Sports Utility Vehicles – or SUVs – are the most popular and in-demand cars on our roads.
They offer a raised driving position, spacious interiors and are sometimes more affordable to run than many people think.
It is one of the most fierce and competitive sectors in the new and used car market, with almost every vehicle manufacturer now offering an SUV in their model line-ups.
But, affordability remains a key issue, as lots of big family cars come with large price tags.
Are there any SUVs out there that represent good value for money?
With that in mind, we have compiled a list of the best SUVs on sale for under £30,000.
Dacia Duster
The Duster has built up a reputation for being a sturdy, cheap and cheerful offering.
Now in its third generation, it features lots of standard equipment and benefits from the option of four-wheel-drive and hybrid power.
Its exterior now has a more rugged appearance and features Dacia’s latest ‘Y-shaped’ headlight design.
Inside, the materials aren’t the most plush with hard brittle plastics, but there are handy storage areas and it features the firm’s ‘Youclip’ system. Depending on which trim level you choose, the ‘Youclip’ system brings up to six mounting points throughout the interior where you can attach things like a smartphone holder.
Prices start at £18,295 and rise to £26,850, making the Duster one of the cheapest SUVs on sale today.
MG HS
The latest MG HS represents excellent value for money. It’s now bigger, better looking and comes packed full of new technology.
Its interior design is stylish and feels premium and there is plenty of space in the back for passengers.
A choice of manual and automatic transmissions are available along with the option of two trim levels.
The driving experience isn’t the sharpest, but its smooth ride and refined cabin make the HS a great car for long journeys.
Prices start at £24,995 for the entry-level SE and rise to £28,995 for the automatic Trophy variant.
Toyota Yaris Cross
Toyota makes some of the best hybrids in the world and the Yaris Cross is a strong contender.
Last year, the car received a subtle makeover, which included an improved infotainment system and some new exterior paint schemes.
There is one engine option with two power outputs. It’s a 1.5-litre petrol engine mated to an electric motor that produces either 114bhp or 129bhp.
To drive, the car handles well with little body roll around the corners and the lesser powered version can achieve a claimed 63mpg.
The Yaris Cross looks good, is efficient and comes with Toyota’s 10-year warranty – giving the owner full peace of mind.
Ford Puma
One of Britain’s best-selling cars is Ford’s Puma. Its chassis is shared with the discontinued Fiesta, which means it’s great fun to drive. The sharp and accurate steering, along with little body roll around corners, means the Puma will certainly put a smile on your face.
It looks good and is practical for a car in its segment, offering a decent amount of passenger and boot space.
A choice of manual and automatic transmissions are available, along with a wide variety of trim levels, to suit a different range of buyers.
Later this year, there will be an electric variant of the Puma which will start at £29,995.
If you’re willing to spend under £30,000, the used market will allow you to get into an older Puma ST which features the same 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbocharged engine from the last performance-focused Fiesta.
Skoda Kamiq
Skoda’s smallest SUV, the Kamiq, is a great all-rounder. It comes with lots of clever storage space and is a very sensible choice in this sector.
It features an in-built ice scraper in the fuel filler flap, a parking ticket holder on the front windscreen, and higher specified cars get umbrellas in the front doors.
A choice of manual and automatic transmissions are available and there is a sportier ‘Monte Carlo Edition’.
It may not be the most engaging car to drive and isn’t the most exciting choice among SUVs, but if you want a car that is practical, efficient and well-built – the Kamiq remains a solid choice.
