With the price of new and used cars in the market, it’s hard to imagine getting anything affordable. Prices are increasing over MSRP, and SUVs are more in-demand than ever. However, some automakers, like Jeep, offer a few SUVs for an affordable price. Did you know there are two affordable Jeep models that start under $30,000? Are cheap SUVs like the 2022 Jeep Compass and Renegade even worth buying?

2022 Jeep Renegade: Subcompact affordability

More and more, the subcompact SUV segment has become popular. It’s got everything a buyer could want: spaciousness, reliability, features, and car-like drivability. Jeep’s entry into the class of vehicles comes in the form of the Renegade. This mini Wrangler offers many trim levels, one of which is off-road-ready off the lot. However, only one of the six trim levels starts under $30,000. The 2022 Jeep Renegade Sport is $26,290, and the next cheapest trim level is the Latitude, at $30,740.

Moreover, the cheapest Jeep SUV isn’t that well-equipped in its most affordable form. Experts like Edmunds recommend opting for the Latitude model, which adds many desirable features. With the Renegade Sport, you only get heated mirrors, push-button ignition, dual-zone automatic climate control, a height-adjustable driver’s seat, an 8.4-inch touchscreen, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, navigation, six speakers, and a removable cargo floor panel.

Fortunately, a few additional safety features are also included with every Renegade. The subcompact SUV comes standard with forward collision mitigation, blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure mitigation, and trailer sway damping.

The Jeep Compass starts under $30,000

Next, the only other Jeep SUV available for under $30,000 is the 2022 Jeep Compass. Just like the Renegade, only the Sport base model starts below the $30K mark. For the Compass Sport, it costs $28,380 before adding other fees. Next up is the Latitude trim, which begins just over our limit at $30,930. Again, like the Renegade, experts like Edmunds recommend buying the Latitude trim over any other model. It adds key features like imitation leather and keyless ignition that many buyers require.

Moreover, the Compass is similarly equipped to the Renegade in its base form. Buyers who opt for the Sport trim unlock the following items: LED headlights, heated mirrors, roof rails, rear air vents, height-adjustable driver’s seat, cloth upholstery, an 8.4-inch touchscreen, six speakers, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, satellite radio, first- and second-row USB ports, and an adjustable load floor.

Finally, a few advanced safety features are standard, just like with the Renegade Sport. Things like forward collision mitigation, lane departure mitigation, and blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert are standard.

Affordable Jeep models under $30,000

In conclusion, two affordable Jeep models start under $30,000. These are viable SUVs if you’re interested in subcompact or compact models that are cheap but small. We’d recommend the slightly more costly 2022 Jeep Compass over the Jeep Renegade. This is primarily because the two are so similarly equipped, but the Compass gets more space. In addition, we think the Compass’ exterior design is much more desirable than the Renegade, which could use some work.