Cheapest New Midsize SUV Is Hidden Gem: Only 1 Under $30K!
Automotive shoppers have no shortage of midsize SUV choices — and there’s a wide price range as well. While some models are expensive, there’s an affordable option: the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe. It’s the cheapest new midsize SUV — and an overlooked, hidden gem. And the Santa Fe is the only one that costs under $30,000.
2023 Hyundai Santa Fe is the cheapest new midsize SUV
With a starting price of only $28,750 MSRP, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe is the cheapest new midsize SUV. The next most affordable one is the 2023 Kia Sorento ($30,090 MSRP).
Here are the cheapest new midsize SUVs:
- 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe: $28,750 MSRP
- 2023 Kia Sorento: $30,090 MSRP
- 2023 Nissan Murano: $33,860 MSRP
- 2023 Subaru Ascent: $33,895 MSRP
- 2023 VW Atlas Cross Sport: $34,460 MSRP
- 2023 Chevy Traverse: $34,520 MSRP
- 2023 Ford Bronco: $34,595 MSRP
- 2023 Chevy Blazer: $35,100 MSRP
- 2023 VW Atlas: $35,150 MSRP
- 2023 Nissan Pathfinder: $35,200 MSRP
Choosing a higher trim level, as well as potential dealer markups, will push up the cost of these models. However, in terms of starting price, the Hyundai Santa Fe is the most affordable new midsize SUV, as it’s the only one below $30,000.
2023 Hyundai Santa Fe is often overlooked — but it has much to offer
There are various reasons why the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe gets overlooked. Other SUVs in the Hyundai lineup generate more fanfare, such as the compact Tucson, the subcompact Kona, and the midsize Palisade. Also, as mentioned earlier, there are many midsize SUVs, including popular models like the Toyota Highlander, Toyota 4Runner, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Kia Telluride, Ford Explorer, and Honda Pilot. All of these models top the Santa Fe on the sales charts.
However, the overlooked element of the Santa Fe contributes to its affordability. Lower demand translates to a lower price. And despite its overlooked nature, the midsize SUV has much to offer.
U.S. News & World Report ranks the Santa Fe as one of the best midsize SUVs — with a third-place spot. The automotive site likes the generous amount of passenger space, long warranty coverage, and a plethora of standard features. The ride quality is good, too, while the cabin is surprisingly upscale.
Regarding the standard features, even the base-level SE trim has a wealth of desirable equipment and amenities. This includes a drive mode select feature, trailer sway control, LED lighting, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a rear seat quiet mode, a hands-free Bluetooth phone system, and steering-wheel-mounted controls.
Also, the SE trim comes standard with many driving assistance technologies. This includes forward-collision assist, lane-keeping assist, pedestrian detection, a rearview monitor, driver attention warning, adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic avoidance assist, safe exit assist, and rear occupant alert.
Are there any changes for the 2023 Santa Fe?
While the 2023 Santa Fe doesn’t have any major changes for the new model year, the affordable midsize SUV provides greater value with more standard features across the trim lineup. The SEL Premium, Limited, and Calligraphy trims add power-folding second-row seats, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a 12-inch digital instrument cluster, a surround-view monitor, and a blind-spot monitor.
Also, the SE trim and above trims now have puddle lamps, as well as acoustic-laminated front windows to insulate the cabin from noise. Plus, the SEL and XRT trims add a digital key, dynamic voice recognition, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen navigation system.
The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe is a budget-friendly choice for a midsize SUV — and a hidden gem with its multiple strengths and many standard features. It’s the cheapest new midsize SUV — and the only one that costs under $30,000.
