Cox Automotive recently reported that the average list price for a new vehicle was a whopping $48,749 in June 2025. Finding a budget-friendly vehicle is especially important if you’re shopping for an SUV, which tends to have a higher sticker price and ongoing expenses (like gas and insurance) than a sedan.
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Some good news is that several of the most popular 2025 small and midsize SUV models, based on Good Car Bad Car sales data, have below-average price tags of around $30,000 to $40,000. Here are five SUV models, ranked from the lowest to the highest manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP), that offer nice perks without breaking the bank.
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Toyota RAV4
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Starting MSRP: $29,550
Good Car Bad Car listed the Toyota RAV4 as the top-selling small SUV of the year so far. With a starting price tag of just under $30,000, this budget-friendly model stands out for its smooth driving experience and generous space.
Edmunds highlighted the regular gas model’s fuel efficiency (30 mpg combined), which is more good news for your budget, and noted minor drawbacks regarding the RAV4’s steering and acceleration. Plus, J.D. Power mentioned the vehicle’s great resale value, which is a perk for when you’re ready to upgrade.
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Chevrolet Equinox
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Starting MSRP: $29,995
If you have your eye on an affordable crossover SUV, the Chevrolet Equinox is a good contender. While the vehicle may not deliver the most power, Car and Driver highlighted the Equinox’s attractive design and technology features. For example, you get an infotainment system, gauge display and various driver assistance options.
J.D. Power’s review of the vehicle suggested that the SUV falls short if you’re looking for a lot of cargo space or excellent fuel efficiency (26 MPG combined). But the company also gave the vehicle a great reliability rating, meaning you might worry less about frequent repair bills.
Subaru Outback
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Starting MSRP: $29,995
The Subaru Outback is the cheapest among the top five best-selling midsize SUVs in Good Car Bad Car’s list. Besides boasting affordability, this SUV is a smart pick if you prioritize safety, as it was one of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s (IIHS) 2024 Top Safety Picks.
Edmunds described the Outback as a spacious, comfortable and capable vehicle, but noted some shortcomings in its touchscreen, acceleration speed and included driver aids. J.D. Power also highlighted the SUV’s great resale value.
Honda CR-V
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Starting MSRP: $30,100
The Honda CR-V came behind the slightly cheaper Toyota RAV4 for 2025’s top-selling small SUVs, according to Good Car Bad Car. It’s also another standout choice for safety since it was one of the IIHS 2024 Top Safety Picks.
This vehicle earned the top spot in Car and Driver’s best compact SUVs list. Giving the SUV a rating of 10 out of 10, Car and Driver praised the CR-V’s handling, driver-assist features, fuel economy and comfort. However, it noted some weaknesses in the vehicle’s acceleration, technology and interior design.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
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Starting MSRP: $36,495
If you have a slightly larger car shopping budget, you might like the Jeep Grand Cherokee for its larger size and suitability for off-road driving and towing. Kelley Blue Book’s review described the spacious SUV as a good pick for families. It also highlighted the vehicle’s fancier design, comfort and safety technology.
While you can expect only a 22 mpg combined fuel efficiency for the base model, Edmunds noted that this is better than what some similarly sized competitors offer. You also get the peace of mind of driving an SUV included among the IHS 2024 Top Safety Picks.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 5 Most Popular SUVs of 2025 That Won’t Break the Bank
