Best SUVs of 2022 Under 25k

Characteristics of Top-Rated SUVs Under $25k

Because of the low price, it may seem like new SUVs under $25,000 aren’t a good choice for buyers, but the truth is that some of the most reliable, practical, and even fun-to-drive SUVs don’t cost all that much. If you’re looking for a one of the best SUVs of 2022 under $25k, this is what you can expect:

• Powertrain: A low-displacement, four-pot motor, and automatic gearbox are the most common powertrain setups in the segment as they offer sufficient power to move along without costing a fortune at the pumps. Front-wheel drivetrains are generally standard, and while this power- and drivetrain combination does benefit mpg ratings, it means one would have to spend more to upgrade to all-wheel drive for improved traction. Hybrid and EV options are becoming more commonplace, however.
• Performance: Whether hybrid or gas, the power plants under the hoods of SUVs in this category are, most often, designed for casual, everyday use. This means peppy acceleration and nimble handling, with sportier options generally costing a little more than this price cap. Still, you can expect adequate, even slightly spicy, performance, some capability for tackling mild off-roading, and useful towing capacity.
• Features: As manufacturers continue to try to outdo each other in providing the best SUV for the money, consumers benefit in that the majority of new cars come relatively well equipped with safety and convenience basics. You’re likely to find cruise control, blind-spot assist, and parking sensors as standard on models in this price bracket, with some offering even more. The same applies to luxuries like higher-end sound systems and top-quality materials used in the cabins.
  Quality and reliability: The fact that many of the vehicles in this price bracket come from manufacturers that have earned reputations for reliability, dependability, and solid build quality is a boon. Sure, these tend to have less status than some German brands, for example, but you’re getting class-leading warranties, excellent fit and finish, and durable components from automakers that have perfected the art of developing affordable, quality SUVs.

What To Consider Before Buying

If you’ve got the money to spend on an SUV for around $25k or less, here are some of the things to keep in mind:

Pros

• Cars in this segment are versatile and practical
• Some are perfectly designed to be frugal and fun to drive
• They’re easy to live with on a daily basis and are reliable
• Won’t break the bank, and you still get lots of features
• Some provide off-roading ability, to boot

Cons

• AWD and/or 4WD is not always available
• Less luxury and opulence than more expensive rivals
• You may have to budget a bit more for extra features on top of the MSRP
• Safety tech may be more comprehensive on the upper, more expensive trims

The Best New SUVs and Crossovers Under $25,000

With a growing segment, there’s more choice than ever before. Here are some of the top five sport-utility vehicles currently available for less than $25,000:

• Kia Seltos - Ranking as one of the best SUVs offered under $25k, the Seltos has a lot to offer. Upper trims break the price barrier, but there’s plenty of value in the lower half of the range. These models come with an eight-inch touchscreen, full smartphone integration, cruise control, rear occupant alert, forward collision avoidance, driver attention warning, lane keep assist, and lane departure warning to name just a few. There’s a naturally aspirated four-cylinder under the hood.

• Hyundai Kona - Four trims are available for the new Kona, with the first two well under $25k. Rear occupant alert is standard, as is an eight-inch color touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic avoidance, safe exit warning, and HD Radio are standard from the second trim in the range. It comes with a five-year/60,000-mile new vehicle warranty, too.

• Mazda CX-30 - The stylish CX-30 is an affordable family-friendly cruiser with balanced drive dynamics, contemporary looks, and top-notch levels of occupant protection, with the IIHS having named it a Top Safety Pick in its maiden year. A 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that’s coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission is the sole powertrain covering the entire lineup. Outputs are directed to either an FWD or AWD setup, however.

• Toyota Corolla Cross - New for the 2022 model year, the Corolla Cross is on the smaller side but takes the tried-and-trusted Corolla name to new heights with a frugal engine, spacious interior, comfortable ride, generous features list, and most importantly, an affordable price tag with only the top-spec model cost over $25k. Sure, it’s not the most thrilling vehicle to drive (or to look at, for that matter), but you are still getting bang for your buck.

• Subaru Crosstrek - The latest Crosstrek covers a price range of around $23k all the way through to $29k, with two entry-level trims offering loads of features for under $25,000. AWD is standard, and there’s 8.7 inches of ground clearance for those who want to do some mild off-roading. You also get pretty good gas mileage from the 2.0-liter Boxer engine and up to 20.8 cubic feet of cargo space. The second model in the lineup even has heated front seats!

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