Cars are getting better by the day, with the addition of advanced features like automatic braking, smartphone integration, dual-clutch transmissions, and adaptive headlights. But they are also getting expensive. The latest SUVs on the market with advanced technologies are usually priced quite high, putting them out of the reach of many customers. Still, there are a few models out there that offer a decent set of features at a competitive price.
Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid
While Toyota has an extensive lineup of SUVs, the Corolla Cross Hybrid is a great option for daily commutes. It has generous cargo space, superb fuel economy, and a well-designed interior. One can choose from four trim levels: Hybrid S, Hybrid SE, Hybrid Nightshade, and Hybrid XSE. The base model has a starting price of $28,220 and several handy features.
- 8-inch touchscreen
- Standard cloth seats
- Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration
- Wireless cell phone connectivity
The car also offers a bunch of driver-assistance features, such as lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control. Its cargo capacity is 61.8 cubic feet with the seats down and 21.5 cubic feet otherwise.
Subaru Forester
One of the cheapest and best SUVs in the compact crossover segment is the Subaru Forester. Its powerful 2.5-liter DOHC engine and standard AWD powertrain make it perfect for off-roading. The car also has remarkable fuel economy and a great design. Its interiors are marked by cloth and leather-trimmed upholstery, while its exterior boasts a bold grille and striking LED headlights. The car’s base model, called the Base Forester, is priced at around $29,695 and has several features.
- Subaru STARLINK Dual 7-inch multimedia system
- 4-speaker audio system
- 60/40-split flat-folding rear seatbacks
- Multi-function center console
- Automatic climate control
- USB port
- Bluetooth connectivity
The Forester also has a bunch of driver assistance features, such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and forward-collision warning, included in its EyeSight package.
Kia Niro
At a starting price of $26,990, the Kia Niro is an affordable hybrid SUV. The car has a 1.6L hybrid powertrain that generates 139 hp and 195 lb-ft torque and provides an impressive fuel efficiency of 53 mpg combined. But this powertrain isn’t the only highlight of the vehicle. The Niro also has an upscale and spacious interior and sufficient room for cargo. Its base LX variant offers the most value for money, thanks to a slew of standard features.
- 8-inch touchscreen display
- Android auto and Apple CarPlay integration
- 4.3-inch instrument display
- 6-speaker audio system
- Dual-zone climate control
- Cloth upholstery
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Pre-cooling & heating through the Kia Access app
- Multiple USB ports
For additional safety, Kia Niro offers several features, such as pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Chevrolet Trailblazer LS
Chevy’s Trailblazer is a subcompact SUV with four trims: LS, LT, ACTIV, and RS. The base LS model is the most affordable, starting at $23,100. This variant has a 1.3-liter turbo engine that generates 155 hp and 174 lb-ft torque. A 9-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive are standard additions that enhance the car’s performance. One can also benefit from several valuable and standard tech features by getting the Chevrolet Trailblazer LS.
- 11-inch diagonal HD color touchscreen
- Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration
- 6-speaker audio system with amplifier
- Single-zone manual climate control
- USB data ports
- Wi-Fi hotspot
- Power windows
The vehicle also comes with Chevy Safety Assist, which includes features like steering assist, lane-departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
Hyundai Tucson
The Tucson is a leading choice in the compact SUV segment, starting at $28,605. It is a spacious vehicle with an upscale interior, near-luxury amenities, ample cargo room, and user-friendly in-car tech. Customers can choose from five trims: SE, SLE, SLE Convenience, XRT, and Limited. The base SE model has a bunch of handy features, from a responsive touch screen to premium speakers for sound.
- 12.3-inch touchscreen display
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support
- 4.2-inch color LCD
- Proximity key with push-button start
- Stain-resistant cloth seats
- 60/40 split 2nd-row seats with slide and recline
For safety, the car has forward collision-avoidance assist, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring, among other features. The Tucson is also available in hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants.
Kia Sportage
Another top pick in the crossover SUV segment, the Kia Sportage has a roomy cabin with two rows of seats and generous cargo space. The LX trim is the most basic of seven available trims at a starting price of $27,190. The car has a powerful engine that ensures a comfortable ride every day. It also has a well-designed interior armed with convenience features.
- 8-inch touchscreen display
- Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support
- LED projector headlights and LED taillights
Automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and lane-keep assist are a few features that make the Kia Sportage safer for the driver and passengers.
Chevrolet Equinox
Chevy’s latest Equinox has a starting price of $28,600 for the base model in FWD. The car has plenty of driver-assist features, tech features, and abundant room for passengers in each seating position. As for the powertrain, the Equinox boasts a four-cylinder, 1.5-liter, turbocharged engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that generates 203 lb-ft torque and 175 hp. The base model has several useful standard features.
- 11.3-inch diagonal advanced color LCD
- 6-speaker audio system
- Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- USB ports
- Wi-Fi hotspot
In addition to these features, Equinox has forward-collision warning, lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and several other safety systems.