Explore the top budget-friendly SUVs, including subcompact models under $25K and affordable electric options. Find the best leases and cheapest SUVs by manufacturer to save on your next vehicle purchase.
Least Expensive SUVs
When it comes to SUVs, affordability is key. Here’s a look at the least expensive options on the market, perfect for those on a budget.
Top 5 Budget-Friendly SUVs
- 2024 Hyundai Venue
- MSRP: $21,295
- Starting Price: One of the most affordable SUVs available, the Hyundai Venue offers a compact design and a range of features at an unbeatable price.
- 2025 Chevrolet Trax
- MSRP: $21,495
- Starting Price: The Chevrolet Trax is another budget-friendly option, known for its spacious interior and impressive fuel efficiency.
- 2025 Nissan Kicks
- MSRP: $23,220
- Starting Price: The Nissan Kicks is a subcompact SUV that offers a smooth ride and plenty of standard features at an affordable price.
- 2025 Buick Envista
- MSRP: $23,495
- Starting Price: The Buick Envista is a stylish and feature-packed SUV that won’t break the bank.
- 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
- MSRP: $25,190
- Starting Price: The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport offers a blend of affordability and practicality, making it a great choice for those on a budget.
Affordable Electric SUVs
Electric SUVs are not only eco-friendly but also offer a unique driving experience. Here are some affordable options:
- 2024 Hyundai IONIQ 5 Electric
- Lease Deal: From $159 for 24 months with $3,999 due at signing
- MSRP: $42,985
- Effective Monthly Cost: $326
- Features: The Hyundai IONIQ 5 is a fully electric SUV that offers a luxurious driving experience and excellent value for its price.
- 2024 Kia Niro Wind Electric
- Lease Deal: From $169 for 24 months with $3,999 due at signing
- MSRP: $40,925
- Effective Monthly Cost: $336
- Features: The Kia Niro Wind EV is a budget-friendly electric SUV that offers a range of features and excellent fuel efficiency.
Subcompact SUVs Under $25K
Subcompact SUVs are perfect for city driving and offer a lot of bang for your buck. Here are some options under $25K:
- 2024 Hyundai Venue
- MSRP: $21,295
- Starting Price: The Hyundai Venue is one of the most affordable SUVs available, offering a compact design and a range of features.
- 2025 Chevrolet Trax
- MSRP: $21,495
- Starting Price: The Chevrolet Trax is another budget-friendly option, known for its spacious interior and impressive fuel efficiency.
- 2025 Nissan Kicks
- MSRP: $23,220
- Starting Price: The Nissan Kicks is a subcompact SUV that offers a smooth ride and plenty of standard features at an affordable price.
- 2025 Buick Envista
- MSRP: $23,495
- Starting Price: The Buick Envista is a stylish and feature-packed SUV that won’t break the bank.
- 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
- MSRP: $25,190
- Starting Price: The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport offers a blend of affordability and practicality, making it a great choice for those on a budget.
Best Leases Under $300
Leasing an SUV can be a great way to get behind the wheel of a new vehicle without the long-term commitment of buying. Here are some of the best lease deals under $300:
- 2024 Hyundai IONIQ 5 Electric
- Lease Deal: From $159 for 24 months with $3,999 due at signing
- MSRP: $42,985
- Effective Monthly Cost: $326
- Features: The Hyundai IONIQ 5 is a fully electric SUV that offers a luxurious driving experience and excellent value for its price.
- 2024 Kia Niro Wind Electric
- Lease Deal: From $169 for 24 months with $3,999 due at signing
- MSRP: $40,925
- Effective Monthly Cost: $336
- Features: The Kia Niro Wind EV is a budget-friendly electric SUV that offers a range of features and excellent fuel efficiency.
Cheapest SUVs by Manufacturer
Each manufacturer offers its own range of affordable SUVs. Here’s a breakdown by manufacturer:
- Hyundai
- 2024 Hyundai Venue: $21,295
- 2024 Hyundai IONIQ 5 Electric: $42,985 (lease deal from $159/month)
- Chevrolet
- 2025 Chevrolet Trax: $21,495
- 2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer: $24,395
- Nissan
- 2025 Nissan Kicks: $23,220
- 2025 Nissan Rogue: $29,230
- Kia
- 2025 Kia Seltos: $25,965
- 2024 Kia Niro Wind Electric: $40,925 (lease deal from $169/month)
- Mitsubishi
- 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: $25,190
Small SUVs with Low Starting Prices
Small SUVs are perfect for city driving and offer a lot of bang for your buck. Here are some options with low starting prices:
- 2024 Hyundai Venue
- MSRP: $21,295
- Starting Price: The Hyundai Venue is one of the most affordable SUVs available, offering a compact design and a range of features.
- 2025 Chevrolet Trax
- MSRP: $21,495
- Starting Price: The Chevrolet Trax is another budget-friendly option, known for its spacious interior and impressive fuel efficiency.
- 2025 Nissan Kicks
- MSRP: $23,220
- Starting Price: The Nissan Kicks is a subcompact SUV that offers a smooth ride and plenty of standard features at an affordable price.
- 2025 Buick Envista
- MSRP: $23,495
- Starting Price: The Buick Envista is a stylish and feature-packed SUV that won’t break the bank.
- 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
- MSRP: $25,190
- Starting Price: The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport offers a blend of affordability and practicality, making it a great choice for those on a budget.
SUVs with Low 5-Year Cost to Own
When it comes to long-term ownership costs, some SUVs stand out for their affordability. Here are some models with low 5-year costs to own:
- 2023 Hyundai Venue
- 5-Year Cost to Own: $31,686
- Comparison to Segment Average: -$5,033
- Features: The Hyundai Venue is not only affordable upfront but also offers low long-term costs, making it a great choice for budget-conscious buyers.
- 2023 Subaru Forester
- 5-Year Cost to Own: $37,367
- Comparison to Segment Average: -$3,635
- Features: The Subaru Forester is known for its reliability and low maintenance costs, making it a great option for those looking to save money over the long term.
- 2023 Subaru Outback
- 5-Year Cost to Own: $41,222
- Comparison to Segment Average: -$8,772
- Features: The Subaru Outback offers a blend of affordability and practicality, making it a great choice for those who need a reliable SUV without breaking the bank.
- 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe
- 5-Year Cost to Own: $71,337
- Comparison to Segment Average: -$3,901
- Features: While not the cheapest option, the Chevrolet Tahoe offers a full-size SUV experience at a relatively low cost over five years.
- 2023 Ford Bronco
- 5-Year Cost to Own: $47,771
- Comparison to Segment Average: -$2,735
- Features: The Ford Bronco is a great option for those who want an off-road capable SUV without the high long-term costs.