SUVs first appeared in the American auto industry in 1945 with the Willys-Overland Jeep Station Wagon. Besides their sleek looks, these vehicles have more space, higher ground clearance, and a rugged build than regular cars. In this listicle, we’ll highlight 15 popular SUVs, seven overpriced ones, and eight valuable alternatives you can buy without breaking the bank.

Overpriced: Jeep Grand Wagoneer

MSRP: $91,945

For the price, most reviewers argue you could get a better luxury vehicle from established brands with superior comfort and high-technology features. It has enough passenger and cargo space for large families or people who need to move a lot of gear. However, besides the frequent questions about fuel economy, not everyone can drive a vehicle this large.

Overpriced: Land Rover Range Rover SE

MSRP: $107,900

This Land Rover has a reputation for being less reliable than some competitors, potentially leading to higher ownership costs. Before you buy a Range Rover SE, you must first be prepared to pay the initial exorbitant price and deal with the expensive maintenance due to its complex systems and premium parts. In addition to its high depreciation rate, it has poor gas mileage.

Overpriced: BMW X5 sDrive40i

MSRP: $65,700

While the BMW X5 sDrive40i is a strong contender in the mid-size luxury SUV segment, maintenance can be a headache. Buyers who choose the third-row seat have to deal with limited cargo space. Some reviewers mention the carmaker has to add more packages to get the standard features of some competitors. 

Overpriced: Cadillac Escalade

MSRP: $81,895

Since the Cadillac Escalade’s starting MSRP is on the higher end, it has become a status symbol that only rich people can easily afford. While the used models are cheaper, their price only drops due to a high depreciation rate. The powerful engines come at the cost of higher fuel consumption, so buyers would have to expect poor gas mileage. Also, despite the comfort, some reviewers maintain that the ride quality can be better, especially with larger wheels.

Overpriced: Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 4MATIC

MSRP: $62,650

Like many luxury vehicles, the GLE has a hefty price tag. However, its performance barely justifies the cost, as some owners have reported constant electrical issues. The standard suspension can be much firmer, but opting for the better air suspension is an additional cost. While an option, the third-row seat would suit children more than adults.

Overpriced: Infiniti QX80

MSRP: $74,150

This full-size SUV has a spacious interior with a powerful V8 engine that helps it tow up to 8,500 pounds. Despite these features, user reviews complain of an outdated design and poor gas mileage compared to other cars in its price range. To be fair, you’d expect more from one of the most expensive SUVs on the market. Some owners have also criticized that the infotainment system is more of a learning curve rather than a practical feature.

Overpriced: 2023 Lincoln Aviator

MSRP: $70,190

This midsize SUV has a modern design to complement its turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 engine. Although it reflects the premium standards associated with Lincoln, a division of Ford Motor Company, its reliability is questionable. Customer reports gave it a low score due to recall issues involving the powertrain, star belts, in-car electronics, premature paint, and trim peeling. Additionally, the Lincoln Aviator has an average annual maintenance cost of $626, according to RepairPal.

Affordable: Toyota RAV4

MSRP: $28,675

The Toyota RAV4 is a perennial favorite because it consistently ranks high in sales and reliability surveys. It has a great reputation for low ownership costs and a long history of dependable service. It also has high safety ratings to give you and your passengers some peace of mind. The RAV4 comes in a variety of trim levels, including the base LE to the TRD Off-Road, for different needs and preferences. 

Affordable: Hyundai Santa Fe

MSRP: $33,950

The midsize Santa Fe has the right blend of space, comfort, and value. Even the base SE trim has impressive features, including a user-friendly infotainment system, driver-assistance technologies, and safety features. The modem extends to the luxurious Calligraphy trim for people who are comfortable with increasing their budget to get more performance.

Affordable: Honda CR-V

MSRP: $29,500

Honda Sensing, Honda’s suite of advanced safety features, is available on most CR-V trims with features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and collision mitigation braking system. These features have given it a worthy reputation for reliability, comfort, and safety. Better still, the CR-V has a spacious interior with enough room for families and individuals who need space for passengers and items. In addition, newer models of the Honda CR-V have a turbocharged engine option with excellent mileage.

Affordable: Subaru Forester

MSRP: $27,095

This SUV comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) for excellent traction and stability in various road or weather conditions. Most models have a horizontally opposed “boxer” engine, which lowers the car’s center of gravity for better handling. Recent ones also have Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking. Previous owners believe the Forester is a smart investment as they were able to sell it at a good price after years of use.

Affordable: Mazda CX-5

MSRP: $29,300

The CX-5 has a stockpile of high safety and reliability ratings from previous owners who spent little on maintenance. The base trim has a good list of standard features, including several driver-assistance technologies. It also has several fuel-efficient engines, including a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a turbocharged option for those who want more power.

Affordable: Kia Seltos

MSRP: $24,490

The Kia Seltos is an easy choice for those who want a compact SUV with recent high-tech features, a stylish design, and overall value. Despite its much-desired all-wheel drive, Kia sets this model at a competitive price that would attract buyers with a budget.

Affordable: 2021 Toyota 4Runner

MSRP: $37,480

Thanks to its rugged frame, the 4Runner is a worthy competitor against the Ford Edge, Wrangler, and V-6 Dodge Durango. It has a 4.0-liter naturally aspirated V-6 engine and five-speed automatic transmission that can pair with either rear-, four-, or all-wheel drives. This engine has enough torque to allow it to tow up to 5,000 pounds. Owners praise it for lasting a long time with proper maintenance, making it a good value in the long run.

Affordable: 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee

MSRP: $47,840

The Grand Cherokee has several features for different terrains, including advanced four-wheel-drive systems, high ground clearance, and multiple drive modes on higher trims. It has a powerful set of powertrains, including the 3.6-liter naturally aspirated V-6 and a powerful 6.2-liter supercharged V-8 for those who prefer performance. Its fuel economy numbers are 11-19/17-26 mpg city/highway. The cabin is also spacious enough for passengers and cargo.