8 New SUVs Under $50,000 You’ll Probably Regret Buying

Buying a new vehicle is a big financial commitment that could leave you looking for ways to get out of debt. According to LendingTree, auto loan debt is the second-largest category in the United States. Only mortgages account for more debt.

Purchasing a new vehicle could mean making payments for years. It's a decision you can't take lightly.

We've gone through popular SUV models and made a list of options under $50,000 that you should probably avoid. Of course, you should still research any model that catches your interest. But staying away from these new releases will help in a big way.

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MSRP: $21,600

The new Chevrolet Trax has an affordable price that makes it look like an attractive option. Before you commit to this SUV, though, you should check out its safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The IIHS gives the Trax its lowest rating, Poor, for crashworthiness in moderate overlap front collisions. Side collisions earn an Acceptable rating. Only small overlap front crash tests got a Good score from the IIHS.

The Trax does offer a comfortable, spacious interior and a smooth ride that make it appealing. But you'll likely regret choosing this low-priced vehicle the second you're in an accident.

MSRP: $25,495

The 2025 Taos has some things going for it, and it's definitely an improvement over the 2024 version. Importantly, the engine in the 2025 Taos offers 16 more horsepower than the previous model. That small change makes it more useful and fun to drive.

So, what's the problem? Like the Trax, it comes down to safety. The IIHS gives the 2025 Taos a Marginal rating for moderate overlap front collisions and an Acceptable rating for small overlap front and side collisions.

Even more concerning, the Taos gets a Poor rating for its front crash prevention feature.

MSRP: $29,995

Switching gears, the 2025 Subaru Outback gets positive test results from the IIHS. With this four-door wagon, it's the engine that should give you pause.

Drivers complain that the standard engine offers noticeably slow acceleration and a clunky stop-start system. You can opt for the turbocharged engine, which Edmunds says can accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in 6.5 seconds, but you'll spend considerably more money.

Even with the upgraded engine, expect a lot of body roll on turns and a steering system that will make you feel like you've been hitting the gym.

MSRP: $32,690

While drivers who enjoy off-road adventures might like the 2025 Jeep Wrangler, most people will find it an underwhelming, impractical SUV.

Many of the features that make it a strong option for off-roading are drawbacks on paved streets. Common complaints include excessive tire noise, loose steering, and limited cargo capacity.

MSRP: $36,400

A sluggish engine, uncomfortable front seats, and minimal cargo space detract from what's otherwise a pretty nice three-row SUV. The Pathfinder has never been a leader in its class, but it does have an affordable price that will appeal to some consumers. Still, you can get more value for your money by choosing a Kia Telluride or Honda Pilot.

What do owners say about the Pathfinder? One complains that "the fit-and-finish quality on this car reminds me of an American car in the 1980s." Ouch.

Another says, "My auto stop start has never really worked properly. It kicks off and on when it wants to." On a brand new vehicle? That's just unacceptable.

MSRP: $39,035

Now that we're nearing the $40,000 mark, you'd expect SUVs built to impress. The higher price, though, can make a vehicle all the more regrettable.

With the Jeep Grand Cherokee L, you get some concerning safety test results. The IIHS gives this SUV a Poor rating for moderate overlap front crashworthiness. The Grand Cherokee L also gets a Marginal rating for seat belt reminders and an Acceptable rating for its headlights and front crash prevention (pedestrian) system.

The 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee L has plenty of interior space and a decent V6 engine, but none of that really matters when it lacks the safety you and your passengers deserve.

MSRP: $41,270

Edmunds calls the 2025 Toyota 4Runner "an unquestioned improvement over the old one." Well, that certainly sounds good. But what does it really mean? It largely means that Toyota took an overpriced, mediocre SUV and redesigned it into a slightly better overpriced, mediocre SUV.

The fact is that the 2025 4Runner has cramped rear seats, a sluggish engine (zero to 60 miles per hour in 8.2 seconds), and disappointing handling.

The IIHS hasn't released safety test results for the 2025 4Runner yet. Hopefully, the updated version's structure and safety cage don't get a Poor rating like the 2024 did.

MSRP: $49,195

You've reached the most expensive SUV on this list. Like most Cadillac models, the XT6 has ample style. It's also roomy and quiet. We're off to a good start. Cadillac put some thought into this vehicle's aesthetics.

That just makes its safety ratings more befuddling. The IIHS gives the moderate overlap front crashworthiness a Poor rating. The side crashworthiness is also rated as Poor. The headlights? Acceptable. The front crash prevention (pedestrian) system? Marginal.

You can get a similarly stylish SUV by choosing the 2025 Mazda CX-90. You'll also save more than $10,000, get better performance, and feel safer on the road.

SUVs are very popular in the U.S., so most vehicle brands release updated models every year. With so many options, you don't have to compromise safety or experience to stay within your budget.

Additionally, spending more money doesn't always mean that you get a better vehicle. That's another reason savvy car owners always research SUVs before they commit to them. Keep in mind that you'll probably rely on this vehicle for years to come. That's a long time to suffer from buyer's remorse.