The Best Budget SUVs Under $30,000

In an automotive market where SUVs have largely replaced sedans as the go-to choice for families and individuals, finding the perfect blend of affordability, reliability, and functionality can be challenging. For those on a budget, the search can feel daunting, but rest assured, there are many excellent options.

Chevrolet Trax

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With a starting price of around $22,000, the Chevrolet Trax is an affordable compact SUV with a respectable amount of cargo space for its class and a comfortable ride. Its small size makes it ideal for city driving and easy to park. While it doesn’t have the most powerful engine, it has many standard features, including an intuitive infotainment system.

Jeep Renegade

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The Renegade, priced around $24,000, offers the ruggedness of a Jeep in a compact package. Its distinct looks and off-road capabilities stand out from other vehicles in its segment. It comes standard with a user-friendly infotainment system and offers a range of customizability options. Its ability to tackle trails makes it a unique option in the subcompact SUV class.

GMC Terrain

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With an average price of $28,000, the Terrain offers an attractive and upscale cabin, a smooth ride, and user-friendly technology. It boasts several standard features and an impressive fuel economy. It may not be the cheapest option in its class, but the GMC Terrain’s balance of comfort and value makes it a solid option for those in the market for an affordable SUV.

Volkswagen Tiguan

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Retailing at about $26,000, the Tiguan offers a plush ride, a refined, upscale interior, and a generous list of standard features. It also stands out for offering an optional third row, which is rare for the compact SUV class. The Tiguan’s balance of comfort, features, and affordability make it a worthy contender for those seeking value and versatility.

Kia Seltos

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Retailing at about $23,000, the Seltos is a newcomer that’s already making a mark. It provides plenty of space for passengers and cargo and comes equipped with a user-friendly tech interface. It also offers a comfortable ride and a wide range of available features. Its bold styling and solid performance make it an attractive choice for an affordable SUV.

Nissan Kicks

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With a starting price of around $20,000, the Kicks is one of the most affordable options in the compact SUV segment. It boasts a roomy, upscale interior and excellent fuel efficiency. While it’s not the most powerful SUV on the market, it makes up for it with a smooth ride and an impressive array of standard features, including a number of active safety technologies.

Toyota Corolla Cross

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Starting at around $23,000, the Corolla Cross is a compact SUV that offers a comfortable ride and a solid fuel economy. It features a spacious, well-built cabin and comes standard with a number of active safety features. It may not be the sportiest vehicle in its class, but its reliability and value make it a compelling choice in the compact SUV segment.

Mazda CX-5

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Priced around $27,000, the CX-5 stands out in its class due to its sporty performance, upscale interior, and agile handling. It comes equipped with a host of standard features and offers one of the most engaging driving experiences in the segment. If you’re looking for an SUV that delivers a bit of excitement behind the wheel without breaking the bank, the CX-5 is a fantastic choice.

Chevrolet Equinox

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The Equinox, priced around $24,000, offers a comfortable ride and a fuel-efficient engine. It’s praised for its roomy and upscale interior, as well as its user-friendly infotainment system. The Equinox also comes with a slew of standard features and safety tech, making it a great value proposition in the compact SUV segment.

Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson
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Priced around $25,000, the Tucson offers a lot of vehicle for the money. It provides a comfortable and quiet ride with a high-quality, user-friendly interior. It’s also lauded for its impressive fuel economy and extensive warranty, adding peace of mind to its value proposition. Furthermore, the Tucson comes packed with an array of standard safety features, making it a great choice for families.

This article originally appeared on MyCarMakesNoise.

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Author: Dave Johnston

Dave is a hands-on automotive technician with experience in performing service, diagnostics, and repairs on domestic and imported vehicles. He enjoys writing and sharing his knowledge far and wide.

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