The small SUV vehicle segment is one of the most popular vehicle segments in America today because of models like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V and Tesla Model Y. The best-selling small SUVs of recent years are practical and affordable models that function as commuters and family haulers equipped for the needs of a dependable daily driver.
When it comes to second-row space, not all compact SUV models are made equally. Some car buyers are looking for the small SUVs with the most legroom for adult-sized and tall passengers.
Here's a list of new small SUVs with the most second-row legroom for 2026.
4. 2026 Hyundai Tucson
Rear legroom: 41.3 inches
Starting MSRP: $29,700
The Tucson uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine to produce 187 horsepower. It achieves 25 miles per gallon
in the city and 33 miles per gallon on the highway.
Hyundai's small SUV has a massive cabin. Its second row is roomy enough for adults and tall passengers.
The Tucson is affordable and value-oriented. It's one of the best new small SUV options on the market outside of the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.
3. 2027 Kia Sportage
Rear legroom: 41.3 inches
Starting MSRP: $28,990
The 2027 Kia Sportage uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine to produce 187 horsepower. It earns 25 miles per gallon in the city and 33 miles per gallon on the highway.
Kia's Sportage is a close cousin to the Tucson and has near-identical performance specs to its South Korean relative. One of the main differences between the two models is, Kia's small SUV is more affordable than the Tucson.
Like the Tucson, the 2027 Kia Sportage has an incredibly roomy second-row of seats. Additionally, it was recently redesigned for the 2023 model year and boasts a modern design language. When it comes to value, the Sportage is tough to beat.
2. 2026 Honda CR-V
Rear legroom: 41.0 inches
Starting MSRP: $30,920
The 2026 Honda CR-V uses a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine to produce 190 horsepower. It achieves 28 miles per gallon in the city and 33 miles per gallon on the highway.
I drove the 2026 Honda CR-V Sport Hybrid model for a week for USA TODAY Cars. It feels agile on the road and it has a practical cabin with decent second-row legroom.
Honda's small SUV and its hybrid iteration are two of the best new small SUVs on the market because they're affordable, have enjoyable driving dynamics, and feature cabins and cargo areas spacious enough for the needs of small families. The CR-V is one of the best-selling new vehicles of the year, says Car And Driver.
1. 2026 Ford Escape
Rear legroom: 40.7 inches
Starting MSRP: $30,350
The 2026 Ford Escape uses a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine to produce 181 horsepower. It achieves 27 miles per gallon in the city and 34 miles per gallon on the highway.
Ford's small SUV has plenty of powertrain options and lots of second-row space for passengers. The 2026 model year is the final Escape small SUV before the nameplate is discontinued after a 25-year production history.
If you're a fan of the Escape nameplate and need a roomy compact SUV that doesn't break the bank, this may be the perfect model for you before its discontinuation.
Charles Singh is an Autos Connect Reporter for The Tennessean, part of the USA TODAY Network. Contact him at CSingh@Gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Compact SUVs with the most legroom in 2026: Ford Escape tops the list
