What’s the Best SUV Under $40,000? We Tested 10 of Them

1st place: Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

• Overall rating: 8.7 (out of 10)
• Base price: $31,300
• As-tested price: $43,425
• Good: High-quality cabin; comfortable seating
• Bad: Touchscreen climate controls; fuel economy

The Hyundai Tucson is very closely related to the Kia Sportage, but we gave it the edge here for a few important reasons. Though the cabins are close in terms of material quality and dimensions, we think the Hyundai barely takes the edge in refinement and front seat comfort. The back seats of both vehicles are super comfortable as well, with multiple recline adjustments and tons of room. The Tucson also has an advantage in small-item storage, with an extra shelf in front of the passenger.

If we have one complaint about the Hyundai, it’s that the climate controls live in a touchscreen. It’s still a better setup than the one in the Sportage because that screen isn’t used for anything else, so they don’t shuffle around. But if they’re not going to move, why not just use a button?

However, something that both the Hyundai and Kia share is a lack of efficiency. These two only get 35 mpg combined with all-wheel drive, making them more costly at the pump than their hybridized peers. But that being said, these two do make up that gap in other ways with their excellent warranties and great feature-for-money ratios.

So, there you have it. Ten SUVs, top to bottom, with the Kia and Hyundai deservedly on top. But with so many excellent choices among these vehicles, you can afford to be picky. Figure out what’s most important to you and chances are, one of these will be a perfect match.