If the new Toyota RAV4 is too pricey, here are cheaper 2026 compact SUV alternatives

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 has arrived as a hybrid-only sixth generation with a starting MSRP of $33,320 (including destination), but dealer markups and limited availability may push real-world pricing higher. That sticker shock has buyers hunting for cheaper compact SUV alternatives that still come with warranty coverage.

The Kia Sportage LX FWD is the most affordable option at $30,285, undercutting the RAV4 by more than $3,000. It’s powered by a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder making 187 horsepower and comes with a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty plus 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage.

The Sportage Hybrid starts at $31,985 with FWD, a turbocharged 1.6-liter hybrid four-cylinder producing 232 total horsepower, and an EPA-rated 42 MPG combined—just one MPG behind the RAV4’s 43 MPG. The Chevrolet Equinox LT FWD is nearly as cheap at $30,795, but it’s not a hybrid; its turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder is rated at 27 MPG combined.

Nissan’s current Rogue S FWD, priced at $31,035, uses a variable-compression turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder making 201 horsepower and delivers 32 MPG combined. Hyundai’s Tucson SE FWD starts at $31,050, while the Tucson Hybrid SE FWD begins at $32,550 and undercuts the cheapest FWD RAV4.

Mazda’s CX-50 base trim is $31,395 with a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder and standard AWD, costing nearly $2,000 less than the RAV4. Subaru’s Forester is $31,445 with standard AWD and sits $1,875 below a FWD RAV4.

All prices include destination charges and reflect 2026 model-year MSRPs. Warranties vary by brand: Kia and Hyundai include 5-year/60,000-mile basic and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage; Chevrolet offers a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty; Mazda provides 3-year/36,000-mile basic and 5-year/unlimited-mile powertrain; Subaru includes 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper and 5-year/unlimited-mile powertrain.

The article focuses strictly on base pricing for new, in-warranty 2026 compact SUVs and does not compare reliability or depreciation.