Few could have predicted just how popular SUVs would become, with these models now dominating the UK automotive picture - and sales showing no signs of slowing.
But with rising prices and a tendency for more high-end SUVs, many of these models are increasingly becoming quite expensive. However, there are a number of more affordable options available.
Here we look at the best new SUVs available for £30,000 or less, or from under £400 a month if financed.
Ford Puma – from £24,920
Ford’s Puma has gone down a storm with buyers since its introduction, and it’s now one of the UK’s most popular cars. It’s easy to see why with the model’s combination of stylish looks, a sporty driving experience and plentiful standard equipment.
It’s got a clever and practical interior, particularly when it comes to boot space as the Puma gets a wipe-clean underfloor storage area called a MegaBox. Its efficient mild-hybrid engines mean it’s cheap to run as well.
Enquire on a new Ford PumaNissan Qashqai – from £26,045
Nissan’s Qashqai has long been the UK’s most popular SUV, and that remains true today. It’s easy to see its appeal thanks to its smart exterior design and practical interior that makes it perfect for families.
Its mild-hybrid petrol engines offer decent performance and running costs as well, while a £30,000 budget will get you behind the wheel of an Acenta Premium car – which comes as standard with keyless entry, LED headlights and a reversing camera.
Enquire on a new Nissan QashqaiMini Countryman – from £28,815
Though Mini’s Countryman is often thought of as a more premium product, this crossover is available for within this £30,000 budget. It gets you behind the wheel of a peppy Cooper model too, bringing good performance and reasonable fuel economy.
The Countryman is also Mini’s largest model, and offers plenty of interior space as a result, yet manages to retain the British brand’s renowned style and sporty driving experience. There’s plenty of standard equipment provided too, including an 8.8-inch touchscreen and climate control.
Enquire on a new Mini CountrymanMG ZS EV – from £29,495
The choice of affordable electric SUVs on the market is exceptionally limited, but one exception is the MG ZS EV. Coming in at under £30,000, this MG undercuts electric rivals by some margin, yet still offers loads of interior space, as well as plenty of standard equipment – including a 10.1-inch touchscreen and a 360-degree camera system.
This budget will limit you to the entry-level ‘Standard Range’ model, though MG still claims a 198-mile is possible. A 0-60mph time of just eight seconds also makes it brisk to drive.
Enquire on a new MG ZS EVDacia Duster – from £15,295
Dacia has become renowned for its cars’ exceptional value for money, and the Duster is a fine example of this. In fact, this crossover’s starting price is almost half this £30,000 budget limit. Admittedly that price will buy a poorly-equipped car lacking a touchscreen and alloys, but even a flagship model doesn’t exceed £22,500.
There’s more to a Duster than just the price, though, as this Dacia is surprisingly good to drive, while its interior is impressively practical.
Enquire on a new Dacia Duster
