Intending to buy a new small SUV? This is a responsible task for several reasons. In the modern market, carmakers offer numerous budget-friendly options. Moreover, they don't skimp on features or reliability. In 2025, searching for the most wallet-friendly SUVs is not that difficult. These cars combine affordability with practicality. Some carmakers offer models with decent fuel economy and surprising amounts of passenger space and cargo capacity. At the same time, they keep the base price accessible. No matter whether you’re reviewing the redesigned Chevy Trax, the versatile Toyota Corolla Cross, or the reliable Honda HR-V. These SUVs are reliable, and you don't need to sacrifice quality when watching your budget.
Affordable New SUVs
The subcompact SUV segment has exploded in recent years. Many manufacturers compete to offer the best value. In such a high-demand category, the choice is wide. Most of these affordable options start under $25,000. This price makes them attainable for first-time buyers. However, those looking to maximize value can also find such models reliable. Certainly, they may lack some of the premium features of their pricier counterparts. Nonetheless, many come standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. They also contain advanced safety features and driver aids like automatic emergency braking. Here are the most popular models in today’s market:
| Model | Base Price | Fuel Economy (City/Hwy) | Standard AWD |
| 2025 Chevrolet Trax | $19,440 | 28/32 mpg | No |
| 2025 Kia Soul | $19,990 | 28/33 mpg | No |
| 2025 Hyundai Venue | $20,350 | 29/33 mpg | No |
| 2025 Nissan Kicks | $21,050 | 31/36 mpg | No |
| 2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer | $21,800 | 29/33 mpg | No |
| 2025 Buick Envista | $22,400 | 28/32 mpg | No |
| 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross | $23,815 | 31/33 mpg | No |
| 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport | $24,590 | 24/30 mpg | Yes |
| 2025 Hyundai Kona | $24,950 | 30/35 mpg | No |
| 2025 Kia Seltos | $24,990 | 27/31 mpg | No |
2025 Chevrolet Trax
This Chevrolet continues to impress as one of the cheapest SUV options on sale today. Its base price is about $19,440. This small SUV has a refreshed design and improved features. The Trax offers a 1.2-liter turbocharged engine. It delivers a balanced mix of capacity and efficiency. The fuel economy rating is good (28 mpg city and 32 mpg highway).
This subcompact SUV provides remarkable value with its standard features, including:
- 8-inch touchscreen; wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Automatic emergency braking; pedestrian detection
- Ten airbags; the Chevrolet Safety Assist suite
- Comfortable seating (five); 25.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind rear seats
2025 Kia Soul
This Kia has a distinctive boxy design and versatile trim. It continues to be a standout in the affordable SUV market. Starting at $19,990, the Soul defies conventional small SUV styling. It delivers practicality and character in equal measure. The model is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. It achieves 28 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. Thus, the car ensures decent economy for budget-conscious drivers.
The Soul packs an impressive array of standard features at its base trim level:
- 8-inch touchscreen infotainment with Apple and Android systems
- Forward collision avoidance with automatic emergency braking
- Lane keeping assist and driver attention warning
- 62.1 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats folded
2025 Hyundai Venue
The 2025 Hyundai Venue is one of the most compelling options in the subcompact SUV category. Its base price is of $20,350. This city-friendly car combines stylish design with practical dimensions. It’s perfect for urban environments and offers the higher seating position SUV drivers crave. The 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine delivers impressive economy ratings (29 mpg city and 33 mpg highway).
The car comes well-equipped even in its base model:
- 8-inch touchscreen; Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Forward collision-avoidance
- Lane keeping assist and driver attention warning
- 18.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind rear seats (expands to 31.9 cubic feet)
2025 Nissan Kicks
The 2025 Nissan Kicks delivers exceptional value. Its starting price is of $21,050. This stylish subcompact SUV offers a tech-forward trim. The auto’s powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. The Kicks achieves impressive economy ratings of 31 mpg city and 36 mpg highway. Also, it offers the best gas mileage among all the vehicles in our roundup.
The 2025 Nissan Kicks is equipped with standard features:
- 7-inch touchscreen; Apple and Android system compatibility
- Automatic emergency braking (pedestrian detection)
- Lane departure warning; blind spot monitoring
- 25.3 cubic feet of cargo space (rear seats folded)
2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer
The affordability-capability balance of the 2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer is excellent. Its base price is of $21,800. This small SUV slots between the Trax and Equinox in Chevrolet's lineup. It offers sharp styling and a spacious interior. The Trailblazer's powered by a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine. As for its fuel economy rating, it’s 29 mpg city and 33 mpg highway.
The Trailblazer includes an impressive list of standard features:
- 8-inch touchscreen; Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Chevy Safety Assist (automatic braking)
- LED headlights; daytime running lights
- 54.4 cubic feet of maximum cargo space (rear seats folded)
2025 Buick Envista
This Buick is among the newest entries in the affordable subcompact SUV segment. Its base price starts with $22,400. The auto has sleek, coupe-like profile, as well as premium styling cues. The Envista’s budget-friendly category doesn’t affect its high aesthetics. The auto’s 1.2-liter turbocharged engine delivers balanced capacity (28 mpg city and 32 mpg highway). Thus, it ensures efficient performance for daily driving.
This Buick comes well-equipped:
- 8-inch touchscreen with Apple and Android systems
- Buick Driver Confidence package with automatic braking
- Active noise cancellation for a quieter cabin
- 42 inches of rear seat legroom and 20.7 cubic feet of cargo space
2025 Toyota Corolla Cross
The 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross has a good reputation. It’s widely recognized for its reliability. At the same time, the model offers the versatility of a small SUV at a reasonable base price of $23,815. This crossover shares its platform with the venerable Corolla sedan. SUV shoppers value its elevated driving position and cargo flexibility. The standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine accomplishes excellent fuel economy ratings (31 mpg city and 33 mpg highway).
The Corolla Cross is packed with some standard features:
- 8-inch touchscreen; Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (automatic emergency braking)
- Automatic climate control; lane departure alert
- 26.5 cubic feet of cargo space
2025 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
The 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport’s base price is $24,590. The model offers exceptional value; it stands out as the only model on our list that offers AWD. This small car combines rugged styling with practical dimensions. The Outlander Sport comes equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Its fuel economy rating is 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. These figures should be taken into account when the auto is equipped with all-wheel drive.
The Outlander Sport includes a robust set of standard features:
- 8-inch touchscreen with Apple and Android systems
- Forward collision mitigation with automatic braking
- Lane departure warning and automatic high beams
- Up to 49.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the second row folded
2025 Hyundai Kona
The redesigned 2025 Hyundai Kona offers striking styling and impressive technology. Its base price starts with $24,950. This subcompact SUV brings distinctive design elements. The interior is spacious compared to the competitive small SUV segment. It has a standard powertrain of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The base Kona achieves excellent fuel economy ratings (30 mpg city and 35 mpg highway).
The 2025 Hyundai Kona has some standard features:
- 12.3-inch touchscreen; Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- The Hyundai SmartSense safety suite (automatic emergency braking)
- Highway Driving Assist; rear cross-traffic alert
- Up to 63.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row
2025 Kia Seltos
The 2025 Kia Seltos is characterized by a compelling blend of style, space, and affordability. Its base price is $24,990. The model is positioned between the Soul and Sportage in Kia's lineup. This small SUV offers substantial passenger space and cargo capacity. The standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine achieves excellent fuel economy ratings (27 mpg city and 31 mpg highway).
Buyers can find some standard features in the Kia Seltos:
- 8-inch touchscreen; Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Kia Drive Wise with automatic braking
- Lane keeping assist and driver attention warning
- 26.6 cubic feet of cargo space (expands to 62.8 cubic feet)
Looking for the best SUV for towing in this category? The Kia Seltos and Subaru Crosstrek lead the pack. Their towing capacities reach 1,500 pounds when properly equipped. Some families seek extra comfort. Therefore, shoppers should remember that none of these entry-level models come standard as an SUV with captain seats. This option is typically reserved for midsize and larger cars.
Always check the VIN number with the tools like the Toyota VIN decoder. Verify exact specifications and build details. Front seats in these latest models now feature surprising comfort with multi-way adjustments. Most offer split-folding rear seats (not front seats). It’s helpful for flexible cargo configurations. Below is a comprehensive comparison of these affordable SUVs. Don’t hesitate to select the perfect match for your needs and budget.
| Model | Base Price | Engine | Cargo Space | AWD Available | Fuel Economy | Key Standard and Safety Features |
| Chevrolet Trax | $19,440 | 1.2L Turbo | 25.6 cu ft | No | 28/32 mpg | Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto |
| Kia Soul | $19,990 | 2.0L 4-cyl | 24.2-62.1 cu ft | No | 28/33 mpg | 8" touchscreen |
| Hyundai Venue | $20,350 | 1.6L 4-cyl | 18.7-31.9 cu ft | No | 29/33 mpg | Wireless smartphone integration |
| Nissan Kicks | $21,050 | 1.6L 4-cyl | 25.3 cu ft | No | 31/36 mpg | Automatic emergency braking |
| Chevrolet Trailblazer | $21,800 | 1.2L Turbo | 25.3-54.4 cu ft | Optional | 29/33 mpg | Chevy Safety Assist |
| Buick Envista | $22,400 | 1.2L Turbo | 20.7 cu ft | No | 28/32 mpg | Active noise cancellation |
| Toyota Corolla Cross | $23,815 | 2.0L 4-cyl | 26.5 cu ft | Optional | 31/33 mpg | Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 |
| Mitsubishi Outlander Sport | $24,590 | 2.0L 4-cyl | 21.7-49.5 cu ft | Standard | 24/30 mpg | 10-year/100k-mile warranty |
| Hyundai Kona | $24,950 | 2.0L 4-cyl | 25.5-63.6 cu ft | Optional | 30/35 mpg | 12.3" touchscreen |
| Kia Seltos | $24,990 | 2.0L 4-cyl | 26.6-62.8 cu ft | Optional | 27/31 mpg | Kia Drive Wise safety suite |
Frequently Asked Questions
Several models are worth mentioning. These are the 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross, Honda HR-V, and 2025 Mazda CX-30. They consistently rank among the most reliable small SUVs. Such models have fewer reported problems in their first years.
The Subaru Crosstrek also boasts impressive reliability scores. Its robust 2.0-liter BOXER engine design has proven durable over time.
Nissan models, such as the Kicks, have shown improved dependability in recent consumer reports as well. Even the base model trims of these cars maintain strong reliability ratings.
Today's budget-friendly SUVs are well-equipped with:
- Smartphone integration, namely, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
- Basic safety features; concerns automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning)
- Touchscreen infotainment systems
- Decent cargo space with folding rear seats
- Fuel-efficient engines
Many models now include many advanced features. Previously, such options were found only in premium vehicles. These are, e.g., automatic high beams and driver assistance technology. Some manufacturers offer standard AWD in certain trims. Such a solution typically increases the base price slightly. However, when talking about the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, no price increase is observed.
When comparing these two autos, one should remember: a new small SUV typically costs $5,000-$10,000 more than the same 2-3-year-old used model. However, it includes full warranty coverage. Buyers are thus safeguarded from potential maintenance issues of pre-owned cars.
The value proposition improves for models with strong resale values. Pay attention, for instance, to the Subaru Crosstrek and 2025 Mazda CX-30. These models tend to depreciate more slowly than their main competitors. When comparing new versus used, consider the following nuance: newer models often feature more efficient 2.0-liter engines. Thus, you can count on better fuel economy, which older versions cannot offer.
Safety tests prove that many affordable SUVs perform exceptionally well:
- The 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross, 2025 Mazda CX-30, and Subaru Crosstrek; they’ve earned IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designations
- The Hyundai Kona and Kia Seltos; they’ve received IIHS Top Safety Pick awards
- Most are equipped with standard automatic braking and lane-keeping assistance
Several models include automatic high beams as part of their safety packages. This option is particularly valuable for nighttime visibility. Nissan's Safety Shield 360 technology has also received recognition. Drivers highly value the model’s approach to accident prevention.
Most federal incentives target electric cars. However, some states offer rebates for fuel-efficient vehicles. Don’t hesitate to check the DOE's Alternative Fuels Data Center. You’ll find local incentives for cars with the best gas mileage. Some regions provide specific benefits for SUVs with standard AWD capabilities. It’s due to their enhanced safety in adverse weather conditions. Shoppers considering the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport or Subaru Crosstrek will find such propositions particularly helpful.
Intending to analyze the total cost of ownership? Pay particular attention to the following cars:
- Nissan Kicks offers excellent economy and low maintenance costs
- Toyota Cross combines solid fuel economy with the manufacturer's legendary reliability
- Kia Soul provides good value with its long warranty and competitive price
- Hyundai Venue balances a low entry price with efficient operation
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 is characterized by its efficient 2.0-liter engine. The model delivers an excellent balance of performance and economy. At the same time, cars equipped with automatic high beams can reduce driver fatigue during night driving. This valuable opportunity potentially lowers accident risk and, consequently, associated costs.
