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When buying any vehicle, you’ll want to know how many things can fit inside. For SUV buyers especially, cargo space is essential. Who wants to buy a small SUV that doesn’t have enough room inside for whatever it is you’re hauling around? That’s why experts measured every last model to discover which ones offer more storage room than others. If you’re searching for a small SUV with the most space behind the backseat for cargo space, here are the top three options:

3. 2022 Hyundai Tucson Limited – 21.5 cubic feet

A white 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid compact SUV model parked near a desert cliff
2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid | Hyundai Motor America

According to Cars.com, the 2022 Hyundai Tucson offers the third most cargo space of any small SUV. With 21.5 cubic feet available behind the back seat, it’s more spacious than many notable models. For example, the popular Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has 20.7 cubic feet. and the 2023 Honda CR-V Touring Hybrid is very close behind, with 21.4 cubic feet. However, there’s more to a small SUV than just cargo space. Is the 2022 Hyundai Tucson Limited worth buying for the trunk space?

Unfortunately, the Limited model is the only Tucson trim level offering this much cargo room. It’s the most expensive but remains fairly reasonably priced at $36,595. The range-topper comes with everything you’d expect of a loaded trim level. For example, a panoramic sunroof, a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, and many other amenities. Additionally, the base engine is punchy, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder offering 187 horsepower, but two others are available. Buyers can choose from the base engine or a hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrain.

2. 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid EX – 21.7 cubic feet

2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid has the most cargo space of any small SUVs.
2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid | Kia

Next, the 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid EX offers slightly more cargo space behind its backseat. At 21.7 cubic feet, the Sportage is actually tied with the first-place model. Barely ahead of the Tucson, it’s again worth noting these models are far ahead of more expensive options, like the Tesla Model Y. The 2021 Long Range version of the Model Y offers just 20.9 cubic feet of space behind its back seat. However, the electric model also has a front trunk, which is advantageous for most Teslas.

In the 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid lineup, there are three trim levels. The EX model has the most cargo space and sits in the middle of the three. Additionally, Edmunds says the Sportage Hybrid EX is the most popular trim among buyers. For $32,285, you get a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a hybrid system for a total output of 227 horsepower. Moreover, highlights of the standard features include heated seats, a wireless smartphone charging pad, all-wheel drive, and a heated steering wheel.

1. 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited – 21.7 cubic feet

Finally, the small SUV with the most cargo space is the 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited. It matches the room provided behind the rear seat in the Kia Sportage Hybrid EX. As a result, the two share the title for small SUV with the most cargo space. If you’re interested in buying a small family hauler with some storage capacity, the Tucson Hybrid Limited and the Sportage Hybrid EX are the best options.

In its hybrid form, the Tucson uses a hybrid system paired with a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, good for 227 horsepower. Additionally, the Limited trim is similarly equipped and priced to the non-hybrid version of the Hyundai SUV. It costs $39,345 and has a panoramic sunroof, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, a blind-spot camera, a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, and much more.

Small SUVs that can fit all your groceries

In conclusion, there are many small SUVs with plenty of cargo space. However, a few have more capacity than others behind their rear seats. The 2022 Hyundai Tucson Limited, the 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid EX, and the 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited are the most spacious models behind their back row. Buying any of these small SUVs will give you access to more cargo space than any other rivals in their class.

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