Buying a new SUV is a significant investment, and while the initial sticker price is a major consideration, the long-term cost of ownership, particularly maintenance, can vary dramatically between models. It’s easy to find the initial price of a new SUV with a quick online search, but understanding the long-term expenses is crucial for budget-conscious buyers. Some SUVs are simply more affordable to keep running mile after mile.
This article highlights 10 of the Cheapest Suvs to maintain, focusing on factors that contribute to lower long-term costs. We’ve prioritized vehicles known for their mechanical simplicity, avoiding overly complex engineering that can lead to expensive repairs. Fuel efficiency, especially on regular-grade gasoline, is another key factor, alongside readily available and reasonably priced parts, including standard-sized tires. Features like generous warranties and complimentary scheduled maintenance further reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Our list includes a diverse range of SUV sizes, capabilities, brands, and price points, ensuring there’s an affordable and easy-to-maintain option for various needs, not just a collection of small crossovers. The vehicles are presented roughly in order of their typical starting prices. It’s important to note that while depreciation is a real cost of car ownership, this list focuses specifically on maintenance expenses—the costs you directly incur to keep your SUV in running condition.
1. 2020 Hyundai Venue
Hyundai kicks off our list of the 10 cheapest SUVs to maintain, largely due to their industry-leading warranty. Hyundai offers an exceptional 10-year or 100,000-mile powertrain warranty, covering the engine and transmission, and a 5-year or 60,000-mile warranty on most other components. Adding to this value, Hyundai also includes three years or 36,000 miles of complimentary scheduled maintenance at authorized dealerships. No other non-luxury brand offers such extensive warranty and free maintenance coverage. Furthermore, Hyundai SUVs are known for their competitive pricing, making them particularly appealing to budget-minded consumers.
For this list, we’re spotlighting the 2020 Hyundai Venue, the brand’s most affordable and fuel-efficient SUV. While classified as a subcompact crossover and lacking all-wheel drive, the Venue delivers the sought-after SUV characteristics of an elevated driving position and a surprisingly spacious interior. Starting at an accessible $17,350, the Venue also boasts an EPA-estimated 32 mpg in combined driving, further minimizing running costs. Its straightforward engineering and readily available parts contribute to its low maintenance profile.
2. 2021 Kia Seltos
Kia, Hyundai’s corporate cousin, shares the same impressive warranty – 5 years or 60,000 miles bumper-to-bumper and 10 years or 100,000 miles on the powertrain. While Kia doesn’t currently offer free scheduled maintenance like Hyundai, this robust warranty provides long-term peace of mind, significantly delaying the need for major out-of-pocket repair expenses beyond routine maintenance like oil changes and tire replacements.
The 2021 Kia Seltos, a standout value in their lineup, is a subcompact crossover that presents a more refined and substantial feel compared to many competitors. It bridges the gap between a hatchback and a traditional SUV with its design and stance. With a starting price of $21,990, the Seltos achieves EPA ratings up to 31 mpg in combined driving. While a turbocharged engine option with a dual-clutch transmission is available for enthusiasts, most Seltos models feature a dependable 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 146 horsepower, paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). This simpler powertrain configuration not only reduces initial cost but also contributes to lower maintenance and better fuel economy compared to the more complex turbo engine.
3. 2020 Nissan Rogue
The 2020 Nissan Rogue is another fuel-efficient and value-oriented SUV, consistently ranking among America’s best-selling vehicles. Starting at $25,300, the Rogue is a compact crossover with a proven track record and a reputation for straightforward reliability. Its longevity in the market means parts are readily available and generally affordable.
Beyond its reliable 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, the Rogue offers user-friendly controls and exceptional interior space for its class, along with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features. While not as luxurious or performance-focused as some newer rivals, the Rogue excels in providing consistent and dependable value. It’s important to differentiate the Rogue from the Rogue Sport; despite the similar name and styling, the Rogue Sport offers less space, less power, and lower fuel economy. The standard Rogue’s simplicity translates to fewer potential points of failure, contributing to lower maintenance costs over time.
4. 2020 Toyota RAV4
Toyota, like Hyundai, provides complimentary scheduled maintenance, covering two years or 25,000 miles, easing the initial ownership expenses. The Toyota RAV4, a top-selling compact crossover, further minimizes costs with excellent EPA fuel economy ratings, reaching up to 30 mpg in combined driving with its standard gasoline engine – among the best in its class. It also avoids complex transmissions like dual-clutch systems or CVTs in its base gasoline model, opting for a reliable eight-speed conventional automatic transmission, known for its durability and lower maintenance needs.
For even greater fuel savings, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid boosts mileage to an impressive 40 mpg. Toyota’s hybrid technology is renowned for its exceptional reliability, minimizing potential repair costs. The 2020 RAV4 starts at $25,950 for the gasoline version and $28,350 for the hybrid. The combination of free maintenance, excellent fuel economy, and Toyota’s legendary reliability makes the RAV4 a smart choice for minimizing long-term maintenance expenses.
5. 2020 Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback has carved a unique niche over the past 25 years, blurring the lines between a crossover and a station wagon. With standard all-wheel drive, a generous 8.7 inches of ground clearance, and a practical, spacious interior, it stands as a capable and comfortable alternative to more traditional crossover SUVs like the Ford Edge and Honda Passport.
The Outback distinguishes itself with generous standard equipment, impressive fuel economy (29 mpg with the base engine, 26 mpg with the available turbo), and a competitive starting price of $26,645. The 2020 redesign brought improvements in ride and handling, enhanced fuel efficiency, and a more modern interior, while retaining its rugged character. In certain regions outside of Subaru’s primary markets, buyers may also receive two years or 25,000 miles of complimentary scheduled maintenance. Subaru’s focus on durability and the Outback’s robust build contribute to its reputation for lower maintenance costs.
6. 2020 Toyota Highlander
The 2020 Toyota Highlander is a three-row crossover SUV, accommodating up to eight passengers, and stands out as one of the most affordable in its class to maintain. Building upon Toyota’s two years or 25,000 miles of free scheduled maintenance, the Highlander also boasts exceptional fuel economy for its size and Toyota’s renowned reputation for reliability.
Freshly redesigned for 2020, the Highlander comes standard with a potent yet fuel-efficient V6 engine, achieving EPA ratings up to 24 mpg in combined driving – impressive for a spacious and capable crossover. Even more economical is the Highlander Hybrid, with a four-cylinder gas-electric powertrain delivering an outstanding 36 mpg rating. While the Highlander isn’t the cheapest three-row crossover to purchase upfront (starting at $34,600 for the gas model and $38,400 for the hybrid), and some competitors offer more interior space, no other eight-passenger SUV offers a lower operating cost, particularly in terms of maintenance and fuel.
7. 2020 Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler is primarily known for its unparalleled off-road prowess rather than its value proposition. It’s among the pricier mid-size SUVs without a luxury badge, with starting prices near $30,000 even for a basic two-door model.
However, the Wrangler has surprisingly improved its fuel efficiency, a welcome development for those seeking a more capable vehicle than a typical light-duty crossover. Recent redesigns have enhanced aerodynamics, and the powertrain lineup now includes economical four-cylinder and diesel engine options. The Wrangler now achieves up to 25 mpg in combined driving, surpassing some Jeep crossovers. While depreciation isn’t a focus here, the Wrangler is known for exceptionally strong resale value, even as it ages, mitigating some of the initial purchase cost over time. Its robust construction also means it can withstand tougher conditions, potentially leading to fewer maintenance issues compared to less rugged SUVs under similar usage.
8. 2020 BMW X1
Luxury vehicles are often associated with high maintenance costs, but some brands offer perks like complimentary scheduled maintenance. BMW, for instance, provides three years or 36,000 miles of coverage, meaning typical BMW lease customers often avoid paying for routine services like oil changes and tire rotations.
The 2020 BMW X1 subcompact crossover is a good example of a luxury SUV that shouldn’t break the bank on maintenance, even after the free maintenance period ends. Its four-cylinder engine achieves a respectable 27 mpg (though requiring premium fuel) and has garnered a positive reliability reputation. The X1 also delivers the hallmark BMW driving experience – sporty handling, brisk acceleration, and a sophisticated interior – along with a more spacious cabin than many competitors in its class. However, it’s advisable to avoid optional “sport” packages, which often include more expensive tires and brake components. X1 prices start at a relatively accessible $35,200 for a luxury SUV.
9. 2020 Jaguar E-Pace
For buyers prioritizing minimal maintenance costs in a new SUV, Jaguar stands out. The British luxury brand offers an industry-leading five years or 60,000 miles of complimentary scheduled maintenance, the most generous program among brands sold in the US.
The 2020 Jaguar E-PACE, the brand’s entry-level subcompact crossover, offers maximum value in this regard, starting at $39,950. Even as an entry-level model, the E-Pace boasts distinctive Jaguar styling, a sporty driving experience, and a luxurious interior. To keep maintenance costs down, it’s wise to avoid optional 20-inch wheels, as replacement tires for larger rims are significantly more expensive. Jaguar’s comprehensive free maintenance program significantly reduces ownership costs in the first five years.
10. 2020 Tesla Model Y
Electric vehicles (EVs) are inherently known for lower operating costs, as electricity is generally cheaper per mile than gasoline. Beyond fuel savings, EVs also eliminate the need for oil changes, coolant flushes, and other regular fluid maintenance. Regenerative braking systems in EVs also significantly extend the lifespan of brake pads. Furthermore, electric motors have fewer moving parts than gasoline engines, potentially reducing long-term repair expenses.
While the electric SUV market is still evolving, with many models resembling hatchbacks without all-wheel drive or substantial ground clearance (like the Hyundai Kona Electric, Kia Niro EV, and Chevrolet Bolt EV), the 2020 Tesla Model Y stands out as a fully electric and direct competitor to popular gasoline-powered small luxury SUVs like the Acura RDX and Audi Q5. Starting at $52,990, the Model Y represents a higher initial investment, but the significantly reduced maintenance and fuel costs over its lifespan can lead to substantial long-term savings. The simpler mechanics of an EV powertrain promise lower maintenance demands compared to traditional combustion engine SUVs.
