SUVs are a popular category in the car market because of their versatility. They offer amazing functionality with good resale value, so you’re sure to get value for your money. Although SUVs are some of the best cars out there, finding an affordable SUV with a wide range of features might be a difficult task. But not to worry—that’s why we have created a well-curated list of top 10 SUVs under 40k to make your dream come true. Let’s get into it.
1. Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester is one of the most affordable and top 10 SUVs under 40k in its category, with a starting price threshold of $29,810 for its base trim. Forester is one of the most affordable and best cars for young adults. It is a compact SUV powered by a 2.4-liter flat 4-cylinder engine that delivers 182 horsepower and can tow up to 1,500 rounds. Subaru Forester can withstand rough terrains with its standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and unmatched shock absorption across the vehicle. Also, it offers an excellent fuel economy of 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
Since it is a compact SUV, Forester offers a roomy cabin with 5 seats on two rows. It also has 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space in the back of the rear seat and 74.2 cubic feet when the rear seat is folded. The interior comes in different colors depending on the different range of trim levels that come in gray to black and brown. For connectivity and tech features, this compact SUV offers an 11.6-inch touchscreen with the signature Subaru Starlink multimedia plus advanced technology features. It also features a wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bluetooth system. The Forester has a couple of advanced safety features, such as the driver focus distraction mitigation system, blind-spot monitoring, rear vision camera, and reverse automatic braking.
2. GMC Terrain Elevation
For many good reasons, the GMC Terrain Elevation is on the list of the top 10 SUVs under 40k. The latest model starts at $30,000 with the previous models available for a cheaper price range. Whether for urban driving or rough terrain adventure, your driving experience doesn’t have to be discomforting. Terrain Elevation comes with premium cloth seats with a heated steering wheel for a comfortable ride. The cargo space is also big enough for all your grocery shopping and traveling gear. On the inside is an 11-inch diagonal driver information center screen, which is just a glance away. There is also the 15-inch diagonal premium GMC infotainment system for your in-vehicle entertainment.
From the name “Terrain,” you can deduce that this SUV is built for adventure. Terrain Elevation offers a range of features, including an available All-wheel drive with a hill descent control, which can help navigate rough and extremely challenging terrains. Also, it’s powered by a 1.5-L turbo 4-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower. It also offers a continuously variable transmission for the Front-Wheel Drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission for the All-Wheel Drive.
3. Kia Sorento
Starting at an average price of $31,990, the Kia Sorento is a popular choice in the car market and also one of the top 10 SUVs under 40k. It has advanced technology features with ample performance that help you have a smart trip. It features a 24-inch combined panoramic display, a digital key, and a remote start. The sound system is another feature that can give you a joy ride, as it features a Bose Premium Audio System.
One of Sorento’s standard features is the USB charging ports in all 3 seating rows of the vehicle. This midsize SUV offers a lane following assist and a rear occupant assist. It has a reasonable cargo capacity and a 7-passenger seating which is super comfortable. Additionally, the seats are made from premium materials. There are also available ventilated and head front seats, while the rear seats come with just the heated seats.
When it comes to performance, you can expect a varying outcome as Sorento comes in different trims offering different performances. The standard trim comes with a 2.5–liter four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower. It also has an available 2.5-L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, delivering 281 horsepower. Sorento’s acceleration also differs across engines and trim levels. However, you can expect an average acceleration of 0-60 mph in about 6 seconds.
4. Nissan Pathfinder
Nissan is an excellent choice and one of the classic brands in the automobile industry, and this shines true in the details Nissan puts into creating its vehicles. The Pathfinder is one of the amazing pieces Nissan has put together and one of the SUVs you can get under 40K. Starting at $37,000, you can get the latest Nissan 2025 model with all the features that can afford you an adventurous drive.
One of the striking features of the Pathfinder is its versatile and roomy cabin with adequate passenger space. Since it’s a three-row SUV, the interior offers enough space for passengers with its 8-seating and available 7-passenger seating, which is perfect for a family car. The cargo space is great as it offers 80.5 cubic meters of space when the last two rows are folded. Pathfinder offers a smart tech display and connectivity option that lets you stay connected. Some of these features include a 12.3-inch display, Apple car play and Android Auto integration, Bose premium audio system, and the signature NissanConnect for your Wi-Fi hotspot.
With a 3.5-L Direct injection gasoline powerful V6 engine, Pathfinder’s engine gives extra power enough to produce 284 horsepower and 259 lbs of torque when paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Complementing the engine value is the Pathfinder’s excellent fuel efficiency, as it offers 27 mpg. In addition to its ample performance are the drive and terrain modes that can help you navigate challenging terrains such as snow, dirt, gravel, and muddy terrain. Likewise, its off-road suspension and all-terrain tires make it a perfect SUV for adventure and off-reading off-roading activities.
5. Chevrolet Traverse LS
The Chevrolet Traverse features a bold and rugged exterior design with a touch of sophistication. It has a signature dual-port front grille, sleek LED lighting, and a sculpted body that gives off confidence. Traverse offers an athletic feel with its flowing rooflines and prominent wheel arches. It is available in 18-20-inch wheels with a 7.51 minimum ground clearance that gives it a tall stance.
If you think the Traverse exterior got you locked in, wait till you see the inside with so many standout features. The Chevrolet Traverse offers a spacious cabin and adequate passenger space equipped with a panoramic roof and 3 rows of seats with a total of 8 seats. When the 2nd and 3rd seat rows are folded up it would free a 98 cubic-feet maximum cargo space. This midsize SUV features amazing tech systems, such as the Onstar connectivity option, that provide a safe and entertaining experience. Among the top 10 SUVs under 40k, Traverse offers one of the best connectivity features. It comes with a standard 17.7-inch diagonal color touchscreen, an 11-inch diagonal driver information center, and an HD surround vision.
Traverse performance is one of its highlights as it delivers an outstanding performance. It is powered by a 2.5-L powerful V6 engine that delivers up to 328 maximum horsepower; you can imagine how thrilling that is. Likewise, it comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission and an impressive fuel economy of 29 mpg in the city and 27 mph on the highway. To get the Chevrolet Traverse LS trims, you need about $37,000.
6. Hyundai Palisade
The Hyundai Palisade is one of our top 10 SUVs under 40k. This is because it offers many appealing features, including a detailed exterior design, with a starting price of $37,100. Powered by a 3.8-litre V6 engine, the Palisade base engine delivers 291 horsepower, with an 8-speed automatic transmission for easy gear shift. For a 3-row SUV, the Palisade offers an average acceleration that goes from 0-60 mph within 7.6 seconds. Another thing that makes the Hyundai Palisade a good buy is its maintenance warranty, which offers a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty. With the warranty in place, you have more peace of mind when using the vehicle.
For the interior the Palisade interior has a well-designed, comfortable, and quiet cabin. It’s a 3-row SUV that can comfortably accommodate 6-7 people. The front seat is also designed to support long drives without any discomfort. The inside of the Palisade comes with a 12.3-inch center touchscreen with navigation options and other features. It also features an adaptive cruise control system and steering assistance system. It also has a good connectivity option as it can be easily integrated with your smartphone.
7. Volkswagen Atlas
The Volkswagen Atlas is an amazing SUV choice for families with great performance and an excellent option for adventures. Getting the latest version of the Atlas family SUV starts at a price of $38,200, while can can get previous models for a much cheaper price. Atlas boasts of a bold and commanding outlook which is no doubt designed to impress. The attention to detail is very obvious and it is visible in its clean stance. The headlights and the taillights also complement its beauty to the overall outlook. Also, the exterior features different wheel dimensions, which range between 18-21 inches.
When it comes to performance, Atlas is not out to play, as it offers a fun but powerful ride. It comes with a 2.0L turbocharged engine that delivers 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. In addition to this is the 5,000 lbs towing capacity, which is common to vehicles in this category. For a seamless gear shift, the transmission is paired with an 8-speed automated transmission. Likewise, it has a 4-motion all-wheel drive with an active control that ensures stability and good handling in rough terrains.
Volkswagen Atlas, being one of the top 10 SUVs under 40k, is not far-fetched from the wide range of cabin features it offers as it’s nothing but luxury. It has a large cabin space with lots of leg and headroom. For the seating, it has up to 7 seats which is easier to fit in the whole family. The available infotainment screen and panoramic sunroof are some of the dynamic interior features that make it look so surreal. Likewise, it comes with ventilated and heated front seats so you can get all the warmth and coolness when necessary.
8. Honda Pilot Sport
If you’re looking for a midsize SUV that can serve the purpose of daily driving and off-roading, then you should get the Honda Pilot. This family SUV features a 3.5L engine producing 285 horsepower and 262 on-ft of torque. It also comes with a 5000 lb maximum towing capacity alongside an All-week drive system that makes it rugged for off-road adventures.
For the interior, it has an available leather-trimmed option with ventilated and heated seats. It features a panoramic moonroof and is one of the midsize SUVs that offer a large cargo space of 87 cubic feet, which is perfect for travel and adventure gear. When it comes to connectivity and technology, Pilot features top-notch systems. It comes with a Bose premium audio system perfect for music entertainment while you drive. It offers an impressive 9-inch touchscreen that works well with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Head-up display is another outstanding feature This SUV offers.
One of the reasons why this vehicle is a popular choice among families is because of its top-notch advanced safety features. It offers adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and a lane-keeping assist system that gives peace of mind while driving. In addition, there is the road departure mitigation system, multi-view camera, and collision mitigation braking system. On the outside of the Honda Pilot is a hexagon-mesh grille, a beautiful head and taillight, and alluring 20-inch wheels. The blend of all of these features makes Pilot difficult to ignore. Honda Pilot offers different trim options, and with a starting price of $39,000, you can get the latest Sport model.
9. Toyota Highlander
When it comes to vehicles that offer jaw-dropping and functional interiors, there’s no way you’re ruling the Toyota Highlander out. It’s not surprising it’s one of the top 10 SUVs under 40k. It comes with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster that is perfect for getting navigation instructions and safety info all at a glance without having to deal with your phone. The panoramic view monitor is another key interior of the Highlander, as it has 5 cameras that keep you updated on what is going on in your surroundings.
If we’re being honest, the Toyota Highlander’s exterior is hard to ignore as it has a bold look that screams power. Likewise, the body is well-sculpted and contoured, standing gallantly on 20-inch alloy wheels. It comes in different color choices, so you have an array of options to pick from. Let’s talk about its hands-free power liftgate, which you can open without lifting a finger. With your smart key fob, the rear liftgate automatically opens up. Another feature that highlights the Highlander’s exterior agility is the twin-tip exhaust right under the rear bumper. Other exterior features that might interest you in the rain-sensing wipers and the LED headlight.
We can’t talk about this mind-blowing vehicle without mentioning its performance. The Toyota Highlander comes in different trim levels, with each trim offering different performance features. However, the base model offers a 2.4L 4-cylinder turbo engine producing 265 horsepower, while the hybrid version offers a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine delivering more horsepower. The average price of this vehicle starts at $39,520 for the base model.
10. Ford Explorer
Explorer is one of the finest SUVs in its category, offering nothing but luxury. The exterior of the Ford Explorer has a rugged but sleek look that blends modern styles with practicality. Its bold front grilles, striking LED headlights, and well-sculpted body give it a sporty feel and refined look. This beautiful piece stands gallant on an 18-inch alloy wheel, with 21-inch aluminum wheels available, making it a better option for adventures.
The Explorer’s base model has a 2.3L Ecoboost inline 4 engine producing 300 horsepower and can reach 60 mph within 6 seconds. It also offers trim levels with a 3.0L Ecoboost V6 engine producing 400 horsepower and acceleration that goes from 0 to 60 mph within 5.1 seconds. According to the EPA, this SUV offers a fuel economy of 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. Explorer also offers a fair towing capacity of 5,000 lbs, making towing exercise seamless.
The Explorer interior also offers good tech and connectivity features that offer more than just a ride. It has a driver assist technology that features a Blind Spot Information System that notifies you of vehicles in lanes next to you. Secondly, it comes with an Adaptive Cruise Control that has a stop-and-go option that helps you maintain speed while driving or when in traffic. With the Explorer SYNC infotainment system, you can enjoy the digital experience that gives you access to vehicle controls. This includes smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. To get this amazing vehicle, you can prepare for a price starting at $39,755.
Conclusion
The top 10 SUVs under 40k offer a perfect mix of performance, style, and value for money. From this selection, we hope you can make an ideal choice for your budget and needs without overspending.
