The subcompact SUV segment has expanded rapidly as automakers compete to include sport utility vehicles (SUVs) in their product offerings. Subcompact SUVs may not offer much more space for passengers than a regular small car, and many of them offer even less cargo space, but they do offer a higher seating position, a more rugged appearance, and optional all-wheel drive, all of which many consumers desire at a relatively affordable price.
For this reason, it should come as no surprise that all ten of the vehicles on our list of most affordable SUVs are classified as subcompacts. All prices include the SUV's destination charge but not cash incentives or taxes. All SUVs except the Kia Seltos (standard on the LX trim) and the Subaru Crosstrek (standard on all trims) are priced and rated by the EPA for combined fuel economy based on their front-wheel-drive configurations. Prices are listed with the addition of an automatic transmission.
Although the Nissan Kicks and Hyundai Venue are marketed as affordable subcompact SUVs, they do not offer all-wheel drive (AWD), which was a requirement for inclusion on this list. Most of the SUVs in the following price range require a $1,500-$2,000 investment to add all-wheel drive. Here are the best cheap SUVs on the market.
Affordable New SUVs
Here are the 10 affordable new SUVs that we’ll be reviewing:
- Hyundai Kona SE
- The 2022 Chevrolet Trax LS
- The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport S
- The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer LS
- The 2022 Honda HR-V LX
- 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross L
- 2022 Kia Seltos LX
- 2022 Hyundai Venue
- Jeep Renegade Sport
- Subaru Crosstrek 2022
Hyundai Kona SE
Cost: $22,395 (Plus $1,245 for Shipping)
Fuel Efficiency: 32 mpg.
The 2022 Hyundai Kona is one of the best-value compact SUVs on the market thanks to a comprehensive redesign. It has a sleek exterior and a comfortable cabin and it's easy to operate. The Hyundai Kona, which was revised for 2022 with updated looks, more interior space, and advanced technology despite a price hike compared to the outgoing 2021 model, is our pick for the best compact SUV.
The six-speed automatic in the 2021 SE has been replaced by a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) in the 2022 model; when paired with the 147-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive, the new CVT helps the SE achieve a combined EPA rating of 32 mpg, up from 30 mpg in 2021.
In addition to its excellent fuel economy and safe performance in crashes, the Kona also receives high marks for its safety. The dashboard touchscreen in the 2022 Kona can be either 8 or 10.25 inches in size. The 8-inch display has built-in wireless connectivity and comes standard with advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking and hands-free lane centering as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Upgraded lane centering and adaptive cruise control are combined in the optional Hyundai Highway Driving Assist. The Kona isn't the best option if you're looking for a large passenger volume in the second row or a lot of cargo space. While the first row of seats is spacious and comfortable, the second row will be too tight for most adults. Standard equipment includes an easy-to-use infotainment system and various safety aids.
The 2022 Chevrolet Trax LS
Cost: $22,595, which includes the $1,195 delivery fee.
Fuel Efficiency Overall: 27 mpg
Along with the more recent Trailblazer, the Trax is one of the two subcompact SUVs offered by Chevrolet. In terms of subcompact SUVs, the Trax isn't the best option, but it could work for you if you're not expecting too much. No, it's not luxurious or entertaining to drive, but it will get you where you're going.
When compared to the Trailblazer, the Trax's maximum cargo capacity is lower. The Trax uses a conventional stepped automatic transmission and is powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which should be more than adequate for most daily driving situations.
The Trailblazer uses a turbo three-cylinder. Since Chevrolet will no longer offer the L trim-level Trailblazer after 2022, the older Trax will once again be the brand's entry-level SUV. The Trax gets good gas mileage and is simple to drive. Low-quality materials, uncomfortable seats, and a stiff ride characterize the Chevy SUV's dull interior.
On the other hand, unlike many of its competitors, it provides spacious seating for five people across two rows. To top it all off, the trunk space is satisfactory for a vehicle in this category. While Trax's system is simple to operate, there aren't many safety features to choose from. The ride and handling of many other subcompact crossovers are superior to the Trax.
The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport S
Cost: $22,690 (plus $1,245 for shipping).
Fuel Efficiency: 27 mpg
The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, with its design dating back to the 2011 model year, was one of the earliest subcompact SUVs on the market, and it remains one of the cheapest today. Although Mitsubishi has improved the SUV over the years, the interior design and driving experience still feels dated and unrefined. Its engines are underpowered, the ride is choppy, and the fuel economy is poor for 2021. Its safety ratings and availability of features are also lower than those of competing subcompact SUVs.
A large trunk and a lengthy warranty are two of the Outlander Sport's few positive features. Additionally, this compact crossover has a straightforward touchscreen infotainment system, though you'll need to move up from the base trim if you want Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The Outlander Sport is powered by a dull four-cylinder engine producing 148 horsepower.
An optional 168-horsepower motor is available, but it's expensive, exclusive to high-end models, and lackluster in terms of performance. Safety features such as automatic high beams, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection are standard on all trim levels of the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport. The ride quality of this Mitsubishi is stiff, the feedback from the steering is inconsistent, and the body rolls noticeably. Better driving dynamics can be obtained from many models in the same class.
The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer LS
Cost: $22,795, including $1,195 for delivery.
Combined Fuel Economy: 30 mpg
In comparison to other subcompact SUVs, the Trailblazer stands out for its good fuel economy, comfortable seats, and large cargo capacity. Furthermore, it has consistently high marks in safety evaluations. Many of its competitors, however, provide more strength and a smoother ride. This Chevy crossover has many useful safety and technology features built in at no extra cost, including a user-friendly touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
This year, Chevrolet introduced a new subcompact SUV called the Trailblazer. For 2022, the elusive L trim level has been replaced by the front-wheel-drive (FWD) LS, which is powered by a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and produces 137 horsepower.
The larger Trailblazer is only $200 more expensive than the Trax at its base price, but it comes standard with advanced technology features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity as well as critical active-safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning with steering assist.
Trailblazer's interior is attractive and well-built. There are many hard plastics, and the interior does not effectively muffle outside noise like traffic or the wind. The power comes from either a 137- or 155-horsepower turbocharged three-cylinder engine. Both work well in the city, but they lack the strength necessary for stress-free highway travel. However, the Trailblazer is easy to drive and maneuver.
The 2022 Honda HR-V LX
Cost: $23,095, plus $1,225 for shipping.
Combined Fuel Economy: 30 mpg
The HR-V lacks power and features, but it's fun to drive, efficient, and has plenty of cargo space. The interior is well-made and there is sufficient space for passengers. However, advanced safety systems are not included in the base price, and crash test ratings are below average for the class. The Honda HR-V is unusually accommodating to its passengers, especially those in the rear seats, compared to other vehicles in its class.
The HR-second-row V's Magic Seat can be adjusted into an impressive variety of positions, adding to the vehicle's impressive versatility. Each HR-V is driven by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine producing 141 horsepower and mated to a continuously variable transmission. With front-wheel drive, the combination is estimated to achieve 30 mpg combined fuel economy. The engine is underpowered, and there is no way to improve its performance.
As long as you're not driving on particularly rough pavement, the HR-V offers engaging handling and responsive steering along with a relatively smooth ride. Compared to others in its class, this Honda's interior features lower-quality plastics. On shorter trips, five adults should be comfortable, though those over six feet in height may feel a bit claustrophobic in the back. Safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning are available on higher trim levels of the HR-V but not on the entry-level LX model.
2022 Toyota Corolla Cross L
Cost: $23,410, plus a $1,215 delivery fee.
Fuel Efficiency: 32 miles per gallon.
Subcompact SUV enthusiasts will welcome the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross, which will sit in Toyota's lineup between the wacky C-HR and the roomier RAV4. The Corolla Cross is based on the same platform as the standard Corolla and uses the same engine and transmission. When paired with the standard front-wheel-drive (FWD) of the base Corolla Cross L, the 169-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and CVT have an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 32 mpg.
Safety features such as forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control are standard, as are smartphone integration systems like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Although it has a low U.S. News performance score, it excels in other areas. It gets great ratings in crash tests, has a roomy trunk, and is equipped with user-friendly technology for entertainment and navigation.
This Toyota SUV has room for five people across two rows. Even though there is a decent amount of space in the back, taller adults may wish for more legroom in the second row. The cabin is well-built but the interior isn't of the highest quality. The four-cylinder engine in the Corolla Cross produces 169 horsepower.
While it may not be the quickest thing to get up to highway speeds or get going from a complete stop, it will get you where you need to go while using less gas. The standard transmission is a front-wheel drive, with optional all-wheel drive. Although the Corolla Cross has good standard features and AWD is an option, it has only moderate power for highway and city driving.
2022 Kia Seltos LX
Cost: $23,805, including $1,215 for shipping.
Combined Fuel Economy: 29 mpg
Two SUVs on this list have AWD as standard equipment, including the Kia Seltos. Curiously, the S trim, which is the next higher, has standard FWD and offers AWD as an option. A 2.0-liter inline-four producing 146 horsepower is at the heart of the Seltos LX's transmission. The Seltos' starting price is higher than that of the Kia Soul and many other subcompact crossovers, but it offers a more luxurious cabin and more features as standard equipment.
The Seltos, like every other Kia, comes with Kia's best-in-class warranty. For a compact SUV, this Kia offers a lot of room inside, including enough headroom for adults of average height in the second row and one of the largest cargo holds in its category. The Seltos' cabin has many soft-touch surfaces and a luxury-grade appearance.
The standard four-cylinder engine produces 146 horsepower and is peppy enough for daily use. The 175-horsepower turbo-four is an option if you frequently travel on the highway, but its dual-clutch transmission isn't the best at cruising at low speeds. There is an option for all-wheel drive, but standard equipment includes front-wheel drive. Previously optional safety features, like automatic emergency braking and a blind spot warning system, are now standard for the 2022 model year.
2022 Hyundai Venue
Costs: $19,000
The Venue is the least expensive new sport utility vehicle available. Like the Soul, it only comes with one engine option and lacks all-wheel drive. The Venue, however, is secure, spacious, and comfortably furnished. Despite its affordable price, this Hyundai subcompact crossover has a pleasant cabin with comfortable seats and adequate legroom for the driver and front passenger. There isn't a lot of room in the trunk, but you'll be able to fit your weekly grocery haul and a couple of boxes.
The Venue's standard infotainment system is a high-tech marvel, with a huge touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and support for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Multiple high-tech driver aids are included as standard equipment. The Venue's single engine's output of 121 horsepower is its biggest drawback. While it performs admirably at city speeds, it is unimpressive on highways, making merging and passing difficult. However, the Venue is simple to drive and has a comfortable ride quality.
Jeep Renegade Sport
Cost: $24,385 (plus $1,595 for shipping)
Fuel Efficiency Overall: 27 mpg
The Jeep Renegade may look like an American off-road vehicle, what with its round headlights and seven-slot grille, but it was designed in Italy and shares its platform with a Fiat. (Both brands are managed by the multinational automaker Stellantis.) Standard on the Renegade Sport trim is a 177-horsepower, turbocharged 1.3-liter four-cylinder mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission.
Automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and lane departure warning with steering assist are just some of the standard comfort features. The touchscreen in the 2022 Renegade Sport is an upgraded 8.4 inches in size from the 7-inch unit in the previous year's model.
Subaru Crosstrek 2022
Cost: $24,920 (plus $1,125 for shipping)
Fuel Efficiency: 30 mpg
The 2022 Subaru Crosstrek base model is the second vehicle on this list with a standard AWD. Crosstrek AWD comes standard on all models, while Kia Seltos AWD is only available on the highest trim level. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on the base Crosstrek, while a continuously variable transmission costs an extra $1,350 when paired with the standard four-cylinder engine.
One of the more pricey vehicles on our list of the least expensive SUVs is the Crosstrek, but it is still a viable option for several drivers. It has plenty of room for passengers, all-wheel drive is standard, and the ride is smooth and comfortable. Despite its small screen size, the infotainment system in this subcompact crossover is intuitive and easy to use.
The Crosstrek performs well in crash tests and comes standard with numerous high-tech driver assistance features. Standard equipment includes a 152-horsepower flat four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission; an optional 182-horsepower four-cylinder engine and CVT are also available.
Both options are not very potent or fuel-efficient, but you want the optional engine. The cabin of the Crosstrek is well-built, with enough room for five passengers across two rows and a lot of cargo, but it isn't as quiet or high-end as those of competing vehicles.
The combined mpg rises to 30 from 25 with the manual transmission, and you get Subaru's EyeSight suite of advanced safety tech, which includes automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and hands-on lane centering. Everything comes equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Prices for 3-row SUVs typically begin around $35,000 MSRP. Some of the best discounts can be found on Jeep Grand Cherokees and Ford Explorers. Prices for luxury compact SUVs like the Audi Q3 and BMW X1 begin around $36,000, while midsize luxury SUVs like the Acura MDX begin near $50,000.
The Hyundai Venue, at $9,000, is the least expensive SUV currently available.
For up to five years, the Hyundai Venue is the least expensive subcompact SUV to own.
Leasing a Hyundai Venue right now will cost you less than any other SUV. For the time being, you can lease a brand-new 2022 Hyundai Venue for only $169 per month for 26 months with a $3,199 down payment. The Chevy Trax costs $179 a month and $4,049 at signing, making it the second-cheapest SUV to lease.
The Kona Electric is the best and cheapest electric SUV. It has a decent amount of electric range for the price, a nice cabin, and lots of standard features. You'll have a blast behind the wheel, as it's also brisk and maneuverable. Several new features are included, and the exterior and interior are updated for 2023.
Our top pick for a midsize three-row SUV in 2023 is the Hyundai Kona SE. Luxurious travelers will appreciate the cabin's tranquility, amenities, and well-thought-out layout. Including the third row of seats that is spacious enough for adults, it is loaded with standard features and technology.
