If you are in the market for a compact SUV, it is a great time to be shopping — and an even better time to be patient.
Right now, compact SUVs are still the most popular type of new vehicle in America. Buyers want something practical, efficient, comfortable, and still affordable. And automakers know it. That is why 2025 and 2026 are bringing a serious wave of all-new compact SUVs — across gas, hybrid, and electric — that are smarter, safer, and in a lot of cases, better looking than what is sitting on dealer lots today.
I have been digging into what is coming, and let me tell you: if you can wait six to twelve months, you are going to have some excellent new options to pick from.
Here is the full breakdown: which compact SUVs are coming soon, what they offer, who they are built for, and why they might be worth holding out for instead of rushing into a leftover 2024 deal.
Why 2025 and 2026 Are Big Years for Compact SUVs
Here is the quick background on why there is so much happening in this segment:
- Most compact SUVs last about five to seven years before a full redesign.
- COVID delayed a lot of launches — so now there is a backlog of new models rolling out in 2025 and 2026.
- Buyers want more hybrids and EVs, but still want gas options too. Automakers are doubling down on variety.
- Safety tech, infotainment, and efficiency have all jumped forward fast in just the last two years — so newer models are significantly better than older ones.
Bottom line: a lot of current compact SUVs look pretty outdated compared to what is coming.
Best New Gas-Powered Compact SUVs Coming in 2025 and 2026
If you still want the simplicity of gas — easy fill-ups, proven reliability, and lower upfront costs — these new models are worth the wait.
2025 Honda CR-V (Mild Refresh)
Honda is lightly updating the CR-V for 2025 after a full redesign in 2023. Expect minor styling tweaks, better infotainment with Google built-in, and possibly a new turbocharged engine option.
Honda knows the CR-V is their bread and butter — they are not about to mess it up. You will still get rock-solid reliability, a roomy interior, and excellent resale value.
Who it is for: Practical buyers who just want a no-drama daily driver that can handle everything.
Why it is worth waiting for: Updated tech, fresher design, and small improvements that will make it even better.
2025 Subaru Forester
The Forester is getting a full redesign for 2025, and it is a big deal.
Expect updated styling, a more rugged Wilderness trim option, better efficiency from a tweaked flat-four engine, and a nicer interior with a huge touchscreen setup like the Outback and Ascent.
It will still have standard all-wheel drive, great visibility, and legendary safety.
Who it is for: Outdoor lovers, snow state drivers, and families who want extra cargo space without a huge footprint.
Why it is worth waiting for: Subaru is fixing the few complaints people had about the old Forester (mainly infotainment and style) without ruining what made it popular.
2025 Mazda CX-5 Replacement (CX-50 Expansion)
Mazda is shifting away from the old CX-5 and building the CX-50 into a full lineup, including more gas trims and possibly a rugged off-road version.
Mazda does not just build cars that look good — they build cars that drive better than anything else in the class. Expect sharp steering, strong turbo options, and a classy cabin that feels way more expensive than the price tag.
Who it is for: Drivers who actually enjoy driving and want something a little different than the usual choices.
Why it is worth waiting for: New trims will expand choices and probably bring more standard features at better pricing.
Best New Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid Compact SUVs Coming in 2025 and 2026
If you want better fuel economy without worrying about chargers, the next two years are bringing some excellent hybrid compact SUVs.
2025 Toyota RAV4 (Full Redesign)
The RAV4 is finally getting a full overhaul for the 2025 model year.
Expect sharper styling, an all-hybrid lineup (including a new Prime plug-in hybrid), and way more technology inside. Toyota’s new infotainment system is faster, easier to use, and actually looks modern now.
The new Prime plug-in should offer around 50 miles of electric-only range — enough for most daily driving without gas.
Who it is for: Literally everyone. The RAV4 is the default choice for a reason.
Why it is worth waiting for: Improved fuel economy, much better tech, and a better driving experience.
2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid
Hyundai is giving the Tucson a facelift for 2025, and the hybrid and plug-in models will get even more efficient.
Expect better EV-only range for the plug-in, a cleaner interior design, and updated safety systems.
The Tucson already offered one of the best hybrid systems in the business — quiet, smooth, and real-world efficient — and it is only getting better.
Who it is for: Drivers who want sharp looks, strong warranties, and real value for the money.
Why it is worth waiting for: Hyundai keeps undercutting Toyota and Honda on features for the price.
Best New Electric Compact SUVs Coming in 2025 and 2026
If you are ready to go full electric, there are some seriously good compact EVs coming.
2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV
Chevy’s new Equinox EV is about to hit showrooms, and it is going to be one of the most important EV launches of the year.
Starting under $35,000, offering about 300 miles of range, and designed to feel familiar to gas SUV buyers, it is smart, affordable, and built to scale.
Who it is for: First-time EV buyers who want an easy transition without spending Tesla money.
Why it is worth waiting for: Real affordability and real range in a familiar package.
2026 Honda Prologue
Honda’s Prologue EV is a little larger than a typical compact SUV, but it is built to appeal to CR-V buyers looking to go electric.
Around 300 miles of range, Google built-in, and a design that feels clean and usable rather than futuristic for the sake of it.
Honda’s build quality and focus on easy ownership make this one to watch.
Who it is for: Longtime Honda buyers looking to make their first move to electric.
Why it is worth waiting for: Honda reliability plus Ultium battery tech from GM.
2026 Subaru EV Compact SUV
Subaru is working on a smaller electric SUV to slot below the Solterra.
Expect standard all-wheel drive, about 250 miles of range, and rugged design features perfect for outdoorsy buyers.
Subaru knows their audience, and they are building an EV for people who do not want to give up what they love about the brand.
Who it is for: Subaru loyalists who want electric without losing trail-ready toughness.
Why it is worth waiting for: Real-world usability and better size for city dwellers.
Quick Comparison Table
| SUV | Powertrain | Estimated Range | Best Fit |
| Honda CR-V (2025) | Gas/Hybrid | N/A | Practical families |
| Subaru Forester (2025) | Gas | N/A | Outdoor lovers |
| Mazda CX-50 Expansion | Gas | N/A | Enthusiast drivers |
| Toyota RAV4 (2025) | Hybrid/PHEV | 40–50 mi EV | Everyday versatility |
| Hyundai Tucson Hybrid (2025) | Hybrid/PHEV | 35+ mi EV | Value buyers |
| Chevy Equinox EV (2025) | Electric | 300 mi | First-time EV buyers |
| Honda Prologue (2026) | Electric | 300 mi | Honda fans moving to EVs |
| Subaru EV Compact SUV (2026) | Electric | 250 mi | Adventurers in cities |
Final Thoughts: Should You Wait for 2025 and 2026 Compact SUVs?
If you are in no rush, waiting until late 2025 or early 2026 is a smart move. The compact SUV class is getting a big reset — with better fuel economy, sharper designs, smarter tech, and finally, a real choice between gas, hybrid, and electric depending on what you want.
If you need a new SUV today, there are still some good deals on 2024 models. But if you want the latest and greatest, your patience is about to pay off.
Stay with BidForAutos.com — where we keep you ahead of the trends, on the road, and driving smarter every single day.
