SUVs continue to dominate the automotive landscape, offering versatility, space, and a commanding driving position that appeals to many. However, with average new car prices reaching record highs, finding an affordable SUV can feel like a daunting task. The good news is that there are still excellent, budget-friendly SUVs available in 2024 that deliver great value without breaking the bank. In fact, you can find brand-new SUVs starting at around $21,000, essentially half the cost of the average new vehicle.
While industry giants like Hyundai and Kia are predictably prominent in the affordable SUV segment, you might be surprised by the strong presence of other brands, including General Motors with Chevrolet and Buick. Interestingly, Ford is notably absent from this list, highlighting the changing dynamics of the SUV market. For shoppers seeking a capable and budget-conscious SUV, the sub-$30,000 price range offers a wealth of compelling options.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of the least expensive SUVs in America for 2024, ranked from the highest to lowest price, including destination charges. Note that destination fees can vary, with Buick and Chevrolet having lower fees around $1,095 and Jeep leading with $1,595.
20. Subaru Forester: Starting at $28,440
Fuel Economy: 29 MPG
The Subaru Forester, a perennial favorite for its practicality and reliability, starts at $28,440. With a new generation Forester on the horizon for 2025, savvy buyers might find attractive deals on the outgoing 2024 model. Even at its base price, the Forester offers significant value, boasting 8.7 inches of ground clearance, Subaru’s renowned EyeSight driver assist technology, and standard all-wheel drive. Power comes from a capable 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 182 horsepower, making it a solid choice for those needing a dependable and adventure-ready SUV.
19. Kia Niro Hybrid: Starting at $28,315
Fuel Economy: 48 MPG
For buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency without sacrificing SUV practicality, the Kia Niro Hybrid is a standout option, priced at $28,315. As the only hybrid SUV on this list, the Niro Hybrid delivers exceptional fuel economy, significantly reducing running costs. This model, which debuted its second generation in 2023, offers a modern and efficient driving experience. The base model features a 139-horsepower 1.6-liter hybrid powertrain driving the front wheels, an 8.0-inch infotainment screen, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including emergency braking and blind spot detection. The Kia Niro Hybrid is an excellent choice for eco-conscious consumers seeking an affordable and fuel-sipping SUV.
18. Chevrolet Equinox: Starting at $27,995
Fuel Economy: 28 MPG
The Chevrolet Equinox, a popular compact SUV, starts at $27,995. Similar to the Forester, a next-generation Equinox is anticipated for 2025, potentially making the current 2024 model an even more attractive deal. While the upcoming model is expected to be larger and feature more advanced technology, the current Equinox offers a comfortable and well-rounded package at a competitive price. It is 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 infotainment system and essential driver-assistance features like auto emergency braking and lane-keep assist.
17. Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross: Starting at $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 of the Eclipse Cross combines a 152-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter engine with a CVT and standard all-wheel drive, a notable feature in this price range. It also comes equipped with an 8.0-inch touchscreen, auto emergency braking, lane departure warnings, and LED headlights and taillights as standard features. The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross delivers a blend of style, features, and all-weather capability at an accessible price point.
16. Jeep Compass: Starting at $27,495
Fuel Economy: 27 MPG
For SUV buyers prioritizing power, the Jeep Compass stands out in this price bracket, starting at $27,495. It’s the only vehicle in this affordable SUV segment to offer a robust 200 horsepower, thanks to its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Standard all-wheel drive and 17-inch aluminum wheels further enhance its appeal. The interior features a large 10.1-inch touchscreen, providing a modern tech interface. While the base model includes essential safety features like anti-lock brakes and stability control, notable driver assists like blind-spot warning and forward collision mitigation are also included, making the Compass a powerful and capable option for the price.
15. Buick Encore GX: Starting at $26,895
Fuel Economy: 30 MPG
Buick enters the affordable SUV arena with the Encore GX, starting at $26,895. The Encore GX offers a more premium feel compared to some competitors, featuring a button-rich interior with an 8.0-inch touchscreen centrally located. The base trim is powered by a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine driving the front wheels through a CVT. Standard driver-assistance features include automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a rearview camera, providing essential safety and convenience technology. The Buick Encore GX is a good option for buyers seeking a touch of refinement in an affordable SUV.
14. Subaru Crosstrek: Starting at $26,540
Fuel Economy: 29 MPG
The Subaru Crosstrek, priced from $26,540, offers a slightly smaller and arguably more stylish alternative to the Forester within Subaru’s SUV lineup. The Crosstrek matches the Forester’s impressive 8.7-inch ride height and includes the same EyeSight driver assist technology and standard all-wheel drive. While it features a slightly less powerful 2.0-liter engine producing 152 horsepower, the Crosstrek remains a highly capable and versatile compact SUV, especially appealing to those who value off-road readiness and Subaru’s reputation for reliability.
13. Mazda CX-30: Starting at $26,370
Fuel Economy: 29 MPG
For SUV shoppers seeking a sportier driving experience, the Mazda CX-30, starting at $26,370, is an enticing choice. Its sleek and dynamic design hints at its engaging performance. Under the hood is a 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, providing ample power for spirited driving. All-wheel drive is standard, as is an 8.8-inch touchscreen integrated into a minimalist and upscale cabin. The CX-30 also comes generously equipped with driver-assistance features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, cross-traffic alerts, and auto emergency braking, making it a fun-to-drive and safe compact SUV.
12. Honda HR-V: Starting at $25,950
Fuel Economy: 28 MPG
Honda’s most affordable SUV, the HR-V, starts at $25,950. It provides 158 horsepower driving the front wheels, with all-wheel drive available for an additional $1,500. The base model rides on stylish 17-inch aluminum wheels and boasts what many consider the most aesthetically pleasing interior in the small SUV segment. Honda has also included a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including hill-descent control, further enhancing the HR-V’s value and appeal as a well-rounded and budget-friendly SUV.
11. Kia Seltos: Starting at $25,865
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
The Kia Seltos, refreshed for 2024 and starting at $25,865, offers standard all-wheel drive and a fuel-efficient 146-horsepower 2.0L four-cylinder engine. Its design is also noteworthy, featuring 17-inch alloy wheels for a touch of style. The interior is digitally focused, with an 8.0-inch center screen and a 4.2-inch driver display. Standard safety features include auto emergency braking and lane-keep assist. The Kia Seltos combines practicality, style, and all-weather capability at a competitive price, making it a strong contender in the affordable SUV market.
10. Hyundai Kona: Starting at $25,435
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
The Hyundai Kona, also redesigned for 2024 and starting at $25,435, brings a fresh look and impressive standard features for its price. A 12.3-inch center display seamlessly integrates with a digital driver screen, creating a modern and sophisticated cockpit. The base 2.0-liter engine produces 146 horsepower, and the exterior features 17-inch aluminum wheels and LED lighting. Driver-assistance features are abundant, including rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring with auto braking, and lane-keep assist, making the Kona a feature-rich and affordable SUV option.
9. Volkswagen Taos: Starting at $25,420
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
For fans of German engineering seeking an affordable SUV, the Volkswagen Taos, starting at $25,420, is the only choice under $30,000. The base Taos is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. While driver-assistance features are more basic, including blind-spot monitoring and auto emergency braking, the Taos offers a refined digital cockpit with an 8.0-inch driver display and a 6.5-inch center screen. The Volkswagen Taos provides a touch of European driving dynamics and design in the affordable SUV segment.
8. Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: Starting at $25,140
Fuel Economy: 27 MPG
The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, starting at $25,140, is the most affordable SUV on this list with standard all-wheel drive and LED lighting. However, to achieve this price point, some compromises are made. The interior features a smaller 7.0-inch touchscreen display, driver assists are limited to forward collision mitigation and lane departure warnings, and the base model rides on 16-inch steel wheels. It’s powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 148 horsepower, connected to a CVT. The Outlander Sport prioritizes all-wheel drive capability at a budget-friendly price.
7. Toyota Corolla Cross: Starting at $24,960
Fuel Economy: 32 MPG
The Toyota Corolla Cross, introduced in 2022 and starting at $24,960, remains a strong contender in the affordable SUV market thanks to its blend of fuel efficiency, decent performance, and generous standard equipment. This includes Toyota’s Safety Sense 3.0 driver-assist suite, an 8.0-inch infotainment screen, and nine airbags. Under the hood is a 169-horsepower 2.0-liter engine with a CVT; front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional. The Toyota Corolla Cross offers renowned Toyota reliability and a comprehensive feature set in an affordable SUV package.
6. Chevrolet Trailblazer: Starting at $24,395
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
The Chevrolet Trailblazer, starting at $24,395, receives a fresh update bringing attractive styling and a modern digital interior. It features a standard 11.0-inch touchscreen and a wide array of driver-assistance features. The base model includes a smaller turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower, driving the front wheels through a CVT. The Chevrolet Trailblazer combines updated styling, technology, and affordability, making it a compelling option in the subcompact SUV category.
5. Buick Envista: Starting at $23,495
Fuel Economy: 30 MPG
Did you know Buick offers an SUV for under $25,000? The new Buick Envista, starting at $23,495, debuted recently and essentially serves as a more upscale alternative to the Chevrolet Trax. The standard digital interior includes an 11.0-inch center screen and an 8.0-inch driver display, creating a tech-forward cabin. The base engine is GM’s turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine (shared with the Encore, Chevy Trailblazer, and Trax), powering the front wheels. Driver-assistance systems are reasonably equipped with auto emergency braking, lane-keep and departure warnings, and a rearview camera. The Buick Envista offers a surprising level of sophistication and features at a very competitive price.
4. Nissan Kicks: Starting at $22,400
Fuel Economy: 33 MPG
The Nissan Kicks, starting at $22,400, boasts a sporty aesthetic but prioritizes fuel efficiency over outright power, with a 122-horsepower 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. It is exclusively front-wheel drive across all trims, but compensates with a generous array of features. Even the base S trim includes driver assists like 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. With a combined 33 MPG rating, the Nissan Kicks is the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid affordable SUV in the US, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious and eco-minded drivers.
3. Kia Soul: Starting at $21,565
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
The Kia Soul, starting at $21,565 and refreshed in 2023, offers a distinctive hatchback-like SUV style. Sharing the same 146-horsepower 2.0-liter engine as the larger Seltos, the Soul powers the front wheels. It features an 8.0-inch touchscreen and includes standard emergency braking and lane-keep assist. The Kia Soul’s unique design, practicality, and affordability continue to make it a popular choice in the entry-level SUV segment.
2. Chevrolet Trax: Starting at $21,495
Fuel Economy: 30 MPG
The Chevrolet Trax, starting at $21,495, presents a stylish and budget-friendly subcompact SUV following its recent redesign. It’s powered by a modest 137-horsepower turbocharged 1.2-liter engine. The base trim includes an 8.0-inch touchscreen, but driver-assistance features are somewhat basic, primarily consisting of auto emergency braking and lane keep assist. The Chevrolet Trax provides a modern design and essential features at a very attractive price point, appealing to budget-conscious buyers seeking a stylish and economical SUV.
1. Hyundai Venue: Starting at $21,135
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
The Hyundai Venue, starting at just $21,135, holds the title of the most affordable SUV in America. Its base price is actually under $20,000 ($19,800), with the destination charge bringing it slightly above $21,000. For this incredibly accessible price, you get a 1.6L four-cylinder engine producing 121 horsepower, an 8.0-inch touchscreen, and a commendable suite of driver-assist technologies. While not the most powerful or spacious SUV, the Hyundai Venue excels in affordability and value, making it an ideal choice for first-time buyers or those prioritizing budget above all else in their SUV purchase.
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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
