UK’s best-selling car in 2023. As a result, there are thousands to choose from on the used market.

The Puma initially came with a three-cylinder mild hybrid 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine rated at 123bhp or 153bhp, mated to a six-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. But then the 197bhp Puma ST joined the line-up, with a 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine and a significantly upgraded chassis. At first, only a six-speed manual transmission was available, but from March 2023 a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic Puma ST Powershift was offered, although power was downgraded to 168bhp, from a 1.0-litre engine.

Whichever version of the Ford you go for, it’ll be a blast to drive. No other small SUV can touch the Puma for driving pleasure, with its direct steering, light controls and high grip levels. The ride is firm, but not overly so, and that results in excellent body control on twisty roads. If there’s a fly in the ointment, it’s the slow-witted automatic gearbox, so unless you insist on two-pedal driving we’d opt for a manual transmission. However, the ST manual does without the fuel-saving mild-hybrid tech that’s fitted to all other Pumas.

2. Citroen C3 Aircross (Mk1)

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Citron has long set its own design agenda, and the C3 Aircross illustrates this perfectly. It looks funky and has an eye-catching cabin, but it’s also user friendly, spacious and easy to drive. Avoid the non-turbo 1.2 petrol and it’s perky, while all models are comfy and most have plenty of equipment. There’s no shortage of C3 Aircrosses for sale, either.

3. SEAT Arona (Mk1)

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SEAT has gone off the boil as a brand recently, but don’t let that put you off the Arona. It’s a winner, thanks to its comfort levels, good visibility, engaging dynamics, plus  it comes with some user-friendly infotainment systems. No wonder it peaked at 17th in our 2019 Driver Power survey, thanks largely to the great value it offers. 

4. Jeep Renegade (Mk1)

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With its charming retro looks and off-road ability, the Jeep Renegade is a small SUV with a big sense of adventure. It’s not so comfortable on the road, while the interior is cramped and features far too many low-rent materials. But the Jeep is cheap to buy and run, and it’s crammed with standard kit. Opting for a four-wheel-drive version makes the Renegade genuinely capable when the going gets tough, too. 

5. Kia Niro (Mk1)

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Buyers wanting a sensible and cost-effective used compact crossover are spoiled for choice, but one of the best is the original Kia Niro. Look past its rather bland styling and you’ll discover a spacious and well equipped family car that’s as easy to live with as it is to drive. You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to engines, too, with self-charging and plug-in hybrid variants as well as the all-electric Kia e-Niro model that claims up to 282 miles of battery range. Then there’s the fact that all examples will still have cover from Kia’s seven-year warranty.

6. Toyota C-HR (Mk1)

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One of the first mainstream machines to combine a rugged SUV stance with sleek coupe looks, the Toyota C-HR is a great choice for families wanting to turn on the style. Under the Toyota’s eye-catching bodywork is the same platform as the Prius, which means similarly engaging driving dynamics, with impressive smoothness and refinement, plus the option of hybrid powertrains. The well made interior is roomy enough, but that sloping roofline means rear-seat occupants may feel a little claustrophobic. On the plus side, a five-year warranty and Toyota’s reputation for reliability should mean the C-HR will prove drama-free.

7. Audi Q3 (Mk1)

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If you’re looking for a more upmarket small SUV then the Audi Q3 is a standout choice. Depreciation has pushed prices to the point where it competes with cars that were a lot less expensive as brand-new buys. You’re not just getting a premium badge with the Q3, either. The interior is very high-quality, looks great, and the in-car tech still stands up well compared with the latest new cars. It’s roomy inside, too – there’s enough space in the back seats for adults, even if the high central tunnel restricts legroom in the middle seat.

8. Peugeot 2008 (Mk1)

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Peugeot’s first attempt at a compact SUV isn’t the most glamorous option, but with prices now dipping below £4,000, it represents great value. Based on the original 208 supermini, it shares the same quirky i-Cockpit dash layout, but a stretched wheelbase means there’s much more room for rear-seat passengers, as well as a handy 360-litre boot.  It handles accurately, plus it was available with Peugeot’s Grip Control set-up, although you’ll need to check that any potential buy is still fitted with all-season tyres. All the engines are frugal, but the smaller petrols struggle when the car is fully loaded.

Now find out more about the best used cars you can buy...