15 Reliable SUVs Under $45K That Are Worth Buying

The SUV is an extremely popular choice among American car shoppers. However, these vehicles often have hefty price tags, and buying one can be among the most expensive money moves for car owners.

Fortunately, you can still snag a deal on an SUV if you know where to look. Automakers are offering several affordable SUV options in 2025.

Here are 15 SUVs available with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) under $45,000 that might be worth your money.

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MSRP: $40,650

The Volvo XC40 is an affordable yet luxurious compact SUV. Its 247 horsepower means the XC40 will offer plenty of punch wherever it takes you.

Cutting-edge creature comforts such as built-in Google and an advanced air purifier system make this SUV a pleasurable ride.

MSRP: $40,770

The Toyota 4Runner’s available two-wheel drive, part-time four-wheel-drive, and full-time four-wheel-drive setups can accommodate a multitude of off-road adventures, from hauling camping equipment to trekking through the mountains.

Additionally, its zesty 326 horsepower and suspension-boosting Stabilizer Disconnect Mechanism ensure that it will conquer even the most challenging trails.

MSRP: $41,350

Thrifty shoppers on the hunt for a sportier ride might consider the BMW X1 xDrive28i. The available M Sport Package allows buyers to add features such as a steering wheel with paddle shifters and a suspension upgrade that enhances the X1’s sporty capabilities.

Passengers will enjoy the open-air feel of its panoramic moonroof, which adds a sense of refinement to the SUV’s roomy cabin.

MSRP: $40,470

Buyers looking for a serene driving experience should enjoy the Nissan Murano’s all-new interior, which boasts a 64-color ambient lighting feature.

The Murano also comes with driver-assistance features, such as the 3D Around View monitor that provides drivers with eight virtual vantage points as they park or maneuver. .

MSRP: $39,800

The Audi Q3 is a versatile five-seater. It comes standard with a quattro all-wheel drive configuration that offers a refined balance between acceleration and handling.

Whether it is cruising down city streets or winding through the mountains, this SUV’s ride can take on all comers.

The Audi MMI touch display also offers all the interconnected multimedia convenience of a smartphone.

MSRP: $43,590

With tons of convenient and economical features, the Crown Signa more than earns its royal moniker. However, with its reasonable starting price, consumers don’t have to empty their coffers to lay claim to the Crown Signa.

The SUV’s EPA-estimated combined 38 MPG will save buyers a princely sum at the pump down the road. Families on the go will also appreciate its 68.8 cubic feet of cargo capacity.

MSRP: $42,850

The BMW X2 combines the best of sporty sedans, hatchbacks, and SUVs in one fun, technologically sophisticated vehicle.

With 241 horsepower, it offers plenty of zip, and its athletic design is head-turning. You can use your smartphone as a controller to play video games on its curved display.

MSRP: $40,860

With up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity and 97.5 cubic feet of cargo space, it's a cinch to load up the Toyota Grand Highlander eight-seater for road trips, camping, or epic grocery runs.

The Grand Highlander also gets a wallet-friendly EPA-estimated MPG of 21 in the city and 28 on the highway. It’s an economical and practical family SUV.

MSRP: $43,000

The Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 may be a small SUV, but it still packs a punch.

It’s loaded with innovative features such as virtual voice assistance and a stellar infotainment system with dual 10.25-inch displays that come standard with wireless CarPlay.

The nimble GLA 250 also sports a hybrid turbo engine capable of unleashing 221 horsepower. With its EPA-estimated MPG of 26 in the city and 34 on the highway, this German SUV will also help consumers maximize savings at the gas pump.

MSRP: $40,445

The Mazda CX-70’s turbo engine offers easy acceleration with an output of 340 horsepower. Additionally, Mazda paired the CX-70 with a mild hybrid powertrain, utilizing a small electric motor to optimize fuel efficiency.

Consumers who dread the thought of having to plug in their vehicle don’t have to worry — the CX-70 requires no plug-in.

MSRP: $38,900

The Mini Cooper Countryman boasts a design highlighted by a circular infotainment screen that comes with Mini’s voice-activated personal assistant.

This SUV’s interior also features eight different experience modes that blend color patterns with light projections on the dashboard. It’s a colorful vehicle for consumers who want an SUV that oozes personality.

MSRP: $39,755

The Ford Explorer comes with a sleek new interior and cutting-edge features, such as Ford CoPilot360 Assist+ and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go lane-centering.

With its 300-horsepower EcoBoost engine and 5,000-pound towing capacity, it’s a practical daily driver capable of handling most towing needs.

MSRP: $42,140

The Lexus NX is reasonably priced for the small luxury SUV segment. Especially considering its standard technology and driver-assist features.

It also has convenient new creature comforts, such as USB-C ports upfront and wireless chargers.

MSRP: $40,795

Car buyers in the market for an SUV with a silky-smooth ride should consider the Cadillac XT4.

It features the usual Cadillac comforts, such as heated and ventilated seats and generous legroom. Throw in the XT4’s driver mode selector and four-wheel independent suspension, and getting from A to B becomes a luxury experience.

MSRP: $42,900

The GMC Acadia is a muscular midsize SUV. It also has a 15-inch diagonal infotainment system and Bose Premium 12-speaker audio system.

Thanks to such features, this SUV is as fun as it is powerful.

With so many brand-new, reasonably priced SUVs available, it might be a good time for American consumers to consider purchasing one of these vehicles.

SUV shoppers looking to save money should be aware of another perk: These vehicles often have top-of-the-line safety features that could potentially help them save on car insurance.