Five reliable SUVs under $30,000 for summer

As summer approaches, many families are looking for budget-friendly SUVs to take on adventures. Several options under $30,000 promise reliability and great value. The 2025 Chevrolet Trax is a top choice. This subcompact SUV is spacious and features modern driving technology. It is consistently ranked as one of the best affordable SUVs. Another great option is the 2025 Hyundai Venue. Similar in price to the Trax, the Venue offers low ownership costs, good fuel economy, and is easy to drive. Consider the 2025 Nissan Kicks Play as well. This SUV is known for its standard features and ample space. It received a strong reliability score of 83 out of 100 from J.D. Power. If your budget allows for closer to $30,000, look into the 2025 Mazda CX-5. It is praised for its reliability and smooth handling. The CX-5 also boasts an upscale interior. Finally, the 2025 Subaru Forester stands out for its reliability, receiving a score of 98 out of 100 from Consumer Reports. This small SUV comes with standard all-wheel drive and offers significant cargo space. These SUVs offer a mix of reliability and affordability for families planning summer trips.