SUVs continue to dominate the automotive market, offering versatility and space that many drivers crave. While new car prices have surged in recent years, the good news is that there are still excellent, affordable SUV options available in 2024. If you’re looking to get the most value for your money without sacrificing the SUV style and functionality you desire, you’ve come to the right place. Many of these models come in at an average listed price around $24,000, making them significantly more budget-friendly than the typical new vehicle.
Interestingly, brands like Hyundai and Kia are leading the charge in this affordable SUV segment, but you might be surprised to see a strong presence from General Motors as well, with multiple offerings from Chevrolet and Buick. However, one major Detroit automaker is notably absent: Ford doesn’t currently offer any SUVs in the sub-$30,000 price range.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of the least expensive SUVs you can buy in America in 2024, ranked from the most affordable to slightly pricier, helping you navigate the market for Cheap Suvs 2024. All prices listed include destination charges, which generally hover around $1,350, although Buick and Chevrolet have lower fees at $1,095, while Jeep’s destination charge is the highest in this group at $1,595.
1. Hyundai Venue: $21,135
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
Leading the pack as the most affordable SUV in America, the Hyundai Venue boasts a base price that dips just under $20,000 before destination fees. For a starting price of just over $21,000, you get a fuel-efficient 1.6L four-cylinder engine producing 121 horsepower, an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a surprisingly generous suite of driver-assist technologies. The Venue proves that cheap SUVs 2024 can still offer modern features and practicality without breaking the bank. It might not be the most powerful SUV, but it offers exceptional value for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable and economical vehicle.
2. Chevrolet Trax: $21,495
Fuel Economy: 30 MPG
The recently refreshed Chevrolet Trax presents a stylish and budget-friendly subcompact SUV option. Starting at just over $21,000, the Trax features a turbocharged 1.2-liter engine producing 137 horsepower, delivering adequate performance for city and highway driving. The base model includes an 8.0-inch touchscreen display, and while it’s equipped with essential driver-assist features like auto emergency braking and lane keep assist, it prioritizes affordability within the cheap SUVs 2024 category. Its attractive exterior and modern interior design make it a compelling choice for buyers seeking a value-packed and visually appealing SUV.
3. Kia Soul: $21,565
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
The Kia Soul, with its distinctive boxy design and hatchback-like versatility, offers a unique option in the cheap SUVs 2024 market. Refreshed in 2023, the Soul is powered by a 2.0-liter engine producing 146 horsepower, driving the front wheels. It comes standard with an 8.0-inch touchscreen and essential driver assistance features like emergency braking and lane-keeping technology. The Soul stands out with its bold styling and practical interior, making it a fun and functional choice for drivers looking for character and affordability in their next SUV.
4. Nissan Kicks: $22,400
Fuel Economy: 33 MPG
The Nissan Kicks delivers sporty aesthetics and impressive fuel efficiency as one of the top cheap SUVs 2024. Despite its athletic appearance, the Kicks is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 122 horsepower and is exclusively front-wheel drive. However, it compensates with a generous array of standard driver-assist features, including rear cross-traffic alert, auto emergency braking (front and rear), and lane departure warnings. Its infotainment system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it a feature-rich and economical choice, particularly for city dwellers seeking a fuel-sipping and well-equipped SUV. With a combined 33 MPG rating, it’s the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid SUV in this affordable segment.
5. Buick Envista: $23,495
Fuel Economy: 30 MPG
The Buick Envista, a newcomer to the cheap SUVs 2024 scene, presents a more upscale option within the budget-friendly category. Starting under $23,500, the Envista shares its platform with the Chevrolet Trax but offers a more refined experience. The standard digital interior features an impressive 11.0-inch center touchscreen and an 8.0-inch driver display. It’s powered by GM’s turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine, driving the front wheels. While its driver-assist systems are adequate, including auto emergency braking and lane-keeping aids, the Envista distinguishes itself with its premium styling and technology at an accessible price point, bridging the gap between budget and luxury in the cheap SUVs 2024 market.
6. Chevrolet Trailblazer: $24,395
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
The updated Chevrolet Trailblazer brings fresh styling and a modern digital interior to the cheap SUVs 2024 lineup. For under $24,500, you get a standard 11.0-inch touchscreen and a comprehensive suite of driver-assist features. The base model is equipped with a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower, powering the front wheels through a CVT. The Trailblazer combines eye-catching design with user-friendly technology and essential safety features, making it a well-rounded and attractive option for buyers seeking a stylish and affordable SUV.
7. Toyota Corolla Cross: $24,960
Fuel Economy: 32 MPG
The Toyota Corolla Cross, launched for the 2022 model year, continues to be a strong contender in the cheap SUVs 2024 category, thanks to its blend of fuel efficiency, reliable performance, and generous standard equipment. For under $25,000, it includes Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 driver-assist suite, an 8.0-inch infotainment screen, and nine airbags. Powered by a 169-horsepower 2.0-liter engine with a CVT, the Corolla Cross offers optional all-wheel drive, making it a practical and dependable choice with Toyota’s renowned reputation for reliability and fuel economy in the affordable SUV segment.
8. Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: $25,140
Fuel Economy: 27 MPG
The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport distinguishes itself as the most affordable SUV with standard all-wheel drive in the cheap SUVs 2024 market, starting at just over $25,000. It also 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, 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 148-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a CVT. The Outlander Sport appeals to buyers prioritizing all-weather capability and affordability, especially those in regions with challenging driving conditions, within the cheap SUVs 2024 bracket.
9. Volkswagen Taos: $25,420
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
For fans of German engineering seeking cheap SUVs 2024, the Volkswagen Taos is the sole option under $30,000. Starting at just over $25,000, the base Taos is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission, sending power to the front wheels. It offers a handsome digital cockpit with an 8.0-inch driver display and a 6.5-inch center screen. Driver assists are more basic, primarily including blind-spot monitoring and auto emergency braking. The Taos offers a touch of European refinement and driving dynamics in the affordable SUV segment, appealing to buyers who value a more sophisticated driving experience without a premium price tag.
10. Hyundai Kona: $25,435
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
The Hyundai Kona, redesigned for 2024, brings a fresh look and impressive standard features to the cheap SUVs 2024 category. Starting at just over $25,000, it boasts a 12.3-inch center display integrated with a digital driver screen for a modern cockpit feel. The base 2.0-liter engine produces 146 horsepower, and exterior features include 17-inch aluminum wheels and LED lights. The Kona offers a generous suite of driver assists, including rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring with auto braking, and lane-keep assist. It stands out with its bold styling, tech-forward interior, and comprehensive safety features, making it a well-rounded and appealing choice in the competitive cheap SUVs 2024 market.
11. Kia Seltos: $25,865
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
Refreshed for 2024, the Kia Seltos offers standard all-wheel drive and stylish design in the cheap SUVs 2024 segment. Starting at under $26,000, it’s powered by a fuel-efficient 146-horsepower 2.0L four-cylinder engine. The Seltos rides on 17-inch alloy wheels and features a digital-centric interior with an 8.0-inch center screen and a 4.2-inch driver display. Standard driver assists include auto emergency braking and lane-keep assist. The Seltos balances practicality with modern design and technology, making it a compelling option for buyers seeking all-weather capability and a stylish appearance within the affordable SUV category.
12. Honda HR-V: $25,950
Fuel Economy: 28 MPG
The Honda HR-V, Honda’s most affordable SUV, enters the cheap SUVs 2024 list at just under $26,000. It’s powered by a 158-horsepower engine driving the front wheels, with all-wheel drive available for an additional cost. The base model features 17-inch aluminum wheels and a well-regarded interior design for the small SUV segment. Honda also equips the HR-V with a full suite of driver assists, including hill-descent control. The HR-V is known for its practicality, fuel efficiency, and Honda’s reputation for reliability, making it a sensible and trusted choice for budget-conscious SUV buyers.
13. Mazda CX-30: $26,370
Fuel Economy: 29 MPG
For drivers seeking a sporty and engaging driving experience in the cheap SUVs 2024 category, the Mazda CX-30 is a tempting option. Starting at just over $26,000, its sleek design houses a 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering spirited performance. All-wheel drive is standard, along with an 8.8-inch touchscreen in a minimalist cabin. The CX-30 boasts a comprehensive suite of driver assists, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, cross-traffic alerts, and auto emergency braking. It stands out with its dynamic driving character, upscale interior, and sporty styling, appealing to buyers who prioritize driving enjoyment and sophisticated design in their affordable SUV.
14. Subaru Crosstrek: $26,540
Fuel Economy: 29 MPG
The Subaru Crosstrek, positioned slightly below the Forester in Subaru’s lineup, offers a smaller and arguably more stylish option within the cheap SUVs 2024 segment. Starting at under $27,000, it matches the Forester in ground clearance and offers the same EyeSight driver-assist technology and standard all-wheel drive. However, it features a slightly less powerful 152-horsepower 2.0-liter engine. The Crosstrek combines Subaru’s renowned all-wheel-drive capability and safety features with a more compact and youthful design, appealing to adventurous individuals seeking a versatile and affordable SUV for both city and off-road excursions.
15. Buick Encore GX: $26,895
Fuel Economy: 30 MPG
The Buick Encore GX, the first of two Buick models in this affordable SUV group, offers a more button-rich interior with an 8.0-inch touchscreen in the center console. Starting at under $27,000, the base model features a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine driving the front wheels with a CVT. Notable driver assists include automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a rear-view camera. The Encore GX provides a touch of Buick’s premium ambiance and comfort in a compact and affordable SUV package, appealing to buyers seeking a slightly more upscale experience without exceeding their budget within the cheap SUVs 2024 category.
16. Jeep Compass: $27,495
Fuel Economy: 27 MPG
The Jeep Compass stands out in the cheap SUVs 2024 segment for offering the most horsepower in this price range. Starting at just under $27,500, it’s powered by a 200-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. All-wheel drive is standard, along with 17-inch aluminum wheels and a large 10.1-inch touchscreen inside. While the Compass boasts impressive power, its standard driver-assist features are more basic, including blind-spot warning and forward collision mitigation. The Compass appeals to buyers who prioritize performance and Jeep’s iconic styling and off-road heritage in an affordable SUV, even if it means a slightly less comprehensive suite of standard safety technologies compared to some competitors.
17. Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross: $27,790
Fuel Economy: 26 MPG
Mitsubishi’s Eclipse Cross is another offering in the cheap SUVs 2024 market under $30,000. Starting at just under $28,000, the base ES trim pairs a 152-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter engine with a CVT and standard all-wheel drive. It also includes an 8.0-inch touchscreen, auto emergency braking, lane-departure warnings, and LED headlights/taillights as standard features. The Eclipse Cross offers a blend of sporty styling, standard all-wheel drive, and essential tech features at an accessible price point, appealing to buyers seeking a distinctive and well-equipped affordable SUV.
18. Chevrolet Equinox: $27,995
Fuel Economy: 28 MPG
The Chevrolet Equinox, while nearing the $28,000 mark, remains a viable option in the cheap SUVs 2024 category, especially considering a next-generation model is on the horizon for 2025. The current model offers a 175-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine driving the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission. Inside, it features a 7.0-inch touchscreen, and notable driver assists include auto emergency braking, a rear camera, and lane-keep assist. Opting for the current Equinox generation could present opportunities for deals as dealerships prepare for the newer, potentially pricier 2025 model, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a slightly larger and still affordable SUV.
19. Kia Niro Hybrid: $28,315
Fuel Economy: 48 MPG
The Kia Niro Hybrid stands out as the only hybrid SUV in our list of cheap SUVs 2024, prioritizing fuel efficiency and affordability. Starting at just over $28,000, it delivers exceptional fuel economy, achieving 48 MPG. The Niro Hybrid features a 139-horsepower 1.6-liter hybrid powertrain, front-wheel drive, an 8.0-inch infotainment screen, and a comprehensive suite of driver assists, including emergency braking and blind spot detection. A relatively recent model, in its second generation since 2023, the Niro Hybrid appeals to environmentally conscious buyers seeking the lowest running costs and best fuel economy in an affordable SUV without compromising on features or modern design.
20. Subaru Forester: $28,440
Fuel Economy: 29 MPG
Rounding out our list of cheap SUVs 2024 is the Subaru Forester. While it’s the highest priced on this list, starting at just over $28,400, a next-generation Forester is arriving in 2025, potentially leading to deals on outgoing 2024 models. The base Forester offers a generous 8.7 inches of ground clearance, standard EyeSight driver assist technology, and Subaru’s signature all-wheel drive. It’s powered by a 182-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. The Forester is a popular choice for its rugged capability, spacious interior, and Subaru’s reputation for safety and reliability, making it a worthwhile consideration for buyers needing a capable and dependable SUV, especially if potential deals on the 2024 model become available.
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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
