14 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 still offer several affordable SUV options.

Here are 14 SUVs available with a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) under $45,000 that might be worth your money. Each starting MSRP excludes destination fees, and adding options or moving up a trim can push the final price well past that figure. To help you compare, we've also included details on fuel economy, cargo space, and other practical trade-offs.

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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.

The Countryman S ALL4 makes 241 horsepower, comes with standard all-wheel drive, and can reach 60 mph in 6.2 seconds. It's EPA-rated at 27 mpg combined, though premium fuel is recommended. Mini also includes complimentary scheduled maintenance for three years or 36,000 miles, which helps keep early ownership costs down.

MSRP: $43,700

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.

The redesigned 2026 model uses a 255-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder and is EPA-rated at 25 mpg combined. Cargo space tops out at about 50 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. There are a few drawbacks, though: Climate controls live only on the touchscreen, and ventilated seats aren't available.

MSRP: $38,680

The Ford Explorer comes with a sleek new interior and cutting-edge features, such as available 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.

That engine is a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. The Explorer seats up to seven with its third row, and folding the rear seats opens up to 85.8 cubic feet of cargo space. That makes it a solid fit for families who need to haul both people and gear without stepping up to a pricier full-size SUV.

MSRP: $42,750

The Mazda CX-70's turbo engine offers easy acceleration with an output of up to 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.

The standard engine makes 280 horsepower, and all-wheel drive comes on every trim. The CX-70 is a two-row SUV that seats five, with nearly 40 cubic feet of space behind the second row and 75.3 cubic feet with the seats folded. It's EPA-rated at 25 mpg combined and can tow up to 3,500 pounds. Some reviewers note the transmission can feel hesitant at low speeds.

MSRP: $43,990

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

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

Every Murano comes with all-wheel drive and a turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, and dual 12.3-inch screens are standard. It offers 63.5 cubic feet of cargo space. Fuel economy is about average for the class, and its 1,500-pound towing capacity is low for a midsize SUV, so it's better suited to commuting than hauling.

MSRP: $42,270

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

The standard engine is a 278-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder, and the 4Runner can tow up to 6,000 pounds. An optional third row raises seating to seven, though it's best for occasional use. The trade-off for its rugged design is a truck-like ride and fuel economy in the low 20s with the base engine.

MSRP: $39,050

Shoppers who want a luxury badge without a luxury price tag should consider the Lexus UX 300h. This compact SUV is a hybrid, with 196 net combined horsepower and an EPA-estimated 43 MPG combined with front-wheel drive, so you'll save at the pump, too.

All-wheel drive is available, and you can upgrade from the standard 8-inch touchscreen to a 12.3-inch display with the Lexus Interface multimedia system.

Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 comes standard, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, and lane tracing assist. Lexus backs the powertrain for six years or 70,000 miles. The main drawbacks are a tight back seat and 17.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, so it's best suited to singles, couples, or commuters.

MSRP: $42,260

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.

The third row offers 33.5 inches of legroom, so it's roomy enough for adults, not just kids. Toyota also covers scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles. If fuel economy is a top priority, hybrid versions are available at a higher price.

MSRP: $43,200

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.

Its 241-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder and all-wheel drive help it reach 60 mph in 6.2 seconds while still earning an EPA-estimated 28 mpg combined. Cargo space maxes out at 57.2 cubic feet. Just note that it calls for premium fuel.

MSRP: $41,295

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.

The base engine makes 194 horsepower, and the XC40 is EPA-rated at 26 to 27 mpg combined. It offers 57.5 cubic feet of cargo space and a strong set of standard safety features, including blind-spot alert and collision warning with automatic braking. Volvo backs it with a four-year/50,000-mile warranty. Its starting price is higher than some mainstream rivals, though.

MSRP: $44,700

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.

The gaming feature works only while the vehicle is parked. All-wheel drive is standard, and the X2 can sprint to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds while earning an EPA-estimated 28 mpg combined. Its sloping, coupe-like roofline looks sharp but trades away some practicality, so shoppers who need more room may prefer the X1.

MSRP: $41,500

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.

It offers 50.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and all-wheel drive is available.

MSRP: $43,900

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

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

Under the hood is a 328-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder that can tow up to 5,000 pounds. The Acadia seats up to eight and offers 97.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo space, making it a strong pick for larger families. Some owners say the engine gets loud under hard acceleration, and reliability ratings from owners are middling, so it's worth comparing it with rivals like the Grand Highlander.

MSRP: $44,690

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.

All-wheel drive is standard, powered by a 240-horsepower hybrid system. Behind the rear seats, there's about 25.8 cubic feet of cargo space, and a power liftgate comes standard. It's built for comfort rather than sporty handling.

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.

Before you buy, compare total ownership costs, not just the sticker price. Fuel economy, warranty coverage, included maintenance, and insurance rates can vary widely between models, and a little research could save you thousands over the life of the vehicle. It's also worth test-driving a few top picks back to back to see which one best fits your needs and budget.