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14 Best SUVs Under $40K That Are Totally Worth Buying

These are the top options if you want an SUV that won’t bust your budget.

busy highway with cars, including SUVs
Sandy Baker
By Sandy Baker
Chris Kissell
Edited by Chris Kissell
Updated Sept. 10, 2024
Fact checked

We receive compensation from the products and services mentioned in this story, but the opinions are the author's own. Compensation may impact where offers appear. We have not included all available products or offers. Learn more about how we make money and our editorial policies.

There is plenty to love about owning an SUV. The ample interior room can be a nice benefit to those who have a lot of people or gear to haul around. These vehicles also might provide an extra measure of safety.

Such larger vehicles often come with higher costs. However, step away from the high-end, luxury models, and you will find some outstanding SUVs priced under $40,000 that boast plenty of performance, interior space, and solid handling.

These are the best SUVs under $40,000. If you buy one, be sure to shop around for coverage so you can save on car insurance and reduce your auto costs even further.

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2025 Honda CR-V Sport Hybrid

Courtesy of Honda Honda CR-V Sport Hybrid

MSRP: $34,350

Compact, easy to drive, and with an efficient powertrain, the Honda CR-V Hybrid can even save you money on gas.

The 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine with two electric motors offers 204 horsepower, which is a nice boost over similar models.

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2025 Subaru Forester

Courtesy of Subaru Subaru Forester

MSRP: $29,695

The 2025 Subaru Forester is a stylish five-seater with several trim levels and prices that start under $40,000.

You will also find it offers enhanced safety technology, including standard driver-assist features.

2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer

Courtesy of Chevrolet Chevrolet Trailblazer

MSRP: $23,100

One of the least expensive SUVs on the market is the Chevrolet Trailblazer, which features a rugged Activ trim and available all-wheel drive.

Key features include a flexible interior with plenty of shoulder and leg room and a nice 11-inch diagonal screen.

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2024 Kia Telluride

Courtesy of Kia Kia Telluride

MSRP: $36,190

The 2024 Kia Telluride is a three-row SUV with a spacious interior and seating for up to eight.

It also comes with 17 standard driver-assistance features.

2025 Mazda CX-50

Courtesy of Mazda Mazda CX-50

MSRP: $30,300

Priced well, the Mazda CX-50 offers some nice options, including towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds.

The 2025 model includes features like Amazon’s Alexa voice assistant and the ability to remotely start the car with the MyMazda app.

2024 MINI Countryman

Courtesy of Mini MINI Countryman

MSRP: $32,650

The MINI Countryman goes from zero to 60 in less than 10 seconds. It also features 27 cubic feet of cargo space.

Apple CarPlay is standard across all models, as is all-wheel drive.

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2025 Hyundai Tucson

Courtesy of Hyundai Hyundai Tucson

MSRP: $28,355

The Hyundai Tucson offers a roomy interior that makes long days of driving more comfortable. You also get a nice, high-tech display screen.

Choose the hybrid or the plug-in hybrid model for added fuel savings. This compact SUV has enough room for five people.

2024 Ford Bronco Sport

Courtesy of Ford Ford Bronco Sport

MSRP: $29,795

A notably smaller SUV that still offers off-road capability, the Ford Bronco Sport has seating for five and a safari-style roof that gives you more headroom.

The Sport comes with standard all-wheel drive. This is a practical, solid compact SUV with good handling and several trim package options.

2025 Chevrolet Equinox

Courtesy of Chevrolet Chevrolet Equinox

MSRP: $28,600

The Chevrolet Equinox is an affordable SUV with an updated driver display and infotainment screen compared to older models.

The 2025 model has been redesigned both inside and out. It also features adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.

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2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

Courtesy of Hyundai Hyundai Santa Fe

MSRP: $33,950

With up to 277 horsepower, the Hyundai Santa Fe will appeal to many drivers.

It offers seating for up to seven people and 14.6 square feet of cargo capacity. This midsize SUV also offers ample safety features.

2025 Hyundai Kona Electric

Courtesy of Hyundai Hyundai Kona Electric

MSRP: $32,875

This electric-motor SUV offers features such as remote smart parking assist and a pair of 12.3-inch displays.

It also has an EPA-estimated range of 261 miles. The hatchback design helps make this a practical vehicle for everyday use when you have gear to take with you.

2025 Hyundai Palisade

Courtesy of Hyundai Hyundai palisade

MSRP: $36,800

The Hyundai Palisade is a three-row, slightly more upscale midsize SUV.

The base model offers room for up to eight people with a second-row bench seat. The big 12.3-inch touchscreen display is also a nice feature.

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2025 Buick Encore GX

Courtesy of Buick Buick Encore GX

MSRP: $26,000

The Buick Encore GX features a quiet, upscale interior with some nice tech, including forward-collision warning and pedestrian detection.

It is available in three trim options, including the popular Sport Touring.

2025 Mazda CX-90

Courtesy of Mazda Mazda CX-90

MSRP: $37,845

The Mazda CX-90 is a three-row SUV with an inline-six engine. It’s easy to drive, with enough power and performance for most needs.

The vehicle has a second-row bench and dual captain’s chairs.

Bottom line

Prostock-studio/Adobe Man sits in new car

It’s possible to get ample performance and features out of a $40,000 SUV budget.

When you want to get ahead financially but your family is growing — or you simply desire the roomy interior and powerful kick of an SUV — these are among the best options on the market for 2025.

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