If you’re in the market for a versatile and budget-friendly vehicle, exploring the realm of SUVs under $40,000 is a smart move. While these SUVs might not boast every luxury feature imaginable, they consistently achieve high ratings in critical evaluations, making them highly recommendable options. Our curated list of top SUVs in this price bracket features several efficient hybrids, although fully electric SUVs largely exceed the $40k mark. In compiling this selection of the best SUVs under $40k, we’ve meticulously assessed crucial factors like performance, design, quality, and overall value.
The BuzzScore system is utilized to evaluate vehicles relative to their direct competitors within their segment. Therefore, while SUVs on this list may have similar scores, they aren’t always direct rivals in terms of vehicle class. You can delve deeper into the BuzzScore rating methodology here. This compilation is regularly updated to reflect the most current BuzzScores and incorporate new vehicle models as they become available.
1. Kia Sorento Hybrid
2025 Kia Sorento Hybrid
BuzzScore: 8.2/10 | What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $38,690
Engine: 1.6L Turbo Inline-4 Hybrid
Horsepower: 227 hp
Leading our list of exceptional SUVs under $40,000 is the Kia Sorento Hybrid. This three-row SUV offers two trim levels, EX and SX Prestige, with the EX trim starting within our budget at $38,690. The Sorento Hybrid is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain producing 227 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Inside, it comfortably accommodates up to six passengers, offering generous legroom in the second and third rows, measuring 40.7 inches and 29.6 inches respectively. For those prioritizing cargo space, folding down the seats reveals a maximum of 75.5 cubic feet of storage.
Despite its fuel efficiency, the Sorento Hybrid delivers ample power with its 227 horsepower. While its six-speed automatic transmission might not match the seamlessness of the gasoline model’s eight-speed dual-clutch or Toyota’s hybrid CVT, it offers a perfectly acceptable driving experience.
– Jared Rosenholtz, CarBuzz Editor-at-Large
2. Subaru Forester
2025 Subaru Forester
BuzzScore: 8.1/10 | What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $29,810
Engine: 2.5L Flat 4 Gas
Horsepower: 180 hp
For those seeking a reliable new SUV under $40,000, the Subaru Forester is a compelling option. This SUV is available in five trim levels, with the first four all falling below the $40k threshold. The base model starts at an MSRP of $29,995, and even the well-equipped Limited trim begins at $36,410. The Forester is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder boxer engine generating 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. This Subaru SUV comfortably seats five passengers, with rear occupants enjoying 39.6 inches of headroom in the base trim and 39.4 inches of legroom. Cargo capacity ranges from 29.6 cubic feet in the trunk to a generous 74.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.
The 2025 Subaru Forester offers a generally pleasant and easy driving experience. Drivers with a more assertive driving style might require a heavier foot on the pedal and will notice some engine noise at higher revs. However, the new steering system, borrowed from the sporty WRX sedan, provides excellent feel and responsive handling. The CVT effectively manages the engine’s power output, making the most of available performance.
– Ian Wright, CarBuzz
3. Buick Envista
2025 Buick Envista
BuzzScore: 8.1/10 | What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $22,900
Base Trim Engine: 1.2L ECOTEC I3 ICE
Base Trim Horsepower: 137 HP @5000 RPM
The Buick Envista stands out as the best Suv Under 40k on our list for exceptional value, starting well under $25,000. While not the most opulent SUV available, its refined styling, both inside and out, makes affordable look good. It is indeed one of the most budget-friendly models featured here. The Envista is offered in three trims, with the base model Sport Touring starting at just $23,800. Power comes from a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. The Envista’s interior accommodates up to five passengers, with rear seats offering 37.3 inches of headroom and 38.7 inches of legroom. Maximum cargo capacity reaches 42 cubic feet.
Buick has successfully demonstrated the ability to create a car with a premium feel at an accessible price point. Just manage expectations regarding outright power and ultra-luxury – and you’re unlikely to be disappointed.
– Jared Rosenholtz, CarBuzz
4. Ford Explorer
2025 Ford Explorer
BuzzScore: 8.0/10 | What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $39,625
Engine: 2.3L Turbo Inline-4 Gas, 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6
Horsepower: 300-400 hp
For families needing a spacious and capable vehicle, the Ford Explorer is a top contender among SUVs under 40k. In fact, it was honored as CarBuzz’s Best Family Car of the Year last year. This large, three-row SUV offers four trim levels, starting with the Active trim at a base price of $39,755. While the base model is the primary trim within our budget, it remains remarkably practical, comfortable, and capable. Under the hood, a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine delivers 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.
Inside, the Explorer can accommodate up to eight occupants. Second-row passengers enjoy 39 inches of legroom, while the third row provides 32.2 inches. Cargo space is generous, reaching a maximum of 85.8 cubic feet with all rear seats folded down.
5. Buick Encore GX
2025 Buick Encore GX
BuzzScore: 8.0/10 | What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $26,000
Base Trim Engine: 1.2L Turbo I3
Base Trim Horsepower: 137 hp
When searching for SUVs under 40k, the sheer number of surprisingly affordable options becomes apparent. Another compelling choice well within our budget is the Buick Encore GX. This Buick SUV starts at a competitive $26,000. Engine options include a 1.2L turbo three-cylinder producing 137 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque, or a slightly more powerful 1.3L turbocharged three-cylinder with 155 hp and 174 lb-ft. The Encore GX seats up to five occupants, with rear passengers benefiting from 38.1 inches of headroom and 36 inches of legroom. Trunk cargo space is a respectable 23.5 cubic feet, expanding to 50.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.
6. Chevrolet Trax
2025 Chevrolet Trax
BuzzScore: 7.9/10 | What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $20,400
Engine: 1.2L Turbo 3 Cylinder Gas
Horsepower: 137 hp
For those aiming to significantly reduce their SUV budget, the Chevy Trax presents an attractive option, starting at just $20,500. While it may be smaller and less rugged than some SUVs on this list, it still comfortably seats five and provides decent cargo space for its class. Notably, front-wheel drive is the only drivetrain configuration, limiting its off-road capabilities. Powering the Trax is a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine generating 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. Interior space offers a maximum of 54.1 cubic feet of storage behind the front seats, and rear passengers enjoy 38.1 inches of headroom and 38.7 inches of legroom.
7. Chevrolet Trailblazer
2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer
BuzzScore: 7.5/10 | What is Buzzscore?
Engine: 1.2L Inline-3 Turbo Flex-fuel (FFV) | 1.3L Inline-3 Turbo
Horsepower: 137 hp (1.2L) | 155 hp (1.3L)
Base MSRP: $23,100
Another appealing General Motors offering in the affordable SUV category is the Chevrolet Trailblazer. The Trailblazer is available in four trims and offers a choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The most accessible trim, the LS, starts at $23,100. Engine options include a 1.2L and a 1.3L, both three-cylinder turbocharged units, producing 137 hp and 155 hp respectively, similar to other models in the GM lineup. The Trailblazer accommodates five passengers, with the second row providing 38.4 inches of headroom and 39 inches of legroom. Maximum cargo space is 54.3 cubic feet.
8. Hyundai Tucson
2025 Hyundai Tucson
BuzzScore: 7.3/10 | What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $28,605
Engine: 2.5L Inline-4 Gas
Horsepower: 187 hp
The Hyundai Tucson is another SUV that comfortably fits within our sub-$40k budget. The Tucson offers five trim levels, starting with the base SE trim at $28,605 and extending to the well-equipped Limited version, still under budget at $38,645. All trims are powered by a 2.5-liter inline-four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. The Tucson seats up to five passengers, with second-row occupants enjoying 39.5 inches of headroom and a generous 41.3 inches of legroom. Trunk space starts at 41.2 cubic feet and expands to an impressive 80.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, making it one of the most spacious compact crossovers in its class.
9. Volkswagen Tiguan
2025 Volkswagen Tiguan
Engine: 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas
Horsepower: 201 hp
The Tiguan is the sole Volkswagen representative on our list. While full details for the 2025 Tiguan are still emerging, the current 2024 model starts at $28,880, suggesting a similar price point for the new model year. Volkswagen has announced the 2025 model will retain the 2.0L turbo-four-cylinder engine, but with a power increase of 17 horsepower, bringing the total to 201 hp. Interior dimensions and cargo capacity for the 2025 model are yet to be confirmed.
10. Chevrolet Equinox
2025 Chevrolet Equinox
Base MSRP: $28,600
Engine: 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas
Horsepower: 175 hp
Rounding out our Chevrolet SUVs under 40k is the Chevy Equinox. This Chevy SUV is available in three trims: LT, RS, and Activ. The base LT trim starts at $28,600. All trims come standard with all-wheel drive and are equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 175 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. The Equinox seats up to five passengers, with second-row occupants enjoying 39.2 inches of headroom and 39.9 inches of legroom. Cargo capacity is 29.8 cubic feet in the trunk, expanding to 63.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.
Considerations When Buying an SUV for Under $40k
Purchasing a new vehicle is a significant decision, even when considering more affordable models. It’s worth asking yourself if an SUV under $40,000 fulfills your needs or if saving for a higher-priced model might be more beneficial. If high-performance SUVs are your priority, you’ll generally find options above the $40k price point. To help you decide, here are some advantages and disadvantages of the best new SUV models under $40,000:
Pros:
- Wide selection of models available.
- Availability of hybrid powertrains for enhanced fuel efficiency.
- Greater practicality compared to similarly priced sedans.
Cons:
- Limited availability of high-performance models within this price range.
- Electric SUV options are typically priced above $40,000.
- Smaller, more affordable SUVs may have restricted off-road and towing capabilities.
Sources: Subaru, Kia, Ford, Buick, Chevrolet, Volkswagen, Nissan
