Cheapest Small SUVs for 2023 | Affordable Compact SUVs

Characteristics of the Cheapest Compact SUVs

When you’re looking to save money on your new car, you have to accept certain compromises. The best-priced small SUVs generally share many of the same qualities.

They have extremely low price tags
They achieve some impressive mileage figures
They generally achieve excellent safety ratings
They can run for many years when properly maintained
They are urban-centric and easy to drive in traffic

What to Consider When Buying an Affordable Small SUV

There is no shortage of cheap small SUV models on the market, but there is plenty of competition from other segments, too. You could find many of the same strengths in a hatch or even a pickup, so why buy one of these suburban all-stars instead?

Pros

Attractive pricing
Highly practical cargo volume
Decent amount of passenger space
Exceptional safety ratings
By and large very reliable

Cons

Lackluster powertrains
Ride comfort can be jittery
Limited standard features list
Not as cheap to run as a smaller vehicle

FAQs

What is the cheapest compact SUV?

The Volkswagen Taos is one of the cheapest in the list of affordable small SUVs, asking for around $25,000 MSRP. From Hyundai, the Venue is priced around $20k, with Kona only a little more than that. The Trailblazer and Trax from Chevrolet are also budget-friendly at under $25k.

What do the top-spec models cost when you buy an affordable compact SUV?

The average price for the cheapest cars in this segment is just north of $25,000, with no less than half a dozen selling for less than $30k. Fully loaded, the Hyundai Venue can cost around $25k, while the Taos will exceed $35k.

What is the resale value of the best compact SUVs?

Despite being some of the most common cars you’ll see, it is cars like the Toyota Corolla Cross and RAV4 that best retain their value. However, at the very top of the list are the Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited.

How reliable are affordable small SUVs?

For the most part, it is automakers like Toyota, Kia, Hyundai, and Mazda that deliver affordable cars, but they are also reputed for building some of the most reliable vehicles on the road.

Cheapest Small SUVs of 2023