The 2023 Toyota RAV4 is an enormously popular compact SUV — with its attractive styling, good handling, efficient hybrid options, and practical design. However, what if you want an SUV that’s more affordable? Check out these cheaper Toyota RAV4 alternatives that cost less than $27K.
What’s a more affordable SUV alternative to the 2023 Toyota RAV4?
With a starting price of $28,275 MSRP, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 is toward the higher end of the compact SUV spectrum. However, there are some excellent models that are more affordable.
Here are three cheaper SUV alternatives to the 2023 Toyota RAV4 that cost less than $27,000:
- 2023 Mazda CX-5
- 2023 Kia Sportage
- 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross
2023 Mazda CX-5 is a cheaper compact SUV than the 2023 Toyota RAV4
The first SUV on our list of cheaper 2023 Toyota RAV4 alternatives that cost under $27,000 is the 2023 Mazda CX-5. It starts at $26,700 MSRP.
Not only is the 2023 Mazda CX-5 affordable, but it’s also one of the best models in the compact SUV segment. It has a beautiful exterior design, with an elegant look and curved surfaces. Also, the cabin is surprisingly upscale, with a level of quality that belies its low price.
The area in which the CX-5 really stands out, though, is its driving dynamics. It’s agile and provides responsive handling, precise steering, and confident braking. The performance of the CX-5 is especially good for the model equipped with a turbo 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. It doles out 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque — which enables the SUV to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 6.2 seconds.
2023 Kia Sportage is an affordable alternative
Another cheaper 2023 Toyota RAV4 SUV alternative that costs less than $27,000 is the 2023 Kia Sportage. It starts at $26,290 MSRP. The Sportage is much improved for the 2023 model year with a thorough redesign. It has sleek and modern styling — both inside and out.
Plus, it experienced a growth spurt, resulting in a size increase. It’s now one of the roomiest compact SUVs, including a best-in-class 41.3 inches of rear legroom. Also, the 39.6 cu-ft of rear cargo space is class-leading, too.
Furthermore, the new Sportage offers many new features. The highlight is a dual panoramic curved display, which has two 12.3-inch screens. Additionally, for high-level efficiency, there are the Sportage Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid models.
You can stay within the Toyota lineup with the 2023 Corolla Cross
For those that want a more affordable RAV4 alternative, but want to stay within the Toyota brand, then the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross is worth checking out. It combines the styling of the iconic Corolla sedan with the utility of an SUV.
With a starting price of $23,610 MSRP, the Corolla Cross is considerably cheaper than the RAV4. This is primarily due to the size difference. It’s smaller than the RAV4, slotting into the subcompact SUV segment. The trade-off is less passenger space, but not by much. The Corolla Cross has a total passenger volume of 95.0 cu-ft, compared to 98.9 cu-ft for the RAV4.
Also, with its smaller size, the Corolla Cross is more maneuverable, which helps with parking, backing up, and driving in city traffic. Furthermore, it added a new hybrid model in 2023. It’s efficient, with an estimated gas mileage of up to 42 combined mpg.
Do you want an SUV that’s cheaper than the 2023 Toyota RAV4? The 2023 Mazda CX-5, 2023 Kia Sportage, and 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross are more affordable models, with a starting cost under $27K.
