10 SUVs with a smaller trunk than the Honda Civic hatchback
Many consumers looking for a spacious vehicle to carry more luggage turn to utility vehicles and sacrifice driving comfort, overlooking certain hatchbacks and station wagons. That’s a shame.
The Honda Civic hatchback, for example, has a large 694-liter trunk. This capacity is unmatched not only by other compact cars on the market but also by many small SUVs and crossovers, which, in many cases, cost more. Here are 10 examples…
Honda HR-V
The Civic’s sibling, the HR-V, isn’t as practical as it used to be since the launch of its second generation, with a total cargo volume that’s smaller than the original’s. Its trunk now holds 691 liters, but the versatile Magic Seat rear bench with a lift-up seat cushion is no longer available. Additionally, towing is not recommended. At least it has all-wheel drive… as an option.
Buick Envista and Encore GX
Buick’s two subcompact crossovers look pretty good, but when it comes to practicality, they leave something to be desired. The Envista (front-wheel drive only) and the Encore GX have trunk capacities of 586 and 665 liters, respectively. Think the Envision compact SUV is better? Barely. Its 714 liters is only 20 more than the Civic hatchback!
Hyundai Venue
This comes as no surprise. The Venue replaced the Accent hatchback in 2020, retaining its powertrain but reducing its trunk capacity by nearly 90 liters. That leaves just 530 liters behind the seats and barely 903 liters with the seats folded down. That’s one of the main reasons why the Kona, although more expensive, sells much better.
Kia Niro
The beauty of the Niro is that it offers hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric variants—though the electric version is now being phased out. The hybrid can get as low as 4.4 L/100 km, which is fantastic. The interior, on the other hand, is quite spacious. However, the trunk capacity is limited to 646 liters. It’s also worth noting that this Korean crossover is front-wheel drive only, just like a regular car.
Mazda CX-30
The CX-30 is one of the few subcompact SUVs that’s genuinely fun to drive, thanks in large part to its precise steering and powerful engines. On the other hand, it sacrifices a bit of rear visibility and even more cargo space. Its trunk holds just 572 liters. Even with the rear seats folded down, you get less than 1,300 liters total, which is barely more than in the Civic hatchback.
Mitsubishi RVR and Eclipse Cross
The compact RVR has remained essentially unchanged since 2011. People love its reliable engine, Mitsubishi’s exceptional warranty, and the optional all-wheel drive system, but the trunk can hold a maximum of 614 liters of luggage. Positioned between the RVR and the Outlander, the Eclipse Cross offers just a bit more space, at 663 liters.
Subaru Crosstrek
A true benchmark in its class, the Crosstrek is the third-best-selling vehicle in Quebec, behind the Ford F-Series and the Toyota RAV4. That’s quite an achievement! However, the generous rear-seat space comes at the expense of trunk space, which is limited to a meager 564 liters. The Crosstrek Hybrid, added for 2026 and priced at a premium, is even worse, with only 527 liters.
Toyota Corolla Cross hybrid
While it may not offer an inspiring design or driving experience, the Corolla Cross stands out for its practical qualities: reliability, fuel economy, and resale value. Its hybrid version is particularly efficient (196 chevaux, 5.6 L/100 km), though it reduces trunk space from 713/750 to 609 liters.
Are you considering a 100% electric SUV? Keep in mind that these models all have less cargo space behind the backseat than the Honda Civic hatchback: the Kia EV3, Genesis GV60, Nissan Ariya and LEAF, Volvo EX30 and EC40/EX40.
