Last updated June 26, 2025 by
Mario Christou
Most affordable SUVs of 2025
Once only available as big, posh status symbols with big, thirsty engines and lashings of leather and wood, SUVs have become a regular part of day-to-day life on the road. In fact, it feels as though you see more small, affordable SUVs on the school run or supermarket car park than you do family hatchbacks these days.
As demand for SUVs has increased, manufacturers have started producing them in all shapes and sizes for a range of budgets. Of course there are six-figure, seven-seater giants which are ready to tackle any kind of terrain. But conversely, there are now more cheap SUVs with fuel-efficient engines and dinky proportions than ever before.
And it’s not just petrol and diesel-powered SUVs which are becoming cheap, but hybrid and electric models are too. In fact, our favourite cheap SUV just so happens to be an EV, and it’s a great little car for those of you who live in town.
Don’t think that cheap SUVs have to be small though, as brands are finding ways to keep costs low without sacrificing on practicality. You don’t have to give up loads of standard kit to get an affordable SUV either, with some options comparable against cars twice their price for the amount of equipment that even their base models come with.
Now they’re not all as cheap as some small hatchbacks on sale, but bearing in mind that you’re physically getting more car when buying a small SUV, value for money has to be considered just as much as the price of the cars themselves.
Our expert reviews team has extensively tested every small SUV on sale in the UK, and has put together this list of the ten best cheap SUVs you can buy. For maximum people-moving capacity, check out this list of the best seven-seater SUVs on sale. Or if you can increase your budget a little, check out the ten best SUVs you can buy at any price range instead.
2025
Smart Spender Award
Highly Commended
Battery range up to 201 miles
What's good
What’s not so good
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.
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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What's good
What’s not so good
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.
2025
Comfortable Cruiser Award
Highly Commended
What's good
What’s not so good
Best for: wafting along
While most family SUVs are playing up the ‘sport’ in ‘sport utility vehicle’, the Citroen C5 Aircross marches to its own laid-back beat. It’s the comfy armchair in a room full of gaming seats.
With soft, curvy styling and a chunky stance, it gives off cute-but-capable vibes. A 2023 update sharpened things up just enough to look smart without losing its charm. Inside, it’s more French chic than flashy tech-fest. Big, squashy seats and loads of storage make the front feel airy and practical, even if some plastics feel a bit scratchy.
Rear headroom is a touch tight, but the boot is massive—especially with the clever sliding back seats. Even the plug-in hybrid version holds its own against rivals when it comes to luggage capacity.
It’s not all style over substance, either. The hybrid offers low running costs if you can keep it charged, while the mild hybrid and diesels are handy options for those of you doing motorway miles.
Just don’t expect much excitement behind the wheel—the C5 Aircross is built for wafting, not corner-carving. The ride is soft, the seats are plush, and it takes potholes like a pro - ideal for a gentle cruise.
The C5 Aircross is seriously comfy, and just different enough to stand out in a sea of try-hard sporty SUVs. For the money, it’s a refreshingly chilled choice.
While most family SUVs are playing up the ‘sport’ in ‘sport utility vehicle’, the Citroen C5 Aircross marches to its own laid-back beat. It’s the comfy armchair in a room full of gaming seats.
With soft, curvy styling and a chunky stance, it gives off cute-but-capable vibes. A 2023 update sharpened things up just enough to look smart without losing its charm. Inside, it’s more French chic than flashy tech-fest. Big, squashy seats and loads of storage make the front feel airy and practical, even if some plastics feel a bit scratchy.
Rear headroom is a touch tight, but the boot is massive—especially with the clever sliding back seats. Even the plug-in hybrid version holds its own against rivals when it comes to luggage capacity.
It’s not all style over substance, either. The hybrid offers low running costs if you can keep it charged, while the mild hybrid and diesels are handy options for those of you doing motorway miles.
Just don’t expect much excitement behind the wheel—the C5 Aircross is built for wafting, not corner-carving. The ride is soft, the seats are plush, and it takes potholes like a pro - ideal for a gentle cruise.
The C5 Aircross is seriously comfy, and just different enough to stand out in a sea of try-hard sporty SUVs. For the money, it’s a refreshingly chilled choice.
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.
What's good
What’s not so good
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.
What's good
What’s not so good
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.
What's good
What’s not so good
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.
What's good
What’s not so good
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.
What's good
What’s not so good
Best for: budget performance
Once the car you’d buy with your wallet and drive with your head hung low, the MG ZS has had the motoring equivalent of a proper makeover. Gone is the awkward styling and clunky drive – the latest ZS is smarter, punchier and actually worth recommending, not just tolerating.
It’s not winning any beauty contests, but the updated exterior is tidy enough. Inside, it’s the same story – smart-ish looks, some bargain-bin plastics, but lashings of equipment. Top-spec Trophy trims chuck in sat-nav, leather seats, climate control and even semi-autonomous driving tech for less than some mid-spec alternatives.
The headline act is the new hybrid system, which is surprisingly brawny. With 191hp, it’s quicker than alternatives like the Renault Captur or Toyota Yaris Cross. Most of the time it drives like a relaxed EV, but flex your right foot and the ZS presents a surprising turn of pace.
Space is another plus point – adults fit comfortably in the back, and the 443-litre boot is very useful; a proper family SUV without the family-sized price tag.
Downsides? The ride can be crashy over bumps, motorway refinement isn’t brilliant, and the infotainment’s still a bit “off-brand smartphone”. But for the price, those flaws are forgivable. It’s no frills, but no longer no fun – and that’s a massive step in the right direction.
Once the car you’d buy with your wallet and drive with your head hung low, the MG ZS has had the motoring equivalent of a proper makeover. Gone is the awkward styling and clunky drive – the latest ZS is smarter, punchier and actually worth recommending, not just tolerating.
It’s not winning any beauty contests, but the updated exterior is tidy enough. Inside, it’s the same story – smart-ish looks, some bargain-bin plastics, but lashings of equipment. Top-spec Trophy trims chuck in sat-nav, leather seats, climate control and even semi-autonomous driving tech for less than some mid-spec alternatives.
The headline act is the new hybrid system, which is surprisingly brawny. With 191hp, it’s quicker than alternatives like the Renault Captur or Toyota Yaris Cross. Most of the time it drives like a relaxed EV, but flex your right foot and the ZS presents a surprising turn of pace.
Space is another plus point – adults fit comfortably in the back, and the 443-litre boot is very useful; a proper family SUV without the family-sized price tag.
Downsides? The ride can be crashy over bumps, motorway refinement isn’t brilliant, and the infotainment’s still a bit “off-brand smartphone”. But for the price, those flaws are forgivable. It’s no frills, but no longer no fun – and that’s a massive step in the right direction.
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How to choose the right cheap SUV?
Budget
While all of the SUVs on this come in comfortably under the £40,000 threshold for the ‘luxury car’ tax, some even start at less than half of that. Expect to spend between upwards of £20,000 by the time you get your SUV on the road and you won’t be left disappointed.
What do you need it for?
How you want to use your SUV and what you’ll want to spend depends on how much standard equipment you’re willing to sacrifice or whether you want a car that can comfortably seat five. If you need a set of wheels with no frills then a cheap SUV based on a small hatchback will be the most affordable option, but if you regularly travel five-up with luggage then a larger proposition from MG or Dacia will probably fit the bill.
Engine choice
For predominantly city driving then an electric SUV could be the most sensible choice, but on this list that means the Citroen e-C3 exclusively. With a claimed range of up to 200 miles it’s far from ideal for motorway trips, so a petrol powered SUV will be a better option. For maximum fuel efficiency over a mixed drive, one of the self-charging hybrid options will be the cheapest to run.
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