THE SMOOTHEST RIDING SUVS UNDER $40,000 IN 2025
Whether you use an SUV to haul the family around, hit the trails, commute in, or you simply want an SUV that balances a bit of everything, thankfully for us, the SUV market makes up one of the biggest auto markets in the U.S.A. and there are lots to choose from.
We know that budget plays a big part when buying any vehicle, but if your budget doesn't stretch to luxury full-size SUVs, unless you wait a few years for the prices to drop, that are designed with the plushest levels of luxury and comfort, it doesn't mean you have to settle for an SUV that is going to put your back out either off-road or on some of the poorly maintained roads in your town or city.
This is why we have found the smoothest-riding SUVs available in 2025 for under the average price of a new vehicle in the U.S.A. and have found information about the features that these new sub-$40,000 SUVs boast that make the ride as smooth and comfortable as possible, and their performance specifications.
10 Full-Size SUVs With The Most Comfortable Third-Row Seats
Most SUVs have small third rows that are only large enough for small kids, but these full-size models can actually fit full-size adults.
In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including Fuel Economy.gov, the NHTSA, Car Edge, J.D. Power, and Kelley Blue Book. Where performance specifications aren't available from OEM, they have been sourced from Car & Driver testing. The following smoothest-riding SUVs for under $40,000 have all been chosen because they boast an MSRP of below $40,000 and showcase features that make their rides smooth. They have been ordered from the model with the lowest MSRP to the model with the highest MSRP.
2025 Mazda CX-5
Starting MSRP: $28,570
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 is available with two engine options: a naturally aspirated inline-four or a more potent turbocharged variant, but what makes it such an attractive compact SUV is the standardly equipped i-Activ all-wheel-drive system.
Utilizing twenty-seven sensors to analyze the road ahead up to 200 times a second, track wheel speed, steering angle, and throttle inputs to alter torque output to the wheels to ensure grip on slippy or loose surfaces before you have hit them.
2025 Mazda CX-5 Performance Specifications
Engine | 2.5-Liter Inline-Four | 2.5-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four |
Transmission | Six-Speed Automatic | Six-Speed Automatic |
Horsepower | 187 Horsepower | 227 Horsepower |
Torque | 186 LB-FT | 310 LB-FT |
Driveline | All-Wheel Drive | Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive |
0-60 MPH | Unverified | 6.2 Seconds |
Top Speed | 125 MPH | 129 MPH |
Towing Capacity | 2,000 LBS | 2,000 LBS |
Payload Capacity | 1,045 LBS | 1,045 LBS |
Mazda's all-wheel-drive system works in tandem with G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC Plus), which fine-tunes engine torque and braking to ensure you have stability in the corners or on loose ground at speed. Also boasting a front-independent MacPherson strut, a rear-independent multi-link setup, coil springs, and stabilizer bars, the CX-5 is geared up to provide a silky ride on the road and for some light adventuring.
2025 Mazda CX-5 Pros
- Two engine options.
- Decent horsepower and 0-60 times from the turbocharged variant.
- Luxury design inside and out.
2025 Mazda CX-5 Cons
- Not designed for big tows.
- Only boasts 59.3 cubic feet of storage capacity with seats folded down.
- Some other compact SUVs offer more room inside.
2025 Hyundai Tucson
Starting MSRP: $28,605
This year's Tucson is a fine mix of on-road comfort, space, decent comfort and convenience features, and a silky ride for most situations. There are five trims available for the 2025 Hyundai Tucson:
- 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE. Boasts wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and Hyundai's SmartSense safety suite.
- 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL. Adds luxuries like heated front seats, an eight-way power driver's seat, and dual-zone automatic climate control.
- 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL Convenience. Showcases a panoramic sunroof, wireless device charging, and a power liftgate.
- 2025 Hyundai Tucson XRT. Offers a more rugged exterior appearance with exclusive cladding, 18-inch wheels, and a tow hitch.
- 2025 Hyundai Tucson Limited. The top-tier trim features leather-trimmed seats, a Bose Premium Audi System, ventilated front seats, and a HUD.
2025 Hyundai Tucson Performance Specifications
Engine | 2.5-Liter Inline-Four | 1.6-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four Hybrid |
Transmission | Eight-Speed Automatic | Six-Speed Automatic |
Horsepower | 187 Horsepower | 231 Horsepower |
Torque | 178 LB-FT | 258 LB-FT |
Driveline | Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive | Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive |
0-60 MPH | 7.1 Seconds | Approx. 7 Seconds |
Top Speed | 115 MPH | 122 MPH |
Towing Capacity | 2,000 LBS | 2,000 LBS |
Payload Capacity | 1,650 LBS | 1,650 LBS |
For ride comfort, the Tucson showcases a multi-link rear suspension and a MacPherson front configuration across all trims. What sets the Tucson apart is the gas-filled front and rear shock absorbers, coil springs, and the addition of Hyundai's Motor-Driven Power Steering (MDPS), which provides responsive handling, and advanced sound-dampening in the cabin for a quiet ride.
2025 Hyundai Tucson Pros
- A hybrid model is available.
- A very reasonable 80.3 cubic feet of storage space is available with the rear seats folded down.
- Modern interior.
2025 Hyundai Tucson Cons
- Horsepower could be improved for the base engine.
- The exterior design is not to everyone's taste.
- There is a dip in the rear seat that makes it hard to stretch your legs out.
2025 Toyota RAV4
Starting MSRP: $28,850
Boasting Toyota-grade reliability, an extremely low depreciation rate of just 27% over five years, and a low starting price is a good place to start for any SUV, but the 2025 Toyota RAV4 also boasts a good number of trims and a buttery ride, making it, once again, a great value-packed utility vehicle.
Available in four trims (all of which are available under $40,000): the RAV4 LE, RAV4 XLE, RAV4 XLE Premium, and RAV4 Limited, this year's lineup combines comfort, urban usability, and relatively cheap running costs. The 2025 Toyota RAV4 can achieve up to a predicted 30 combined MPG with the ICE variant alone before even mentioning the RAV4 Hybrid and boasts a low yearly maintenance cost of $429.
2025 Toyota RAV4 Performance Specifications
Engine | 2.5-Liter Inline-Four |
Transmission | Eight-Speed Automatic |
Horsepower | 230 Horsepower |
Torque | 184 LB-FT |
Driveline | Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive |
0-60 MPH | 8.4 Seconds |
Top Speed | 115 MPH |
Towing Capacity | 1,500 LBS |
Payload Capacity | 1,050 LBS |
To offer a smooth ride, the RAV4 boasts Dynamic All-Wheel Vectoring that actively distributes power between the front and rear wheels, while Active Cornering Assist (ACA), enhanced Electric Power Steering (EPS) for precise steering, optional adaptive dampers that are designed to really soften the blow, and a high-strength frame and chassis (so flex is minimized) alongside a double-wishbone multi-link rear suspension, and MacPherson front strut suspension
2025 Toyota RAV4 Pros
- You get a lot for your money.
- Low price points.
- A good blend of modernity and some rugged aspects.
2025 Toyota RAV4 Cons
- Slow to 60 MPH.
- Active dampers are optional extras.
- There have been reports that the interior can be loud at speed.
Haul 9 People With These Big, Versatile SUVs
The large SUV segment isn't as popular as the mid-sized, though they offer aspects and dimension that smaller SUVs just can't.
2025 Subaru Forester
Starting MSRP: $29,810
All trims of this year's Subaru Forester come equipped with Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which provides optional traction and stability by evenly distributing power to all four wheels - making it smooth on the road and capable on the rougher stuff.
2025 Subaru Forester Performance Specifications
Engine | 2.4-Liter Flat-Four |
Transmission | CVT |
Horsepower | 180 Horsepower |
Torque | 187 LB-FT |
Driveline | All-Wheel Drive |
0-60 MPH | 8.3 Seconds |
Top Speed | 127 MPH |
Towing Capacity | 3,000 LBS |
Payload Capacity | 1,026 LBS |
To make the Forester even more versatile on tricky terrain, it is equipped with X-MODE, which optimizes engine outputs and transmission ratio, increases all-wheel engagement, and utilizes enhanced control of the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system to increase or reduce wheel spin to provide optimal traction. Up front is a MacPherson strut and a double-wishbone rear suspension configuration at the back to soak up the bumps and holes in the road or on the back roads.
2025 Subaru Forester Pros
- The Forester can handle itself off-road.
- Modern interior.
- Good AWD system.
2025 Subaru Forester Cons
- Slow to 60 MPH.
- It could benefit from a higher horsepower output.
- Only boasts 29.6 cubic feet of cargo capacity with the seats in place.
2025 Honda CR-V
Starting MSRP: $30,100
Boasting an overall score of 83 out of 100 and a reliability score of 84 out of 100, the 2025 Honda CR-V is living up to Honda's bullet-proof dependability legacy in style. Outside the sturdy credentials though, the CR-V does a stellar job with comfort. Boasting high-quality materials and ergonomic support for the fabric seats at the base level, while higher trims boast ventilated leather seats. From the base trim upwards, interior comfort is paramount and is topped off by a well-insulated cabin that also ensures comfort at speed.
2025 Honda CR-V Performance Specifications
Engine | 1.5-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four | 2.0-Liter Inline-Four Hybrid |
Transmission | CVT | EVT |
Horsepower | 190 Horsepower | 204 Horsepower |
Torque | 179 LB-FT | LB-FT |
Driveline | Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive |
0-60 MPH | 8.1 Seconds | 7.4 Seconds |
Top Speed | 115 MPH | 115 MPH |
Towing Capacity | 1,500 LBS | 1,000 LBS |
Payload Capacity | 1,106 LBS | 546 LBS |
Underneath, the CR-V chassis is built on Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure, which enhances rigidity to minimize vibrations and improve stability. This robust and lightweight foundation provides relatively precise steering for the CR-V's size, and working in harmony with the multi-link rear suspension, provides a reduction in body roll and bumps are absorbed.
2025 Honda CR-V Pros
- Two engines are available, including a hybrid.
- Good build quality.
- Decent driver assistance features.
2025 Honda CR-V Cons
- Low towing capacity.
- Low payload capacity.
- The base engine is slow to 60 MPH.
2025 Hyundai Santa Fe
Starting MSRP: $34,200
A family-friendly SUV available at a low price with a bold and in-your-face exterior design, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe is an all-rounder of a seven-seater that exudes comfort and style inside and out.
Built on Hyundai's N3 platform, the Santa Fe benefits from a lightweight yet highly rigid chassis that is designed to reduce vibrations and enhance stability. The platform is designed to enhance stability but also cut out on-road noise, helping to create a plush feeling inside.
2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Performance Specifications
Engine | 2.5-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four | 1.6-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four Hybrid |
Transmission | Eight-Speed Automatic | Six-Speed Automatic |
Horsepower | 277 Horsepower | 231 Horsepower |
Torque | 311 LB-FT | 271 LB-FT |
Driveline | Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive | Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive |
0-60 MPH | 7.2 Seconds | 7.8 Seconds |
Top Speed | 135 MPH | 135 MPH |
Towing Capacity | 3,500 LBS | 2,000 LBS |
Payload Capacity | 740 LBS | 610 LBS |
Higher trims of the '25 Santa Fe are also equipped with the HTRAC all-wheel drive system, which has been designed to optimize torque distribution for traction and control alongside selectable driving modes like Comfort (softens damping on roads when suitable) and Snow, which improves grip and traction. The relatively aerodynamic body design also helps to reduce drag at speed, giving you a stable ride, while underbody panels also help to enhance stability and control.
2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Pros
- A hybrid engine is available.
- Third-row seating is equipped as standard.
- Wide tailgate opening.
2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Cons
- Low payload.
- Some have said that the handling is not that precise.
- Tight third-row seats and legroom.
10 Luxury SUVs That Aren’t As Expensive As You Think
Uncover 10 luxury SUVs that deliver elegance and performance without a sky-high price tag. Elevate your drive affordably.
2025 Kia Telluride
Starting MSRP: $36,390
As one of the best full-size SUVs to take the market by storm in recent years, it boasts a luxurious interior with available Nappa leather upholstery with refined stitching, a spacious layout, a powerful engine option, and a low price point for what you get, the Kia Telluride remains for many the SUV to beat.
Boasting front and rear stabilizer bars and multi-link suspension with high-quality dampers and upgraded bushings as standard, while available for higher trims is self-leveling suspension, the Telluride is made for on-road comfort and easy driving.
2025 Kia Telluride Performance Specifications
Engine | 3.8-Liter V-6 |
Transmission | Eight-Speed Automatic |
Horsepower | 291 Horsepower |
Torque | 262 LB-FT |
Driveline | Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive |
0-60 MPH | 7.5 Seconds |
Top Speed | Unverified |
Towing Capacity | 5,000 LBS |
Payload Capacity | Unverified |
Underpinning the Telluride is a steel unibody chassis, which provides a solid foundation for reduced in-cabin vibrations, while the twelve-way power-adjustable front seats for higher trims, heated and ventilated front seats that are available for mid-level trims upwards, and optional second-row captain's chairs all point towards comfort and stability for everyone you are driving around.
2025 Kia Telluride Pros
- Decent power from the V-6.
- Spacious seating with 41.4 inches of front legroom and 42.4 inches of rear legroom.
- Refined and relatively luxurious interior.
2025 Kia Telluride Cons
- No hybrid option.
- Some reports have said that handling can be indifferent.
- No wireless smartphone connectivity.
2025 Hyundai Palisade
Starting MSRP: $37,100
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade offers a comfortable and smooth ride in a well-priced full-size SUV package. This year, the Palisade is available in eight well-equipped trims: the SE, SEL, XRT, SEL Premium, Limited, Caligraphy, and Caligraphy Night, with prices ranging from around $37,000 all the way up to $54,400 for the top trim. As you make your way up the trims you'll benefit from plusher interiors, but what you do get from each option is a smooth ride.
2025 Hyundai Palisade Performance Specifications
Engine | 3.8-Liter V-6 |
Transmission | Eight-Speed Automatic |
Horsepower | 291 Horsepower |
Torque | 262 LB-FT |
Driveline | Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive |
0-60 MPH | 7.6 Seconds |
Top Speed | 112 MPH |
Towing Capacity | 5,000 LBS |
Payload Capacity | 1,473 LBS |
The 2025 Palisade utilizes a unibody construction, while the front MacPherson strut setup soaks up the divots, and the rear multi-link suspension adds stability, but the standout feature is amplitude selective dampers that adjust the ride based on road conditions. Inside is also designed for a quiet and serene life with premium sound insulation taking center stage all around, while higher trims boast a twelve-way power-adjustable driver's seat with four-way lumbar support.
2025 Hyundai Palisade Pros
- Low starting price for a relatively luxurious full-size SUV.
- Good standard safety features and driver assistance features are equipped as standard.
- The responsive 12.3-inch touchscreen is well-placed on the dash.
2025 Hyundai Palisade Cons
- Some have reported that the blind-spot monitoring system is over-sensitive.
- Handling is reported to be less stable than some of its competitors.
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto aren't wireless.
2025 Mazda CX-90
Starting MSRP: $37,845
The 2025 Mazda CX-90 is proof that you don't need to spend a fortune to benefit from a luxurious ride, pristine interior, lots of safety features, and top-end comfort.
The CX-90 boasts the i-Activ AWD system as standard (like the CX-5) and also boasts G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC Plus), which works with the engine to slightly reduce torque when you turn the wheel, helping to maintain a buttery ride. Alongside a refined chassis and sound-deadening materials, the interior of the CX-90 is designed to be a peaceful place to be.
2025 Mazda CX-90 Performance Specifications
Engine | 2.5-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four |
Transmission | Eight-Speed Automatic |
Horsepower | 280 Horsepower |
Torque | 320 LB-FT |
Driveline | All-Wheel Drive |
0-60 MPH | Untested |
Top Speed | Untested |
Towing Capacity | 5,000 LBS |
Payload Capacity | 1,455 LBS |
Also equipped in the CX-90 is the i-Activsense suite of safety features that includes lane keep assist and radar cruise control, which not only keeps you on the road at safe and comfortable speeds but also helps the CX-90 achieve a five-star safety rating.
2025 Mazda CX-90 Pros
- Luxury at a relatively good starting price.
- Good horsepower from the turbocharged mill.
- Decent towing and payload figures.
2025 Mazda CX-90 Cons
- Limited third-row legroom.
- Some have complained about slow acceleration.
- Only features a maximum of 75.2 cubic feet of cargo space.
Best Used SUVs Under $30,000
Can you find some great used SUVs and pay less than $30,000? Here are ten reliable models that could meet your needs and budget.
2025 Volkswagen Atlas
Starting MSRP: $38,200
Designed to provide luxury, comfort, and convenience, the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas is well-equipped to offer you a silky road experience thanks to fully independent suspension with coil springs and telescopic dampers on all four corners.
Also boasting a substantial wheelbase of 117.3 inches, 78.3 inches in width, and a relatively low height of 70.4 inches, the Atlas sits wide and low on the ground, which helps to keep you stable at speed, while the rigid chassis underneath is designed for enhanced stability and handling.
2025 Volkswagen Atlas Performance Specifications
Engine | 2.0-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four |
Transmission | Eight-Speed Automatic |
Horsepower | 269 Horsepower |
Torque | 273 LB-FT |
Driveline | Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive |
0-60 MPH | 7.7 Seconds |
Top Speed | 117 MPH |
Towing Capacity | 5,000 LBS |
Payload Capacity | 1,102 LBS |
On top of all of that, the Altas boasts IQ.Drive on all trims that offer you features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking, which means your drive can be easier, safer, and more comfortable from the off. All you have to do is sit back and relax in the available twelve-way power-adjustable V-Tex leatherette or fully leather seats.
2025 Volkswagen Atlas Pros
- Good towing capacity.
- Stylish inside and out.
- Boasts an impressive 96.6 cubic feet of cargo space.
2025 Volkswagen Atlas Cons
- Only one engine option.
- Some have complained about an overly-sensitive touchscreen.
- Can only achieve 20 MPG around the city and 26 MPG on the highway.