For those searching for the ideal blend of affordability, functionality, and style in their next vehicle, MotorVibez’s guide to the best suvs under 40k is an indispensable resource. This carefully curated list showcases eight exceptional models that stand out in a crowded market, offering readers insights into the latest features, performance metrics, and value propositions of these budget-friendly SUVs. Whether you’re in the market for rugged adventure-ready options or family-friendly rides with luxury touches, this review provides a comprehensive overview to help you make an informed decision.
#1 Hyundai Kona: Stylish and Compact Performer
The 2024 Hyundai Kona is a standout in the subcompact SUV category, offering a sleek design and impressive performance for its size. Starting just over $25,000, the Kona is equipped with either a 147-hp four-cylinder engine or a turbocharged 190-hp engine for those seeking a bit more punch. The new infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen, is incredibly user-friendly, making it easy to navigate through various functions. Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto ensure seamless connectivity, while the available eight-speaker Bose audio system enhances the in-car entertainment experience. With its attractive pricing and features, the Kona is also a strong contender for the best SUV under 40000.
One of the Kona’s highlights is its balance between practicality and fun. Despite its compact dimensions, it provides ample cargo space and a comfortable interior, making it ideal for urban adventures and weekend getaways alike. Safety features are plentiful, even on lower trims, with driver-assist technologies like lane-keeping assist and forward collision warning included. Overall, the Kona manages to deliver a high-quality, engaging driving experience without breaking the bank
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#2 Kia Sportage Hybrid: Efficient and Spacious Hybrid
The 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid is a game-changer in the hybrid SUV market, combining a spacious cabin, stylish design, and remarkable fuel efficiency. Priced at $27,490, it features a Hybrid 1.6L I4 Turbo engine that delivers an impressive 42 MPG in the city and 44 MPG on the highway. The Sportage’s interior is notably premium for its class, with high-quality materials and a large, curved dashboard display that adds a high-tech vibe. The roomy interior provides excellent headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers, making long drives comfortable for all.
Kia has packed the Sportage Hybrid with a long list of standard equipment, including advanced driver-assist systems that enhance safety and convenience. The hybrid powertrain not only contributes to its excellent fuel economy but also ensures a smooth and quiet ride. Whether you’re navigating through city traffic or cruising on the highway, the Sportage Hybrid offers a balanced and enjoyable driving experience. Its blend of efficiency, space, and technology makes it a compelling choice for eco-conscious buyers
#3 Mazda CX-5: Premium Feel Without the Price
The 2024 Mazda CX-5 continues to impress with its upscale interior and engaging driving dynamics, all at a starting price of $26,700. This compact SUV offers a 187-hp engine that strikes a good balance between power and fuel efficiency. Inside, the CX-5 feels more luxurious than its price tag suggests, thanks to high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail. The infotainment system is intuitive and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring that you stay connected on the go. It’s one of the top choices among 2024 SUVs under 40k.
Mazda has also focused on delivering a superior driving experience. The CX-5 handles more like a sporty sedan than a typical SUV, with responsive steering and agile handling that make it a joy to drive on twisty roads. Safety features are robust, with advanced driver-assist technologies standard across the range. Whether you’re commuting in the city or heading out on a road trip, the Mazda CX-5 offers a refined and enjoyable ride that stands out in the crowded compact SUV market.
#4 Subaru Crosstrek: Rugged and Ready for Adventure
The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek is perfect for those who love outdoor adventures but also need a reliable daily driver. Starting at $27,440, the Crosstrek comes standard with all-wheel drive and Subaru’s EyeSight safety suite, which includes adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The dual-screen infotainment system, featuring Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ensures that you’re always connected, no matter where your adventures take you. Its spacious cabin offers ample room for passengers and cargo, making it a versatile choice for both urban and off-road escapades.
What sets the Crosstrek apart is its off-road capability and rugged design. With a ground clearance of 8.7 inches, it’s ready to tackle rough terrains, and the available Wilderness trim adds even more off-road features for those who really want to get off the grid. The Crosstrek’s combination of practicality, comfort, and off-road prowess makes it an ideal choice for active lifestyles and weekend warriors alike.
#5 Ford Explorer: Versatile and Powerful
Starting around $36,760, the Explorer offers a strong 300-hp base engine with an available 400-hp twin-turbo V6 for those needing more power. Its three-row seating and expansive cargo area make it a practical choice for families. The Explorer’s agile handling and smooth ride set it apart, providing a driving experience that feels more refined than many competitors.
Inside, the Explorer is equipped with a user-friendly infotainment system and high safety scores. However, its interior quality can lag behind some rivals, though it still offers a pleasant and comfortable environment. The SUV’s towing capacity of up to 5,600 pounds is a standout feature, making it a versatile option for those who need to haul gear or trailers. Advanced driver-assist features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist are standard, enhancing its appeal as a family-friendly vehicle.
#6 Subaru Outback: Rugged and Reliable
The 2024 Subaru Outback is a standout in the midsize SUV segment, especially appealing to those who enjoy outdoor adventures. With a starting price of $28,895, the Outback offers standard all-wheel drive and a raised suspension, making it perfect for both urban commuting and off-road excursions. Its interior is spacious, with plenty of cargo space and comfortable seating, ensuring a pleasant ride for all passengers.
The Outback’s fuel economy is impressive, ranging from 23 to 28 MPG, making it an efficient choice for long trips. Subaru’s EyeSight safety suite comes standard, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and forward automatic emergency braking, which adds to the vehicle’s safety credentials. Whether you’re navigating city streets or tackling rugged trails, the Subaru Outback offers a reliable and versatile driving experience
#7 Volkswagen Tiguan: Practical and Modern
The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan is a well-rounded compact SUV starting around $32,000, offering a spacious interior with standard three-row seating in front-wheel-drive models. The Tiguan’s modern design includes a digital cockpit, transforming the gauge cluster into a second screen that provides essential driving information. The SUV’s infotainment system, equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, is user-friendly and ensures seamless connectivity.
Safety features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alerts are available, enhancing the vehicle’s safety profile. The Tiguan’s comfortable ride and ample cargo space make it a practical choice for families and individuals alike.
#8 2024 Kia Telluride: $37 585
We’ve got to say, the 2024 Telluride really stands out on our SUV shopping list. What catches our eye first? Its sleek styling, for starters. This ride looks good coming and going, thanks to its smooth-running V-6 engine and an interior that whispers luxury without shouting.
f you’re hunting for a vehicle that’s all about family, the Telluride has got you covered. With a spacious three-row interior, it’s the perfect fit for family adventures or just running errands around town. It’s not just roomy; it’s designed to keep everyone comfortable on the long haul.
Adventure-Ready
For those who live for the weekend and the adventures it brings, the Telluride steps up. Ready to tow up to 5500 pounds and boasting a cargo-friendly layout, this SUV is a dream for anyone looking to escape into the wild. Opt for the rugged X-Pro version, and you’re well-equipped for off-road escapades that others might shy away from.
#9 2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid – Beyond Fuel Efficiency: $34 000
Though it’s their fuel efficiency that grabs headlines, the 2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid and Tucson PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid) offer much more than just savings at the pump. Both models boast the non-hybrid Tucson’s fresh-for-2025 angular and bold styling. They’re equipped with a competitive array of standard safety and tech features, ensuring they’re as smart as they are good-looking. Plus, their quiet-and-composed ride quality sets a high bar for comfort.
A Boost in Performance
Where these models really shine is in their performance. Thanks to electric assist and standard all-wheel drive, both the Tucson Hybrid and PHEV offer a zippier experience than their standard counterpart. The Hybrid flexes with 231 horsepower, while the PHEV impresses with 261 horses—upgrades of 44 and 74 horsepower, respectively, over the standard Tucson. This increase in power doesn’t sacrifice efficiency; in fact, both models significantly outperform their gas-only sibling in fuel economy.
Pleasant Driving Experience
One of the most appreciated aspects is how these vehicles sound—or, rather, don’t sound. The traditional six-speed automatic transmission cuts down on the drone that plagues many of the continuously variable automatic transmissions found in competing hybrids. It’s a small but meaningful detail that enhances the driving experience.
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#10 2024 Honda CR-V / CR-V Hybrid: $30 850
From the moment it hit the scene last year, the new CR-V didn’t just enter the market; it burst onto it, swiftly snagging a spot on the 10Best Trucks and SUVs list. It wasn’t a fleeting moment of glory, either. Honda’s champion compact SUV finds itself honored on our 10Best list yet again for 2024, and it’s also the proud recipient of a 2024 Editors’ Choice award.
Performance and Practicality
What sets the CR-V apart? For starters, its performance is reliably impressive. It’s not just about the power under the hood, which is considerable with a 190-hp turbocharged engine and an even more robust 204-hp hybrid option. The hybrid doesn’t just add power; it’s also incredibly efficient, boasting an impressive 40 mpg combined.
Driver-Friendly Dynamics
But power and efficiency are just part of the story. The CR-V shines with its user-friendly driving dynamics. Whether you opt for front- or all-wheel drive, you’re in for a ride that’s as pleasant as it is reliable. And let’s not forget the space—there’s plenty of it, making the CR-V as practical as it is enjoyable to drive.
Tech and Safety Without the Showboating
Even the base model is a standout, loaded with modern tech and safety features. These additions complement rather than compete with the CR-V’s superb chassis, ensuring a balanced and safe driving experience without overshadowing the vehicle’s inherent strengths.
#11 Mazda CX-9: Spacious and Stylish
The 2024 Mazda CX-9 is an excellent choice for those looking for a stylish midsize SUV with a starting price just over $32,000. Known for its robust entertainment and comfort features, the CX-9 includes third-row seating, making it a great option for families. The vehicle’s refined design and high-quality materials give it an upscale feel, often compared to luxury SUVs. The new suspension tuning and improved sound deadening significantly enhance the comfort and everyday drivability.
The CX-9 is powered by a responsive turbocharged engine, providing a smooth and enjoyable driving experience. Its agile handling makes it one of the more fun-to-drive options in its class. Safety is also a priority, with a host of advanced driver-assist features standard across all trims. The CX-9’s mix of style, performance, and practicality makes it a strong contender among best suvs under 40000 dollars
#12 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee – Adventure Meets Sophistication: $32 825
Jeep, a brand synonymous with rugged off-road capability, especially noted in icons like the Wrangler, showcases its versatility with the 2024 Grand Cherokee. This two-row mid-size SUV, distinct from its three-row sibling, the Grand Cherokee L, strikes a perfect balance, earning a well-deserved spot on our 2024 Editors’ Choice list. It’s designed with a clear focus on comfort for the highway while maintaining enough of Jeep’s adventurous spirit to satisfy those who hear the call of the wild.
Engineered for Every Journey
The heart of most Grand Cherokee models is a robust V-6 engine, providing a solid foundation of power for both urban commutes and off-the-beaten-path adventures. For those seeking a greener trail, the 4xe plug-in hybrid system presents an enticing option, especially in the Trailhawk model, where it’s standard. This setup not only offers an eco-friendly alternative but also ensures the Grand Cherokee stays true to its off-road heritage.
A Trim for Every Traveler
Jeep’s understanding of its diverse audience is reflected in the Grand Cherokee’s wide range of trims. Starting with the practical Laredo and ascending to the opulent Summit Reserve, there’s a Grand Cherokee for every taste and requirement. The Summit Reserve, in particular, stands out with its luxury offerings that rival those of premium European brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz, making it a compelling choice for those who demand the best of both worlds.
Versatility at Its Core
With its blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability, the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee continues to carve its niche within the SUV segment. Whether you’re drawn to the practical appeal of the Laredo or the unmatched luxury of the Summit Reserve, the Grand Cherokee remains a testament to Jeep’s expertise in creating vehicles that are as versatile as they are reliable. Its inclusion in our 2024 Editors’ Choice list is a nod to its broad appeal, offering something for everyone from the everyday commuter to the adventure enthusiast.
#13 2024 Ford Bronco Spor : $32 825
The 2024 Ford Bronco Sport may not tackle the most challenging terrains like its larger counterpart, the Bronco, but it certainly captures the essence of the off-roader lifestyle with its capabilities and distinctive styling. It’s a testament to the idea that adventure doesn’t always require the biggest footprint. Though the Rubicon Trail might be out of its league, the Bronco Sport confidently ventures where most compact SUVs hesitate, offering a taste of the wild to those eager to explore.
Off-Road Credentials
The Bronco Sport’s off-road aptitude shines brightest in the Badlands model, which boasts a robust 245-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a sophisticated torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system. This setup places it in a league with the esteemed trail-rated Jeep Cherokee, highlighting the Bronco Sport’s readiness for adventure.
Practicality Meets Thoughtfulness
Beyond its adventurous capabilities, the Bronco Sport impresses with its practical interior and array of clever features. Standard across the lineup is a 181-hp turbocharged three-cylinder engine paired with all-wheel drive, striking a balance between power and efficiency. In fact, this configuration achieved an impressive 33 mpg on the highway in our real-world testing, underscoring the Bronco Sport’s sensible side.
#14 2024 Kia Sorento – Kia’s Versatile Mid-Size Contender: $33 365
Detailed Review of 2024 Kia Sorento.
Kia has already captured the attention of the mid-size SUV market with the Telluride and the EV9, but the 2024 Sorento brings something special to the table—a versatility that’s hard to match. Unlike its siblings that offer a single powertrain option, the Sorento plays a different game with four distinct choices, including two eco-friendly hybrids. This diversity ensures there’s a Sorento for every type of driver, whether you’re watching your budget or looking to indulge a bit.
Powertrains for Every Preference
At the entry level, the Sorento offers a practical nonturbo four-cylinder engine with front-wheel drive, perfect for those keeping an eye on expenses. For those willing to explore and spend more, the turbocharged X-Pro model not only adds a bit of off-road capability but also wraps passengers in a variety of interior luxuries.
Electrification Options Galore
The Sorento doesn’t stop there. It ventures into the electrified realm with a plug-in hybrid model that boasts up to an estimated 32 miles of electric-only driving, ideal for daily commutes and short trips. For those intrigued by hybrid technology but hesitant about the need for regular charging, the standard hybrid variant offers a seamless blend of enhanced acceleration and impressive fuel efficiency.
Room for Everyone
All these powertrain options come with the added benefit of three rows of seating, ensuring that there’s room for family and friends on every journey. While the Sorento may not offer as much space in the third row compared to the Telluride, it still maintains a commendable balance between comfort and utility.
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