SUVs continue to dominate the automotive market, offering versatility, space, and often, enhanced safety features. However, with rising vehicle costs, finding a new SUV that fits your budget can be challenging. If you’re in the market for a capable and economical SUV without breaking the bank, you’re in luck. Despite the increasing average prices of new cars, there are still excellent affordable SUV options available in 2024. Many of these models come surprisingly well-equipped and offer great value for money, essentially costing around half the price of the average new vehicle today.
While established brands like Hyundai and Kia are known for their value proposition, several other manufacturers are also competing in the affordable SUV segment. General Motors, with Chevrolet and Buick, presents a strong presence, offering multiple models that cater to budget-conscious buyers. Interestingly, Ford is notably absent from this list, indicating a shift in focus or pricing strategy for their SUV lineup in the sub-$30,000 range.
This guide highlights the top affordable SUVs of 2024, ranking them from the higher end of the “affordable” spectrum to the most budget-friendly options. All prices listed include destination charges, which typically range around $1,350, with Buick and Chevrolet offering lower fees at $1,095 and Jeep having the highest at $1,595. Let’s dive into the details of these budget-friendly SUVs.
20. Subaru Forester: $28,440
Fuel Economy: 29 MPG
The Subaru Forester, a popular choice for its reliability and off-road capability, starts at $28,440. With a new generation Forester on the horizon for 2025, potential buyers might find appealing deals on the outgoing 2024 model. The base Forester boasts 8.7 inches of ground clearance, Subaru’s renowned EyeSight driver assist technology, and standard all-wheel drive, a signature feature for Subaru vehicles. It’s powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 182 horsepower, making it a capable and practical choice for various terrains and weather conditions.
19. Kia Niro Hybrid: $28,315
Fuel Economy: 48 MPG
For those prioritizing fuel efficiency without sacrificing SUV practicality, the Kia Niro Hybrid is an outstanding option, priced at $28,315. As the only hybrid SUV on this list, the Niro Hybrid delivers exceptional fuel economy, significantly reducing trips to the gas station. This second-generation model, updated for 2023, features a 139-horsepower 1.6-liter hybrid powertrain driving the front wheels. The base model is well-equipped with an 8.0-inch infotainment screen and a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, including emergency braking and blind spot detection, making it a technologically advanced and economical choice.
18. Chevrolet Equinox: $27,995
Fuel Economy: 28 MPG
The Chevrolet Equinox, starting at $27,995, is another SUV undergoing a generational shift, with a next-generation model expected for 2025. The current 2024 Equinox offers a compelling value proposition. While the upcoming model promises to be larger and more technologically advanced, the current Equinox provides a comfortable and feature-rich experience at a more accessible price point. 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. Inside, you’ll find a 7.0-inch touchscreen and essential driver assists like auto emergency braking, a rear camera, and lane-keep assist, making it a safe and practical family SUV.
17. Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross: $27,790
Fuel Economy: 26 MPG
Mitsubishi offers two SUVs under the $30,000 mark, with the Eclipse Cross starting at $27,790. The base ES trim combines a 152-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter engine with a CVT and standard all-wheel drive, a notable feature in this price range. The Eclipse Cross is also equipped with an 8.0-inch touchscreen, auto emergency braking, and lane-departure warnings as standard features. LED headlights and taillights further enhance its appeal, providing modern styling and improved visibility.
16. Jeep Compass: $27,495
Fuel Economy: 27 MPG
For those seeking a more powerful engine in an affordable SUV, the Jeep Compass, priced at $27,495, stands out. It is the only vehicle in this price bracket to deliver 200 horsepower, thanks to its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Standard all-wheel drive and 17-inch aluminum wheels add to its capability and aesthetic appeal. The Compass features a large 10.1-inch touchscreen, enhancing the interior’s modern feel. While it includes essential safety features like anti-lock brakes and stability control, standard driver assists are somewhat limited to blind-spot warning and forward collision mitigation at the base price.
15. Buick Encore GX: $26,895
Fuel Economy: 30 MPG
Buick enters the affordable SUV arena with the Encore GX, starting at $26,895. The Encore GX boasts a button-rich interior with an 8.0-inch touchscreen at the center, offering a blend of traditional controls and modern technology. The base trim is powered by a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine driving the front wheels via a CVT. It includes important driver assists such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a rearview camera, positioning it as a safe and well-rounded option in its class.
14. Subaru Crosstrek: $26,540
Fuel Economy: 29 MPG
The Subaru Crosstrek, priced at $26,540, offers a slightly smaller and arguably more stylish alternative to the Forester within Subaru’s lineup. It matches the Forester’s impressive 8.7-inch ground clearance and includes the same EyeSight driver assist technology and standard all-wheel drive. The Crosstrek is powered by a 2.0-liter engine producing 152 horsepower, slightly less than the Forester but still adequate for daily driving and adventurous weekend trips.
13. Mazda CX-30: $26,370
Fuel Economy: 29 MPG
For buyers desiring a sporty driving experience in a compact SUV, the Mazda CX-30, starting at $26,370, is a compelling choice. Its sleek design houses a potent 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, providing engaging performance. Standard all-wheel drive and an 8.8-inch touchscreen set in a minimalist yet stylish cabin enhance its appeal. The CX-30 comes generously equipped with driver assists, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, cross-traffic alerts, and auto emergency braking, making it a fun and safe option.
12. Honda HR-V: $25,950
Fuel Economy: 28 MPG
Honda’s most affordable SUV, the HR-V, comes in at $25,950, offering 158 horsepower driving the front wheels (all-wheel drive is available for an additional cost). The base model features attractive 17-inch aluminum wheels and boasts what many consider the most aesthetically pleasing interior in the small SUV segment. Honda also includes a comprehensive suite of driver assists, including hill-descent control, enhancing safety and convenience.
11. Kia Seltos: $25,865
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
Refreshed for 2024, the Kia Seltos, priced at $25,865, offers standard all-wheel drive and a fuel-efficient 146-horsepower 2.0L four-cylinder engine. Its design is modern and appealing, riding on 17-inch alloy wheels. The interior is digitally focused, featuring an 8.0-inch center screen and a 4.2-inch driver display. Standard auto emergency braking with lane-keep assist adds to its safety credentials, making it a stylish and practical choice.
10. Hyundai Kona: $25,435
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
The Hyundai Kona also received a fresh redesign for 2024, starting at $25,435, and brings impressive standard features for its price point. A 12.3-inch center display seamlessly integrates with a digital driver screen, creating a modern and user-friendly cockpit. The base 2.0-liter engine produces 146 horsepower and performs admirably. Exterior features include 17-inch aluminum wheels and LED lighting. The Kona is well-equipped with driver assists, including rear cross-traffic alert, blind spot monitoring with auto braking, and lane-keep assist, emphasizing both technology and safety.
9. Volkswagen Taos: $25,420
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
For fans of German engineering seeking an affordable SUV, the Volkswagen Taos, priced at $25,420, 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, sending power to the front wheels. Driver assists are somewhat basic, with blind-spot monitoring and auto emergency braking as key features. However, it 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.
8. Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: $25,140
Fuel Economy: 27 MPG
The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, starting at $25,140, is the most affordable SUV offering standard all-wheel drive, and it includes LED lights as standard. However, to achieve this price point, some trade-offs are made. The interior features a smaller 7.0-inch touchscreen, and driver assists are limited to forward collision mitigation and lane departure warnings. The base model also comes with 16-inch steel wheels. It’s powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 148 horsepower, connected to a CVT.
7. Toyota Corolla Cross: $24,960
Fuel Economy: 32 MPG
The Toyota Corolla Cross, introduced for the 2022 model year and priced at $24,960, continues to be a strong contender in the affordable SUV segment. It combines good fuel economy, adequate performance, and a generous list of standard equipment. This includes Toyota’s Safety Sense 3.0 driver-assist suite, an 8.0-inch infotainment screen, and nine airbags throughout the cabin. A 169-horsepower 2.0-liter engine with a CVT powers the Corolla Cross, with front-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive available as an option.
6. Chevrolet Trailblazer: $24,395
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
A recent refresh has enhanced the Chevrolet Trailblazer, starting at $24,395, with updated styling and a modern digital interior. It features a standard 11.0-inch touchscreen and a wide array of driver assists. At the base price, it’s equipped with a smaller turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower, driving the front wheels through a CVT. The Trailblazer offers a compelling blend of style, technology, and affordability.
5. Buick Envista: $23,495
Fuel Economy: 30 MPG
Buick further expands its affordable offerings with the Envista, priced at $23,495. The Envista, a newer model, essentially serves as a more upscale version of the Chevrolet Trax. Its standard digital interior includes an 11.0-inch center screen and an 8.0-inch driver display, offering a premium feel at a budget-friendly price. It shares GM’s turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine with other models in this range, powering the front wheels. Driver assist systems are reasonably equipped with auto emergency braking, lane-keep and departure warnings, and a rear camera.
4. Nissan Kicks: $22,400
Fuel Economy: 33 MPG
The Nissan Kicks, starting at $22,400, boasts sporty aesthetics but is powered by a 122-horsepower 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. It is exclusively front-wheel drive across all trims, focusing on efficiency and value over outright performance. Despite its modest power, the Kicks compensates with features. Even the base S trim comes with a wide range of driver assists, including rear cross-traffic alert, auto braking (front and rear), and lane departure warnings. The infotainment system includes a 7.0-inch screen with Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility. With a combined 33 MPG rating, it is the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid SUV in this affordable segment.
3. Kia Soul: $21,565
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
The Kia Soul, priced at $21,565, received a subtle refresh for the 2023 model year. Offering a more hatchback-like design compared to the larger Seltos, it shares the same 2.0-liter engine producing 146 horsepower and driving the front wheels. It features an 8.0-inch touchscreen and includes standard emergency braking and lane-keep assist among its safety features. The Soul’s unique styling and practicality continue to appeal to budget-conscious buyers.
2. Chevrolet Trax: $21,495
Fuel Economy: 30 MPG
The Chevrolet Trax, starting at $21,495, presents a stylish and recently refreshed subcompact SUV for budget-minded shoppers. Its attractive exterior and modest power from a 137-horsepower turbocharged 1.2-liter engine make it an economical and visually appealing choice. The base trim includes an 8.0-inch touchscreen, while driver assists are focused on essential features like auto emergency braking and lane keep assist.
1. Hyundai Venue: $21,135
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
The Hyundai Venue, priced at $21,135, stands out as the most affordable SUV in America, with a base price starting under $20,000 before destination charges. For this price, you get a 1.6L four-cylinder engine producing 121 horsepower, an 8.0-inch touchscreen, and a respectable array of driver-assist technology. While not designed for high performance, the Venue excels in affordability and practicality, making it an excellent option for those prioritizing budget and essential SUV features.
More Affordable Options
20 Cheapest Cars, Trucks, And SUVs To Buy In 2024
20 Best Affordable Sports Cars Of 2024
Cheapest SUVs Of 2024
- 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
Share this Story
Got a tip for us? Email: [email protected]
