Best SUVs Under $40K

While most SUVs with a starting price under $30,000 are small or subcompact with seating for five, adding another $10,000 to your budget opens the door to even greater possibilities. Indeed, the list of the best SUVs under $40,000 includes several midsize models with three rows of seating. They can accommodate up to eight passengers, and that added versatility and carrying capacity is valuable.

Those who seek an SUV priced under $40,000 will also find a variety of vehicle configurations. Automakers build some of them on rear-wheel-drive platforms. Others use front-wheel drive. Many emphasize on-road driving for commuting, school pickup duties, and family vacations. Some even emphasize all-terrain capabilities that can take your family far afield.

While less expensive models might not offer the choice of all-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive, spending up to $40K on an SUV typically opens the door to that possibility. Several models even have a 2-speed transfer case and ultra-low “crawler” gears that enable full-bore rock climbing and other off-road duty.

In addition, many SUVs under $40,000 offer a conventional internal-combustion engine, a gas-electric hybrid, and even a plug-in hybrid drivetrain. Most battery-electric SUVs cost over $40,000, but you can buy a tiny handful for less.

And, of course, the best SUVs under $40,000 share all the essential SUV characteristics, including safety, versatile seating, large cargo capacity, elevated ride height, and command of the road seating position. This roundup of the top SUVs under $40K will offer you a head start in choosing the right vehicle for you and your family.