The Best Budget-Friendly Compact Crossovers

Searching for the best compact crossovers?

Today we’re going to highlight some of our top picks for the most in demand category among the automotive market. Between comfort and reliability, these models have effectively filled the gap for drivers in need of space and utility at an affordable price.

If you’re daring to cross over to the compact SUV lifestyle, then look no further. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best used and new compact crossovers in 2022:

What are the best compact crossovers for the price?

$15,000 or less

Lately, the only way to find a compact crossover for under market price is to narrow your search to the used car market. In other words, to locate a vehicle for $15,000 or less, you’re going to have to go back a few years and possibility forgo having warranty. Luckily, there are a few gems hidden across the market that guarantee budget-friendly pricing and worthwhile perks. For instance, the fourth generation Kia Sportage offers an impressive 10-year or 100,000 mile powertrain warranty. Overall, these are your top choices for compact crossovers on a conservative budget:

• Kia Sportage (2015)
• Nissan Rogue (2014)
• Hyundai Santa Fe (2014)

$20,000 or less

This price range is typically the most sought-after models on the used car market. And luckily, there are a great number of options for buyers to choose from. Between older luxury models to newer economy favorites, the $20,000 or less buyer should be weary of odometer readings and safety scores to ensure they make the most of their investment. Considering a wide range of compact crossovers, the following vehicles come out on top:

• Infinit QX30 (2016)
• Honda CR-V (2017-2018)
• Volkwagen Tiguan (2016)
• Jeep Compass (2015-2016)

$30,000 or less

Because experts suggest paying no greater than 10% of your gross annual income for a car purchase, shoppers need to remain mindful of what make and model they can actually afford. Generally speaking, buyers should always contemplate total monthly expenses, from loan payments to insurance before committing to a model that falls above their means. Recently, the $30,000 or less buyers have become the most frequent browsers now that new car prices have risen in response to inflationary pressures. Here are our top favorites for shoppers in this price range:

• Mazda CX-5 (2017 or newer)
• Subaru Forester (2016-2018)
• Toyota RAV4 (2017 or newer)
• Ford Escape (2019 or newer)

$40,000-$50,000

With the average new car costing buyers close to $50,000, this price range is now the most versatile for shoppers either interested in a new or used vehicle. Though you might get more bang for your buck with a slightly used model, there are plenty of new compact crossovers that fall well within the $40,000 to $50,000 range.

• Volvo XC40 (2017 or newer)
• Ford Bronco Sport (2021)
• Mercedes-Benz GLC Class (2016 or newer)
• Jaguar F-Pace (2020-2021)

Final thoughts

It’s fair to say that not every driver will fall within the same budget when searching for a new or used car. In most cases, features that standout for one driver may carry little to no importance for the next. That’s the beauty of the car market nowadays. The ability to pick and choose different trims and even design options is how the market has become so evolved over the last few decades.

Compared to many years ago, car shoppers now have the greatest advantage in finding a specific make or model that satisfies their demands. Compact crossovers, in general, account for nearly 45% of automobile sales within the US as of 2022, which just demonstrates how much of an impact this category has had on the American consumer.

While there are dozens of compact crossovers to choose from, we hope this list helps direct every type of buyer in the right direction when the actual time comes to sign a deal.