The compact SUV segment is bulging at the seams with models from just about every car maker. It's the UK's second most popular car type and more than 50,000 compact SUVs were sold into the true fleet market last year.
We've assessed the running costs, practicality and drivability of some of the segment's most popular models to create our top 10 list.
Our pick: Puma 1.0 Ecoboost MHEV ST Line (£26, 435)
PPM: 39 | BiK: 29% | Mpg: 52
The Puma is currently the UK’s best-selling car. It’s a great looking, practical and fun-to-drive SUV. A recent facelift brought a fresh look and a revised interior with a new, larger touchscreen.
Powertrain choice is limited, with only a mild-hybrid petrol unit having any fleet appeal. There is an electric version coming soon, however.
Our pick: Kona Electric 65kWh Advance (£38,540)
PPM: 44 | BiK 2% | Range: 319
We named the Kona ‘Best Compact SUV’ at the 2024 Fleet News Awards, recognising its efficiency, range and value for money.
Having been recently updated, the second-generation model has a higher-tech interior, smarter exterior design and more advanced electric powertrain.
Our pick: LBX Premium (£32,295)
PPM: 39 | BiK: 25% | Mpg: 63
A compact SUV might not seem like a natural fit for Lexus, but the LBX is a very likeable vehicle with some strong fleet credentials.
Its hybrid engine is surprisingly good on fuel and, as a result, BiK tax is lower than a conventional petrol equivalent.
Our pick: Mini Countryman E Exclusive (£44,525)
PPM: 50 | BiK 2% | Range: 286
The newest car on our list, the Countryman has just been re-launched with an electric variant available for the first time.
It’s larger than before and has a more upmarket interior and some excellent technology. The powertrain is shared with the BMW iX1 and delivers strong performance and a decent range.
Our pick: ZS EV SE Long Range (£32,940)
PPM: 45 | BiK: 2% | Range: 273
While the Puma is the UK’s best-selling compact SUV, the MG ZS takes the crown in the true fleet segment. Company car drivers and fleet managers clearly love the MG’s low P11d price and impressive capability. While it’s now a little dated and due an update later this year, the ZS EV is still a great choice.
Our pick: Juke Hybrid Acenta Premium (£26,855)
PPM: 36 | BiK: 26% | Mpg: 59
For some, the Juke is an acquired taste. But that hasn’t prevented it from being a top seller in the true fleet market. The Juke Hybrid offers low running costs and returns good fuel economy. It’s also fun to drive and well equipped.
Our pick: E-2008 54kWh Allure (£38,445)
PPM: 50 | BiK: 2% | Range: 252
The freshly-facelifted E-2008 gains a larger battery, improving range and performance. The E-2008 has always impressed in this segment, with a classy interior and dynamic drive. Alongside its improved range, the E-2008 also comes with a new infotainment system and updated connected services.
Our pick: Captur E-Tech Hybrid Techno (£26,155)
PPM: 37 | BiK: 26% | Mpg: 60
Renault is overhauling all the cars in its line-up and that includes the Captur. Now with a more grown-up look and feel, the Captur is definitely worth considering in this segment. In E-Tech Hybrid guise, the Captur provides adequate performance and good real-world economy.
Our pick: Kamiq 1.0 TSI 116PS SE (£24,695)
PPM: 38 | BiK: 29% | Mpg: 52
The Kamiq sits at the cheaper end of the segment, but it certainly doesn’t feel like it. Offering a spacious and well-equipped interior, the Kamiq is unlikely to disappoint.
While it lacks any type of hybrid or electric powertrain, the 1.0-litre petrol unit is still very efficient.
Our pick: C-HR PHEV Design (£39,090)
PPM: 37 | BiK: 8% | Mpg: 353
As the only plug-in hybrid on our list, the C-HR is a rare breed in the compact SUV segment. The all-new model retains a distinctive exterior look and combines it with a premium interior. The powertrain makes the most of Toyota’s hybrid expertise and is still able to return impressive economy even when the battery is flat.
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Matt has been an automotive journalist for eight years. As senior staff writer he is responsible for the automotive content on Fleet News and also contributes to Automotive Management. Prior to this, Matt worked in the automotive industry for 10 years.
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