SUVs have garnered popularity thanks to their elevated ride height, spacious interiors, and commanding views of the road. However, navigating city streets can pose challenges for many midsize and large SUVs, which often feel cumbersome in tight spaces. For urban drivers looking for a more manageable option, smaller and more nimble SUVs present an ideal solution. Here are five compact SUVs recommended for city driving that effortlessly maneuver through busy traffic and fit into parking spots with ease. All prices listed include destination charges.

**Kia Soul**

Those living in bustling urban environments often face space constraints. For car buyers who seek a roomy vehicle with a relatively compact size, the Kia Soul is a standout choice. Although it is Kia’s smallest model, its boxy design leads to ample headroom and legroom in both the front and rear seats. Plus, the 24.2 cubic-foot cargo area is commendable for the size.

Experts highlight the Soul for its nimble handling and fuel-efficient engine, both essential for city driving. As urban living tends to be expensive, the Soul’s position as the most affordable option on this list is a significant advantage. However, it’s important to note that the Soul does not offer an all-wheel-drive option.

**Starting price:** $21,665

**Buick Envista**

To thrive in a lively city atmosphere, a vehicle often needs a distinctive touch. The Buick Envista earns a place on this list due to its striking design that allows it to navigate city traffic with style. This model manages to blend aesthetics with affordability.

Both the interior and exterior of the Envista exude an upscale vibe that belies its budget-friendly price tag. The interface of the touchscreen is sleek and user-friendly, and available features like heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a power liftgate, and rain-sensing wipers add a touch of luxury. However, the sleek design does come at a cost, as the cargo space is less generous compared to some rivals.

**Starting price:** $24,795

**Volkswagen Taos**

The Volkswagen Taos is a compact SUV that stands out among many competitors of similar size. It is designed for easy maneuverability, with an upright shape and large windows that enhance outward visibility—essential in city driving conditions. The interior offers generous passenger space and cargo capacity, and the engine provides enough power for quick starts at traffic lights.

Every 2025 Taos features an intuitive 8-inch touchscreen and wireless device charging. Moreover, it comes equipped with essential driver-assist technologies such as rear cross-traffic warning, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking as standard, making it a practical option for urban navigation.

**Starting price:** $25,420 (2024 model year)

**Subaru Crosstrek**

With standard all-wheel drive and a rugged design intended for outdoor adventures, the Subaru Crosstrek is equally adept in urban environments. Its elevated ride height not only aids off-roading capabilities but also enhances comfort when navigating things like speed bumps and steep parking entrances.

For those who often find themselves in a hurry, experts recommend opting for the upgraded 182-horsepower engine, available in all trims excluding the base model. The Crosstrek offers a simple yet sturdy interior, with controls conveniently located for ease of use. Despite its cargo area being modest at 19.9 cubic feet, its low loading floor and wide-opening hatch make it easy to load larger items.

**Starting price:** $26,540

**Mercedes-Benz GLB**

The Mercedes-Benz GLB justifies its higher price point with innovative technology, a smooth driving experience, and impressive performance. Its upright profile makes it practical, offering 22 cubic feet of cargo space and a comfortable second row. There’s even an optional third row, suitable for children only.

During evaluations, experts noted that the standard 221-horsepower turbocharged engine enables the GLB to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 6.5 seconds. For those wanting to reduce their commute times even further, the AMG GLB 35 model, boasting 302 horsepower and a sport-tuned suspension, provides a quicker ride. The GLB is also available with tech features like a surround-view camera system, though adding numerous options can significantly increase its overall cost.

**Starting price:** $46,950

**Conclusion**

These five compact SUVs are ideal for urban dwellers, combining manageable sizes, responsive handling, and efficient engines to make city driving a more enjoyable experience.