What Is the Cheapest Toyota SUV to Buy?
Toyota produces some of the most popular SUV nameplates on the market. Models like the Toyota RAV4 and Toyota Highlander have made a lasting impact on the industry. Not every SUV in Toyota’s portfolio is a hit. Some models, like the C-HR, have been poorly received. What is the most affordable Toyota SUV on the market?
The cheapest Toyota SUV is a Corolla-relative
The Toyota Corolla nameplate has been in production for over 50 years. Drivers enjoy the Corolla compact car because it’s affordable and often comes with a long list of great standard features. The current most affordable Toyota SUV is the Toyota Corolla Cross new subcompact SUV.
The Toyota Corolla Cross has been in production for two years. It is being built at the Mazda Toyota Manufacturing USA Plant in Huntsville, Alabama. The Corolla Cross exists between the Toyota Corolla small car and Toyota RAV4 small SUV.
The 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross starts at $23,060. It comes in three different trim levels: the L, LE, and XLE. The LE starts at $25,390, and the XLE starts at $27,165. The Corolla Cross is relatively affordable, but there are several subcompact SUV nameplates on the market with lower starting prices, like the Kia Soul and Hyundai Venue.
The Hyundai Venue is the current most affordable mass-produced subcompact SUV on the market. The 2023 Hyundai Venue starts at just $19,500. Its final trim level is more affordable than several base model subcompact SUVs, at $22,750.
What Toyota SUV provides the most value for the money?
One Toyota SUV has been especially impactful over the last few years. The Toyota RAV4 is the most popular Toyota model in America. It also happens to be the most popular SUV in America.
The RAV4 is a practical, value-oriented small SUV that’s attainable for the vast majority of American drivers. It is reliable over long periods of town and comes in several different trim levels to suit different needs. Toyota even produces a hybrid version of the RAV4 for drivers looking for improved fuel efficiency.
The 2023 Toyota RAV4 starts at $27,575. It comes in six different trim levels, including two off-road trims. The RAV4 comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. It achieves 27 miles per gallon in the city and 35 miles per gallon on the highway.
The new RAV4 is easily one of the most competitive small SUVs in its segment. It will likely outsell rivals like the Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson, and Kia Sportage in 2023. Car and Driver praises its driver assistance features and attractive exterior design.
Should you get Toyota’s most affordable SUV?
Toyota’s most affordable SUV, the Corolla Cross, is a great subcompact SUV for the money, but there are better options on the market. As far as value goes, the Kia Soul is a better buy because of its affordable pricing and quirky design. The fully loaded 2023 Kia Soul EX starts at just $24,090, which isn’t much more expensive than a base model Corolla Cross.
The Hyundai Kona is a better subcompact SUV option for drivers that value engaging driving dynamics. Mazda’s CX-30 subcompact SUV is the ideal choice for drivers shopping for something more refined. Toyota’s most affordable SUV has its strengths, but it doesn’t hold the same status as the RAV4 in its respective vehicle segment.
