Top Small SUVs with the Most Cargo Room: Read This in 60 Seconds: Discover Your Next Family Vehicle

When searching for a small SUV, cargo space is often a top priority for shoppers seeking versatility in a compact package. Automakers have responded by cleverly maximizing interior layouts, allowing small SUVs to punch above their weight in practicality. Here are some of the best small SUVs that offer the most cargo room without compromising on comfort, performance, or features:

1. 2024 Honda CR-V: Consistently ranked for its spacious cabin, the CR-V offers up to 39.3 cubic feet of room behind the rear seats and 76.5 cubic feet with them folded. The flat load floor and easy-folding seats boost usability.
2. 2024 Toyota RAV4: With 37.6 cubic feet behind the second row and up to 69.8 cubic feet when folded, the RAV4 is a versatile choice. Its wide opening and low lift-over height make loading large or bulky items a breeze.
3. 2024 Subaru Forester: Subaru’s Forester is lauded for its boxy shape and smart storage, offering 28.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 74.2 cubic feet when they’re down. It’s a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.
4. 2024 Nissan Rogue: The Rogue impresses with 36.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 74.1 cubic feet when folded, thanks to Nissan’s clever Divide-N-Hide cargo system for flexible organization.
5. 2024 Hyundai Tucson: Tucson boasts 38.7 cubic feet of cargo room behind the rear seats and up to 74.8 cubic feet with them folded. Its easy-folding seats and wide rear opening are user-friendly features.

As a designer, I often advise clients to not just look at numbers but also the actual utility of that cargo area. Interior design principles matter here, such as how flat the load floor is, whether the seats fold completely down, and if the opening dimensions allow for furniture or long objects. Efficient use of space can heavily depend on the layout—just as in room planner tools used for home design, ensuring every inch works for your needs.

Tips 1:

Consider your personal lifestyle: Families may want an SUV with a lower lift-over height for easy stroller loading, while solo adventurers might prefer one with roof rails and underfloor storage. Test how easily seats fold and check the shape of the space—cubic feet don’t tell the whole story.

FAQ

Q: Which compact SUV has the largest cargo volume?

A: The Honda CR-V is often cited as having the best cargo space in the compact SUV segment, especially with rear seats folded.

Q: Are there small SUVs with adjustable cargo floors?

A: Yes, models like the Nissan Rogue feature adjustable or “divide-and-hide” cargo floors that add versatility.

Q: How important is seat-folding design for cargo space?

A: Very important—completely flat-folding seats make it much easier to maximize and utilize the space efficiently.

Q: Is AWD availability related to cargo space?

A: No, but some AWD configurations can slightly reduce available cargo space due to drivetrain components underneath.

Q: Can a compact SUV fit outdoor gear or furniture?

A: It depends on the specific shape and accessibility of the cargo area. Always measure and test-fit critical items if possible before purchase.