7 Most Affordable SUVs for Social Security Recipients in 2025

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Retirement comes with a lot of pluses: extra time, fewer commitments and a steady Social Security check. However, the average retiree receives just $1,976 monthly through Social Security, which doesn’t leave much of a buffer for extras. Even if you exit your job at full retirement age and get the maximum monthly payout of $4,018, it can be a struggle to maintain the lifestyle you had during your working days.

Fortunately, there are new SUVs priced for budget-minded folks like you. These options pack hefty features into a small price tag.

1. Hyundai Venue SE

• MSRP: $20,200
• Average annual maintenance: $825
• Fuel efficiency: 31 mpg combined

The base model of the Hyundai Venue ticks all the boxes for economical transportation. Expect the basics: comfortable seating, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display and standard safety features. It’s dependable, too — all new Hyundais come with the company’s 10-year powertrain warranty.

2. Kia Soul LX

• MSRP: $20,490
• Average annual maintenance: $1,096
• Fuel efficiency: 33 mpg highway

The Kia Soul’s boxy look may not be everyone’s cup of tea. However, it certainly stands out among other SUVs for its affordable price and useful amenities. All base models include a rearview monitor, six-speaker audio system and remote keyless entry.

3. Nissan Kicks S FWD

• MSRP: $21,830
• Average annual maintenance: $861
• Fuel efficiency: 31 mpg combined

The newest Nissan Kicks S boasts a sporty exterior. Inside, you’ll find spacious seating, complete with 60/40 folding bench seats. While the base Kicks model lacks some of the tech features found on other SUVs of its class, it includes a 7-inch LCD touchscreen display and Bluetooth connectivity. All new Nissan Kicks include a limited 36-month, 36,000-mile warranty.

4. Toyota Corolla Cross L

• MSRP: $24,135
• Average annual maintenance: $730
• Fuel efficiency: 32 mpg combined

Toyota has a reputation for reliability. And that’s exactly what you’ll get with the Corolla Cross — a no-frills, utility-first SUV you can count on. It comes standard with safety features such as a backup camera, traction control and anti-lock brakes. Drivers who prefer a more connected vehicle can add on a package like Wi-Fi Connect, which includes a Wi-Fi hotspot and music streaming capabilities.

5. Honda HR-V LX

• MSRP: $25,400
• Average annual maintenance: $616
• Fuel efficiency: 32 mpg combined

Honda is another vehicle manufacturer renowned for dependability — and its HR-V LX levels up its reputation. The crossover SUV includes Honda’s suite of safety features, including lane-keeping assist, collision warning and traffic sign recognition. You’ll also get a 7-inch infotainment display and Bluetooth connectivity.

6. Chevrolet Trax LS

• MSRP: $21,895
• Average annual maintenance: $972
• Fuel efficiency: 30 mpg combined

Chevy combines affordability and good looks in its newest Trax model. The vehicle’s base model has 17-inch steel wheels, a six-speed automatic transmission and a 1.2L Turbo engine. Its safety features include lane-keep assist and auto emergency braking. Trax also has a vibrant 8-inch color touchscreen and wireless capability for Apple, Android and Bluetooth devices.

7. Jeep Compass Sport

• MSRP: $26,900
• Average annual maintenance: $1,038
• Fuel efficiency: 30 mpg combined

Coming in at the pricier end of the list is the Jeep Compass Sport. While it’s more expensive than the Chevrolet Trax or Honda HR-V, it’s also more powerful. It comes standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission and 200-horsepower engine, plus an 8.4-inch infotainment display screen.

Editor’s note: All information was sourced from manufacturer websites.

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