Introduction


An affordable SUV is typically defined as an SUV model that has an MSRP under $25,000. This allows buyers to get the versatility, cargo space, and family-friendly features of an SUV without breaking the budget. In this article, we'll explore the key pros and cons of affordable SUVs, look at some of the top models, and provide tips for getting the best deal when buying an affordable SUV.


Whether you need an economical daily driver or a family vehicle with room to grow, there are many attractive options in the affordable SUV category. While you'll have to sacrifice some luxury features and performance found in pricier SUVs, an affordable model can meet many buyers' needs. We'll look at safety ratings, gas mileage, interior room, available upgrades and other factors to consider when evaluating affordable SUVs. With some research and smart shopping, an affordable SUV can be a great value purchase.


Pros of Affordable SUVs


SUVs have become increasingly popular for budget-conscious families and drivers due to the many benefits they offer over sedans and smaller cars. Here are some of the main pros of affordable SUVs:


  • More interior space: The upright design means more head and legroom for passengers, especially in the rear seats. Cargo space is vastly increased over a sedan, giving you room for strollers, sports gear, groceries and more.
  • Higher seating position: Being up higher provides a better view of the road so you can anticipate hazards and spot turns more easily. The added height also makes getting in and out easier.
  • All-wheel drive capabilities: Many affordable SUVs offer AWD to handle slippery conditions like snow, mud and rain. This gives you extra traction and handling when you need it most.
  • Cargo space: Behind the rear seats you'll get over 30 cubic feet of cargo room on average. Fold the seats down and space expands to as much as 70+ cubic feet on some models. Roof racks can also add more external cargo room.


So if you need more flexibility and practicality from your daily driver, an affordable SUV delivers in spades. The family-friendly space, seating height, and AWD make these vehicles a smart choice year-round.


Cons of Affordable SUVs


While affordable SUVs offer a lot of great features, there are some downsides to consider:


  • Poorer gas mileage - SUVs are generally less fuel efficient than sedans, getting around 20-25 mpg versus 30+ mpg for many sedans. This can add up at the gas pump.
  • More expensive than sedans - Similarly equipped SUVs usually cost $2,000-$5,000 more than a sedan. You're paying extra for the SUV capabilities.
  • Not as nimble - The height and weight of an SUV makes it less nimble than lower, lighter sedans. SUVs are more prone to body roll in corners.


So if gas costs or agility are your top priorities, an affordable sedan may be a better choice. But the versatility of an SUV can offset these cons for many buyers.


Top Affordable SUV Models


When looking for an affordable SUV, there are several great options to consider in the $25,000-$35,000 price range. Here are some of the top models:


Toyota RAV4


The Toyota RAV4 is one of the most popular compact SUVs thanks to its proven reputation for reliability, safety, and fuel efficiency. The RAV4 starts around $27,000 and gets up to 34 mpg highway. It has a roomy interior with lots of cargo space, and comes loaded with high-tech safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane keeping assist. The RAV4 is a great all-around SUV for families.


Honda CR-V 


Known for its practicality and comfort, the Honda CR-V is another top choice with a starting MSRP around $26,500. The CR-V offers excellent fuel economy up to 34 mpg highway. It provides abundant passenger and cargo room in a compact package. The CR-V comes standard with the Honda Sensing suite of safety tech like collision mitigation braking and traffic sign recognition. Overall, it's a smart buy for those seeking utility and value.


Subaru Forester


With standard all-wheel drive, the Subaru Forester is a capable small SUV well-suited to snowy climates. Pricing starts around $26,000. The Forester delivers up to 33 mpg highway fuel economy. Passenger and cargo space are generous, with lots of rear legroom. The Forester comes loaded with driver assists like automatic emergency braking. Overall, it's a practical, safe choice for SUV shoppers.


Hyundai Tucson


The Hyundai Tucson provides lots of value with a starting price around $25,000. It gets up to 32 mpg on the highway. The Tucson has user-friendly tech features and an easy-to-use infotainment system. It offers ample room for passengers and cargo. The Tucson comes standard with forward collision warning and lane keeping assist. For an affordable, tech-savvy compact SUV, the Tucson is worth a look.


Safety Ratings


When considering an affordable SUV, safety should be a top priority. It's important to compare the safety ratings and advanced driver assistance features across models to find the safest option within your budget. 


The [Insurance Institute for Highway Safety](https://www.iihs.org/ratings) (IIHS) and the [National Highway Traffic Safety Administration](https://www.nhtsa.gov/ratings) (NHTSA) both conduct rigorous crash testing and evaluate vehicle safety. Look for SUVs that earn high marks in IIHS crashworthiness tests like the moderate overlap front, side, roof strength and head restraint tests. Top safety pick awards from IIHS indicate models that performed well in testing.


You'll also want to consider available advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert. These technologies can help prevent accidents in the first place. Compare trim levels to find models that offer the latest driver aids within your budget.


Prioritizing safety will give you peace of mind and help protect your family on the road. Focus on SUVs with top ratings and the most comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance features within your price range.


Fuel Economy


Fuel efficiency is a major consideration for most SUV buyers. While SUVs generally consume more gas than smaller sedans, there is still a wide range when it comes to MPG between different models. 


When comparing fuel economy, the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Subaru Forester consistently rank among the most efficient affordable SUVs. They achieve around 30 MPG combined city/highway driving. The base models of these SUVs with 2WD and a 4-cylinder engine get close to 35 MPG on the highway.


On the other hand, choices like the Buick Encore, Jeep Cherokee, and Nissan Rogue deliver closer to 25 MPG combined. Going for larger 3-row SUVs or models with V6 engines will also consume more gas.


Here are some tips to maximize fuel efficiency in an SUV:


  • Choose a model with 4-cylinder vs 6-cylinder engine
  • Opt for 2WD instead of AWD if you don't need the extra traction
  • Remove excess cargo weight when not needed 
  • Avoid quick accelerations and hard braking
  • Use cruise control for steady highway driving
  • Check tire pressure monthly and keep properly inflated
  • Stay on top of maintenance and tune-ups
  • Use the most economical drive mode if available


Choosing a fuel-efficient SUV and driving conservatively can help save a lot at the gas pump over time. Compare MPG between models and factor in your driving habits before deciding.