If you’re a frequent road tripper or have a family to shuttle around, SUVs offer the space you need in a sleeker package than a minivan. However, it can be hard to decide which make and model offers the best value and is right for you based on your needs. Here’s an overview of 10 SUVs that are reportedly worth the price to help you find your next ride.
1. Kia Telluride
Edmunds named the Kia Telluride the top midsize three-row SUV, calling it the best value in class. It has a spacious interior cabin with roomy second and third rows that can accommodate adults comfortably. The V6 engine is responsive and provides a smooth, quiet ride even on highways.
Seat heating is available in both the first and second row for extra comfort. Tech bells and whistles include a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, blind-spot detection, and a highway driving assist system.
2. Jeep Wrangler
According to MotorTrend, the Jeep Wrangler holds its resale value well, depreciating only 33.7% in five years. Fans of off-roading will love its rugged four-wheel drive, high-quality shock absorbers, and great suspension. The convertible feature, allowing you to remove the top and doors, creates a unique driving experience.
However, be aware that the firm seats may be uncomfortable on long drives, and wind can make for a noisy ride.
3. Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Looking for a family-friendly, fuel-efficient SUV? The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a great choice, getting excellent fuel economy of up to 36 mpg combined. It provides a smooth, comfortable driving experience and plush interior, except for the third row.
The back row is perfect for kids, but may feel tight and cramped to adults. The hands-free liftgate is convenient for unloading groceries with kids in tow. Additionally, the advanced driving assistance tech (like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warnings) will help you and your family stay safe on the road.
4. Mazda CX-30
The Mazda CX-30 costs a little more than similar subcompact SUVs, but has plenty of features to justify the price, including a solid resale value and sporty vibe. Its responsive steering and turbocharged engine make for a fun driving experience.
It has a luxurious interior, an advanced driver assistance system, dual-zone climate control, and even in-car WiFi. The main drawbacks are the small cargo and seating areas, which only accommodate five people.
5. GMC Yukon
With a large SUV like the GMC Yukon, you’re trading fuel efficiency for high towing capacity. However, this vehicle may be perfect for avid outdoorsmen who need to pull a boat, camper, or trailer. It also has a big cargo area for all your gear, plenty of seating, and advanced climate controls.
The styling is luxurious, making this car as beautiful as it is functional. Although the GMC Yukon isn’t cheap, it’s a powerful workhorse that may be worth the splurge if you can afford it.
6. Hyundai Kona
Kelley Blue Book named the Hyundai Kona the top subcompact SUV for 2024, saying that it offers outstanding value for the price. Despite its small size, the Kona has a roomy interior that accommodates up to five people and comfortable, supportive seats ideal for long drives. Its unique, elegant design features a horizontal light that spans the length of the hood.
The Kona also has standout tech features including remote parking assist. It allows you to pull into parking spaces from outside your vehicle using your smartphone. Hyundai even makes a fully electric version of the Kona for added energy efficiency.
7. Mitsubishi Outlander
According to Kelley Blue Book, the Mitsubishi Outlander is one of the most affordable three-row SUVs on the market. Since it’s a mid-size SUV, the third row may be a little tight for adults, but can accommodate children easily. Although it doesn’t feature the most powerful engine, it does have all-wheel drive for better performance in bad weather.
You’ll also appreciate the powered liftgate and upgraded tech that comes separately in the SEL Touring package, including a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and heads-up display. The display projects information you may need while driving onto the windshield so you never have to take your eyes off the road, which is an impressive safety feature.
8. Honda CR-V
Hondas are known for their safety and reliability, making the CR-V a good choice for anyone looking for a dependable compact SUV. Although the CR-V’s design may not be as luxurious as high-end SUVs, you’ll appreciate the affordable price and advanced safety features, such as hill descent control to help you navigate steep slopes.
At higher trim levels, parking sensors and auto-lock security functions are also available. The CR-V gets a respectable 30 mpg combined, but some drivers may prefer the slightly more expensive hybrid model for additional fuel efficiency.
9. Ford Expedition
The Ford Expedition is Kelley Blue Book’s pick for the top full-size SUV of 2024. It has an impressive maximum towing capacity of 9,300 pounds, perfect for hauling toys like campers and boats. The turbocharged V6 engine provides plenty of power and high-quality brakes ensure smooth stops.
The Expedition boasts three roomy rows that are easy to get in and out of. The front seats provide multiple zones of lumbar support and even feature a massage function at higher trim levels. The second and third rows can be folded down to create a level floor, offering extra cargo space for luggage and gear.
10. Hyundai Palisade
According to US News, the Hyundai Palisade is one of the most spacious mid-size SUVs and offers great value for money. The spacious three-row cabin is well-appointed with quality materials and can accommodate eight people comfortably.
The cargo area offers an underfloor compartment and plenty of space, especially when the two back rows of seats are folded down for extra storage. The Palisade also has upgraded driver assist systems to increase safety, such as the optional surround-view camera system, which gives you 360-degree visibility.
Make Sure You Can Afford An SUV
Between car payments and fuel costs, owning an SUV can be expensive, so make sure you can afford it. As a rule of thumb, experts suggest that you spend no more than 10% of your monthly take-home income on your car note. If there’s no room for an SUV in your budget, a sedan may be a better financial fit.
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Vicky Monroe is a freelance personal finance and lifestyle writer. When she’s not busy writing about her favorite money saving hacks or tinkering with her budget spreadsheets, she likes to travel, garden, and cook healthy vegetarian meals.