Skip to main content

Some SUVs really do it all and still come in under budget. These three popular and dependable SUVs from Mazda, Toyota, and Lexus are known for their reliability, fuel efficiency, and spacious interiors. 2018 was a great year for sport utility vehicles because automakers started adding more safety features as standard equipment.

Edmunds was quite complimentary of the 2018 Mazda CX-9. It offers sharp styling both outside and on the exterior and looks more expensive than it actually is. Drivers and experts agree that the CX-9 is fun to drive, thanks to its sporty handling.

The 2018 Mazda CX-9 has a long history of reliability but still comes in under budget. Some of the best safety features on the Mazda include Smart City Brake Support and Lane Keep Assist. These can help avoid a collision or apply the brakes if necessary.

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration gave the CX-9 a five-star safety rating. It performed well in most crash tests, like the frontal barrier, side, and rollover. The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety also gave it high scores and even awarded it the Top Safety Pick award. This Mazda is a good option for popular and dependable SUVs from 2018.

Current Inventory Range: $21,990 – $37,998

You can’t go wrong with the 2018 Toyota Highlander. It has plenty of space inside for passengers and still has room in the cargo area without being too big to park. The V6 engine is powerful enough to move the Highlander through town but still gets 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.

Toyota’s Forward Collision Warning with Auto-Brake, Lane Departure Alert, and Steering Assist systems are standard on the 2018 Highlander. Driver Knee & Passenger Cushion Airbags also help keep front-seat occupants safe.

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration gave the Highlander a five-star safety rating for 2018. In addition, The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety made the Highlander a Top Safety Pick. This popular and dependable SUV can also add safe to the long list of offerings.

Current Inventory Range: $23,999 – $39,998

Don’t forget America’s favorite sport utility vehicle, the Lexus RX

These popular and dependable SUVs include this white Lexus RX
A 2018 Lexus RX | Lexus

When Edmunds reviewed the 2018 Lexus RX 350, it had many positive attributes to list. The Lexus RX comes with a high-quality cabin and the luxury construction drivers are looking for. The cargo area has a wide opening, making it easy to load and unload whatever you might have. Comfortable enough for long road trips but also suitable for everyday driving.

The ride quality is top-notch, and Lexus includes several safety features standard. Lexus Safety System+ adds adaptive cruise control, forward collision mitigation, automatic braking, and lane departure warning/lane keeping assist. The Panoramic Rearview Camera makes parking more manageable, too.

While the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration gave the RX a four-star safety rating, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the 2018 Lexus RX its Top Safety Pick award.

Current Inventory Range: $29,998 – $43,998

The popularity of these SUVs means a wide range of trims and options available, allowing buyers to find the perfect fit for everyone’s needs and budget. Overall, these popular and dependable SUVs are a solid choice for anyone in the market for a vehicle under $40,000.

Related

3 Midsize SUVs With the Lowest Depreciation Over Five Years