SUVs continue to dominate the automotive market, offering versatility, space, and a commanding driving position. However, with rising vehicle costs, finding a new SUV that fits your budget can be challenging. The good news is that despite the increasing average price of new cars, there are still excellent, affordable SUV options available in 2024. For car buyers mindful of their wallets, a selection of SUVs delivers remarkable value without compromising on essential features and practicality. These models prove that you can get a capable and comfortable SUV without breaking the bank.
Interestingly, brands like Hyundai and Kia lead the charge in affordable SUV offerings, but traditional domestic manufacturers like General Motors also feature prominently with Chevrolet and Buick. Notably absent from this list is Ford, indicating a strategic shift in their SUV pricing strategy for the current market year. For shoppers seeking a new SUV under the $30,000 mark, the following 20 models represent the most budget-conscious choices in America for 2024. All prices listed include destination charges, which generally hover around $1,350, with Buick and Chevrolet offering lower fees at $1,095 and Jeep having the highest at $1,595.
Here’s a countdown of the top 20 least expensive SUVs in the US for 2024, ranked from the highest to the lowest price:
20. Subaru Forester: Starting at $28,440
Fuel Economy: 29 MPG
The Subaru Forester, a perennial favorite, enters our list with a starting price of $28,440. With a new generation model slated for 2025, savvy buyers might find appealing deals on the outgoing 2024 version. Even at its base price, the Forester delivers substantial value, boasting 8.7 inches of ground clearance, Subaru’s renowned EyeSight driver assist technology, and standard all-wheel drive – a signature feature of the brand. Power comes from a dependable 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 182 horsepower, making it a capable and practical choice for various driving conditions.
19. Kia Niro Hybrid: Starting at $28,315
Fuel Economy: 48 MPG
For those prioritizing fuel efficiency alongside affordability, the Kia Niro Hybrid emerges as a standout option. As the sole hybrid SUV on this list, the Niro Hybrid unsurprisingly leads in fuel economy, achieving an impressive 48 MPG. This second-generation model, launched in 2023, offers a modern design and a well-equipped base trim. Priced at $28,315, you get a 139-horsepower 1.6-liter hybrid powertrain driving the front wheels, a user-friendly 8.0-inch infotainment screen, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including emergency braking and blind-spot detection. The Kia Niro Hybrid perfectly blends economy and technology in an affordable SUV package.
18. Chevrolet Equinox: Starting at $27,995
Fuel Economy: 28 MPG
Similar to the Forester, the Chevrolet Equinox is also anticipating a next-generation model in 2025, which is expected to be larger and feature more advanced technology. For buyers content with current technology and seeking affordability, the 2024 Equinox presents a compelling proposition at $27,995. It features a 175-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. Inside, a 7.0-inch touchscreen handles infotainment, and essential driver assists like auto emergency braking, a rear camera, and lane-keep assist are standard. The Chevrolet Equinox remains a solid and budget-friendly compact SUV choice.
17. Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross: Starting at $27,790
Fuel Economy: 26 MPG
Mitsubishi offers two SUVs under the $30,000 threshold, with the Eclipse Cross starting at $27,790. The base ES trim combines a 152-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter engine with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive, making it a capable all-weather SUV. An 8.0-inch touchscreen, auto emergency braking, and lane-departure warnings are also included as standard features. Additionally, base models come equipped with LED headlights and taillights, enhancing both safety and aesthetics. The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross provides 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
If power is a priority in your affordable SUV search, the Jeep Compass 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 further enhance its appeal. The interior boasts a large 10.1-inch touchscreen, offering a modern infotainment experience. However, the base Compass trim is somewhat limited in standard driver-assistance systems beyond essential safety features like anti-lock brakes and stability control. Blind-spot warning and forward collision mitigation are notable inclusions at the base price, making the Jeep Compass a powerful and feature-rich option for the budget-conscious buyer.
15. Buick Encore GX: Starting at $26,895
Fuel Economy: 30 MPG
Buick enters the affordable SUV arena with two models, starting with the Encore GX at $26,895. The Encore GX features a button-rich interior and an 8.0-inch touchscreen prominently positioned in the center of the dashboard. 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 rear-view camera, ensuring a balance of safety and technology in a compact and stylish SUV. The Buick Encore GX appeals to buyers seeking a touch of premium feel in the affordable segment.
14. Subaru Crosstrek: Starting at $26,540
Fuel Economy: 29 MPG
Positioned below the Forester in Subaru’s lineup, the Crosstrek offers a slightly smaller and arguably more stylish package at a starting price of $26,540. The Crosstrek matches the Forester in ground clearance and includes the same EyeSight driver assist technology and standard all-wheel drive. It is powered by a 2.0-liter engine producing 152 horsepower, slightly less than the Forester but still adequate for everyday driving. The Subaru Crosstrek combines Subaru’s renowned safety and all-weather capability in a more compact and affordable form.
13. Mazda CX-30: Starting at $26,370
Fuel Economy: 29 MPG
For drivers seeking a sporty and engaging driving experience in an affordable SUV, the Mazda CX-30 is a compelling choice, starting at $26,370. Its sleek design houses a potent 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering enjoyable performance. All-wheel drive is standard, as is an 8.8-inch touchscreen integrated into a minimalist yet stylish cabin. The CX-30 also boasts a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, cross-traffic alerts, and auto emergency braking, making it a safe and fun-to-drive option in the affordable SUV category.
12. Honda HR-V: Starting at $25,950
Fuel Economy: 28 MPG
Honda’s most affordable SUV, the HR-V, comes in at $25,950 and offers 158 horsepower driving the front wheels (all-wheel drive is available for an additional cost). The base model features 17-inch aluminum wheels, adding a touch of style, and arguably boasts one of the most refined interiors in the small SUV segment. Honda has also equipped the HR-V with a full suite of driver assists, including hill-descent control, enhancing both safety and driver confidence. The Honda HR-V balances affordability with Honda’s reputation for quality and reliability.
11. Kia Seltos: Starting at $25,865
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
Refreshed for 2024, the Kia Seltos starts at $25,865 and comes standard with all-wheel drive and a fuel-efficient 146-horsepower 2.0L four-cylinder engine. Its design is visually appealing, complemented by 17-inch alloy wheels. The interior features a modern digital layout 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 offers a refreshed design, standard AWD, and modern tech at a competitive price.
10. Hyundai Kona: Starting at $25,435
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
The Hyundai Kona also received a styling update for 2024 and offers impressive standard features for its $25,435 starting price. A large 12.3-inch center display seamlessly integrates with a digital driver screen, creating a contemporary cockpit feel. The base 2.0-liter engine produces 146 horsepower, and the exterior features 17-inch aluminum wheels and LED lights. A generous array of driver assists, including rear cross-traffic alert, blind spot monitoring with auto braking, and lane-keep assist, are also standard. The Hyundai Kona combines bold styling, technology, and safety in an affordable package.
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 sole option under $30,000. 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. Driver-assistance features are more basic, with blind-spot monitoring and auto emergency braking as key highlights. However, it features a refined digital cockpit with an 8.0-inch driver display and a 6.5-inch center screen, offering a touch of Volkswagen’s signature design and driving dynamics at an accessible price.
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. It also includes LED lights as standard. However, to achieve this price point, some compromises are made. The interior features a smaller 7.0-inch touchscreen display, and driver assists are limited to forward collision mitigation and lane departure warnings. The base model rides on 16-inch steel wheels. Under the hood is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 148 horsepower, paired with a CVT. The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport prioritizes all-wheel drive and affordability.
7. Toyota Corolla Cross: Starting at $24,960
Fuel Economy: 32 MPG
Debuting for the 2022 model year, the Toyota Corolla Cross continues to be a strong contender in the affordable SUV segment, starting at $24,960. It combines good fuel economy, decent performance, and a generous list of standard equipment, including Toyota’s Safety Sense 3.0 driver-assist suite, an 8.0-inch infotainment screen, and nine airbags. It is powered by a 169-horsepower 2.0-liter engine with a CVT, and while front-wheel drive is standard, all-wheel drive is available as an option. The Toyota Corolla Cross offers Toyota’s renowned reliability and comprehensive features at a budget-friendly price.
6. Chevrolet Trailblazer: Starting at $24,395
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
A recent refresh brings a fresh design and a modern digital interior to the Chevrolet Trailblazer, starting at $24,395. It features a standard 11.0-inch touchscreen and a wide array of driver assists. The base price includes the 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 in a compact SUV package.
5. Buick Envista: Starting at $23,495
Fuel Economy: 30 MPG
Did you know Buick offers a crossover for under $25,000? The new Buick Envista, starting at $23,495, arrived recently and 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. The base engine is GM’s turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine (shared with other GM models on this list), powering the front wheels. Driver-assistance systems are adequate, including auto emergency braking, lane-keep and departure warnings, and a rear camera. The Buick Envista provides a touch of Buick refinement at a very affordable price.
4. Nissan Kicks: Starting at $22,400
Fuel Economy: 33 MPG
The Nissan Kicks, starting at $22,400, boasts sporty styling but is powered by a 122-horsepower 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. It is exclusively front-wheel drive across all trims, but what it lacks in outright performance, it compensates for with features and fuel economy. Even the base S trim includes a wide range of driver assists, such as rear cross-traffic alert, auto braking (front and rear), and lane departure warnings. The infotainment system features 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 affordable SUV currently available in the US.
3. Kia Soul: Starting at $21,565
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
The Kia Soul, starting at $21,565, received a minor refresh for the 2023 model year. Offering a 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 standard driver-assistance equipment includes emergency braking and lane-keep assist. The Kia Soul provides a unique and practical design with essential features at a very attractive price point.
2. Chevrolet Trax: Starting at $21,495
Fuel Economy: 30 MPG
Following its recent redesign, the Chevrolet Trax, starting at $21,495, presents a stylish and budget-friendly subcompact SUV option. It offers attractive exterior styling and modest power from a 137-horsepower turbocharged 1.2-liter engine. The base trim includes an 8.0-inch touchscreen, but driver assists are somewhat basic, primarily featuring auto emergency braking and lane keep assist. The Chevrolet Trax is a strong contender for buyers prioritizing style and affordability in a small SUV.
1. Hyundai Venue: Starting at $21,135
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
The Hyundai Venue takes the top spot as the most affordable SUV in America for 2024, with a starting price of just $21,135 (including destination charges). The base MSRP is even under $20,000. At this price, you get a practical 1.6L four-cylinder engine producing 121 hp, an 8.0-inch touchscreen, and a good selection of driver-assist technologies. While it may not offer exhilarating performance, the Hyundai Venue excels in value, providing essential SUV practicality and features without straining your budget. It’s the ultimate choice for buyers seeking maximum affordability in the SUV segment.
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Cheapest SUVs Of 2024 – Ranked List
- 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
