The popularity of SUVs is undeniable, but soaring new vehicle prices can be a significant hurdle for many buyers. If you’re on the hunt for a new SUV without breaking the bank, you might be wondering if affordable options still exist. The good news is, despite the market trends, several manufacturers are offering budget-friendly SUVs in 2024. While “affordable” is relative, the SUVs on this list all start with listed prices hovering around $24,000, effectively costing about half the price of the average new car.
Dominating the affordable SUV landscape are brands like Hyundai and Kia, known for their value-driven vehicles. However, you might be surprised to see a strong presence from General Motors, with multiple offerings from Chevrolet and Buick. Interestingly, Ford, a major Detroit automaker, is noticeably absent from this sub-$30,000 SUV segment.
This guide breaks down the least expensive SUVs available in America for 2024, ranked from the highest to lowest price. All prices listed include destination charges, which typically range around $1,350. Buick and Chevrolet generally have lower destination fees at $1,095, while Jeep tends to have higher fees, around $1,595.
20. Subaru Forester: $28,440
Fuel Economy: 29 MPG
The Subaru Forester, a popular compact SUV, is approaching a new generation in 2025, which means savvy buyers might find attractive deals on the outgoing 2024 model. Even at its base price, the Forester offers substantial value with 8.7 inches of ground clearance, Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist technology suite, and the brand’s signature symmetrical all-wheel drive as standard. Power comes from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 182 horsepower, making it a capable and practical choice for those seeking an affordable and reliable SUV.
19. Kia Niro Hybrid: $28,315
Fuel Economy: 48 MPG
For buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and a lower purchase price, the Kia Niro Hybrid stands out. As the only hybrid SUV on this list, the Niro Hybrid delivers exceptional gas mileage, significantly reducing fuel costs. This model is relatively recent, having entered its second generation in 2023. At this price point, you get a 139-horsepower 1.6-liter hybrid powertrain driving the front wheels, an 8.0-inch infotainment display, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including emergency braking and blind-spot detection, enhancing both safety and value in this budget-conscious SUV.
18. Chevrolet Equinox: $27,995
Fuel Economy: 28 MPG
Chevrolet is also preparing a next-generation Equinox for 2025, promising a larger size and more advanced technology. However, this likely means a higher price tag. Opting for the current 2024 Chevrolet Equinox model provides a more affordable entry into the compact SUV segment. It features a 175-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine powering the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission. Inside, you’ll find a 7.0-inch touchscreen, along with essential driver-assistance features such as automatic emergency braking, a rearview camera, and lane-keep assist, making it a practical and safe budget SUV choice.
17. Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross: $27,790
Fuel Economy: 26 MPG
Mitsubishi offers two SUVs under the $30,000 mark, with the Eclipse Cross being the first. 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. An 8.0-inch touchscreen, auto emergency braking, and lane-departure warnings are also included as standard, along with LED headlights and taillights, providing a well-equipped and affordable SUV option with all-weather capability.
16. Jeep Compass: $27,495
Fuel Economy: 27 MPG
If power is a priority in your search for a cheap new SUV, the Jeep Compass delivers. It’s the only vehicle in this price range boasting 200 horsepower, thanks to its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Standard all-wheel drive and 17-inch aluminum wheels add to its appeal. Inside, a large 10.1-inch touchscreen enhances the cabin experience. While its standard driver assists are somewhat limited, it includes essential safety features like blind-spot warning and forward collision mitigation, making it a powerful and stylish, yet budget-friendly SUV.
15. Buick Encore GX: $26,895
Fuel Economy: 30 MPG
The Buick Encore GX is the first of two affordable Buick SUVs on this list, offering a more premium feel at a competitive price. The interior features a button-rich layout with an 8.0-inch touchscreen at the center. The base trim is equipped with a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine powering the front wheels via a CVT. Notable driver-assistance features include automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a rearview camera, positioning the Encore GX as a slightly more upscale yet still cheap SUV option.
14. Subaru Crosstrek: $26,540
Fuel Economy: 29 MPG
Priced a couple thousand dollars below the Forester, the Subaru Crosstrek offers a smaller and arguably more stylish package within Subaru’s SUV lineup. It matches the Forester in ground clearance and includes the same EyeSight driver assist technology and standard all-wheel drive. However, it features a slightly less powerful 2.0-liter engine producing 152 horsepower. The Crosstrek remains a highly capable and value-packed affordable SUV, especially for those needing all-weather capability and a compact footprint.
13. Mazda CX-30: $26,370
Fuel Economy: 29 MPG
For drivers seeking a sporty driving experience in an affordable SUV, the Mazda CX-30 is a compelling choice. Its sleek design houses a 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, providing spirited performance. All-wheel drive is standard, along with an 8.8-inch touchscreen integrated into a minimalist interior. The CX-30 also comes well-equipped with driver assists, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, cross-traffic alerts, and auto emergency braking, making it a fun-to-drive and safe cheap SUV.
12. Honda HR-V: $25,950
Fuel Economy: 28 MPG
The Honda HR-V is the most affordable SUV from Honda, delivering 158 horsepower to 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 an interior that is considered one of the most attractive in the small SUV class. Honda also includes a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies, including hill-descent control, making the HR-V a well-rounded and cheap SUV option with Honda’s renowned reliability.
11. Kia Seltos: $25,865
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
Refreshed for 2024, the Kia Seltos offers standard all-wheel drive and a fuel-efficient 146-horsepower 2.0L four-cylinder engine. Its stylish exterior is complemented by 17-inch alloy wheels. The interior features a modern digital interface with an 8.0-inch center screen and a 4.2-inch driver display. Standard auto emergency braking and lane-keep assist enhance safety, making the Kia Seltos a feature-rich and fuel-efficient cheap SUV.
10. Hyundai Kona: $25,435
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
The Hyundai Kona also received a fresh design for 2024, bringing impressive standard features for its price point. A 12.3-inch center display seamlessly integrates with a digital driver screen, creating a modern and upscale cockpit feel. The base 2.0-liter engine producing 146 horsepower is adequate, and exterior features include 17-inch aluminum wheels and LED lighting. Driver assists are abundant, including rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring with auto braking, and lane-keep assist, making the Kona a well-equipped and stylish cheap SUV.
9. Volkswagen Taos: $25,420
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
For fans of German engineering seeking an affordable SUV, the Volkswagen Taos 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, driving the front wheels. Driver assists are more basic, with blind-spot monitoring and auto emergency braking as key features. It features a digital cockpit with an 8.0-inch driver display and a 6.5-inch center screen, offering a touch of German refinement in a cheap SUV package.
8. Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: $25,140
Fuel Economy: 27 MPG
The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is the most affordable SUV offering standard all-wheel drive, and it includes LED lights as standard. However, this affordability comes with some compromises. 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 rides on 16-inch steel wheels. A 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 148 horsepower, connected to a CVT, powers this cheap SUV with all-weather capability.
7. Toyota Corolla Cross: $24,960
Fuel Economy: 32 MPG
The Toyota Corolla Cross, introduced in 2022, remains a strong contender in the cheap SUV category thanks to its blend of good fuel economy, decent performance, and generous 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 power, and while front-wheel drive is standard, all-wheel drive is available, making the Corolla Cross a practical and safe cheap SUV.
6. Chevrolet Trailblazer: $24,395
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
A recent refresh has given the Chevrolet Trailblazer updated styling and a modern digital interior, featuring a standard 11.0-inch touchscreen and a wide array of driver-assistance features. 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 offers a stylish design and tech-forward features in a cheap SUV package.
5. Buick Envista: $23,495
Fuel Economy: 30 MPG
Buick enters the ultra-affordable SUV segment with the Envista, priced under $25,000. The Envista, new last year, is positioned as a more refined alternative to the Chevrolet Trax. The standard digital interior includes an 11.0-inch center screen and an 8.0-inch driver display. It uses 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 adequate, including auto emergency braking, lane-keep and departure warnings, and a rearview camera, making the Envista a surprisingly upscale cheap SUV option.
4. Nissan Kicks: $22,400
Fuel Economy: 33 MPG
The Nissan Kicks boasts a sporty appearance, but it’s powered by a 122-horsepower 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. It is exclusively front-wheel drive across all trims. However, what it lacks in outright power, it compensates for with features. 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 with a 7.0-inch screen is compatible with Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. With a combined 33 MPG rating, it is the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid cheap SUV on the US market.
3. Kia Soul: $21,565
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
The Kia Soul received a minor refresh for 2023. Presenting more of a hatchback silhouette 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 assists like emergency braking and lane-keep technology. The Soul is a distinctive and practical cheap SUV alternative.
2. Chevrolet Trax: $21,495
Fuel Economy: 30 MPG
The Chevrolet Trax, with its recent stylish redesign, offers budget-conscious buyers a sharp-looking subcompact SUV with a 137-horsepower turbocharged 1.2-liter engine. The base trim includes an 8.0-inch touchscreen, though driver assists are somewhat basic, primarily featuring auto emergency braking and lane-keep assist. The Trax delivers modern styling and essential features at a very affordable price point in the cheap SUV category.
1. Hyundai Venue: $21,135
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG
The Hyundai Venue is the most affordable SUV in America, with a base price starting under $20,000 before destination charges bring it just above $21,000. For this price, you get a 1.6L four-cylinder engine producing 121 hp, an 8.0-inch touchscreen, and a good selection of driver-assistance technologies. While not the most powerful or spacious, the Venue excels in affordability, making it the ultimate cheap new SUV for budget-minded buyers seeking a new car warranty and SUV practicality.
Cheapest SUVs of 2024: Ranked
Here’s a summary table of the cheapest SUVs of 2024, ranked by price:
- 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
If you’re looking for a brand new SUV without spending a fortune, the 2024 model year offers a surprising number of options. From fuel-efficient hybrids to all-wheel-drive adventurers, there’s a cheap new SUV to fit a variety of needs and budgets. Remember to always check the latest prices and incentives at your local dealerships, as these can fluctuate.
