SUVs are undeniably the kings of the road, offering versatility, space, and a commanding driving position that many drivers crave. However, with new car prices consistently climbing, the dream of owning a new SUV can feel financially out of reach for many. But don’t despair! Despite the prevailing trend, the 2024 automotive market still offers a selection of affordable SUVs that won’t break the bank. If you’re searching for a budget-friendly SUV without compromising on essential features and modern technology, you’ve come to the right place.
While “affordable” is subjective, we’ve compiled a list of the cheapest SUVs available in America for 2024, all priced under $30,000. These prices include destination charges, ensuring you get a clear picture of the upfront cost. You might be surprised to see which brands dominate this list, proving that getting a capable and comfortable SUV doesn’t necessarily require emptying your savings. Let’s dive into the top contenders for the title of Cheapest 2024 Suv, ranked from the higher end of “affordable” to the absolute budget champions.
2024 Subaru Forester: Affordable Adventure at $28,440
Fuel Economy: 29 MPG
The Subaru Forester, starting at $28,440, blends affordability with renowned Subaru capability. With a new generation Forester on the horizon for 2025, savvy shoppers might find appealing deals on the outgoing 2024 model. Even at its base price, the Forester offers substantial value, boasting 8.7 inches of ground clearance for light off-roading adventures. Subaru’s celebrated EyeSight driver assist technology comes standard, enhancing safety and peace of mind. And of course, being a Subaru, symmetrical all-wheel drive is included, providing confident traction in various weather conditions. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 182 horsepower, striking a balance between performance and efficiency.
2024 Kia Niro Hybrid: Fuel-Efficient and Budget-Friendly at $28,315
Fuel Economy: 48 MPG
For buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency alongside affordability, the Kia Niro Hybrid, priced at $28,315, emerges as a compelling option. As the sole hybrid SUV on this list, the Niro Hybrid stands out with its exceptional fuel economy, significantly reducing trips to the gas station. This model is relatively fresh, having entered its second generation in 2023, showcasing Kia’s commitment to modern design and technology even in their budget-conscious offerings. For this price, you get a 139-horsepower 1.6-liter hybrid powertrain powering the front wheels, a user-friendly 8.0-inch infotainment screen, and a suite of driver assistance features including emergency braking and blind spot detection, making it a smart choice for safety-conscious and eco-minded buyers looking for a cheap 2024 SUV.
2024 Chevrolet Equinox: Spacious and Value-Packed at $27,995
Fuel Economy: 28 MPG
The Chevrolet Equinox, starting at $27,995, offers a step up in size and interior space within this affordable SUV category. Similar to the Forester, a next-generation Equinox is slated for 2025, potentially making the current 2024 model an even more attractive deal. Choosing the 2024 Equinox provides a 175-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine driving the front wheels with a six-speed automatic transmission. Inside, a 7.0-inch touchscreen provides infotainment access, and key driver assists like auto emergency braking and lane-keep assist are included, making it a practical and safe option for families seeking a cheap 2024 SUV with ample room.
2024 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross: Stylish and Feature-Rich at $27,790
Fuel Economy: 26 MPG
Mitsubishi presents the Eclipse Cross, priced at $27,790, as a stylish and well-equipped contender in the affordable SUV segment. The base ES trim combines a 152-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter engine with a CVT and standard all-wheel drive, a notable feature at this price point. An 8.0-inch touchscreen, auto emergency braking, and lane-departure warnings are also standard, enhancing both convenience and safety. Even in its base trim, the Eclipse Cross boasts LED headlights and taillights, adding a touch of premium styling to this cheap 2024 SUV.
2024 Jeep Compass: Powerful and Trail-Rated (Affordably) at $27,495
Fuel Economy: 27 MPG
For those seeking a cheap 2024 SUV with a punch of power, the Jeep Compass, starting at $27,495, stands out. It is the most powerful vehicle in this price bracket, delivering 200 horsepower from its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Standard all-wheel drive and 17-inch aluminum wheels further enhance its capability and appeal. Inside, a large 10.1-inch touchscreen offers modern infotainment, though standard driver assists are more basic, focusing on essential safety features like blind-spot warning and forward collision mitigation.
2024 Buick Encore GX: Premium Touches at a Budget Price of $26,895
Fuel Economy: 30 MPG
Buick enters the affordable SUV arena with the Encore GX, priced at $26,895, offering a touch of premium feel without a premium price tag. The Encore GX features a button-rich interior with an 8.0-inch touchscreen centrally located for easy access. The base trim includes a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine powering the front wheels via a CVT. Key driver assists like automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist are standard, making the Encore GX a comfortable and safe cheap 2024 SUV option with a hint of luxury.
2024 Subaru Crosstrek: Compact and Capable for $26,540
Fuel Economy: 29 MPG
Priced at $26,540, the Subaru Crosstrek offers a more compact and arguably more stylish alternative to the Forester within Subaru’s lineup of affordable SUVs. The Crosstrek matches the Forester’s impressive ride height and includes the same EyeSight driver assist technology, along with standard all-wheel drive. While its 2.0-liter engine produces slightly less power at 152 horsepower, the Crosstrek remains a highly capable and fuel-efficient cheap 2024 SUV for adventurous individuals or small families.
2024 Mazda CX-30: Sporty and Refined for $26,370
Fuel Economy: 29 MPG
Drivers seeking a sporty driving experience in an affordable SUV should consider the Mazda CX-30, priced at $26,370. Its sleek design houses a potent 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering engaging performance. All-wheel drive is standard, along with an 8.8-inch touchscreen integrated into a minimalist cabin. The CX-30 also boasts a comprehensive suite of driver assists, including lane-keep assist and blind-spot monitoring, making it a fun and safe cheap 2024 SUV choice.
2024 Honda HR-V: Stylish and Well-Rounded at $25,950
Fuel Economy: 28 MPG
Honda’s most affordable SUV, the HR-V, comes in at $25,950 and provides a balanced package of style, features, and value. Its 158-horsepower engine powers the front wheels (all-wheel drive is available for an additional cost). The base model rides on 17-inch aluminum wheels for added visual appeal and features a well-designed interior that is arguably among the best in the subcompact SUV segment. Honda also equips the HR-V with a full suite of driver assists, including hill-descent control, making it a safe and attractive cheap 2024 SUV option.
2024 Kia Seltos: Refreshed and Feature-Packed at $25,865
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
The Kia Seltos, refreshed for 2024 and priced at $25,865, offers standard all-wheel drive and a fuel-efficient 146-horsepower 2.0L four-cylinder engine. Its updated styling includes 17-inch alloy wheels, enhancing its curb appeal. The interior features a modern digital layout with an 8.0-inch center screen and a 4.2-inch driver display. Standard auto emergency braking and lane-keep assist contribute to its safety credentials, making the Seltos a well-rounded and stylish cheap 2024 SUV.
2024 Hyundai Kona: Bold and Tech-Forward at $25,435
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
Hyundai’s Kona, also redesigned for 2024 and priced at $25,435, brings a bold new look and impressive standard features to the affordable SUV category. 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 with 146 horsepower is adequate for daily driving, and exterior features include 17-inch aluminum wheels and LED lights. The Kona is generously equipped with driver assists, including rear cross-traffic alert and blind spot monitoring with auto braking, making it a tech-savvy and safe cheap 2024 SUV.
2024 Volkswagen Taos: German Engineering on a Budget at $25,420
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
Volkswagen’s Taos, priced at $25,420, is the sole German representative on this list of cheapest 2024 SUVs. The base Taos features a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission, powering the front wheels. Driver assists are more basic, including blind-spot monitoring and auto emergency braking. However, the Taos offers a refined digital cockpit with an 8.0-inch driver display and a 6.5-inch center screen, appealing to those seeking European design and engineering in an affordable package.
2024 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: Affordable AWD for $25,140
Fuel Economy: 27 MPG
The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, priced at $25,140, holds the title of the cheapest SUV with standard all-wheel drive. It also includes LED lights as standard. To achieve this affordability, some compromises 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. A 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 148 horsepower is paired with a CVT, making it a practical and budget-conscious cheap 2024 SUV with AWD capability.
2024 Toyota Corolla Cross: Reliable and Well-Equipped at $24,960
Fuel Economy: 32 MPG
The Toyota Corolla Cross, priced at $24,960, leverages the renowned reliability of the Corolla nameplate in an SUV format. It offers a compelling combination of good fuel economy, decent performance, and a generous list of standard equipment. This includes Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 driver-assist suite, an 8.0-inch infotainment screen, and nine airbags. A 169-horsepower 2.0-liter engine with a CVT provides adequate power, and while front-wheel drive is standard, all-wheel drive is available, making it a dependable and value-oriented cheap 2024 SUV.
2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer: Stylish and Tech-Forward for $24,395
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
A recent refresh gives the Chevrolet Trailblazer, priced at $24,395, a fresh and modern appeal. It boasts a standard 11.0-inch touchscreen and a wide array of driver assists. The base price includes a smaller turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower, driving the front wheels via a CVT. The Trailblazer successfully blends style, technology, and affordability in a cheap 2024 SUV package.
2024 Buick Envista: Upscale Design at an Entry-Level Price of $23,495
Fuel Economy: 30 MPG
Buick surprises with the Envista, priced at just $23,495, offering crossover styling at a remarkably affordable price. The Envista essentially serves as a more upscale version of the Chevrolet Trax. The standard digital interior features an 11.0-inch center screen and an 8.0-inch driver display, creating a modern and inviting cabin. It shares GM’s turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine, powering the front wheels. Driver assist systems are adequate, including auto emergency braking and lane-keeping assist, making the Envista a stylish and well-equipped cheap 2024 SUV for the budget-conscious buyer.
2024 Nissan Kicks: Feature-Rich and Fuel-Efficient for $22,400
Fuel Economy: 33 MPG
The Nissan Kicks, priced at $22,400, presents a sporty aesthetic with a focus on features and fuel efficiency. Its 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine produces 122 horsepower and powers the front wheels exclusively. Despite its modest performance, the Kicks compensates with a generous array of standard driver assists, including rear cross-traffic alert and auto braking. The infotainment system with a 7.0-inch screen is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. With a combined 33 MPG rating, the Kicks is the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid cheap SUV available in the US, making it a smart choice for urban dwellers and commuters.
2024 Kia Soul: Unique Style and Value at $21,565
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
The Kia Soul, priced at $21,565, maintains its unique boxy styling and hatchback-like versatility in the affordable SUV segment. Refreshed in 2023, the Soul offers the same 2.0-liter engine producing 146 horsepower, driving the front wheels. An 8.0-inch touchscreen is standard, and key driver assists like emergency braking and lane-keep tech are included. The Soul appeals to buyers seeking a distinctive and practical cheap 2024 SUV.
2024 Chevrolet Trax: Sharp Looks and Budget-Friendly at $21,495
Fuel Economy: 30 MPG
The Chevrolet Trax, priced at $21,495, showcases a handsome exterior design following its recent refresh, making it an attractive option for budget-minded SUV buyers. Its turbocharged 1.2-liter engine produces 137 horsepower, offering modest power in a subcompact SUV package. The base trim includes an 8.0-inch touchscreen, and standard driver assists feature auto emergency braking and lane keep assist, making it a stylish and affordable cheap 2024 SUV.
2024 Hyundai Venue: The Ultimate Budget SUV at $21,135
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
Crowned as the most affordable SUV in America, the Hyundai Venue, priced at a mere $21,135, offers incredible value. Its base price dips just under $20,000 before destination charges, making it exceptionally accessible. For this price, you get a 1.6L four-cylinder engine producing 121 horsepower, an 8.0-inch touchscreen, and a commendable array of driver-assist technology. While not the most powerful or spacious SUV, the Venue excels in providing essential features and modern technology at the lowest price point, solidifying its position as the cheapest 2024 SUV on the market.
Affordable SUV Ownership is Within Reach in 2024
Despite rising vehicle costs, this list proves that owning a brand-new SUV in 2024 doesn’t have to be a financial burden. From fuel-efficient hybrids to sporty crossovers and value-packed subcompacts, there’s a cheap 2024 SUV to suit various needs and preferences. By carefully considering your priorities – whether it’s fuel economy, space, features, or simply the lowest possible price – you can find an affordable SUV that fits your lifestyle and budget, proving that practicality and affordability can indeed go hand-in-hand in the current automotive market.
