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Who doesn’t want to save money? Affordability is a factor in purchasing a new vehicle for most Americans. Thanks to modern technological innovations, cheap doesn’t have to mean bad. In fact, some of the best SUVs on the market also happen to be some of the most affordable. What are the cheapest small, midsize, and large SUVs of 2023?

The cheapest small SUV provides great value

A green 2023 small SUV is driving on the road.
The 2023 Kia Sportage | Kia

The most affordable compact SUV in its segment is the Kia Sportage. Kia’s small SUV got a redesign for 2023, following the redesign of its cousin, the Hyundai Tucson, last year. Both South Korean small SUVs are reaping huge benefits from their redesigns.

Starting MSRP$26,290
Base Engine 2.5-Liter Four-Cylinder
Power Output 187 Horsepower, 178 LB-FT of Torque
MPG25 City, 32 Highway
2023 Kia Sportage specs.

From a performance perspective, the Sportage isn’t anything to write home about. That being said, in terms of value, it’s perfectly balanced. The small SUV is indisputably affordable, has decent power, and it’s efficient on the highway.

Additionally, the Sportage has great standard features like rear parking sensors and driver attention warning. Drivers can upgrade to the EX trim for $28,290 and add creature comforts like a leather-wrapped steering wheel and SynTex seating trim.

The cheapest midsize SUV costs under $28K

A white 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander midsize SUV is parked on the grass.
The 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander | Mitsubishi

The Mitsubishi Outlander starts at $27,895. So, technically, it’s the only midsize 2023 SUV on the market with a starting price under $28,000 (before taxes and additional fees). Some small SUVs are actually more expensive than the midsize Outlander. The question is, is it any good?

Starting MSRP$27,895
Base Engine 2.5-Liter Four-Cylinder
Power Output 181 Horsepower, 181 LB-FT of Torque
MPG23 City, 28 Highway
2023 Mitsubishi Outlander specs.

The Outlander is underpowered for a midsize SUV, and it’s far from the most efficient in its segment. There are definitely some drawbacks that come with its affordable pricing, but drivers can opt for upper trim levels to add tech and luxury features that improve its overall ownership experience.

The 2023 Outlander is praised for its roomy cargo area and smooth ride quality. If you value affordability over driving dynamics, the Mitsubishi Outlander is worth looking into.

Nissan makes the cheapest full-size SUV for 2023

The 2023 Nissan Armada is the cheapest full-size SUV of the year. Recently Nissan models have gained a reputation for having great standard safety features. The Japanese brand offers great tech for affordable prices.

Starting MSRP$50,700
Base Engine 5.6-Liter V8
Power Output 400 Horsepower, 413 LB-FT of Torque
MPG14 City, 19 Highway
2023 Nissan Armada specs.

Nissan’s full-size SUV is incredibly powerful. It also has a refined interior. Furthermore, a suite of great standard safety features makes it one of the best deals in its segment for the money. There are plenty of cons that can come with choosing the cheapest vehicle in a segment, but these three affordable SUVs prove that cheap doesn’t necessarily mean low quality.

Would you get one of the cheapest new SUVs?

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