Harry Gibson on February 23, 2023 No Comments
Are you finding the best SUV under 40000? So there’s no need to seek any farther because your search led you here. SUVs are becoming increasingly popular as consumers appreciate their comfort, adaptability, and high ride height. But it can be challenging to choose the ideal SUV type if you’ve decided you want one.
Making a wise decision can be difficult given the low inventory levels and lengthy wait times for automobiles to arrive. Even getting a test drive in the model and trim level you wish to buy might be difficult at times. Therefore, you’ve come to the perfect site if you’re seeking the best SUV. The best SUV under 40000 are listed below, ordered by overall score.
What Exactly Is An SUV?
To put it briefly, SUVs (short for sport utility vehicles) usually have a higher seating position and sit higher off the ground than cars. Most SUVs come with all-wheel drive and have plenty of room for extra passengers or storage. SUVs have a long history of being used for military activities, specifically as a means of transporting supplies and freight over difficult terrain.
But as the automobile business developed and the vehicles themselves did as well, automakers came up with the term “crossover” to denote and even rename the infamous “SUV.” Nowadays, the terms crossover and SUV are almost interchangeable. A crossover is a passenger car with features comparable to those of an SUV.
Best SUV Under 40000
Best SUV Under 40000 Option#1: Infiniti QX50
Few best SUVs under 40000 are as advanced in terms of safety technology as the 2020 Infiniti QX50, despite the fact that many of them are fitted with basic safety features. For instance, the lowest-priced QX50, with an MSRP of $37,250, comes equipped with automated reverse emergency braking out of the box.
This is uncommon in cars of any price range from the 2020 model year. The QX50 is also one of the few SUVs in this group that comes standard with lane-departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and a blind-spot monitoring system.
Another pleasant surprise is a typical dual-display infotainment system that uses stacked 8- and 7-inch touchscreens. It’s also important to remember that the QX50 is slightly larger than the normal small SUV. The QX50 is 3.6 inches longer and offers 13 percent more total cargo space than the Cadillac XT4.
Best SUV Under 40000 Option#2: Hyundai Kona
The Hyundai Kona subcompact crossover offers sharp handling and the option between a base four-cylinder and a more powerful turbocharged engine, making it more than simply a fashion statement. Up to four passengers can fit comfortably inside the Kona’s tastefully finished inside, but there is less cargo room and headroom in the back than in slightly bigger competitors.
The little Hyundai pleased on the real-world highway test, where the most frugal model returned 33 mpg, despite having average fuel-economy estimates for its class. The nearly loaded Limited model, which starts at just under $30,000, is available in addition to the standard model, which starts at just under $22,000.
Best SUV Under 40000 Option#3: Mazda CX-30
Depending on your perspective, the subcompact Mazda CX-30 is either a car for car lovers or an SUV for SUV enthusiasts, but in either case, we love it for its stylish aesthetics and engaging driving experience. It includes amazing technology as a standard for connectivity and active safety features. It also boasts a stylish, expertly made interior.
The CX-30 exudes the enthusiast appeal for which the brand is known, whether it is powered by a vivacious four-cylinder engine or a hotter turbocharged alternative. The all-wheel-drive vehicle researchers tested on the 75 mph real-world route matched its 31 mpg highway rating, despite its mediocre fuel economy projections. The Select trim level, which starts at $25,225 and offers more coveted features, would cost more money.
Best SUV Under 40000 Option#4: Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 stands out above other compact crossovers because of its numerous transcendent qualities. It not only has exquisitely crafted bodywork but also a visually appealing cabin. The CX-5 is incredibly polished for its price point and is a joy to drive. Even though its conventional four-cylinder engine lacks the power of the optional turbo-four, they both use less fuel than their estimated efficiency would indicate.
The all-wheel-drive turbocharged model tested on the actual highway test route outperformed its EPA rating by 3 mpg. There are more useful options, particularly in terms of load capacity, but no other compact SUV can compare to the Mazda’s grace and myriad pleasurable features. The Turbo trim level, which costs about $37k and best represents the CX-5, is the best performer.
Best SUV Under 40000 Option#5: Volvo XC40
The Volvo XC40 is a high-end subcompact crossover that maintains the brand’s key principles while displaying a distinctive personality. We like the unmistakably Swedish atmosphere inside, which is cozy and surprisingly roomy for its size. A 9.0-inch touchscreen that is vertically positioned controls the infotainment system. The XC40 is available with a four-cylinder turbocharged engine, but the more potent model offers better thrust.
The Recharge model is entirely electric as well, although it costs more than our $50,000 limit. The all-wheel-drive version of the XC40s that were tested on the real-world highway route returned an underwhelming 29 mpg, so don’t expect them to be particularly fuel-efficient. We prefer the mid-level R-Design model, which costs around $40,000 and has an all-wheel-drive system and a turbo engine.
Best SUV Under 40000 Option#6: Acura RDX
By now, it should be clear that the best SUV under 40000 can offer a wide range of advantages. However, we have also discovered one such truck that also accepts deliveries. The 2020 Acura RDX is the subject of our discussion and is a participant in Amazon’s Key In-Car Delivery program. The service, which is free for Prime customers, depends on the owner’s capacity to remotely unlock and lock the RDX’s door in order to receive goods.
A 10.2-inch infotainment display, an award-winning touchpad controller, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, mobile Wi-Fi, and the AcuraWatch suite of driver-assistance capabilities are just a few of the high-tech goodies that come as standard on Acura vehicles in this market segment. The brand’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive is also included in the $39,600 suggested retail price.
Best SUV Under 40000 Option#7: Ford Bronco
The Ford Bronco’s lack of refinement in the mid-size SUV segment is a minor price to pay for its vintage appearance and off-road toughness. Despite the ability to remove its doors and roof, as well as crawl around on rocks and in the mud, the Bronco drives with an incredible smoothness on most roads, which is more than we can say for the Jeep Wrangler.
Ford’s twin-turbo V-6 engine and standard turbo-four are both powerful powertrains, and the four-cylinder can be combined with a manual transmission, so we’re not too worried about the lack of a V-8. Numerous driver assistance features are available for the Bronco, and the 12.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system is stylish. With a starting price of $48,475, we could purchase a four-door vehicle with the Wildtrak trim level, which has desirable off-road equipment.
Best SUV Under 40000 Option#8: BMW X1
The 2020 BMW X1 and 2020 BMW X2, which share a platform and both qualify as the best SUV under 40000, are variants of the same idea. We favor the X1 above the X2 “Sports Activity Coupe” because it has a more conventional SUV style and more inside room. Since these are subcompacts, the extra space is especially crucial. In this market, every inch counts for comfort and usefulness.
With an MSRP that is $1,200 less than the X2’s beginning price, the X1 also helps you get the most for your money. All-wheel drive, navigation, an 8.8-inch touchscreen, and BMW’s Active Driving Assistant safety package are included in the $37,200 X1 xDrive28i. The base turbo engine in the X1 accelerates you from 0 to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds as well.
Best SUV Under 40000 Option#9: Ford Edge
A five-person family can enjoy the comfort of the Ford Edge if you stay within your budget. A bigger 12-inch touchscreen controls the Sync 4 infotainment system in this midsize crossover SUV. This SUV is among the top SUVs in your price range, receiving a 7.7 out of 10 from U.S. News and World Report. A 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 250 horsepower may be found under the hood of this Ford.
An eight-speed automatic transmission connected to the engine enables seamless shifts that are barely audible on the road. To get the desired drive system for this SUV, select between FWD or AWD. The Ford Edge is an excellent SUV all around, with a high reputation and a sizable load area. The engine might seem a little sluggish to you, especially if you’ve previously driven cars with more powerful engines.
Best SUV Under 40000 Option#10: Cadillac XT4
One of the best SUVs under 40000 is the 2020 Cadillac XT4. The XT4, which was completely redesigned last year, features standard features like an 8-inch touchscreen, cutting-edge driver assistance technologies, distinctive LED lighting, and mobile Wi-Fi. Additionally, a four-cylinder turbocharged engine with an EPA rating of 26 mpg combined, 30 mpg on the highway, and quick acceleration is standard.
The XT4 is a wise pick since, at $35,695, it has a starting price that leaves you with some money for upgrades. Our advice is to get the Cold Weather Package ($850) and Cadillac’s All-Wheel Drive ($2,500). The latter keeps you warm with heated front seats, heated outboard rear seats, and a heated steering wheel, while the former has a high-tech dual-clutch system.
Best SUV Under 40000 Option#11: Subaru Outback
The Outback received an overall score of 85/100 from Consumer Reports, making it the best two-row midsize SUV available. Regardless of the trim you choose, the price of this Subaru starts at $26,945 and tops out at $39,945 to keep you within your budget. The Subaru Outback is well known for being a wise choice for a car to drive, especially if you need some off-roading prowess.
A 2.5-liter flat-four cylinder engine paired with a CVT produces 182 horsepower as the standard powertrain. The enhanced powertrain, which provides you with a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine that generates 250 horsepower while utilizing the same transmission as the base model, is an option within your price range. In your budget range for the best SUV under 40000, the Subaru Outback may be the ideal SUV for you. This car features desirable SUV characteristics and comes with AWD as standard.
Best SUV Under 40000 Option#12: Audi Q3
The next one of our best SUVs under 40000 features an advanced all-wheel-drive system as the main selling factor. Of course, it’s not the only one, as a plush interior supports the “Quattro” technology in the 2020 Audi Q3 with leather upholstery, heated eight-way power front seats, and a panoramic sunroof, and a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel.
Even with these opulent hints, the tiny Q3 is sticker priced at $34,700. The Q3 Premium Plus trim, which has a starting MSRP of $37,800, includes four-way power lumbar adjustment for the front seats as well as rear cross-traffic alert, hands-free tailgate, full LED headlights, and lane departure warning.
Best SUV Under 40000 Option#13: Lexus UX
The subcompact 2020 Lexus UX ($32,300) and the small 2020 Lexus NX ($36,870) are the only two luxury SUVs offered by Lexus that are considered the best SUV under 40000. We appreciate the UX today, particularly in cities where its agile dimensions make it easier to navigate traffic. The UX stands out as a noteworthy value as well. For a retail price of $39,420, you may get a UX 250h F Sport and add the Lexus Luxury Package.
The UX is equipped with all-wheel drive, a sport-tuned suspension, heated front sport seats, a power sunroof, 18-inch wheels, a hands-free tailgate, and a host of other advanced features at that time. With EPA ratings of 41 mpg city/38 mpg highway/39 mpg combined, a hybrid powertrain completes the deal.
Best SUV Under 40000 Option#14: Honda CR-V Hybrid
Are you looking for the best SUV under 40000 with great fuel efficiency? Fuel efficiency for the Honda CR-V Hybrid is 40 city/35 highway. Another tiny SUV that can achieve that figure without being an electric model might not exist. This small SUV has plenty of power thanks to its 212 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque motor.
The benefits of standard AWD, which gives you superior traction when the weather turns bad, are available to you if you drive this Honda. The hybrid CR-V starts at $30,560, which is significantly less than your maximum spending limit. In reality, the CR-V Hybrid is an SUV that matches your demands because all trims start at less than $40,000. The CR-compact V’s size is its solitary flaw.
Best SUV Under 40000 Option#15: Land Rover Discovery Sport
Land Rover is the upmarket SUV equivalent of Jeep. In actuality, the 2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport outperforms a comparable Jeep Cherokee in terms of off-road approach and departure angles, deeper stream fording depth, and standard ground clearance. While the Cherokee costs extra for a four-wheel drive, the little Discovery Sport includes it as standard.
The Discovery Sport is not only more capable than the majority of best SUVs under 40000, but it also offers a more adaptable interior. A standout feature is the third row of seating, which brings the MSRP of the car up from $37,800 to $39,000. Smaller travelers will appreciate the two third-row seats, which offer greater legroom than the third row of the Chevrolet Tahoe full-size SUV.
Best SUV Under 40000 Option#16: Kia Telluride
A three-row SUV may be purchased for less than $40,000. If you don’t choose the top trim level, the Kia Telluride is among the best SUV under 40000. With a starting price of $33,090, this Kia is affordable but allows flexibility for upgrades or higher trim levels. The Telluride is a strong SUV with a 5,000-pound towing capacity. This rating is the result of a potent 291 horsepower, 3.8-liter V6 engine.
The transmission has an eight-speed type that shifts gears smoothly. The Kia Telluride is a great vehicle to drive unless you absolutely must have a full-size SUV. Along with the high towing capacity of this powerful SUV, you’ll have three rows of seats for up to eight people and plenty of baggage space.
Best SUV Under 40000 Option#17: Mercedes-Benz GLB
For our list of best SUVs under 40000, we especially evaluated the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLA and the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB. We choose for the more expensive but larger GLB.
Thanks to a starting price of $38,600 with an all-wheel drive, the GLB is still significantly less expensive than our budget.
Furthermore, the GLB offers much more overall cargo space and rear legroom than the smaller GLA. In fact, the GLB outperforms the somewhat bigger, notably more expensive, Mercedes-Benz GLC in these identical metrics. The GLB stands out in addition to its tough exterior design and dual widescreen dashboard inside the cabin.
Best SUV Under 40000 Option#18: Lincoln Corsair
You can purchase the best SUV under 40000. The Lincoln Corsair is this brand’s smallest SUV, yet it has the features you want. This SUV’s interior is luxurious, with proximity key technology, dual-zone automatic climate control, and standard synthetic leather upholstery. The eight-inch touchscreen for the Sync 3 infotainment system feels small in comparison to the bigger screens available in rival SUVs.
This might be one Corsair disadvantage, given that the Ford Edge has a 12-inch screen. The same four-cylinder engine configuration as the Edge’s powertrain is used in this Lincoln, producing 250 horsepower through an eight-speed automated transmission. You get the luxurious materials, supportive seats, and smooth ride you expect from a Lincoln in the Lincoln Corsair.
Best SUV Under 40000 Option#19: Volkswagen Tiguan
The Volkswagen Tiguan has a very European feel due to its elegant look and sophisticated driving manners. Even while its base turbocharged powertrain isn’t very fast, it’s also lively and entertaining to drive. Around town, it does feel upbeat enough. The Tiguan is one of the few compact crossovers with a third row, and its interior is straightforward and practical.
Families should be aware that it isn’t very huge. The VW SUV boasts modern technological features but average fuel efficiency. We would choose the SE trim, which is only a few thousand dollars more expensive than the base model that starts at $27,190, to get the most for our money.
SUV Shopping: Facts About the Best SUVs Under $40,000
- Consumer Reports analysts have compiled a list of the best SUVs under $40,000 based on their Overall Score, which includes midsized models with gas and hybrid drivetrains, proven reliability, safety, efficiency, and value.
- The list consists of nine models, four two-row SUVs, and five three-row SUVs, including one compact sport utility model.
- The SUVs on the list have trim levels that cost less than $40,000 and are currently available in the market.
- The Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid is ranked #1 among midsized sport-utility vehicles, with an as-tested price range of $35,910 to $41,570, a predicted reliability score of 4/5, and an overall fuel economy rating of 30 mpg.
- The Honda CR-V is ranked #2 among compact sport-utility vehicles, with an as-tested price range of $31,610 to $35,760, a predicted reliability score of 4/5, and an overall fuel economy rating of 26 mpg.
- The Subaru Outback is ranked #2 among midsized sport-utility vehicles, with an as-tested price range of $28,395 to $42,295, a predicted reliability score of 3/5, and an overall fuel economy rating of 24 mpg.
- The Toyota Venza is ranked #3 among sport-utility vehicles, with an as-tested price range of $34,120 to $42,265, a predicted reliability score of 4/5, and an overall fuel economy rating of 37 mpg.
- The Ford Edge is ranked #4 among midsized sport-utility vehicles, with an as-tested price range of $37,945 to $46,485, a predicted reliability score of 4/5, and an overall fuel economy rating of 22 mpg.
- The Kia Telluride is ranked #1 among midsized sport-utility vehicles with three rows, with an as-tested price range of $35,890 to $52,985, a predicted reliability score of 3/5, and an overall fuel economy rating of 21 mpg.
- The Toyota Highlander, Hyundai Palisade, and Chevrolet Traverse are also three-row SUVs included in the list with an as-tested price range of $36,420 to $52,625, $35,550 to $51,400, and $34,520 to $54,200, respectively, with predicted reliability and owner satisfaction scores ranging from 3/5 to 4/5.
FAQs – Best SUV Under 40000
Here are some popular FAQs:
Is A Crossover A SUV
Even though both consumers and automakers frequently confuse the terminology because of their many stylistic similarities, there are some significant differences between them. The frame is the only significant distinction between an SUV and a crossover. An SUV is built on a truck’s platform, whereas a crossover is built on the platform of a car. This indicates that all crossovers are categorized as unibody vehicles, whereas SUVs have a body-on-frame architecture.
What Is The Most Comfortable SUV For Seniors
The most comfortable SUV for seniors is the 2019 Acura RDX. A knowledgeable consumer knows that frequently purchasing cheap items is a false economy. But it’s essential to take into account a premium brand like Acura, which has a solid reputation for offering a tonne of standard equipment at pricing that is reasonable in its class. The tiny RDX is included not just because it is brand-new for 2019 and has a style that is probably more attractive but also because it works so effectively. A power-operated tailgate comes standard, and the Walk Away Door Lock and AcuraWatch suite of advanced driver aids are two very enticing features. Reliability is also a given.
What SUV Are Hybrids
You require a brand-new vehicle with plenty of room for your family, an upright driving stance, and fashionable aesthetics. Then you’ll desire an SUV. In the past, SUVs weren’t the most fuel-efficient vehicles, but today’s selection of hybrid SUVs offers all the functionality you require with minimal operating expenses. Fuel efficiency can be improved via hybrid technology, which combines internal combustion or diesel engine with battery packs and electric motors.
What Is The Best Hybrid Car
The C300 e should increase the appeal of the C Class even further. The new Mercedes C Class offers the levels of comfort and technology you would expect from this car. Both residential and commercial users stand to save a significant amount of money. This plug-in hybrid vehicle boasts average fuel efficiency of 404 mpg and CO2 emissions of just 14 g/km. Although these numbers will probably vary in practice, the C300 e’s 62-mile pure-electric range is its major strength. This is a class-leading statistic that is twice as high as some other PHEVs currently on the market.
How Much Are Hybrid Cars
A hybrid vehicle may cost up to 20% more than a comparable model with a traditional gasoline engine. Part-time electric or plug-in hybrid versions have considerably higher buying prices. The most costly premium vehicle starts at over $100,000, while the least expensive hybrid starts at roughly $20,000. Some high-tech hybrid cars, like the BMW i3 with Range Extender and Chevrolet Volt, qualify for federal and state tax incentives that cut the cost of purchasing.
Should You Buy Hybrid SUV
Purchasing a hybrid vehicle, such as a car, truck, or SUV, has many benefits. Your carbon footprint will be smaller, you’ll typically get more miles per tank, and in some situations, they’ll perform better than gas-only vehicles. A hybrid vehicle is worthwhile if you intend to make regular commutes to work. A hybrid should have lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions than comparable conventional petrol or diesel-engined vehicles. Because hybrid vehicles frequently emit less CO2 than vehicles with conventional engines, their owners may also enjoy additional benefits such as reduced first-year road tax and company car tax, as well as a potential avoidance of congestion fees.
Final Verdict:
Finding a new SUV that meets your budget can be difficult because of the rising average price of cars. Although you know you need an SUV’s capabilities, you’re not sure you can afford one. Think about these models before browsing the second-hand automobile market. These are the best SUV under 40000, making them some of the least expensive options available right now.
The best SUV under 40000 is an excellent entry point into the premium vehicle classes. Even though the cars are still reasonably priced, you may still have an upscale ownership experience that you won’t get with mainstream brands. And despite their affordable MSRPs, these SUVs provide a decent amount of high-end material.
