Most affordable SUVs of 2026
Not all SUVs are massive, expensive status symbols. In fact, some of the best cheap SUVs are nicer to drive and more practical than posher alternatives which cost twice as much.
The Citroen C5 Aircross is one of the most comfortable cars you can buy regardless of price, while the Chery Tiggo 8 offers tremendous value for money and such an impressive hybrid system that it won the 2026 Carwow Car of the Year Awards.
Our expert reviews team have thoroughly tested every SUV on sale in the UK in town, on the motorway, on twisty country lanes and in real-world scenarios such as the school run, shopping trips and long-distance journeys. Here are the ten best cheap SUVs you can buy:
2026
Car of the Year Award
1. Chery Tiggo 8
Chery Tiggo 8 review
Best for: unmatched value for money
The Chery Tiggo 8 is an enormous, well-equipped seven-seater SUV you can buy for the same money as a Volkswagen Golf with a few options ticked. It has a posh interior, loads of space inside and the hybrid model has an impressive engine, but it’s not very pleasant to drive.
Nonetheless, as an all-round proposition it’s so compelling that the Chery Tiggo 8 not only won the Hybrid Hero category of the 2025 Carwow Car of the Year Awards, it drove away with the overall crown, too.
The Tiggo 8 certainly doesn’t look cheap. The tall, broad grille and pointy, intricate headlights have more than a hint of Audi and BMW to them, but the neat rear light bar and large exhaust tips give the big Chery a lot of road presence. It’s just a shame the rest of the design is so generic.
You get a plush cabin inside, too. It may be slightly plain compared to a Mercedes, but you’re surrounded by high-quality, soft-touch materials, a rapid infotainment display with crisp graphics and plenty of interior space. There’s more than enough room for tall adults across the front and middle rows, but seats six and seven are best used for children.
The boot is a capacious 700 litres with the third row stored away but a tiny 117 litres with the seats up, which puts the Tiggo 8 behind the Skoda Kodiaq and Peugeot 5008 for boot space.
Entry-level Tiggo 8s come fitted with a lacklustre petrol engine that’s neither particularly smooth nor powerful. Avoid it and opt for the plug-in hybrid version instead, because it’s a genuinely impressive piece of engineering.
Around town it’s easy to potter about in electric-only mode, while the light steering and standard-fit 360-degree cameras make the Tiggo 8 easier to manoeuvre than you’d expect from a car of this size.
It’s disappointing on the motorway, however, with lots of road and wind noise to disrupt your conversations. Twisty roads aren’t pleasant to drive the Tiggo 8 on either, as it feels unsettled on bumpy roads and the steering is too light to confidently judge where the Chery’s front wheels are pointing at speed.
The Chery Tiggo 8 is an enormous, well-equipped seven-seater SUV you can buy for the same money as a Volkswagen Golf with a few options ticked. It has a posh interior, loads of space inside and the hybrid model has an impressive engine, but it’s not very pleasant to drive.
Nonetheless, as an all-round proposition it’s so compelling that the Chery Tiggo 8 not only won the Hybrid Hero category of the 2025 Carwow Car of the Year Awards, it drove away with the overall crown, too.
The Tiggo 8 certainly doesn’t look cheap. The tall, broad grille and pointy, intricate headlights have more than a hint of Audi and BMW to them, but the neat rear light bar and large exhaust tips give the big Chery a lot of road presence. It’s just a shame the rest of the design is so generic.
You get a plush cabin inside, too. It may be slightly plain compared to a Mercedes, but you’re surrounded by high-quality, soft-touch materials, a rapid infotainment display with crisp graphics and plenty of interior space. There’s more than enough room for tall adults across the front and middle rows, but seats six and seven are best used for children.
The boot is a capacious 700 litres with the third row stored away but a tiny 117 litres with the seats up, which puts the Tiggo 8 behind the Skoda Kodiaq and Peugeot 5008 for boot space.
Entry-level Tiggo 8s come fitted with a lacklustre petrol engine that’s neither particularly smooth nor powerful. Avoid it and opt for the plug-in hybrid version instead, because it’s a genuinely impressive piece of engineering.
Around town it’s easy to potter about in electric-only mode, while the light steering and standard-fit 360-degree cameras make the Tiggo 8 easier to manoeuvre than you’d expect from a car of this size.
It’s disappointing on the motorway, however, with lots of road and wind noise to disrupt your conversations. Twisty roads aren’t pleasant to drive the Tiggo 8 on either, as it feels unsettled on bumpy roads and the steering is too light to confidently judge where the Chery’s front wheels are pointing at speed.
2026
Family Values Award
Winner
2. Citroen C5 Aircross
Citroen C5 Aircross review
Best for: wafting in comfort
The Citroen C5 Aircross is a deeply impressive SUV, because it offers levels of comfort and refinement that cars three times its price struggle to match. It looks good and offers a range of economical engine options, but the interior feels a bit cheap in places.
It impressed us enough to have won the Family Values segment of the 2026 Carwow Car of the Year Awards, carrying on an impressive family resume as the old model was the winner of the same award in 2024.
But where its predecessor was a little bit pudgy around the corners and a little blobby in its silhouette, the current model is razor-sharp and full of handsome details. The headlights are neat and give the C5 Aircross more road presence than you’d expect from a Citroen, while the fin-mounted taillights are achingly cool.
But where its predecessor was a little bit pudgy around the corners and a little blobby in its silhouette, the current model is razor-sharp and full of handsome details. The headlights are neat and give the C5 Aircross more road presence than you’d expect from a Citroen, while the fin-mounted taillights are achingly cool.
It’s super spacious up front and in the back, with enormous storage compartments and a handy 565-litre boot with plentiful under-floor storage.
You can have a C5 Aircross with a 1.2-litre self-charging hybrid engine or a smooth, peppy plug-in hybrid instead. There’s also an all-electric E-C5 Aircross which is just as good, should you fancy an electric car.
You’ll forget all about your local battered roads in the big Citroen, because it drives along as though it’s laying a fresh sheet of tarmac under you. Lumps and bumps are very well absorbed, while the plug-in hybrid model pulls away from the lights well.
It’s just as comfortable on the motorway with very little wind and road noise, but you’re best off taking country lanes at a moderate speed as the soft suspension wobbles you around bumpy corners.
The Citroen C5 Aircross is a deeply impressive SUV, because it offers levels of comfort and refinement that cars three times its price struggle to match. It looks good and offers a range of economical engine options, but the interior feels a bit cheap in places.
It impressed us enough to have won the Family Values segment of the 2026 Carwow Car of the Year Awards, carrying on an impressive family resume as the old model was the winner of the same award in 2024.
But where its predecessor was a little bit pudgy around the corners and a little blobby in its silhouette, the current model is razor-sharp and full of handsome details. The headlights are neat and give the C5 Aircross more road presence than you’d expect from a Citroen, while the fin-mounted taillights are achingly cool.
But where its predecessor was a little bit pudgy around the corners and a little blobby in its silhouette, the current model is razor-sharp and full of handsome details. The headlights are neat and give the C5 Aircross more road presence than you’d expect from a Citroen, while the fin-mounted taillights are achingly cool.
It’s super spacious up front and in the back, with enormous storage compartments and a handy 565-litre boot with plentiful under-floor storage.
You can have a C5 Aircross with a 1.2-litre self-charging hybrid engine or a smooth, peppy plug-in hybrid instead. There’s also an all-electric E-C5 Aircross which is just as good, should you fancy an electric car.
You’ll forget all about your local battered roads in the big Citroen, because it drives along as though it’s laying a fresh sheet of tarmac under you. Lumps and bumps are very well absorbed, while the plug-in hybrid model pulls away from the lights well.
It’s just as comfortable on the motorway with very little wind and road noise, but you’re best off taking country lanes at a moderate speed as the soft suspension wobbles you around bumpy corners.
Battery range up to 202 miles
Best for: pure ease-of-use
The Citroen e-C3 isn’t just another electric city car – it’s had a proper makeover and raided the SUV section of the wardrobe. Gone is the soft, pudgy hatchback of old; in its place is a chunkier, tougher look that shouts “mini SUV”, even if it’s not quite ready for a hill climb in the Highlands.
Inside, it’s delightfully straightforward. The cabin has a stripped-back charm—like an IKEA demo room, everything you need and nothing you don’t. Instead of a flashy light show behind the wheel, there’s a simple display with your speed, range and efficiency stats—no fancy graphics, no frills. A 10.3-inch infotainment screen handles the heavy lifting, complete with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to keep you connected.
When it comes to space, it’s more akin to a clever flat-pack than a walk-in wardrobe. It’s hardly luxurious, but for daily dashes around town or the school run, it’s more than up to the task. And importantly, it doesn’t feel like a downgrade if you’re coming from a petrol car.
Under the bonnet, the e-C3 has a 113hp motor and a 44kWh battery—not headline-grabbing figures, but enough to keep pace on the motorway without breaking a sweat. The 199-mile range won’t win any endurance medals, but considering the price, it's solid value.
Where the e-C3 really stands out is comfort. While some small SUVs think they’re sports cars on stilts, the small Citroen is more armchair than bucket seat. It glides over battered British roads with ease, and the seats feel like they were designed by someone who’s spent plenty of time in traffic jams.
So, is it the best cheap SUV you can buy? If your idea of ‘best’ includes wallet-friendly pricing, stress-free driving and simple tech that works, the Citroen e-C3 might be the small car you didn’t know you needed.
The Citroen e-C3 isn’t just another electric city car – it’s had a proper makeover and raided the SUV section of the wardrobe. Gone is the soft, pudgy hatchback of old; in its place is a chunkier, tougher look that shouts “mini SUV”, even if it’s not quite ready for a hill climb in the Highlands.
Inside, it’s delightfully straightforward. The cabin has a stripped-back charm—like an IKEA demo room, everything you need and nothing you don’t. Instead of a flashy light show behind the wheel, there’s a simple display with your speed, range and efficiency stats—no fancy graphics, no frills. A 10.3-inch infotainment screen handles the heavy lifting, complete with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to keep you connected.
When it comes to space, it’s more akin to a clever flat-pack than a walk-in wardrobe. It’s hardly luxurious, but for daily dashes around town or the school run, it’s more than up to the task. And importantly, it doesn’t feel like a downgrade if you’re coming from a petrol car.
Under the bonnet, the e-C3 has a 113hp motor and a 44kWh battery—not headline-grabbing figures, but enough to keep pace on the motorway without breaking a sweat. The 199-mile range won’t win any endurance medals, but considering the price, it's solid value.
Where the e-C3 really stands out is comfort. While some small SUVs think they’re sports cars on stilts, the small Citroen is more armchair than bucket seat. It glides over battered British roads with ease, and the seats feel like they were designed by someone who’s spent plenty of time in traffic jams.
So, is it the best cheap SUV you can buy? If your idea of ‘best’ includes wallet-friendly pricing, stress-free driving and simple tech that works, the Citroen e-C3 might be the small car you didn’t know you needed.
4. Dacia Duster
Dacia Duster review
Best for: rugged charm
The latest, third-generation Dacia Duster isn’t just a cost-cutting exercise; it genuinely raises the game in all the right places.
It now looks like something Bear Grylls might drive to the shops – all chunky lines and rugged plastic cladding, ready to shrug off dings from wayward wheelie bins or rogue shopping trolleys. Plus, the new ‘Starkle’ recycled materials give some green credentials with a fun design flourish.
Step inside and it’s not exactly a luxury lounge, but it’s far more sophisticated than previous generations of Duster. Basic models come with a phone mount in place of a screen – a bit like being handed a paper map in the sat-nav era – but go a trim higher and you get a proper touchscreen with wireless phone mirroring and a snazzy digital dash. Not bad for a bargain SUV.
The materials might not scream “premium,” but they do shout “bring it on.” Tough plastics, cool textures, and map-pattern rubber mats make it feel like it’s up for anything – be it kids, dogs or post-hike grime. It's genuinely family-proof.
Space? Loads of it. Six-footers won’t be squashed in the back, and the boot is a square, sensible shape with underfloor storage for stashing muddy boots or emergency snacks. Practicality is still the Duster’s party trick.
And now it’s clever under the bonnet, too. There’s a new hybrid engine borrowed from the Dacia Jogger that’s smooth and efficient in town, plus a mild-hybrid and even a dual-fuel petrol-LPG option.
On the move, it’s more composed than ever. The suspension no longer turns speed bumps into rodeo rides, yet it’s still impressively comfy and remains a proper off-road contender – rare at this price point.
The latest, third-generation Dacia Duster isn’t just a cost-cutting exercise; it genuinely raises the game in all the right places.
It now looks like something Bear Grylls might drive to the shops – all chunky lines and rugged plastic cladding, ready to shrug off dings from wayward wheelie bins or rogue shopping trolleys. Plus, the new ‘Starkle’ recycled materials give some green credentials with a fun design flourish.
Step inside and it’s not exactly a luxury lounge, but it’s far more sophisticated than previous generations of Duster. Basic models come with a phone mount in place of a screen – a bit like being handed a paper map in the sat-nav era – but go a trim higher and you get a proper touchscreen with wireless phone mirroring and a snazzy digital dash. Not bad for a bargain SUV.
The materials might not scream “premium,” but they do shout “bring it on.” Tough plastics, cool textures, and map-pattern rubber mats make it feel like it’s up for anything – be it kids, dogs or post-hike grime. It's genuinely family-proof.
Space? Loads of it. Six-footers won’t be squashed in the back, and the boot is a square, sensible shape with underfloor storage for stashing muddy boots or emergency snacks. Practicality is still the Duster’s party trick.
And now it’s clever under the bonnet, too. There’s a new hybrid engine borrowed from the Dacia Jogger that’s smooth and efficient in town, plus a mild-hybrid and even a dual-fuel petrol-LPG option.
On the move, it’s more composed than ever. The suspension no longer turns speed bumps into rodeo rides, yet it’s still impressively comfy and remains a proper off-road contender – rare at this price point.
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5. Dacia Bigster
Dacia Bigster review
Best for: extra beefy practicality
The Dacia Bigster may sound like a budget gym machine, but it’s actually Dacia’s most grown-up SUV to date—and stirred up a fuss long before it arrived, being crowned Carwow’s Most Anticipated Car of 2025.
Sitting above the Duster in the range, the Bigster muscles in on the territory of bigger names like the Nissan Qashqai and Skoda Karoq—but does so with a very affordable price tag. Even the top-spec version of the Bigster comes in at around the same money as an alternative in a basic trim. Tempting, no?
Looks-wise, it’s unmistakably a Dacia—think Duster after a few protein shakes. The blocky silhouette, Y-shaped LED lights, chunky arches and hidden rear door handles give it a purposeful stance, while standard alloy wheels and roof bars help it feel more “adventure-ready” than “budget wagon.”
Inside, it’s a bit of a mixed bag. The layout’s smart, with neat detailing and a modern vibe thanks to a 10.1-inch touchscreen and a digital driver’s display as standard. But once you start touching things, it’s clear this is where the cost-cutting kicks in—there’s hard plastic everywhere; one dashboard panel feels like it was inspired by a lunch tray. Still, it’s solid and will likely survive the chaos of family life without complaint.
Rear passengers can stretch out without grazing their knees on the seatbacks, and the boot’s big enough to swallow a week’s worth of luggage—or half a flat-pack furniture store.
The self-charging hybrid is efficient, easy to drive and impressively capable for the money. Just don’t expect it to whisper along like a premium SUV at motorway speeds.
The Bigster offers an alluring blend of space, standard kit, and sheer value at the sacrifice of things such as soft-touch plastics. It's a brawny bargain.
The Dacia Bigster may sound like a budget gym machine, but it’s actually Dacia’s most grown-up SUV to date—and stirred up a fuss long before it arrived, being crowned Carwow’s Most Anticipated Car of 2025.
Sitting above the Duster in the range, the Bigster muscles in on the territory of bigger names like the Nissan Qashqai and Skoda Karoq—but does so with a very affordable price tag. Even the top-spec version of the Bigster comes in at around the same money as an alternative in a basic trim. Tempting, no?
Looks-wise, it’s unmistakably a Dacia—think Duster after a few protein shakes. The blocky silhouette, Y-shaped LED lights, chunky arches and hidden rear door handles give it a purposeful stance, while standard alloy wheels and roof bars help it feel more “adventure-ready” than “budget wagon.”
Inside, it’s a bit of a mixed bag. The layout’s smart, with neat detailing and a modern vibe thanks to a 10.1-inch touchscreen and a digital driver’s display as standard. But once you start touching things, it’s clear this is where the cost-cutting kicks in—there’s hard plastic everywhere; one dashboard panel feels like it was inspired by a lunch tray. Still, it’s solid and will likely survive the chaos of family life without complaint.
Rear passengers can stretch out without grazing their knees on the seatbacks, and the boot’s big enough to swallow a week’s worth of luggage—or half a flat-pack furniture store.
The self-charging hybrid is efficient, easy to drive and impressively capable for the money. Just don’t expect it to whisper along like a premium SUV at motorway speeds.
The Bigster offers an alluring blend of space, standard kit, and sheer value at the sacrifice of things such as soft-touch plastics. It's a brawny bargain.
6. Renault Captur
Renault Captur review
Battery range up to 28 miles
Best for: chic styling
The Renault Captur manages to stand out in a world of small SUVs – a bit like a croissant in a pile of crumpets. With its Parisian flair and stylish looks, it's a very fashion-conscious choice.
A 2024 update sharpened its looks with arrow-shaped LED lights, sleeker bumpers and new alloys. Inside, it’s all neat toggle switches and soft-touch surfaces – no leather or chrome, but still feels a cut above the norm. The new Google-based infotainment system (on all but base trims) is a highlight, packing built-in Maps and wireless phone mirroring on a slick 10.4-inch screen.
Space-wise, it’s surprisingly practical. The boot is bigger than most alternatives, and the rear seats slide forward to offer up to 616 litres of space – that’s proper suitcase-swallowing territory. Rear headroom’s a bit snug, though, so tall passengers might feel more at home in a Kamiq.
Two engines are on offer: a 90hp petrol and a 145hp hybrid. The hybrid’s the one to go for – smooth, efficient and capable of zipping around town on electric power alone. Unfortunately the suspension’s on the firm side; tolerable, but you’ll feel shaken about on a bad road.
It won’t get your heart racing on twisty roads, but the Captur’s precise steering and stable handling keep things easy and reassuring. For a small SUV that looks good and doesn’t cost the earth, the Captur’s well worth a look.
The Renault Captur manages to stand out in a world of small SUVs – a bit like a croissant in a pile of crumpets. With its Parisian flair and stylish looks, it's a very fashion-conscious choice.
A 2024 update sharpened its looks with arrow-shaped LED lights, sleeker bumpers and new alloys. Inside, it’s all neat toggle switches and soft-touch surfaces – no leather or chrome, but still feels a cut above the norm. The new Google-based infotainment system (on all but base trims) is a highlight, packing built-in Maps and wireless phone mirroring on a slick 10.4-inch screen.
Space-wise, it’s surprisingly practical. The boot is bigger than most alternatives, and the rear seats slide forward to offer up to 616 litres of space – that’s proper suitcase-swallowing territory. Rear headroom’s a bit snug, though, so tall passengers might feel more at home in a Kamiq.
Two engines are on offer: a 90hp petrol and a 145hp hybrid. The hybrid’s the one to go for – smooth, efficient and capable of zipping around town on electric power alone. Unfortunately the suspension’s on the firm side; tolerable, but you’ll feel shaken about on a bad road.
It won’t get your heart racing on twisty roads, but the Captur’s precise steering and stable handling keep things easy and reassuring. For a small SUV that looks good and doesn’t cost the earth, the Captur’s well worth a look.
7. Skoda Kamiq
Skoda Kamiq review
Best for: solid dependability
Rather than trying to out-funk its alternatives with wacky styling and jazzy trims, the Skoda Kamiq is the calm in the storm. Think sensible walking boots rather than sequinned slippers—no drama, just solid dependability.
It’s not a head-turner, but it’s far from ugly. The Kamiq’s boxy shape gives it that classic SUV look, with sleek daytime running lights and tidy rear-end styling that keeps the Kamiq looking thoroughly modern.
Inside, it’s more of the same—clean, unfussy, and impressively well put together. There’s a neat trim strip across the dash, and mid-range models upwards get a crisp 9.2-inch infotainment screen and digital dials. No flashy gimmicks, just stuff that works.
Where the Kamiq shines is space. There’s loads of room up front and, for a car this size, the back seats are surprisingly generous—perfect if you’ve got lanky teens or car-sharing mates. The 400-litre boot isn’t huge, but it’s still roomy enough for the weekly shop or a weekend away.
Under the bonnet, it’s all petrol—no hybrids or EVs here. But even the 95hp engine is fine for town, and the more powerful options make motorway cruising a breeze. Just don’t expect fireworks—this car’s built for comfort, not speed. The ride is smooth, the cabin is quiet, and it takes potholes like a champ.
In short, the Skoda Kamiq isn’t trying to be exciting. It’s trying to be good. And guess what? It really is.
Rather than trying to out-funk its alternatives with wacky styling and jazzy trims, the Skoda Kamiq is the calm in the storm. Think sensible walking boots rather than sequinned slippers—no drama, just solid dependability.
It’s not a head-turner, but it’s far from ugly. The Kamiq’s boxy shape gives it that classic SUV look, with sleek daytime running lights and tidy rear-end styling that keeps the Kamiq looking thoroughly modern.
Inside, it’s more of the same—clean, unfussy, and impressively well put together. There’s a neat trim strip across the dash, and mid-range models upwards get a crisp 9.2-inch infotainment screen and digital dials. No flashy gimmicks, just stuff that works.
Where the Kamiq shines is space. There’s loads of room up front and, for a car this size, the back seats are surprisingly generous—perfect if you’ve got lanky teens or car-sharing mates. The 400-litre boot isn’t huge, but it’s still roomy enough for the weekly shop or a weekend away.
Under the bonnet, it’s all petrol—no hybrids or EVs here. But even the 95hp engine is fine for town, and the more powerful options make motorway cruising a breeze. Just don’t expect fireworks—this car’s built for comfort, not speed. The ride is smooth, the cabin is quiet, and it takes potholes like a champ.
In short, the Skoda Kamiq isn’t trying to be exciting. It’s trying to be good. And guess what? It really is.
8. MG HS
MG HS review
Best for: feeling like a large SUV
The MG HS has done what few affordable cars manage—made bargain-hunting look smart. It's a big, family-friendly SUV with a generous spec list, a swanky-looking interior and a plug-in hybrid that’ll give most alternatives a run for their money—yet it’s priced like a hatchback with big dreams.
Think of it like an all-you-can-eat buffet. It’s not fine dining, but you’ll walk away full and chuffed with the value.
Roughly the same size as a Ford Kuga or Kia Sportage, the HS is more often cross-shopped with smaller stuff like the VW T-Cross or Ford Puma, thanks to its wallet-friendly price. Yet inside, it’s got room for tall passengers in the back, and a boot big enough for all of a family’s clutter.
The dashboard looks rather posh at a glance, with a dual-screen setup that’s very BMW-lite. But poke around and you’ll spot some cost-cutting: the infotainment’s a faff to use, there’s not much cabin storage, and the materials feel built to a budget.
Engine-wise, there’s a standard petrol or a standout plug-in hybrid. The PHEV’s official 75-mile electric range is one of the best around and great for low-cost commuting. It’s also a winner for company car drivers thanks to low tax bills.
It’s not exactly a thrill-a-minute drive—the Kia Sportage and Ford Kuga feel sharper—but the HS is comfy and smooth enough for motorway cruises or urban errands.
It may not be perfect. But if your goal is big SUV vibes on a supermini budget, the MG HS delivers.
The MG HS has done what few affordable cars manage—made bargain-hunting look smart. It's a big, family-friendly SUV with a generous spec list, a swanky-looking interior and a plug-in hybrid that’ll give most alternatives a run for their money—yet it’s priced like a hatchback with big dreams.
Think of it like an all-you-can-eat buffet. It’s not fine dining, but you’ll walk away full and chuffed with the value.
Roughly the same size as a Ford Kuga or Kia Sportage, the HS is more often cross-shopped with smaller stuff like the VW T-Cross or Ford Puma, thanks to its wallet-friendly price. Yet inside, it’s got room for tall passengers in the back, and a boot big enough for all of a family’s clutter.
The dashboard looks rather posh at a glance, with a dual-screen setup that’s very BMW-lite. But poke around and you’ll spot some cost-cutting: the infotainment’s a faff to use, there’s not much cabin storage, and the materials feel built to a budget.
Engine-wise, there’s a standard petrol or a standout plug-in hybrid. The PHEV’s official 75-mile electric range is one of the best around and great for low-cost commuting. It’s also a winner for company car drivers thanks to low tax bills.
It’s not exactly a thrill-a-minute drive—the Kia Sportage and Ford Kuga feel sharper—but the HS is comfy and smooth enough for motorway cruises or urban errands.
It may not be perfect. But if your goal is big SUV vibes on a supermini budget, the MG HS delivers.
9. SEAT Arona
SEAT Arona review
Best for: flying under the radar
As a small SUV that doesn’t scream for attention but still knows how to look sharp, the SEAT Arona hits a sweet spot. Think of it like a pair of stylish but sensible trainers—cool enough to wear out, comfy enough to live in. It doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel, but what it does, it does well.
Styling-wise, the Arona plays it safe but stylish. It's sharper than a Skoda Kamiq, less shouty than a Nissan Juke, and you can opt for some rather funky two-tone colour schemes. Chunky bumpers, raised fog lights and roof rails give it that faux-adventure vibe, even if it’s more suburban jungle than mountain pass.
Inside, it’s a similar story: neat, well-built, and with just enough flair to keep things interesting. Higher trims get a slick 9.2-inch touchscreen and digital driver’s display, but beware of the irritating beep every time you touch the screen—it’s like a microwave that won’t stop nagging.
Space in the front is good, but things get tight in the back. Legroom is snug and three across the rear bench is a squeeze. The 400-litre boot is fine but not class-leading.
On the move, the Arona is one of the more enjoyable small SUVs to drive. The steering is nicely weighted, and it feels stable and composed through bends. It can be a bit jiggly on rough roads, though.
Stick with the 1.5-litre engine if you leave the city often, but even the 1.0-litre options have enough poke for town trips.
Stylish, fun-ish, and surprisingly grown-up—the Arona’s a solid shout for budget-conscious SUV buyers.
As a small SUV that doesn’t scream for attention but still knows how to look sharp, the SEAT Arona hits a sweet spot. Think of it like a pair of stylish but sensible trainers—cool enough to wear out, comfy enough to live in. It doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel, but what it does, it does well.
Styling-wise, the Arona plays it safe but stylish. It's sharper than a Skoda Kamiq, less shouty than a Nissan Juke, and you can opt for some rather funky two-tone colour schemes. Chunky bumpers, raised fog lights and roof rails give it that faux-adventure vibe, even if it’s more suburban jungle than mountain pass.
Inside, it’s a similar story: neat, well-built, and with just enough flair to keep things interesting. Higher trims get a slick 9.2-inch touchscreen and digital driver’s display, but beware of the irritating beep every time you touch the screen—it’s like a microwave that won’t stop nagging.
Space in the front is good, but things get tight in the back. Legroom is snug and three across the rear bench is a squeeze. The 400-litre boot is fine but not class-leading.
On the move, the Arona is one of the more enjoyable small SUVs to drive. The steering is nicely weighted, and it feels stable and composed through bends. It can be a bit jiggly on rough roads, though.
Stick with the 1.5-litre engine if you leave the city often, but even the 1.0-litre options have enough poke for town trips.
Stylish, fun-ish, and surprisingly grown-up—the Arona’s a solid shout for budget-conscious SUV buyers.
10. Volkswagen T-Cross
Volkswagen T-Cross review
Best for: a posh interior
For an SUV that doesn’t cost the earth but still feels reassuringly solid, the Volkswagen T-Cross might just be your perfect match. It’s like a really well-done roast chicken dinner — not flashy, but thoroughly satisfying.
Despite being one of Volkswagen’s cheapest cars, the T-Cross punches well above its weight. It’s based on the Polo, but its boxier body means there’s loads of room inside — especially in the back, where six-footers can stretch out thanks to a sliding rear seat. Boot space can be adjusted depending on whether you need more room for legs or luggage, which is a neat party trick.
Up front, you get the commanding driving position you expect from an SUV, and an interior that now feels much more upmarket than older versions, especially after its 2024 update.
There are nice trims and a more premium feel overall — though Volkswagen has spoiled things by replacing easy-to-use climate knobs with fiddly touch panels. Swings and roundabouts, after all.
There’s no hybrid or electric option here, just a trio of petrol engines. The sweet spot is the 110hp 1.0-litre — efficient, punchy enough, and available with a manual or smooth automatic gearbox.
On the road, the T-Cross feels safe, secure and grown-up. It’s not as fun as a Ford Puma or as soft-riding as a Citroen e-C3, but it’s comfy, stable, and perfect for chewing through motorway miles.
For an SUV that doesn’t cost the earth but still feels reassuringly solid, the Volkswagen T-Cross might just be your perfect match. It’s like a really well-done roast chicken dinner — not flashy, but thoroughly satisfying.
Despite being one of Volkswagen’s cheapest cars, the T-Cross punches well above its weight. It’s based on the Polo, but its boxier body means there’s loads of room inside — especially in the back, where six-footers can stretch out thanks to a sliding rear seat. Boot space can be adjusted depending on whether you need more room for legs or luggage, which is a neat party trick.
Up front, you get the commanding driving position you expect from an SUV, and an interior that now feels much more upmarket than older versions, especially after its 2024 update.
There are nice trims and a more premium feel overall — though Volkswagen has spoiled things by replacing easy-to-use climate knobs with fiddly touch panels. Swings and roundabouts, after all.
There’s no hybrid or electric option here, just a trio of petrol engines. The sweet spot is the 110hp 1.0-litre — efficient, punchy enough, and available with a manual or smooth automatic gearbox.
On the road, the T-Cross feels safe, secure and grown-up. It’s not as fun as a Ford Puma or as soft-riding as a Citroen e-C3, but it’s comfy, stable, and perfect for chewing through motorway miles.
Factors to consider when choosing a cheap SUV
Petrol, hybrid or electric?
If you’ve got a home or office charger then an electric SUV makes sense, especially if you mainly put on the miles around town. A petrol SUV will be cheaper and more convenient to own if you take frequent road trips, while a plug-in hybrid can offer the best of both worlds - so long as you can offset the higher purchase cost by regularly charging the battery at home.
Little or large?
SUVs aren’t all massive, hulking vehicles anymore. The Citroen e-C3 and Renault Captur are easy to drive around town, making them ideal for the urban commute. If you’re got a big family then the Chery Tiggo 8 is a no-brainer thanks to its seven seats, while we reckon the Citroen C5 Aircross is the perfect size for most people.
Off-road ability
Not all SUVs will take you far down the road less travelled, but if you do need a car that can handle itself when the going gets tough, look no further than the Dacia Bigster and Duster. Their chunky body cladding isn’t just for show, because the Dacia pair really can handle a bit of all-terrain driving.
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