Affordable New SUVs for Budget-Conscious Buyers

The Best Budget-Friendly New SUVs

In assessing the most affordable new SUVs, we consider several factors including price, standard features, fuel efficiency, and overall value. We’ve compiled a list of SUVs that are ideal for budget-conscious buyers, looking for new vehicles in 2023.

1. 2023 Hyundai Venue

Starting at just under $20,000, the Hyundai Venue is a standout for budget-conscious buyers seeking value. Though it’s Hyundai’s smallest SUV, the Venue doesn’t compromise on modern essentials. It features a 121-hp 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Despite its size, the Venue offers a spacious cabin and a comfortable ride. Standard features include an 8-inch touch screen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, lane-keeping assist, and forward-collision warning. Its fuel efficiency is also competitive, offering about 30 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.

2. 2023 Kia Soul

With a slightly higher, yet still affordable MSRP starting around $20,000, the Kia Soul is another excellent option. This SUV stands out with its unique boxy design and substantial interior space. The base LX model is equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces up to 147 hp, paired with a manual transmission or optional CVT. Standard features include a 7-inch touch screen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a rear-view camera. It’s also known for its sizable cargo space, making it an ideal choice for families or those needing more from their vehicle’s storage capabilities. Fuel efficiency is approximately 29 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

3. 2023 Nissan Kicks

The Nissan Kicks is exceptionally popular among budget-conscious buyers, starting at approximately $20,000. This subcompact SUV delivers efficiency and versatility, powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine generating 122 hp. Like the Venue and Soul, it uses a CVT. While it’s front-wheel drive only, it compensates with high fuel mileage, offering about 31 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. Standard tech includes a 7-inch touch screen, three USB ports, Bluetooth, a six-speaker audio system, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and lane departure warning. Its modest price tag combined with a comprehensive suite of features offers significant value for money.

4. 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer

Starting just below $22,000, the Chevrolet Trailblazer is a good option for those who can stretch their budget slightly. Available in several trims, the base LS model includes a 137-hp 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine. Buyers can opt for a more powerful 1.3-liter engine. Despite its affordable entry price, the Trailblazer comes equipped with a 7-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, forward-collision alert, lane-keep assist, and automatic high-beams. Its stylish design and slightly larger profile compare favorably with more expensive compact SUVs. Fuel efficiency stands at about 29 mpg city and 33 mpg highway, making it a robust choice for economical SUV buyers.

Why Choose Affordable SUVs?

Choosing a budget-friendly SUV doesn’t mean compromising on quality or features. Modern affordable SUVs come with many of the same amenities found in their more expensive counterparts, such as advanced safety technology, entertainment systems, and fuel-efficient engines. They allow buyers, especially those purchasing their first vehicle or families needing a secondary car, to enjoy the benefits of a new SUV without stretching their finances.

Conclusion: Finding the Right Balance

Finding a new SUV that fits your budget and meets your needs is entirely possible in today’s market. Vehicles like the Hyundai Venue, Kia Soul, Nissan Kicks, and Chevrolet Trailblazer illustrate that affordability can go hand-in-hand with quality and comprehensive features. By prioritizing what features are most important, and comparing different models, budget-conscious buyers can find an SUV that offers great value without compromising their financial security.