4 SUVs the Middle Class Can’t Afford Anymore

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The price of almost everything has gone up over the past few years. While interest rates are slowly starting to come down, it doesn’t mean that the actual cost of goods is following along.

This can be seen when you look at the cost of buying a new car. Prices of new vehicles in January 2024 were 19.6% higher than they were in January 2021. 

So, what cars have become too unaffordable for the middle class? Here are the top 4 cars on GOBankingRates’ list. 

Ford Mustang

When it comes to top-tier performance and a car that is not only sporty but affordable, the Ford Mustang usually tops the list. However, this has changed over the past several years.

While the base model (the EcoBoost coupe) may be at the very edge of affordability for most people in the middle class, any other model, such as the Mach-E, quickly jumps up to over $38,000, which is a little more unaffordable for some people. 

Nissan Pathfinder

One of the top SUVs for most Americans has always been the Nissan Pathfinder. With its incredible features, like three rows of seating, tons of cupholders and extra storage space in the front and back, it’s become a go-to for many families looking for an alternative to a minivan.

Unfortunately, the newest models now start at almost $40,000, making them unaffordable for most middle-class families shopping for a new car.

Honda Civic Si

The Honda Civic Si has always been a staple for the middle-class. It is known for its safety and security features as well as its compact design.

However, with upgrades to the latest models and all of the newer features added to the car, it’s no longer as budget-friendly as it once was. The prices for the Honda Civic Si are now starting at $32,000 for a new model, which has priced many out of this option.

Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 is known for its reliability and wide range of features that make it perfect for both city and outdoor adventures. However, with the release of hybrid models and increased demand for this popular SUV, prices have skyrocketed over the past few years.

The base model now starts at around $26,000 but can easily go up to over $40,000 for a fully-loaded version. This has made it difficult for most middle-class families to afford this once budget-friendly SUV.

The Bottom Line

While inflation is slowly starting to recede, car prices may still take some time to come down. Instead, it may be a good idea to check used cars or alternative brands and models to find an affordable option that suits your needs and budget.

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