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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 Chevrolet, offer a few SUVs for an affordable price. Did you know there are three affordable Chevy SUVs that start under $30,000? Are cheap SUVs like these from Chevy even worth buying?

2022 Chevy Trax: Cheap but small SUV

Front angle view of silver 2022 Chevy Trax
2022 Chevy Trax | Chevrolet

First, according to Chevrolet, the 2022 Chevy Trax starts at $21,700. Fortunately, There’s a wildly affordable second trim to go along with the cheap base model. However, even the more costly Trax LT doesn’t exceed the $25,000 mark. According to Edmunds, the most basic version of the Trax is not very well-equipped. It comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Wi-Fi capability, and a six-speaker audio system.

Along with this technology, the Trax has a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine good for 155 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is an available option for either trim. We think it’s worth upgrading to the Trax LT model with AWD, which remains under $30,000 but adds much more. Cruise control, tinted rear windows, upgraded seating and headlights, LED running lights, roof rails, and heated outside mirrors are standard. Plus, some optional packages unlock with the LT model.

The Chevy Trailblazer is affordable

2023 Chevy SUVs
2023 Chevy Trailblazer | Chevrolet

Next, the compact 2022 Chevy Trailblazer starts at $22,100. Barely more expensive than the Trax, it offers much more in the way of trim levels. Instead of just two, the Trailblazer has four trims that reach as high as $26,895 for the RS or Activ models. Regardless, no Trailblazer goes over $30,000 without plenty of options.

Its cheapest form comes with a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine making 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. Optionally, buyers can bundle all-wheel drive with a stronger version of the same size engine that produces 155 hp and 174 lb-ft.

A base Trailblazer LS comes with nearly identical features to the Trax. However, top trims like the Activ and RS models get much more. For example, a heated steering wheel, simulated leather upholstery, a two-tone roof, underbody skid plates, a tow hitch receiver, and more. Optional packages like the Sun and Liftgate package or the Driver Confidence package are available.

Did you know the Chevy Equinox starts under $30,000?

2022 Chevy Equinox parked on display
2022 Chevy Equinox | Chevrolet

As one of the most popular SUVs, the 2022 Chevy Equinox is often purchased. Even its most expensive trims barely go over the $30K mark. Fortunately, a few Equinox trims remain below $30,000 without options. For example, the base LS trim starts at $26,995, offering 17-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, push-button ignition, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, and more.

Alternatively, the LT trim is also available for below the $30K mark. It adds chrome and body-colored trim, satellite radio, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, remote rear-seat folding levers, illuminated sun visors, and the contents of the LS Convenience package. The package features an enhanced multi-color driver information display and rear privacy glass.

Optionally, LT buyers can get the Confidence and Convenience package or the Infotainment package. Together, they add highlights like remote engine start, heated front seats, a power liftgate, parking sensors, navigation, a heated steering wheel, and more.

Affordable Chevy SUVs under $30,000

In conclusion, three affordable Chevy SUVs start under $30,000. These are viable models if you’re interested in a cheap and small SUV. We’d recommend getting a cheaper Equinox or a more expensive Trailblazer. Base model Trailblazers and all versions of the 2022 Chevy Trax are extremely basic and don’t have much to offer.