It’s pretty expensive out there these days. That’s why it’s important to look for SUVs that won’t break the bank. However, you don’t have to settle for the basics. There are excellent options to consider to pack in the value for under $30,000. 

7 best SUVs for under $30,000 

I, along with several automotive critics, cross the nation speed a lot of time driving all the things. I’ve spent a week with every vehicle on this list. Each one has proven that it deserves to be on this list. 

But I’ve also cross-referenced scores with industry colleagues across other outlets such as Car and Driver, Edmunds, and U.S.News to back up my picks for the best SUVs under $30,000. 

1. 2025 Nissan Rogue 

First up, we have the 2025 Nissan Rogue. It has an MSRP of $28,590, allowing it to slide in under the $30,000 mark. According to U.S.News, it has an average score of 8.8. It’s in sixth place on the list of best compact SUVs. 

It has a standard 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine with 201 hp and 255 lb-ft of torque. Other standard goodies include LED headlights, an 8.0-inch infotainment screen, and Nissan Safety Shield 360. 

While the Rogue is spacious, comfortable, and well-rounded, it’s not the sportiest option. The transmission can lag, but it has plenty of power for errands. Some people also complain about interior noise. 

2. 2025 Hyundai Kona 

Next up, we have the 2025 Hyundai Kona with a modest MSRP of $24,500. It has an average industry score of 8.9. It landed in third place on the list of best compact SUVs. 

The Kona has a standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 147 hp. It’s a bit sluggish, but you can upgrade to the turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine for 190 hp. Plus, there is a hybrid powertrain available. 

Standard features include keyless entry, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and tons of safety tech. 

The Hyundai Kona stands out for being spacious, comfortable, and advanced, but some drivers complain about the bumpy ride quality, and the turbo engine is available with each trim level. 

3. 2025 Subaru Crosstrek 

Tons of people are happy with the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek and its $25,695 MSRP. It has an industry average rating of 8.7 and ranks in eighth place on the list of top subcompact SUVs. 

It has a standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 152 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque, that’s a little sluggish. But you can upgrade to the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine for 182 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque. 

Standard features include all-wheel drive, a 7.0-inch touchscreen, responsive LED headlights, a rear seat reminder, and the Subaru EyeSight safety suite. 

The Crosstrek receives praise for having above-average off-roading capabilities, a good fuel economy, and straight-forward interior. But It’s pretty loud at highway speeds and lacks cargo space compared to rivals. 

4. 2025 Chevrolet Equinox 

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox should make rivals nervous with its $28,600 MSRP. Plus, it has an industry average score of 8.7 and ranks in ninth place on the list of best compact SUVs. 

It has a standard 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 175 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. Adding all-wheel drive increases its torque to 203 lb-ft of torque. 

Standard features include automatic high-beams, remote engine state, heated seats, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, an 11.3-inch infotainment screen, an 11.0-inch digital gauge cluster, heated exterior mirrors, and plenty of safety tech. 

Drivers like the Chevy Equinox because it’s attractive inside and out with a fresh style, the tech is easy to use, and has tons of standard features. But it has a weak fuel economy and can be noisy at highway speeds with limited cargo space. 

5. 2025 Kia Sportage 

Don’t overlook the 2025 Kia Sportage as one of the best SUVs for under $30,000. It has an MSRP of $28,785 and an average industry score of 8.7. It landed in ninth place on the list of best compact SUVs. 

The Sportage has a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque. You can go for the hybrid or PHEV powertrain to save fuel. 

Standard goodies include LED headlights, an 8.0-inch infotainment screen, a digital gauge cluster, and plenty of safety features for peace of mind. 

The Sportage is praised for having a spacious, upscale cabin, tons of cargo room, and a quiet interior. But the gas engine is a bit thirsty, and it’s not the most athletic option. 

6. 2025 Mazda CX-30

The 2025 Mazda CX-30 has aged like fine wine with an MSRP of $26,690. It has an average industry score of 9.2. It’s the number one option on the list of best compact SUVs. 

It gets your rear in gear with a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 191 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque. Upgrade to the 2.5-liter turbocharged engine for  250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. 

Standard features include all-wheel drive, LED headlights, an 8.8-inch infotainment screen, 16-inch alloy wheels, and tons of safety tech. 

The CX-30 is famous for its athletic nature, simple yet elegant interior, straightforward tech, and comfortable ride. But it lacks cargo and passenger space. Plus, it has a below-average fuel economy. 

7. 2025 Volkswagen Taos 

The 2025 Volkswagen Taos completes this list of best SUVs for under $30,000 with an MSRP of $24,995. It has an average industry rating of 8.8. It’s in fifth place on the list of best compact SUVs. 

The VW Taos has a standard 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 174 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. AWD adds an independent rear suspension for improved comfort and handling. 

Standard features include an 8.0-inch infotainment screen, 8.0-inch digital gauge cluster, rain-sensing wipers, roof rails, LED headlights, a wi-fi hotspot, and solid safety tech. 

The Volkswagen Taos impresses drivers with its comfortable seating, abundance of cargo space, intuitive tech, and smooth ride. But it has touch-sensitive climate controls that are distracting, and a lackluster acceleration.