Saving & Spending Home & Auto

11 Reliable SUVs Under $50K That Are Totally Worth Buying

A $50,000 budget can get you an SUV with luxury features, rugged options, and more.

By Jenny Cohen

Edited by Michael Kurko

Updated Nov. 26, 2024

When buying a new SUV, it can be challenging to strike a balance between affordability and the accessories and features you want.

The good news is that you might find that balance with a budget of around $50,000 and a bit more luxury than other models that cost less.

Check out these SUV options that cost less than $50,000 to help you find the best bang for your buck if you're looking for great money moves as a car owner.

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Hyundai Ioniq 5

MSRP: $41,800

If you're considering switching from a gas-powered car to an electric vehicle, check out the Hyundai Ioniq 5. At a full charge, it has an estimated 300 miles of range.

The Ioniq 5 also has high safety ratings if you need some extra peace of mind when you're driving around your family or just want some extra protection for yourself.

The SUV got a Top Safety Rank Plus rating from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) and a five-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

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Mazda CX-90

MSRP: $37,845

With its three-row option, the Mazda CX-90 might provide the extra room you need for passengers at an affordable price.

You can also consider a plug-in hybrid version of the CX-90, but its MSRP of $49,945 may be a bit too close to your $50,000 budget, depending on how much extra cash you can spend.

Chevrolet Equinox

MSRP: $28,600

Chevy released a redesigned 2025 Chevrolet Equinox, with changes to the exterior and interior and new technologies for the driver.

The vehicle comes with front pedestrian braking, lane assist, and high-definition surround cameras as standard features to help you navigate streets safely.

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Jeep Grand Cherokee

MSRP: $36,495

The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers two options depending on your need for space or the number of people you have to transport. There are two-row and three-row versions to fit your needs.

You may also want to check out the Cherokee if you're looking for an SUV with the capacity to handle your towing needs of up to 7,200 pounds.

Volvo XC40

MSRP: $40,650

Volvo has a reputation for safety and the Volvo XC40 has some great safety features that could make it an option if that's a priority for you.

The XC40 includes lane assist, collision avoidance, and blind spot alerts to help you navigate when driving.

Ford Bronco

MSRP: $39,630

Ford resurrected its Ford Bronco with rugged-style cues inspired by the original version. It also gave drivers some new features to try on the road or options when they go off-road.

The Bronco gives drivers additional ground clearance and Trail Control mode for off-roading, as well as design features like a removable top and doors for extra fun in nature.

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Genesis GV70

MSRP: $45,700

Add some luxury to your SUV with the Genesis GV70, which includes special features like an electronically controlled suspension and collision avoidance assist.

The GV70 also comes in an EV version, but the $66,950 MSRP is likely to make the traditional gas version more appealing if you have a budget of $50,000.

BMW X3

MSRP: $49,500

The MSRP for the BMW X3 could get really close to your $50,000 budget, but it also gets you quite a few features.

Check out the BMW's large screen, for example, which can help you navigate roads, access entertainment apps, and serve as a stylish electronic dashboard when you're on the road.

Volkswagen ID.4

MSRP: $39,735

Another stylish all-electric option is the Volkswagen ID.4, which has almost 300 miles of range on one charge.

The ID.4 was also named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, scoring good grades on the institute's crash tests that review the safety of passengers in potential accidents.

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Honda Pilot

MSRP: $40,200

One advantage of the Honda Pilot is that it can seat up to eight passengers with its three rows to give everyone some space.

The Pilot also has seven available driving modes to help you get through snow and off-road options like trails and sand.

Toyota Highlander

MSRP: $39,270

The Toyota Highlander offers owners many great features that may be at the top of your shopping list, such as three rows of seating.

You can also choose a Highlander if you're looking for safety features like a collision alert system or lane departure assist, as well as adaptive cruise control to help you navigate roads.

Bottom line

A new SUV could be on your list of things you want or need, but it's important to also make a list of expenses before you buy one.

Consider creating an estimated budget for car ownership that includes the cost of the vehicle as well as gas, maintenance, and potential repairs.

You'll also want to shop around for the best rates on car insurance to potentially save some money.

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Author Details

Jenny Cohen

Jenny Cohen is a freelance writer who has covered a bit of everything, from finance to sports to her favorite TV shows. Her work has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and FoxSports.com.