There are many important factors when shopping for cheap SUVs. Reliability. Fuel economy. Seating. Towing capabilities. Third-row seating. Price. Whether you need a small car that can hold a lot of gear or a cheap car for a child going away to college, SUVs are great options at reasonable prices. But which ones are best? What models are at the top of the pack?
If the main points are reliability and quality, Japanese imports lead the way. The Nissan Rogue and Xterra, Toyota Rav4, and Honda CR-V have long been Consumer Reports favorites, and it’s easy to see why. Feature packed, versatile and known to retain their value, these cars are a great choice for people looking for cars that are best-in-class.
Cheap is a relative term, and if you’re looking for the cheapest SUVs regardless of class, the domestic market has got you covered. Ford Explorers and Escapes, GMC Jimmys, Chevy Trailblazers, and Jeep Libertys dominate the budget end of the spectrum and offer great value if you are planning to hang on to your car for awhile. These cars are also extremely common, and parts are always cheap and available when repair time comes around.
In terms of new SUVs, top cars for the 2009 model year include the Ford Escape Hybrid, Honda Element, Mazda Tribute and Honda CR-V, according to Cars.com. One thing is for sure; with so many cheap SUVs from which to choose and spanning both the used and new markets, you will have no trouble spotting the car that meets your needs at the price that is right for you.