Getting a new car on a tight budget can be challenging, especially for SUVs. This is why we have showcased our top picks for the best SUVs under $60K to serve as a guide for our readers. You are in luck if you’re looking for an SUV that perfectly blends interior comfort with fantastic performance, like the most expensive SUVs. We have explored the market for remarkable models from top brands that ace in essential aspects with affordable prices. Whatever properties you seek in a car, we’ve got a perfect match. Let’s get on to the list.
The Top SUVs Under $60K
Even in today’s inflated market, some car manufacturers still roll out top-class models that won’t force you to go out of budget. Check out the best SUVs under $60K for one that suits your preferences.
1. Cadillac Lyriq
The new Cadillac Lyriq is the kind of car that makes a statement even when it is parked. The base Tech trim is the only trim that qualifies among SUVs under $60K; Others cost more. It comes standard with a curved 33.0-inch digital dashboard display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless smartphone charging pad, a fixed glass roof, 20-inch wheels, and faux leather upholstery. Top trims offer lots of goodies, including Cadillac’s Super Cruise’s hands-free driving system.
This base Lyriq runs on a single electric motor mounted on the rear axle. Its output rating is 340 horsepower, and feels as responsive as gas models. The car also offers good road manners and a comfortable, quiet ride for occupants. Furthermore, its battery offers 102.0 kWh worth of capacity and an estimated driving range of up to 308 miles per charge. DC fast-charging capability is standard on all models, and you can charge using home power outlets as well.
According to the EPA, this base Lyriq gets 92 MPGe in the city and 82 MPGe on the highway. Safety and driver assistance features like adaptive cruise control and semi-autonomous driving are also available for all trims. A new Cadillac Lyriq will cost at least $58,590.
2. Toyota Land Cruiser
When it comes to versatility, the Land Cruiser series has always aced. Toyota introduced a new boxy design and hybrid setup for the Land Cruiser’s return. This smaller and less powerful new model is still a capable off-roader. It is also one of the best SUVs under $60K. The cabin features a two-row comfortable seating for five adults plus expansive cargo space. All trims come standard with heated seats, an 8.0-inch infotainment display, a heated steering wheel, and a six-speaker stereo. Moreover, high-end trims enjoy a larger 12.3-inch screen, ventilated seats, 10-speaker stereos, and optional leather upholstery.
A new hybrid powertrain stands in place of the naturally aspirated V8. This setup comprises a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to generate 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. Power goes through an eight-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels. The standard off-road-worthy 4WD system features a locking center differential, low-range gearing, a crawl control system, and hill descent control. The vehicle has a top speed of 112 mph and takes 6.0 seconds to go from zero to 60 mph.
According to the EPA, the new hybrid setup earns 22 MPG in the city and 25 on the highway. It amasses a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds. Toyota packs this car with a lot of driver assistance and advanced safety features. A new Toyota Land Cruiser starts at about $57,345. However, it may cost above $60,000, depending on your preferred trim level and optional features.
3. Porsche Macan
Porsche offers the Macan Base with a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine. This engine produces 261 horsepower and sprints from zero to 60 mph in 5.0 seconds. Also, it can tow a maximum payload of 2,000 pounds, while the Macan S and GTS can tow up to 2,400 pounds. These trims run on the same twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine and cost way over $60,000. The output rating for the S trim is 375 horsepower, and the GTS is 434 horsepower. Furthermore, the time needed to accelerate from zero to 60 mph is 3.8 seconds for the S and 3.5 for the GTS.
All Macans rely on the same seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission and all-wheel drive. They deliver the same smooth ride and crisp handling with standard features. Moreover, you can further enhance your drive quality with air suspensions and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM). The top speeds are 141 mph, 157 mph, and 162 mph for the base, S, and GTS trims. According to the EPA, city/highway gas mileage for Macan trims are as follows: 19/25 – base, 17/23 – S, and 17/22 – GTS, all in MPG.
Inside, the Macan feels like a Porsche with standard features like a 10.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10-speaker audio system, and power-adjustable front seats. Rear-seat occupants also enjoy good leg- and headroom. Lastly, Luggage space in the trunk is decent and can be increased by folding the rear seats. For a $60,000 budget, you can only get the Porsche Macan Base, which starts at $58,550.
4. BMW X4
BMW’s X4 is a top-class compact luxury SUV with a fastback. Its interior features premium-quality materials that embody a near-luxury experience. It comes as the base or Motorsport variant, and both deliver the same refined ride quality and athletic driving dynamics. Moreover, the M40i gets two more cylinders but trumps our $60,000 budget. Features like a head-up display, heated seats, and remote start are standard across the board. You also get a floating 12.3-inch infotainment display featuring BMW’s iDrive interface with built-in navigation.
The base X4 has a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 248 horsepower. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard, paired with an AWD system. This turbo-four engine needs only 6.2 seconds to reach 60 mph and then boosts to a top speed of 131 mph. According to the EPA, it is good for 21 MPG in the city and 28 on the highway.
Additionally, you get a standard Launch Control feature, a tuned chassis, and practical brakes. While many drivers love the X4 for its road manners, its suite of safety and driver assistance technologies makes it even more lovable. A new BMW X4 starts at $56,475 for the base xDrive30i.
5. Genesis GV80
The GV80 is a top choice for people seeking opulence and rich styling. It also offers a comfortable ride and lots of cool features inside the cabin, making it one of the best SUVs under $60K. Many of these cool features are standard. These include heat and cool functions for front and rear seats, soundproofing, and the new Micro Lens Array headlamps. You get to choose between 20- and 22-inch wheels, depending on your preferences. Furthermore, a 27.0-inch display stretches across the dashboard, offering access to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
2.5T trims run on a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, making 300 horsepower. Meanwhile, the 3.5T trims run on a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine with an output rating of 375 horsepower. All GV80 engines pair with the same eight-speed automatic transmission powering all four wheels in an AWD setting. The turbo-four accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds, while the V6 does it in 5.6. Both have the same top speed of 149 mph and a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds.
According to the EPA, the 2.5T trims earn 19 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. Meanwhile, the 3.5T trims earn 16 and 22, respectively. The latest Genesis GV80 starts at $59,050. If you opt for the 3.5T trims, you may need to spend above $60,000.
6. Lexus TX
The new TX series is a three-row SUV replacing the discontinued RX-L. Not only does it look like the Grand Highlander, they share the same platform. And as expected, the Lexus is more feature-rich in terms of luxury. Its interior is roomy and comfortable, with customizable options for many parts. With the Technology package, you get to add a digital rear-view mirror, a head-up display, and a parking assist system. Meanwhile, all trims offer semi-aniline leather upholstery, 10-way adjustable front seats with massage, heat, and ventilation, illuminated door sill plates, and second-row window shades.
Furthermore, you get a 14.0-inch infotainment display and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. All vehicles in this family share a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine that delivers 275 horsepower. This setup features an eight-speed automatic transmission and comes as front- or all-wheel drive. Furthermore, this car can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds and has a top speed of 120 mph.
Regarding fuel economy, the car earns 21 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. If you opt for the AWD setup, you lose 1 MPG each. The new Lexus TX series starts at $55,050. Still looking for fantastic SUVs under $60K? You’ve got one right here.
7. Mercedes-Benz GLC Class
The GLC-Class serves a wide range of buyers, from performance-loving bachelors to families. Exotic styling and obscene performance earn it a spot among the best SUVs under $60K. Inside, this car offers luxury, safety, and driver-assistance features. An 11.9-inch intuitive infotainment display and ambient lighting add to the attractive dashboard design. Also, you get a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster for displaying mechanical information. All cars in this lineup come standard with heated front seats offering memory settings and adjustable lumbar support. A power-operated sunroof and a power rear liftgate are also standard.
The latest GLC models use the same combo of a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine that makes 255 horsepower and a 48-volt hybrid system. This powertrain pairs with a nine-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive configuration standard. Mercedes’s 4Matic all-wheel-drive system is also available for more excitement on the road. Using the base models, you can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds. Furthermore, its top speed is 153 mph.
For the RWD, the EPA estimates that the car earns 26 MPG in the city and 33 on the highway. While the optional AWD drops them to 24 and 32 MPG, respectively. Among the standard tech features, you get an HVAC system, touch-sensitive control buttons on the steering wheel, and adaptive cruise control. The latest Mercedes-Benz GLC models range between $48,600 and $52,850.
8. Land Rover Discovery Sport
The Discovery Sport is another top-class compact SUV that performs insanely on the road. It enjoys the traditional Range Rover body design and offers a quite similar experience to its look-alike for a lesser price tag. All trims come with all-wheel drive, terrain-specific drive modes, an off-road cruise control system, and a sophisticated exterior camera system intended to help navigate in tight places.
The only available engine is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, good for 246 horsepower. It pairs with an eight-speed automatic to power all four wheels as an AWD. This setup requires only 7.1 seconds to accelerate from zero to 60 mph and maxes out at a top speed of 131 mph. It can also tow up to 4,409 pounds.
According to the EPA, the car is good for 19 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. All Discovery Sport models come with an 11.4-inch infotainment touchscreen featuring Land Rover’s latest Pivi Pro interface and a digital gauge display. While Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard, you can opt for a head-up display and on-board wireless hotspot. Depending on the trim level and optional features, a new Land Rover Discovery Sport ranges between $50,175 and $54,375.
9. Volvo XC90
All generations of the XC90 have maintained the same design with minor refinements. The car serves excellently in many application areas. You get an upscale cabin that offers ample passenger and cargo space. Like most Volvos, its chassis and suspensions are tuned to deliver fantastic drive quality. Regarding technological advancements, this car is the dream of every gadget lover. It is packed with the best safety and driver assistance features. The same tablet-like 9.0-inch infotainment display is featured in all XC90s.
The B5 trim features a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine that makes 247 horsepower, while the B6 trims make 295 horsepower. Both combine with a 48-volt hybrid system for more power and gas mileage. Every XC90 features an eight-speed automatic transmission with an AWD configuration. Furthermore, the two setups can go from zero to 60 MPH in only 5.6 seconds and have a top speed of 112 mph.
The EPA estimates that the XC90s have a gas mileage of 22 MPG for city driving and 27 for highway driving. Additionally, the maximum towing capacity is 4,000 pounds for the B5s and 5,000 pounds for the B6s. A new Volvo XC90 starts at about $58,695. There is also an available plug-in hybrid that adds a 14.9-kWh battery pack and costs way above $60,000.
10. Infiniti QX55
The QX55 is a driver’s favorite for its style and suite of standard features. It is based on the QX50 and shares the same engine: a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine that pushes 268 horsepower and features a complex variable-compression system. This system delivers more power and efficiency. The engine pairs with a continuously variable automatic transmission and comes standard as an AWD. It is responsive and takes only 6.4 seconds to go from zero to 60 mph, with a top speed of 131 mph.
While the QX55 may not be as athletic as its German rivals, it has great road manners. Thanks to the expertly-tuned chassis and suspension, the car takes corners nicely. Furthermore, its engine earns an EPA-estimated gas mileage of 22 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The cabin is stylish and comfortable. It is adorned in fine materials with quilted leather upholstery. Additionally, Infiniti uses a dual-screen infotainment setup, with the top display providing navigation and a lower touchscreen serving radio, media, and vehicle settings.
A new Infiniti QX55 will set you back between $51,500 and $60,000. The mid-level trim costs only $56,450 and offers in-dash navigation, a 360-degree exterior camera system, heated and cooled front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a 16-speaker Bose stereo system. It is undoubtedly one of the best SUVs under $60K.
Let’s Wrap it Up…
The myth that SUVs offering opulence and cutting-edge technology must have five-figure price tags has been debunked. Evidently, there are many fantastic models that you can get without breaking the bank. Our list features the best SUVs under $60K. Each model offers a unique blend of style, comfort, and road performance. Also, we prioritized reliability, safety, and technological advancements to give you the best.
