Most Affordable SUVs
Car and Driver's rankings are arrived at from the results of our extensive instrumented testing of several hundred vehicles each year and from our expert editors' subjective impressions gained in real-world driving. We've ranked the cheapest SUVs based on their respective manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP), and gave each SUV a rating based on roughly 200 data points encompassing acceleration, handling, comfort, cargo space, fuel efficiency, value, and how enjoyable they are to drive. All of these SUVs have a base price of under $30,000.
Top Ranked Most Affordable SUVs at a glance
1
2025 Kia Soul
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$21,935
EPA MPG
30–31 combined
C/D SAYS: Forget the hamsters—the 2025 Kia Soul is an attractive and distinctive option among today's crop of subcompact SUVs. Learn More
2
2026 Hyundai Venue
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$22,150
EPA MPG
31 combined
C/D SAYS: The 2026 Hyundai Venue is a subcompact SUV that offers comfortable interior space and desirable features for a very low price. Learn More
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3
2026 Chevrolet Trax
10
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$23,495
EPA MPG
30 combined
C/D SAYS: The Chevrolet Trax is one of the least expensive new cars on the market, but its quality construction and pleasant driving experience are a step above its asking price. Learn More
4
2026 Nissan Kicks
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$23,925
EPA MPG
30–31 combined
C/D SAYS: The 2026 Nissan Kicks is a good value even in the price-conscious subcompact SUV segment. Learn More
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5
2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer
7.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$25,095
EPA MPG
27–31 combined
C/D SAYS: The 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer handily checks off all the basic subcompact SUV requirements but struggles to make a case for value. Learn More
6
2026 Kia Seltos
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$25,285
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: The 2026 Kia Seltos SUV is relatively efficient and affordable but not terribly engaging, putting it somewhere in the middle of the crowded subcompact-SUV segment. Learn More
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7
2026 Nissan Leaf
9
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$26,000 est
EPA Est. Range
259–303 miles
C/D SAYS: For the 2026 model year, the Nissan Leaf EV is reimagined as a small SUV with more modern styling, better range, and a nicer interior. Learn More
8
2026 Toyota Corolla Cross
7.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$26,485
EPA MPG
30–32 combined
C/D SAYS: What the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross lacks in excitement, it more than makes up for with value-packed efficiency and utility. Learn More
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9
2026 Buick Envista
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$26,495
EPA MPG
30 combined
C/D SAYS: The 2026 Buick Envista subcompact SUV offers youthful, contemporary styling and an efficient powertrain at a remarkably affordable price. Learn More
10
2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
4
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$26,955
EPA MPG
25–26 combined
C/D SAYS: The 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport subcompact SUV falls short in some respects and excels at none. Learn More
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Best 7-Seater SUVs
Fastest SUVs
Safest SUVs
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Infiniti SUVs and Crossovers
Buick SUVs and Crossovers
Volvo SUVs and Crossovers
Best SUVs Under $50,000
Best 4x4 SUVs
Mercedes-Benz SUVs and Crossovers
Best Mid-Size SUVs
Best 8-Seater SUVs
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Best Crossover SUVs
Best SUVs Built in America
Best 9+ Seater SUVs
Jeep SUVs and Crossovers
Cadillac SUVs and Crossovers
Best Electric SUVs under $45,000
Best Compact SUVs
Ford SUVs
Best Electric 3-Row SUVs
Best Full-Size SUVs
Most Affordable Mid-Size SUVs
Best SUVs for Towing
SUVs with the Best Gas Mileage
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Subaru SUVs and Crossovers
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