14 Best SUVs Under $40K That Are Totally Worth Buying

There is plenty to love about owning an SUV. The ample interior room can be a nice benefit to those who have a lot of people or gear to haul around. These vehicles also might provide an extra measure of safety.

Such larger vehicles often come with higher costs. However, step away from the high-end, luxury models, and you will find some outstanding SUVs priced under $40,000 that boast plenty of performance, interior space, and solid handling.

These are the best SUVs under $40,000. If you buy one, be sure to shop around for coverage so you can save on car insurance and reduce your auto costs even further.

MSRP: $34,350

Compact, easy to drive, and with an efficient powertrain, the Honda CR-V Hybrid can even save you money on gas.

The 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine with two electric motors offers 204 horsepower, which is a nice boost over similar models.

MSRP: $29,695

The 2025 Subaru Forester is a stylish five-seater with several trim levels and prices that start under $40,000.

You will also find it offers enhanced safety technology, including standard driver-assist features.

MSRP: $23,100

One of the least expensive SUVs on the market is the Chevrolet Trailblazer, which features a rugged Activ trim and available all-wheel drive.

Key features include a flexible interior with plenty of shoulder and leg room and a nice 11-inch diagonal screen.

MSRP: $36,190

The 2024 Kia Telluride is a three-row SUV with a spacious interior and seating for up to eight.

It also comes with 17 standard driver-assistance features.

MSRP: $30,300

Priced well, the Mazda CX-50 offers some nice options, including towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds.

The 2025 model includes features like Amazon’s Alexa voice assistant and the ability to remotely start the car with the MyMazda app.

MSRP: $32,650

The MINI Countryman goes from zero to 60 in less than 10 seconds. It also features 27 cubic feet of cargo space.

Apple CarPlay is standard across all models, as is all-wheel drive.

MSRP: $28,355

The Hyundai Tucson offers a roomy interior that makes long days of driving more comfortable. You also get a nice, high-tech display screen.

Choose the hybrid or the plug-in hybrid model for added fuel savings. This compact SUV has enough room for five people.

MSRP: $29,795

A notably smaller SUV that still offers off-road capability, the Ford Bronco Sport has seating for five and a safari-style roof that gives you more headroom.

The Sport comes with standard all-wheel drive. This is a practical, solid compact SUV with good handling and several trim package options.

MSRP: $28,600

The Chevrolet Equinox is an affordable SUV with an updated driver display and infotainment screen compared to older models.

The 2025 model has been redesigned both inside and out. It also features adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.

MSRP: $33,950

With up to 277 horsepower, the Hyundai Santa Fe will appeal to many drivers.

It offers seating for up to seven people and 14.6 square feet of cargo capacity. This midsize SUV also offers ample safety features.

MSRP: $32,875

This electric-motor SUV offers features such as remote smart parking assist and a pair of 12.3-inch displays.

It also has an EPA-estimated range of 261 miles. The hatchback design helps make this a practical vehicle for everyday use when you have gear to take with you.

MSRP: $36,800

The Hyundai Palisade is a three-row, slightly more upscale midsize SUV.

The base model offers room for up to eight people with a second-row bench seat. The big 12.3-inch touchscreen display is also a nice feature.

MSRP: $26,000

The Buick Encore GX features a quiet, upscale interior with some nice tech, including forward-collision warning and pedestrian detection.

It is available in three trim options, including the popular Sport Touring.

MSRP: $37,845

The Mazda CX-90 is a three-row SUV with an inline-six engine. It’s easy to drive, with enough power and performance for most needs.

The vehicle has a second-row bench and dual captain’s chairs.

It’s possible to get ample performance and features out of a $40,000 SUV budget.

When you want to get ahead financially but your family is growing — or you simply desire the roomy interior and powerful kick of an SUV — these are among the best options on the market for 2025.