Budget-Friendly Compact SUVs to Buy in 2025

Shopping for a car is exciting, but it can also get overwhelming—especially if you’re trying to stick to a budget. The good news? Compact SUVs are a great option if you’re looking for something that’s affordable, practical, and packed with features. These smaller SUVs are perfect for everything from daily commutes to weekend adventures, offering the best of both worlds when it comes to size and versatility.

If you’re on the hunt for a wallet-friendly ride, here are three compact SUVs worth checking out. Spoiler alert—they’re not just budget-friendly; they’re full of cool features that make them feel like so much more than “just” an SUV.

Hyundai Kona

First up is the Hyundai Kona, a compact SUV that’s big on personality but small on price. With its starting price of around $24,000, the Kona is perfect for budget-conscious buyers who don’t want to skimp on style or features.

One of the Kona’s selling points is its fuel efficiency, with the base model delivering up to 30 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. That means you’ll be saving money at the pump, too—win-win! Despite its compact size, it still offers plenty of interior space, including a roomy cargo area that’s great for groceries, sports gear, or weekend road trip essentials.

Safety is also a huge plus for the Kona. It comes standard with advanced features like lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and a driver attention warning system. These features help give you peace of mind, especially if you’re a newer driver or just want extra support on the road. Add in a slick infotainment system with a standard 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, and the Kona feels like a steal for its price.

The Kona is also known for its fun design, with bold color options and a sporty look that sets it apart from the crowd. It’s great for anyone who wants an affordable car that doesn’t feel boring.

Kia Seltos

Next up is the Kia Seltos, a compact SUV that checks all the boxes for style, comfort, and value. Starting at under $25,000, the Seltos is slightly larger than the Kona, making it ideal if you want something with a bit more space but still want to stick to your budget.

The Seltos stands out because of its interior room and smart design. With ample headroom and legroom for passengers, it feels much roomier than you’d expect from a compact SUV. The cargo space is just as impressive, with enough room for road trip essentials, camping gear, or your latest haul from Ikea.

When it comes to features, the Seltos punches above its weight. It offers a standard 8-inch touchscreen display and smartphone compatibility, but higher trims boast goodies like a larger 10.25-inch display, a Bose premium audio system, and even mood lighting (because, why not?). Safety isn’t overlooked either, with options like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

The Seltos is also known for its fuel efficiency, with base models getting up to 31 mpg on the highway. And if you’re looking for an all-wheel-drive option that can handle a little more off-road fun, the Seltos has you covered there too. With its stylish looks and versatile features, this Kia has quickly become a favorite among compact SUV fans.

Subaru Crosstrek

If you’re someone who loves the great outdoors—or just wants a car that can handle snowy winters—look no further than the Subaru Crosstrek. With a starting price of around $24,500, the Crosstrek is an affordable option for drivers who need a bit more rugged capability in their compact SUV.

The Crosstrek comes standard with all-wheel drive, which is a huge bonus for handling bad weather or venturing off the beaten path. It’s also surprisingly fuel-efficient for an SUV with AWD, getting up to 34 mpg on the highway with the 2.0L engine.

The interior of the Crosstrek is simple but functional, with an emphasis on durability—perfect if you’re hauling gear or just want a car that can take some wear and tear. That doesn’t mean it’s bare-bones, though. Standard features include a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, while higher trims add extras like heated seats and a moonroof.

Another reason drivers love the Crosstrek is its safety features. Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist package is standard on most models and includes handy tools like adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane-departure warning. Combine that with the Crosstrek’s excellent crash-test ratings, and you’ve got a car that makes safety a top priority.

Plus, the Crosstrek has a rugged charm that sets it apart from other compact SUVs. It’s a great choice if you want something budget-friendly that doesn’t shy away from a little adventure.

Why Compact SUVs Are a Great Choice for Budget Buyers

Compact SUVs like the Hyundai Kona, Kia Seltos, and Subaru Crosstrek prove you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a feature-packed, reliable vehicle. They’re smaller than traditional SUVs, making them easier to drive and park, but they still offer plenty of room for passengers and cargo.

Budget-friendly doesn’t mean boring, either. These SUVs come with modern tech features, great safety ratings, and fuel efficiency that helps you save money over time. Whether you’re commuting to school or planning a weekend getaway, these models give you the flexibility to do it all without breaking the bank.

At the end of the day, the best compact SUV for you comes down to your priorities. Want a fun and stylish ride? The Hyundai Kona is a great pick. Need something with a bit more space and sleek design? Check out the Kia Seltos. Planning to hit some trails or live in a snowy area? The Subaru Crosstrek might just be your perfect match.