Yahoo Autos Cheapest SUVs of 2024
There is no doubt that cost is the number one decision maker when it comes to purchasing a vehicle. As prices continue to climb, affordable choices are getting harder to find, so we dug through what's available to find the least expensive SUVs in the most popular classes.
These prices are current as of October 2023, using available manufacturer suggested retail prices for both 2023 and 2024 models wherever possible. The prices include destination fees, but not dealer markups or incentives.
Cheapest small SUV: 2023 Hyundai Venue
Not surprisingly, the most affordable SUVs are the smallest. One of the first introductions to the subcompact SUV class came in the form of the funky Scion xB, followed years later by a host of newcomers that included the Nissan Juke, Mini Countryman and Kia Soul. Back then, these micro utes were marketed to empty nesters and first-time buyers, but nowadays they represent an alternative to the conventional sedan and have been increasing market share ever since.
Profit margins in this class are narrow and popularity is high, which means the entrants are competitively priced. The top choices in the class are only a couple thousand dollars more than the most affordable alternatives below, so it may make sense to consider our favorites that include the Mazda CX-30, Volkswagen Taos and Chevrolet Trailblazer.
2023 Hyundai Venue: $20,985
The Hyundai Venue debuted in 2020 and earned praise for its overall value. You get a ton of features for the money as well as a very generous warranty. Holding it back is its rather weak engine and its generic styling.
Honorable mentions:
2024 Kia Soul: $21,315
2024 Chevrolet Trax: $21,495
Cheapest midsize SUV: 2024 Chevrolet Equinox
Compact SUVs have the broadest appeal thanks to a very diverse group. It seems as though there's a great pick for nearly every taste, whether you're seeking something sporty, rugged or luxurious. They're a great pick for small families with one child and/or a dog. The class is led by vehicles that include the Honda CR-V, Kia Sportage and Mazda CX-50, which are still within reach of most shoppers' budgets.
2024 Chevrolet Equinox: $27,995
The Equinox debuted back in 2005 and this current third-generation was last redesigned in 2018. While this model may be showing its age, it still deserves your consideration for its comfortable ride quality, confident cornering and roomy passenger space. The Equinox's cargo space is on the small side and interior materials are rather downmarket though, and the most affordable model will likely have to be special ordered.
Honorable mentions:
2024 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross: $27,995
2024 Subaru Forester: $28,390
Cheapest 3rd row SUV: 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander
Three-row SUVs are the go-to choice for growing families. If you have two or three kids, the third row comes in handy when they have friends on a road trip or on the morning carpool. In many ways, these SUVs have replaced the minivan and deliver better driving dynamics and off-road capabilities. The class has been dominated by the Kia Telluride in recent years, but it costs about $7,000 more than the most affordable SUV in the class.
