iSeeCars has identified the most reliable SUVs for under $50,000 by analyzing each model’s projected lifespan and average list price. The top-ranked models are listed below and ranked by their “price per year,” a number reflecting each model’s price divided by its projected lifespan. The rankings represent new SUVs offering long-term durability at the lowest price, essentially making them the best SUVs for the money if dependability and value are top priorities. 

Best SUVs for the Money Under $50,000 - iSeeCars Study
Rank Model Average List Price Expected Lifespan (Years) Price per Year Compared to Segment Average
1 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport $28,250 11.8 $2,400 0.70x
2 Honda CR-V $36,009 15.0 $2,401 0.70x
3 Toyota RAV4 $35,258 14.6 $2,411 0.70x
4 Chevrolet TrailBlazer $29,109 10.0 $2,925 0.85x
5 Jeep Compass $33,486 11.4 $2,945 0.86x
6 Nissan Rogue $35,865 11.4 $3,152 0.92x
7 Kia Sportage $33,950 10.7 $3,177 0.93x
8 Hyundai Tucson $34,706 10.8 $3,210 0.93x
9 Mitsubishi Outlander $36,111 11.2 $3,234 0.94x
Average for SUVs Under $50k $38,539 11.2 $3,434 --
Average for All SUVs $47,342 11.3 $4,191 –
SUV volumes have been trending higher nearly every year over the past two decades, with compact SUVs like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 now the best-selling models within their respective brands. The combination of expanded passenger and cargo space, available all-wheel drive (AWD), and varying degrees of off-road capabilities and towing capacity has made crossovers and SUVs the most popular vehicle type in the automotive world.

The nine top-ranked models on this list are either subcompact or compact SUVs, which means they also deliver excellent fuel economy, with smaller turbo powertrains that effectively combine acceleration with relatively high MPG ratings. But interior volume in these small SUVs is limited, with modest rear seat space and only one three-row SUV on the list (the Mitsubishi Outlander).

New car buyers needing more interior volume can shop the midsize SUV category, where popular models like the Chevy Blazer, Ford Explorer, Mazda CX-90, Toyota Highlander, and Nissan Murano provide increased passenger space. Off-road enthusiasts should consider the Subaru Forester and Toyota 4Runner, while luxury SUV fans might look into the Buick Enclave, BMW X5, Lexus RX, or Porsche Cayenne. All of these vehicles have impressive reliability ratings and attractive styling, but they won’t offer the same value provided by the smaller, lower-cost models listed above.

What About a Reliable Used SUV?

Buying a previous model year SUV can save substantial cost off the new dealership MSRP, but if reliability is a concern you’ll want to stick with the most reliable used SUVs under $50,000. These include luxury models like the Audi Q5, Land Rover Range Rover Evoque, Lexus GX, and Mercedes-Benz GLC. Used SUVs from mainstream brands, including the Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento, can take advantage of these brands’ long warranty coverage while offering large SUV-like interior space, advanced infotainment systems, and three rows of seating.

Buyers seeking the full range of reliable vehicles across all SUV size and price categories should look at iSeeCars’ Best SUVs for the Money

Luxury shoppers can focus on top-ranked premium models at iSeeCars’ Best Luxury SUVs for the Money

Buyers seeking reliable cars (sedans) should look at iSeeCars’ Best Cars for the Money