When it comes to SUVs, there is a common perception that higher prices correlate to higher quality. However, there are quite a few SUVs that come in under $50,000 that provide fantastic options for aspiring SUV owners. They all possess their own unique characteristics and features that make them highly appealing purchase choices. Keep reading till the end to discover the list of the TOP Best SUVs Under $50K you can afford today.
The best SUVs under $50K
1. 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime
By leveraging the very successful compact SUV, the RAV4, and pairing it with plug-in hybrid technology, Toyota developed the RAV4 Prime. The result was a combination of usability and convenience of an SUV, but with top-of-the-line performance abilities. Modeled after the 2019 RAV4 model, the 2021 variant of the RAV4 Prime is a road-friendly 5-seater. Prime RAV4 is available in 2 trims, with the XSE having predominant popularity (comes standard with all-wheel drive and a plug-in hybrid 2.5 I4 engine). Able to achieve a respectable 40 mpg in city travel and 36 mpg on highways, the RAV4 Prime starts at $42,890.
Those looking for a fuel-efficient SUV model won’t go wrong with the RAV4 Prime, the most versatile and powerful vehicle from the model selection. Aside from superior fuel economy, Prime can accelerate to 60 mph within just six seconds and can travel up to 42 miles just on electric power (perfect for short trips), and is an overall comfortable vehicle for everyday usage.
2. 2021 Toyota Highlander
The Highlander, a great family vehicle and an all-around practical machine, is made from high-quality materials, equipped with simple to use tech, as well as an economically friendly V6 engine with a hybrid component and can seat 7 passengers. In terms of esthetics, the design is sleek, the visibility is top-notch, and the feel during the ride feels more like one is commuting in the smooth drive of a sedan, though it does not have quite as much cargo space as some rival products.
The Highlander comes in 10 varying trims, with the XLE AWD being the most popular. The XLE carries a starting price tag of $42,900, all-wheel drive (as the trim name implies), armed with a 3.5L V6 engine, achieves 27 highway mpg and 20 mpg in city travel.
Between the extensive safety features, great fuel economy, a quiet ride, and several excellent conveniences prepackaged in the standard model, the Toyota Highlander continues to remain as one of the most popular family vehicles on the market today. Drivers who are seeking out a crossover SUV with sedan-like characteristics should consider test driving a Highlander, though it may not be for those who are seeking a fun, sporty SUV, as other options might be more suitable to that need.
3. 2021 Ford Escape
Many of the things that have earned contemporary cross-over SUVs their current level of popularity are attributes exhibited by the Ford Escape. It comes with three engines that allow it fuel efficiency that’s more akin to that of a smaller vehicle.
While the Escape may be smaller in size, it still features a spacious cabin space, seats 5 passengers, and is suspended high enough above the ground to offer terrific driving visibility. The numerous driver assists and safety features assist drivers in being aware of their surroundings, helping to curtail accidents. The most popular trim from the vast choice of 10 available is the Titanium Plug-in Hybrid FWD. It is equipped with a 2.5L I4 plugin-in hybrid engine, four-wheel drive, delivers a combined 40 mpg, and starts at about $40,130.
The Ford Escape offers a versatile array of standard features and an overall comfortable ride. It features an all-wheel-drive for navigating tough weather conditions and archives great fuel economy with its powertrain trio. Ford took the time to focus on the design of the interior by finding a way to offer ample legroom in both rows, as well as ample cargo space in the rear, though the cabin materials may fall short of the quality used by some rivals. Overall, the Escape is a fine choice for individuals and families seeking a spacious vehicle with easy handling and car-like handling.
4. 2022 Nissan Pathfinder
Available in 4 trim levels, the 7 seater Nissan Pathfinder delivers 26 mpg during highway travel and 21 mpg for city rides. Its most popular trim is the SL FWD, packed with a 3.5L V6 engine, front-wheel drive, and starting at $40,740.
5. 2022 Hyundai Palisade
Drawing to its closest comparison of the Kia Telluride, Hyundai’s flagship 3-row SUV, the Palisade, offers a modern look and feel, as well as a spacious interior that many are looking for in an SUV product. It is jam-packed with driver safety tech and loaded with features, sports a V6 engine for respectable fuel efficiency and a solid power drive, seats up to 7 passengers, and is available in 4 trim varieties.
While it is a comfortable and refined SUV vehicle, it doesn’t have the sporty look and feel of some of its competitors. The Calligraphy FWD is the vehicle’s most popular trim choice and it starts with a 3.8L V6 engine, achieving a solid 19 mpg of city travel and 26 mpg on highways. Its starting price is $47,915.
Between the numerous safety features, tons of standard safety features, a roomy interior, and the stockpile of amenities, the Palisade is hard to criticize. The ride is quiet, the visibility is fantastic, the handling is great, and it looks as stylish as a far more expensive vehicle. Those things that are lacking are relatively minor. Highway travel can meet a little wind-induced noise, the storage in the vehicle’s interior comes up a bit short, and it does not accelerate or drive as fast as some comparable models, but all of those things are only nominal inconveniences, so the Palisade can easily be regarded as one of the best values for SUVs on the market.
6. 2022 Kia Telluride
Speaking of the Kia Telluride, that is the next vehicle on our list. The Telluride is a new model, making its debut in 2020. It is a midsize crossover that sports 3 seating rows and ample interior space. That, along with a focus on comfort and lots of amenities makes it one of the top vehicles in its class. The Telluride is a strong, resilient driving machine that makes up what it lacks in fuel economy offered by rival models with hybrid systems with its strength and refinement.
Able to tow as much as 5,000 pounds, this 3.8L V6 engine 7 seater is available in 4 trims with the SX AWD being the most popular choice among them. Its average starting price falls right around $45,815 and attains an average of 19/24 mpg between city and highway drives, respectively.
Considering its multitude of features for the offered price, the Kia Telluride is a serious bargain for SUV-interested parties. Not only does it sport top-notch comfort and plentiful interior space, but Kia also offers an impressive 10-year/100,000-mile warranty on the vehicle, showing great confidence and price in their product. While it does not have the reflexes of some other European vehicles, it is quite powerful and easy to handle on the roads.
Passengers with large parties can feel comfortable in a 3 row, spacious cabin, designed with practicality and comfort in mind. While the fuel economy is on the lower end, the Kia Telluride continues to be one of the premiere 3-row vehicles on the road today.
7. 2021 Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer has been on the market for over three decades during which it helped usher in the popularity of SUVs. In that time, the model’s cabin grew significantly, and the model was redesigned to the resulting three row-midsize SUV option with room for 7 passengers and optional four-wheel drive capability, along with an impressive 5,600-pound maximum towing capacity. The Limited RWD is the most popular of its 7 available trims. It hosts a 2.3L I4 engine, garners an impressive 21/28 city to highway mpg ratio, and comes standard with rear-wheel drive at an estimated starting price of $46,500.
The Explorer was already a solidly established SUV on the market, and the 2020 redesign went even further in proving that it was intended to stay that way. The Explorer’s interior and cabin capacity are both larger than most comparable vehicles in its class. While it can seat 7 passengers, the third row’s roominess is what is ultimately sacrificed for the reward of extra cargo space in the back. The four-wheel-drive option is one of the most popular options, allowing for easier off-roading and travel in inclement weather.
On top of that, it can tow with the best of them, able to haul a 5,600 load behind it. For those drivers who are interested in some upper-trim options, the Explorer can include infotainment and multiple driver comfort amenities. These include a massaging seat, extensive safety tech features, a 10.1-inch screen, and even a hybrid engine. The top-tier Platinum’s MSRP doesn’t do much for the price savings, the lower trims offer the amenities of some luxury SUVs for a lower price. In terms of the SUV market, the Ford Explorer is without question one of the most well-rounded vehicle choices.
8. 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe
The Santa Fe is a very appealing choice for drivers looking for an excellent SUV for even more excellent prices. The lack of a third-row notwithstanding, the Santa Fe is has a delightfully comfortable cabin and a top-notch warranty. While not as spacious as some of the competitors, Santa Fe offers great safety features like pedestrian detection that families truly appreciate. The 5-seater is available in 10 different trims with the Plug-In Hybrid SEL Convenience AWD being the most prominent at a starting price of $45,575. It includes an all-wheel-drive option and a Hybrid Plug-In 1.6L I4 Turbo engine, with a combined delivery of 33 mpg.
9. 2021 Toyota Venza
In 2015, Toyota halted production of the Venza model. But after a 6-year break, the dual-row hybrid crossover returned with a vehicle designed with a keen focus on comfort, efficiency, cutting-edge tech, and practicality. This is no ordinary 2-row SUV, however. The Limited AWD is the most popular among its 3-trim levels. It contains a Hybrid 2.5L I4 engine, delivers an impressive 40 mpg in city miles and 37 mpg on the highway, as well as features all-wheel drive for tougher driving conditions, starting at $41,215.
Sleek externally and internally, the Venza model focuses primarily on comfort and hybrid technology. Young families looking for a safe, practical vehicle that is fuel-efficient and respectably dynamic, will find a great source of options with this versatile Toyota product.
10. 2021 Tesla Model Y
Looking for a no-gas option? Tesla’s Model Y offers up to 326 miles of driving, free of emissions. The fully electric, compact vehicle is rechargeable at thousands of road stations as well as at home. Much like its more popular Model 3 brethren, the 5-seater Model Y variant stands out with its interior comfort and exceptional driving performance. Along with an impressive 68-cubic foot of cargo space, the cabin interior is stocked with comfort features and driving amenities. The Standard Range RWD is the most popular among its 3 trim options. It includes all-wheel drive and a fully electric engine, as well as being able to achieve 140/119 city-to-mile driving ratio.
The Tesla Model Y SUV combines the popularity of crossover midsize vehicles with cutting-edge features and long driving ranges. Priced very competitively to other gas-based SUVs, the lack of needing to fill up, schedule visits for oil changes, and many other maintenance matters, actually saves drivers lots of cash in the long run. As these are still being perfected, the drives on rougher terrains can be bumpy and the ride is not as smooth unless the vehicle is traveling at steady highway speeds. Having said that, the ample cargo space and the extensive feature line make the switch to fully electric driving great, especially for active families.
11. 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
Formerly a 7-seater SUV, the Atlas Cross Sport received a serious facelift, converting it to a sporty 5-seater, offering a smooth, steady, and quiet ride, and a cabin with plenty of space. The elimination of the back rows resulted in a much bigger rear cargo area as well.
The Atlas Cross might have expanded the space inside and lost some seating area, but it lost nothing in terms of hauling ability, able to tow an impressive 5,000 lbs. Available in 8 trim levels, the Atlas Cross Sport’s most popular variant is the Technology R-Line FWD with a 3.6L V6 SE engine. Delivering an 18 to 23 city to highway mileage ratio, the starting price for this stylish SUV is a surprisingly reasonable $40,240.
Midsize SUVs are renowned for being souped up with features that come standard and practicality that make them well worth it for the money, but very few deliver all that in a package as stylish as the Volkswagen Atlas Super Cross. The sleek look is promoted by the steeply raked-in rear roofline end, to distinguish it from its closest brethren, the 3-row Atlas SUV. This doesn’t take away from the ample cargo space, tech features, or indoor comfort of the vehicle in the least.
Eight unique trim levels, including several in with premium technology like heated front and rear seating, a semi-autonomous driving system, and fine leatherette upholstery, are available. European vehicles are not generally known for their spacious nature, but the Atlas Cross Sport blends the space American drivers desire with the auto stylings of a European vehicle.
12. 2020 Subaru Outback
When seeking a mid-sized SUV that can stand up to comparable brands, it would be hard to go wrong with the 2020 Subaru Outback. Stocked with premium features, 32.5 cubic feet of cargo space, good drive height, and all-wheel drive standard capability that make it easier to drive in any weather, goes a long way to boost the value of this contemporary station wagon. It drives quietly and is designed with a pragmatic, spacious interior, with seats for 5-passengers.
All of these things make the fact that its average starting price is somewhat steep readily acceptable. Among its 8 trim levels, the 2.4T Touring XT is the most popular choice. Its armed with a 2.4L H4 Turbo engine achieves a 23/30 city to highway mpg ratio and starts at $41,070 as an average.
Those seeking great variety in driver-assisting technology, terrific fuel economy, and a larger vehicle that handles more like a car, should consider the Outback as an option. While it may feel like one is driving a smaller vehicle, its tough exterior and raised ride height certainly make it more than capable of handling roads some other SUVs would struggle with.
Not only is the all-wheel-drive one of the best on the market, but the interior is also upscale to the point that it rivals some luxury labels in terms of refinement and experiencing a quiet drive. Those looking for a unique SUV that offers ample amenities, space, and a stylish presentation won’t regret considering an Outback as their SUV of choice.
13. 2021 Jeep Cherokee
Jeeps have long been known for their ruggedness and off-road prowess. The 2021 Jeep Cherokee continues the tradition but blends it seamlessly with a refined, quiet experience of driving. All trims are solid performers, but some even reach into the high-performance luxury territory. These Grand Cherokees, such as the Trackhawk, have a supercharged V8 engine with 707 horsepower. Where the Cherokee comes up short perhaps is in the realm of standard driver technology features, but with subsequent redesigns, there is no doubt that it will be addressed.
The L Limited 4WD is the most popular of its vast array of 18 trims. It sports a 3.6L V6 engine, four-wheel drive, delivers 25 mpg on highways, 18 on city streets, and starts at a price point of $48,100.
The Jeep Cherokee offers the finest in SUV versatility. The 4-wheel-drive Cherokee is powerful enough to handle challenging off-roading and 6,000 lbs of towing capacity while being practical in its utility and high in comfort, as well as many customization choices. While the fuel economy is not up to par with some other vehicles in its class and it could use more standard driver safety features, the Cherokee offers a handsome, high-utility vehicle that makes it worthwhile of serious consideration.
14. 2022 Acura MDX
For those interested in a luxury SUV with near-unrivaled standard tech, the sporty-by-nature Acura MDX wears a stylish body, concealing a spectacularly designed vehicle in terms of handling and power with its superb V6 engine, with tons of driver safety features available as standard. The 2022 model has been redesigned to boost the tech features, not the least of which includes the wireless charging ability for phones, using Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well other top-shelf features. Delivering 19 mpg in city driving and 26 mpg in highway milage, the FWD Acura MDX starts at $48,245.
The three-row Acura MDX is designed with a particular focus on high-tech features and specific attention to detail, an area of particular importance to Japanese vehicle designers. Powerful as it may be, it only features one engine option which gives it fuel economy that does not quite stand up to other comparable SUVs. However, the interior design makes it simpler for drivers to always easily observe their surroundings, yielding practicality and comfort as well. In terms of technological and pragmatic prowess, the MDX can measure up against any other vehicle without issue.
15. 2021 Mazda CX-9
The Mazda CX-9 offers a sporty powertrain, contemporary style, and a spacious three-row cabin that gives the driver and all passengers a comfortable, smooth ride. The driver also enjoys the benefits of a turbocharged engine capable of achieving 24 mpg and, terrific handling, and exceptionally great accelerating ability that makes this vehicle not only comfortable but fun to drive.
While the third row offers less space than the first two, it’s easy to forget about this one cabin-related shortcoming when one considers the fact that it is hard to find a more luxurious cabin in any other SUV.
Available in 5 different trims, the 7-seater CX-9 delivers 20/25 mpg for city and highway ratio, respectively. The Grand Touring AWD is its most popular trim, sporting a 2.5L I4 Turbo engine, and begins at a $45, 215 price point.
Those who want to get more enjoyment out of their SUV drive, as well as active families, would likely find a good fit with the Mazda CX-9, a handsome crossover offering a refined and stylish cabin, stocked with intuitive controls and comfort friendly attributes like a tri-zone climate control system.
Thanks to its turbocharged engine and on-point handling capabilities, the CX-9 drives and feels more like a smaller vehicle than an SUV. Upper-level trims feature a top-notch surround sound system and Nappa leather ventilated seating. While the vehicle is spacious, the third row does not offer much legroom, not to mention the lack of a hybrid powertrain, but those looking for a fun, sleek, light, and the spacious family vehicle can’t go wrong with the CX-9 as their choice.
16. 2021 Honda Passport
Let’s face it: the most valuable part of an SUV is versatility, an area that the Honda Passport specializes in. The Passport is a prime choice for drivers seeking a perfect confluence of sporty handling, spacious cabin space, and a premium-material design. While some compare it to the Honda pilot, there is a notable difference between the two. The Pilot has three rows, while the Passport only has 2 with more cargo space as a trade-off. But there is more to the Passport than that.
It can tow up to 5,000 lbs and is settled to provide a tall ride height to convenience drivers. Among its 4 trim levels, the Elite AWD with its 3.5L V6 engine is the most popular, delivering 24 highway mpg and 19 mpg in the city.
The 5-seater design allows for the Passport to overcome the Pilot’s subpar cargo space. Every trim level comes designed with many standard safety attributes, a roomy cabin, many driver-assist features (including emergency automatic braking), Apple CarPlay/Android Auto capabilities, and a V6 engine. By offering many features in all 5 trims, Honda decided to keep things simple, though buyers can choose to move up trim levels to get a few additional features.
What the Passport lacks in fuel efficiency, it makes up for handling and power, making it one of the easiest and surprisingly powerful SUVs on the road. Any driver or family needing convenience and the driving comfort of a car can assure themselves that they are getting just that out of the Honda Passport.
17. 2021 Audi Q5
With loads of useful driving tech, a sleek, stylish design, and sporty handling, the Audi Q5 exceeds many other crossover SUVs on the market. The all-wheel drive allows for safe, capable driving regardless of weather conditions. Unlike some other SUVs in its class, the Q5 has two available engines, including a hybrid plug-in, allowing for better fuel efficiency (28 mpg of highway travel and 23 mpg in city driving.
The 5-seater Q5 comes in 6 trim levels. The Premium SUV 45 TFSI Quattro is the most popular, equipped with a 2.0L I4 Turbo engine and all-wheel-drive standard capability, starting at $4,395.
Drivers looking for an SUV with a quiet, sophisticated interior design to enjoy a quiet drive in a vehicle with great handling and the performance of a sport driving vehicle, can find their happy place in the Audi Q5. Filled with safety technology and driver-safety features, the Q5 also possesses a solid powertrain that boosts gas to mileage efficacy.
The secondary hybrid engine is a nice touch, though its mileage is more limited than other SUV types with hybrid plug-in options. The Q5 is ready to drive in any season with the all-wheel-drive feature, as well as attributes like heated seats, rain-sensing wipers, and many other features that allow Q5 to be considered one of the best SUV selections on the market today.
18. 2021 Lincoln Corsair
The compact luxury segment is brought forward expertly in the Corsair, Lincoln’s smallest, yet stylish crossover SUV. The Corsair features a spacious cabin, includes many technological features included as standard, and the ride is tall enough to give the driver an all-around view of the road, just one of the many features of the vehicle.
The luxurious 5-seater includes two quality gas engines, with a hybrid plug-in option, though the latter permits only about 15 miles of travel. The Reserve AWD is the most popular of the 3 trim levels. It features a 2.0L I4 engine, all-wheel-drive, and gets a respectable 21 mpg in city driving, along with an impressive 29 mpg on the highway. It starts at $46,345.
The smooth driving, fuel-efficient Lincoln Corsair is easy to handle, has a good-sized upscale cabin, ample cargo space, and though some driver aids are optional, it’s hard to find a rival that offers as much as the Corsair does in terms of premium features for the same price. While its biggest shortcoming is the significantly low mileage offered by its hybrid engine, necessitating frequent recharges, the Corsair goes a long way in fostering a vehicle that is high on the features of a luxury sedan with significantly more cabin space.
19. 2021 Volkswagen Atlas
Since its 2018 debut, the Volkswagen Atlas has quickly risen to the top of the popularity rankings for 3-row mid-sized SUVs. Taking guidance from smaller VW vehicles, the Atlas supports great handling, as well as a cabin constructed from quality materials, offering generous cargo space and legroom. All of those features make the 7-seater Atlas a great, multi-purpose family vehicle.
With 8 available trim levels to select from, the 2021.5 3.6L V6 SE with Technology 4MOTION is the most popular. The $41,440 vehicle features AWD and packs a 3.6L V6 engine. For driving range, the Atlas achieves about 16 mpg in city streets, and 22 mpg on highways.
As far as satisfactory family cruiser SUVs, the Volkswagen Atlas hits the spot. With one of the biggest cabins in its class, the Atlas includes intuitive controls, superb handling, great visibility, and is overall an easy-to-drive vehicle. Where the Atlas comes up short is in terms of fuel efficiency and engine performance, as the four-cylinder engine just doesn’t have what it takes to achieve that. In terms of power, an option with a V6 engine achieves better power, but the already lackluster fuel efficiency makes it worse. However, the simple drive palette satisfied drivers will appreciate the vehicle’s solid feel and its premium composition.
20. 2022 Kia Sorento
The 6-seater Kia Sorento is available in 10 different trims, with the X-Line EX AWD being the most popular. It comes with a 2.5L I4 Turbo engine, AWD, and starts at $40,265. In terms of fuel efficiency, the Sorento achieves a decent 22 mpg in city driving along with 27 mpg during highway travel.
Conclusion:
the market for SUVs under $50,000 is thriving, offering consumers a wide range of options to choose from. From practical and efficient options like the Honda CR-V to the more adventurous and rugged Jeep Wrangler, there is something for everyone. It is important to take into consideration one’s personal needs and preferences when choosing the best SUV. Whether it’s for daily commuting or weekend adventures, the top SUVs under $50,000 provide a great balance of affordability and performance, making them an excellent choice for anyone in the market for a new vehicle.
Since you liked our article of the TOP Best SUVs Under $50K you can afford today, then we suggest to you to check this one: TOP Best Convertibles Under $30K best for the money
Frequently Asked Question:
what is the best SUV for a woman?
The best SUV for a woman depends on a variety of factors, including budget, personal preferences, and lifestyle needs. Some popular SUVs that are known for their safety, comfort, and versatility include the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Subaru Forester. It is recommended to test drive several vehicles and consider factors such as passenger space, cargo capacity, and fuel efficiency before making a decision.
what is the best mom SUV?
The best SUV for a mom depends on a variety of factors, including budget, personal preferences, and family needs. Some popular SUVs that are known for their safety, comfort, and versatility include the Honda Pilot, Kia Sorento, and Volkswagen Atlas. It is recommended to test drive several vehicles and consider factors such as passenger space, cargo capacity, and fuel efficiency before making a decision.
what is the best SUV for a senior?
The best SUV for a senior citizen depends on a variety of factors, including budget, personal preferences, and physical ability. Some popular SUVs that are known for their safety, comfort, and ease of use include the Toyota Highlander, Subaru Ascent, and Honda Passport. It is recommended to test drive several vehicles and consider factors such as ease of entry and exit, visibility, and available driver assistance features before making a decision.
Hello, and welcome to my blog! My name is Idammah, and I am the founder of this site dedicated to exploring the world's mysteries, uncovering fascinating facts, and delving into science's weird and beautiful aspects. I have always been fascinated by the unknown and the unexplained, and I love nothing more than digging deep to find the answers to some of life's greatest mysteries. Whether it's exploring the depths of the ocean, investigating ancient civilizations, or unraveling the mysteries of the universe, I am always on the hunt for new knowledge and insights. As a self-proclaimed weirdo and science enthusiast, I believe that there is always more to learn and discover, and I am constantly seeking out new and exciting ways to expand my understanding of the world around me. Through FoxPeek blog, I hope to share my love of all things strange and wonderful with like-minded readers and inspire others to embrace their inner curiosity and seek out the world's mysteries for themselves.
