SUVs remain a dominant force in the automotive market, captivating drivers with their versatility, spaciousness, and commanding presence. However, with new car prices reaching unprecedented heights, the dream of owning a new SUV can feel financially daunting. The good news is that affordability isn’t extinct in the SUV segment. Contrary to popular belief, a selection of new, budget-friendly SUVs is still available, offering exceptional value without compromising on essential features and modern technology.
While the average price of a new vehicle can easily climb into luxury territory, this list showcases SUVs that are priced to be genuinely accessible. Many of these models come in at around $24,000, effectively costing half the price of the average new car. Leading the charge in this affordable SUV revolution are brands like Hyundai and Kia, known for their commitment to value and feature-rich vehicles. Interestingly, General Motors also makes a strong showing with multiple entries from Chevrolet and Buick. However, one notable absence in this value-driven segment is Ford, highlighting the shifting landscape of affordable automotive options. For SUV shoppers seeking to stay under the $30,000 mark, the following models represent the best choices in America for 2024, ranked from the highest to lowest starting price, including destination charges. Destination fees generally hover around $1,350, with Buick and Chevrolet offering the lowest at $1,095 and Jeep having the highest at $1,595.
20. Subaru Forester: $28,440
Fuel Economy: 29 MPG
The Subaru Forester, a perennial favorite for its practicality and all-weather capability, enters our list as the ‘priciest’ affordable option. With a next-generation model on the horizon for 2025, savvy buyers might find enticing deals on the outgoing 2024 Forester. Even at its base price, the Forester offers significant value. It boasts a generous 8.7 inches of ground clearance, making it capable on light trails and in snowy conditions. Subaru’s renowned EyeSight driver assist technology is standard across the range, adding a layer of safety and convenience. True to Subaru’s DNA, all-wheel drive is included as standard, ensuring confident traction in various driving conditions. Power comes from a reliable 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 182 horsepower, providing adequate performance for daily driving and weekend adventures.
19. Kia Niro Hybrid: $28,315
Fuel Economy: 48 MPG
For buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency alongside affordability, the Kia Niro Hybrid stands out as the sole hybrid SUV on this list. It achieves exceptional fuel economy, significantly surpassing its non-hybrid counterparts. The Niro Hybrid is a relatively recent model, having entered its second generation in 2023, showcasing Kia’s commitment to modern design and technology. At this price point, the Niro Hybrid features a 139-horsepower 1.6-liter hybrid powertrain driving the front wheels. The interior is equipped with an 8.0-inch infotainment screen, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features including automatic emergency braking and blind-spot detection enhances safety and peace of mind.
18. Chevrolet Equinox: $27,995
Fuel Economy: 28 MPG
Similar to the Forester, the Chevrolet Equinox is also anticipating a next-generation model for 2025. The upcoming Equinox promises to be larger and packed with more technology, likely at a higher price point. Choosing the current 2024 Equinox offers a smart way to access a capable SUV at a more affordable price. It’s powered by a 175-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. The interior features a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and essential driver assists like automatic emergency braking, a rear-view camera, and lane-keep assist are included as standard.
17. Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross: $27,790
Fuel Economy: 26 MPG
Mitsubishi presents two affordable SUV options under the $30,000 threshold, starting with the stylish Eclipse Cross. The base ES trim combines a 152-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter engine with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive, a notable feature at this price. An 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warnings are also standard, ensuring a well-equipped and safe driving experience. Even in its base trim, the Eclipse Cross boasts appealing LED headlights and taillights.
16. Jeep Compass: $27,495
Fuel Economy: 27 MPG
For those prioritizing power in an affordable SUV, the Jeep Compass emerges as a compelling choice. It stands out as the most powerful vehicle in this price range, boasting a 200-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Standard all-wheel drive and 17-inch aluminum wheels further enhance its appeal. Inside, a large 10.1-inch touchscreen dominates the dashboard. While the Compass offers a potent engine and spacious infotainment, its standard driver-assistance features are somewhat limited compared to competitors, mainly including blind-spot warning and forward collision mitigation alongside essential safety systems like anti-lock brakes and stability control.
15. Buick Encore GX: $26,895
Fuel Economy: 30 MPG
Buick contributes two models to the affordable SUV segment, with the Encore GX being the first. The Encore GX presents a button-rich interior with an 8.0-inch touchscreen centrally located for easy access. The base trim is equipped with a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine, powering the front wheels through a CVT. Standard driver-assistance features include automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a rear-view camera, providing essential safety technologies.
14. Subaru Crosstrek: $26,540
Fuel Economy: 29 MPG
Positioned below the Forester in Subaru’s lineup, the Crosstrek offers a smaller, arguably more stylish alternative while maintaining Subaru’s core values. The Crosstrek matches the Forester in ride height and standard EyeSight driver assist technology and comes standard with all-wheel drive. It features a slightly less powerful 2.0-liter engine producing 152 horsepower, still adequate for most driving needs, making it a compelling option for those who want Subaru capability in a smaller, more affordable package.
13. Mazda CX-30: $26,370
Fuel Economy: 29 MPG
Drivers seeking a sporty and engaging driving experience in an affordable SUV should consider the Mazda CX-30. Its sleek and coupe-like design hides a potent 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering a more spirited performance than many competitors in this segment. All-wheel drive is standard, and the interior features a minimalist design with an 8.8-inch touchscreen. The CX-30 also comes well-equipped with driver-assistance features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alerts, and automatic emergency braking, making it a safe and fun-to-drive choice.
12. Honda HR-V: $25,950
Fuel Economy: 28 MPG
Honda’s most affordable SUV, the HR-V, delivers a balanced package of practicality and features. It offers 158 horsepower driving the front wheels (all-wheel drive is available as an option). The base model features stylish 17-inch aluminum wheels and a well-designed interior that is considered among the best in the small SUV class. Honda also includes a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including hill-descent control, enhancing safety and convenience.
11. Kia Seltos: $25,865
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
Refreshed for 2024, the Kia Seltos presents a compelling combination of style, features, and all-weather capability. Standard all-wheel drive and a fuel-efficient 146-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine make it a practical and economical choice. The Seltos rides on 17-inch alloy wheels and features a modern digital interior with an 8.0-inch center screen and a 4.2-inch driver display. Standard automatic emergency braking with lane-keep assist further enhances its safety credentials.
10. Hyundai Kona: $25,435
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
The Hyundai Kona also received a fresh redesign for 2024, bringing with it impressive standard features for its price point. A 12.3-inch center display seamlessly integrates with a digital driver screen, creating a modern and sophisticated cockpit feel. The base 2.0-liter 146-horsepower engine offers adequate performance, and exterior features include 17-inch aluminum wheels and LED lighting. The Kona is generously equipped with driver-assistance features, including rear cross-traffic alert and blind-spot monitoring with automatic braking and lane-keep assist, making it a tech-forward and safe affordable SUV.
9. Volkswagen Taos: $25,420
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
For buyers seeking a touch of German engineering in an affordable SUV, the Volkswagen Taos is the only option under $30,000. The base Taos is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, driving the front wheels. Driver-assistance features are more basic, with blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking as standouts. However, the Taos boasts a handsome digital cockpit with an 8.0-inch driver display and a 6.5-inch center screen, offering a touch of premium feel at an affordable price.
8. Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: $25,140
Fuel Economy: 27 MPG
The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport claims the title of the most affordable SUV with standard all-wheel drive. It also includes LED lighting as standard. However, to achieve this price point, some compromises are made. The interior features a smaller 7.0-inch touchscreen display, driver-assistance features are limited to forward collision mitigation and lane departure warnings, and the base model rides on 16-inch steel wheels. Power comes from a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 148 horsepower, mated to a CVT.
7. Toyota Corolla Cross: $24,960
Fuel Economy: 32 MPG
The Toyota Corolla Cross, introduced for the 2022 model year, continues to be a strong contender in the affordable SUV segment, thanks to its blend of fuel efficiency, decent performance, and generous standard equipment. This includes Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 driver-assist suite, an 8.0-inch infotainment screen, and nine airbags for enhanced safety. A 169-horsepower 2.0-liter engine paired with a CVT provides adequate power, and while front-wheel drive is standard, all-wheel drive is available as an option, offering versatility and Toyota’s renowned reliability.
6. Chevrolet Trailblazer: $24,395
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
A recent refresh has enhanced the Chevrolet Trailblazer’s appearance and interior appeal, now featuring a standard 11.0-inch touchscreen and a wide array of driver-assistance features. At the base price, it comes with a smaller turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower, driving the front wheels through a CVT. The Trailblazer combines updated styling with modern technology at an accessible price point.
5. Buick Envista: $23,495
Fuel Economy: 30 MPG
Buick surprises with the Envista, a crossover priced under $25,000. This new model effectively serves as a more upscale version of the Chevrolet Trax. The standard digital interior features a large 11.0-inch center screen and an 8.0-inch driver display, creating a modern and premium feel. The base engine is GM’s turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder, shared with the Encore, Chevy Trailblazer, and Trax, powering the front wheels. Driver-assistance systems are reasonably equipped, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep and departure warnings, and a rear camera, offering a good balance of features and affordability.
4. Nissan Kicks: $22,400
Fuel Economy: 33 MPG
The Nissan Kicks boasts a sporty aesthetic but is powered by a fuel-efficient 122-horsepower 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. It is exclusively front-wheel drive across all trims, prioritizing fuel economy over performance. However, the Kicks compensates with a generous array of features, even in the base S trim. This includes driver assists like rear cross-traffic alert, automatic braking (front and rear), and lane departure warnings. The infotainment system with a 7.0-inch screen features Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility, making it a feature-rich and economical choice. With a combined 33 MPG rating, it stands as the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid affordable SUV in the US market.
3. Kia Soul: $21,565
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
The Kia Soul, refreshed in 2023, offers a distinctive hatchback-like design compared to the more traditional SUV styling of the Seltos. It shares the same 146-horsepower 2.0-liter engine with the Seltos, powering the front wheels. An 8.0-inch touchscreen is standard, and essential driver-assistance features like emergency braking and lane-keep assist are included in the standard equipment. The Soul is a practical and stylish option for budget-conscious buyers seeking urban versatility.
2. Chevrolet Trax: $21,495
Fuel Economy: 30 MPG
Following its recent redesign, the Chevrolet Trax presents a handsome and budget-friendly subcompact SUV. It’s powered by a modest 137-horsepower turbocharged 1.2-liter engine. The base trim includes an 8.0-inch touchscreen, though driver-assistance features are somewhat basic, primarily including automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist. The Trax prioritizes affordability and updated styling in the subcompact SUV segment.
1. Hyundai Venue: $21,135
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
The Hyundai Venue takes the crown as the most affordable SUV in America, with a base price starting under $20,000 (before destination charges bring it slightly above $21,000). For this incredibly accessible price, the Venue offers a practical 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 121 horsepower, an 8.0-inch touchscreen, and a commendable array of driver-assistance technology. While not a powerhouse in terms of performance, the Venue excels in value, providing essential SUV practicality and features without breaking the bank, making it the ultimate choice for budget-minded SUV shoppers in 2024.
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Cheapest SUVs Of 2024: Ranked
- Hyundai Venue: $21,135
- Chevrolet Trax: $21,495
- Kia Soul: $21,565
- Nissan Kicks: $22,400
- Buick Envista: $23,495
- Chevrolet Trailblazer: $24,395
- Toyota Corolla Cross: $24,960
- Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: $25,140
- Volkswagen Taos: $25,420
- Hyundai Kona: $25,435
- Kia Seltos: $25,865
- Honda HR-V: $25,950
- Mazda CX-30: $26,370
- Subaru Crosstrek: $26,540
- Buick Encore GX: $26,895
- Jeep Compass: $27,495
- Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross: $27,790
- Chevrolet Equinox: $27,995
- Kia Niro Hybrid: $28,315
- Subaru Forester: $28,440
