As SUVs become more popular, automakers worldwide keep releasing new fantastic models every day. The idea that ‘you can only enjoy top-notch luxury and performance driving in one of the most expensive SUVs‘ may be true. However, you can still find impressive options with mid-range price tags. For instance, the Top 10 SUVs under $50K offer the most basic modern-day technologies and deliver great driving experiences. Let’s check them out.
The Top 10 SUVs under $50K
While many SUVs you can get with a 50-grand budget, not all offer the best value for your money. We reviewed the top 10 SUVs under $50K for buyers with a limited budget. Whatever properties you need in your car, we have many options to satisfy them. So, buckle up, and let’s find your next car together.
1. Genesis GV70
Topping our Top 10 SUVs under $50K list is the 2025 Genesis GV70. This car is for you if you’re looking for a high-fashion interior for a modest price tag. Inside the GV70, you get a spacious five-seater interior adorned with rich materials. Front and rear passengers enjoy ample head- and leg-room, plus tangible cargo space behind the rear seats. The infotainment system is controlled via the large touchscreen display on the dash, a click-wheel controller, and buttons on the steering wheel.
Also, this beauty is extended to the exterior. Its front grille, lights, and body build craftily combine to make a handsome car. Under the hood is a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine for the base models. This engine puts out 300 horsepower and bursts from zero to 60 mph in about 5.6 seconds. Moreover, you can opt for a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 engine that outputs up to 375 horsepower and sinks zero to 60 mph acceleration time to 4.6 seconds. However, your budget should be above $50,000 for this upgrade, plus a Sport Plus driving mode.
All GV70s run on an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive (AWD) configuration. The EPA estimates that the turbo-four GV70 earns a gas mileage of 22 MPG in the city and 28 on the highway. This goes down to 18/24 MPGs for the V6 option. Some standard features for the GV70s include 19-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, and a 16-speaker Lexicon stereo system. The 2025 Genesis GV70 starts at $47,050 for the base trim. It is one of the best luxury SUVs out there.
2. Mercedes-Benz GLC300
The GLC300 is among the top 10 SUVs under $50K for drivers who love exciting driving experiences. Inside every 2024 model, you enjoy a host of standard luxury features expected of a Benz. These include a panoramic sunroof, illuminated doorsill plates, ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and leather upholstery. A 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster displays important mechanical and speed information, while the 11.9-inch infotainment touchscreen swoops up from the center console.
A smooth-running turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that pairs with a 48-volt hybrid system is the only powertrain for this year’s models. The setup is good for 255 horsepower and fuels the nine-speed automatic transmission. A rear-wheel drive is also standard, but Mercedes’s 4Matic all-wheel-drive system can be used. Driving one of these, you can burst from zero to 60 mph in about 5.6 seconds. Its strong performance and advanced technology make it a good option.
Furthermore, according to the EPA, gas mileages for the GLC300 are as follows. 26 MPG in the city and 33 on the highway for the RWD. Then, 24 MPG in the city and 32 on the highway for the AWD option. Other standard features you can enjoy in this car are in-dash navigation, a 360-degree exterior camera system, a multicolor interior ambient lighting system, a premium Burmester stereo system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. A new 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 ranges between $48,600 and $52,850.
3. Hyundai Palisade
The 2024 Hyundai Palisade is a favorite for many people from all works of life. It’s a well-rounded option and can serve in many applications. This year’s models have dual-zone front and single-zone rear automatic climate control features that are becoming standard. The interior is decent and roomy enough for seven adults. The cargo space is average but can be expanded by folding the second and third rows of seats. A 12.0-inch touchscreen infotainment display is mounted on the dashboard with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, in-dash navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Furthermore, the Palisade can be locked, unlocked, and started remotely through Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant when equipped with Hyundai’s Blue Link app service. A 3.8-liter V6 engine with 291 horsepower is the standard powertrain for all Palisades. Speaking of power, this setup can tow up to 5,000 pounds when equipped with the dealer-installed trailer hitch. The FWD is standard, but you can opt for a standard all-wheel drive (AWD), especially for the higher-end trims. Power goes through the standard eight-speed automatic transmission, which can be manually shifted with steering-wheel-mounted paddles. You also get a standard transmission cooler and trailer pre-wiring and sway control.
The Palisade takes about 6.4 seconds to accelerate from zero to 60 mph. The standard FWD setup earns 19 and 26 MPG gas mileage for city and highway driving, respectively. Meanwhile, adding an AWD reduces highway gas mileage to 24 MPG. Lastly, the top trims enjoy quilted leather upholstery, fancier trim, and second-row captain’s chairs. The 2024 Hyundai Palisade ranges from $38,045 to $49,345. Moreover, you will have to spend over $50K for the new Calligraphy trims that wear blacked-out exterior trim, unique black wheels, black roof rails, and a black leather interior.
4. BMW X3
The X3 earned its place among the top 10 SUVs under $50K for its exceptional driving dynamics. It is built based on the 3-series sedan and offers the same refined nature and engaging handling. The 2024 model is offered across two trims, with the Motorsport variant (M40i) crossing the $50K mark. All trims share a spacious five-seater interior fitted with a glossy wood-grain trim. Also, a JBL premium audio system, built-in navigation system, and a wireless charging pad are available as extras.
The base X3s run on a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 248 horsepower. Transmission choices are a six-speed manual or eight-speed ZF 8HP automatic. Meanwhile, you can choose between an RWD (sDrive30i) and an AWD (xDrive30i). This base drivetrain setup can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 150 mph. Alternatively, you can opt for the M40i, running on a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder engine delivering up to 382 horsepower. Zero to 60 mph acceleration is only 4.1 seconds for this trim, and it comes with adaptive M suspensions that lower the chassis by 0.4 inches.
Similarly, the xDrive30i has available adaptive suspensions called Dynamic Damper Control. This facilitates the Comfort, Sport, and Eco Pro driving modes. According to the EPA, the base engine delivers a combined gas mileage of 31 MPG, while the inline-six earns 29. Additionally, you’ll enjoy the standard intuitive 8.0-inch infotainment display on the dash. The price range for a new 2024 BMW X3 ranges between $47,895 and $49,895. The M-variant costs $62,895. The car’s strong performance and advanced technology make it worth every penny.
5. Lincoln Nautilus
The Nautilus is a top choice for drivers seeking a roomy and luxurious interior. It comes with 22-inch wheels, a hands-free power liftgate, wireless charging, and driver assistance features like adaptive cruise and lane-keeping assist. These features make it one of the best SUVs under $50K.
A turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four that generates 250 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. It relies on an eight-speed automatic transmission to power the AWD layout (both standard). Its EPA-estimated gas mileage is 21 MPG in the city and 29 on the highway. A hybrid trim adds a 100 kWh electric motor to take power output up to 310 horsepower. This trim accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, while the gas-only engine does it in 7.3.
Amazon Alexa, a heated steering wheel, 10-way adjustable heated-and-ventilated seats, and remote keyless entry are all standard. Also, a 4.0-foot display area is spread across the top of the Nautilus dashboard. An 11.1-inch infotainment screen is also mounted at the center of the dash. If the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus impresses you, be ready to spend at least $49,610 for the base trim.
6. Acura MDX
The MDX is a fun-to-drive, well-rounded SUV with a sleek three-row interior. Buyers appreciate the comfortable space that qualifies this car as an excellent family hauler. It is also one of the best SUVs for seniors. Among this car’s many exciting features, the 16-way power adjustability power front seats with massage function stand out. Furthermore, you will love the giant 12.3-inch infotainment display on the dash with a center-console-mounted touchpad controller. You also get a 12.3-inch digital reconfigurable gauge display and more.
The base MDXs run on a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 290 horsepower and goes from zero to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds. Meanwhile, the Type S trims sport a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 that takes a power output up to 355 horsepower. This option smashes 60 mph from zero in only 5.5 seconds. A ten-speed automatic transmission and FWD system are standard for the base trims. The Type S uses the same transmission but with an AWD. There is also an available standard all-wheel drive option for other trims.
Regarding gas mileage, the base engine is good for 19 and 26 MPG for city and highway driving, respectively. On the other hand, you get 17 and 21 for the more powerful turbo-V6. 2024 MDXs enjoy cool upgrades such as
dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and leather upholstery. You can get a new 2024 Acura MDX Base for a starting price of $48,965.
7. Audi Q5
Audi’s Q5 perfectly blends comfort, interior styling, performance, and an attractive exterior. It is also one of the best SUVs under $50K. Many drivers appreciate its standard adaptive cruise control (ACC) and adaptive cruise assist (ACA). The car is also adorned with good-quality materials inside. Inside the Q5, you get a 10.1-inch infotainment system with access to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You also get access to voice recognition, Bluetooth, and HD Radio.
Additionally, you can use the new Audi app store to down third-party apps. The Q5’s base engine is a turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 201 horsepower. It powers the seven-speed automatic transmission and standard Quattro all-wheel drive. Using this setup, you can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in less than 6 seconds, yet it gets better. There is a more powerful variant of this engine that generates 261 horsepower. The only downside for this trim is the gas mileage. It takes off 1 MPG to get 24 MPG combined.
Meanwhile, the 201-horsepower setup earns 23 MPG in the city and 29 on the highway. Lastly, you get tuned suspensions across all trims and Audi’s suite of advanced safety features. A new 2024 Audi Q5 costs between $46,495 and $49,695 for the base trims.
8. Honda Passport
The Passport is a two-row variant of the Pilot offering a cool interior and exciting V6 engine. Honda added an off-roadworthy trim in 2024 with available General Grabber A/Tx tires wrapped in 18-inch wheels. Cool features like leather upholstery, a sunroof, and a large 8.0-inch touchscreen with smartphone-mirroring functionality are now standard. The car also sports the latest safety features across all trims.
All Honda Passports have the same powertrain setup and 8.1 inches of ground clearance. The 3.5-liter V6 engine generates up to 280 horsepower via a nine-speed automatic transmission to the AWD system. With this setup, you can tow up to 5,000 pounds and accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds. Its top speed is 111 mph.
The EPA estimates that this SUV earns 19 MPG in the city and 24 on the highway. A new 2024 Honda Passport costs $43,295 to $49,395.
9. Volvo XC60
Volvo deserves praise for how well they designed the XC60. The interior is a step from luxury, providing a quiet and comfortable ride for five adults. It also sports awesome safety and driver assistance tech features. You get a 9.0-inch infotainment screen featuring Volvo’s latest Google-based software interface. The system provides several personalization options and offers voice controls via Google Assistant.
A turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine is the base engine. It pairs with a 48-volt hybrid system to pump 247 horsepower. Meanwhile, the T8 plug-in hybrid trim adds electric motors to take output up to 455 horsepower. Both powertrains rely on the same eight-speed automatic transmission to power the standard all-wheel drive system. Acceleration from zero to 60 mph takes about 6 seconds for this setup. Also, you get a gas mileage of 23 MPG in the city and 29 on the highway.
Some cool standard features include leather upholstery, a 360-degree camera system, and front and rear parking sensors. The 2024 Volvo XC60 starts at $48,195. It can cost as high as $76,545, depending on your preferred trim and the optional features you want.
10. Mazda CX-90
The 2024 Mazda CX-90 is among the top 10 SUVs under $50K. Inside the CX-90, higher-end trims sport Captain chairs, and the larger infotainment screen and digital gauge cluster are optional. Meanwhile, the lower trims feature a 7.0-inch digital gauge display, an eight-speaker stereo system, and a 10.3-inch infotainment screen. You get a larger 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster as optional, a 12-speaker Bose premium stereo, and a 12.3-inch infotainment display.
Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and other new-tech features are standard. Furthermore, the CX-90 has two variants of a turbocharged 3.3-liter inline six-cylinder engine across eight trims. The gasoline engine pairs with a 48-volt hybrid system to produce 280 horsepower in non-S and 340 in S trims. An AWD is the standard configuration, as well as the eight-speed automatic transmission. With this engine, you can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds.
Also, it has an EPA-estimated gas mileage of 24 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. A new 2024 Mazda CX-90 starts at $39,220 and can get as high as $57,325, depending on the trim and optional features.
Let’s Wrap It Up…
If you’re searching for a new SUV with a budget below $50,000, there are several great models you can choose from. This post features the top 10 SUVs under $50K to help you narrow down to the best options. These cars offer reliability, engine power, durability, great driving dynamics, and more. In addition, we ensured to find you the best in terms of interior materials and extra tech features when making our list. This way, you will surely enjoy a near-luxury experience for any car you pick.
