Looking for a great SUV but want to see what else is out there? You’re not alone. Many smart shoppers are checking out The 2024 Honda CRV Alternatives for a better deal or different features. The CR-V is a fantastic choice, but the compact SUV market is packed with excellent competitors. Some offer more power, a lower price, or unique tech you might prefer. This guide will walk you through ten standout options that give you serious value for your money.
The 2024 Honda CRV Alternatives
We’ve compiled this list based on key factors like starting price, standard features, fuel economy, and overall value. Whether you prioritize cargo space, a hybrid powertrain, or simply the lowest possible payment, there’s likely a perfect match for you here. Let’s get started.
1. 2024 Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 is the CR-V’s longest-running rival. It’s a battle-tested favorite for good reason. It offers sharp styling, legendary reliability, and a huge variety of configurations.
- Starting Price (MSRP): Around $29,500
- Why It’s a Great Alternative: You get a more adventurous design and the availability of a potent RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid. The standard safety suite, Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, is very comprehensive.
- Consider If: You want proven reliability, multiple hybrid choices, and a slightly more rugged look.
- Keep in Mind: The base engine can feel a bit noisy under acceleration, and the interior materials in lower trims aren’t as refined as some.
2. 2024 Mazda CX-5
If driving enjoyment is high on your list, the Mazda CX-5 is a must-see. It consistently wins praise for its upscale interior and sporty handling.
- Starting Price (MSRP): Around $30,000
- Why It’s a Great Alternative: It feels more like a luxury vehicle inside and out. The standard turbocharged engine option provides peppy performance. The design is sleek and sophisticated.
- Consider If: You prioritize a fun driving experience and premium cabin feel over maximum cargo space.
- Keep in Mind: Rear-seat legroom and cargo capacity are slightly less than the CR-V. Fuel economy is good but not class-leading.
3. 2024 Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson makes a huge statement with its bold, futuristic design. It packs a ton of standard tech and offers a very compelling warranty.
- Starting Price (MSRP): Around $30,000
- Why It’s a Great Alternative: You get incredible value, with features like standard LED lights and an impressive infotainment screen. The available hybrid and plug-in hybrid models are very efficient. Hyundai’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty is a major plus.
- Consider If: You want cutting-edge style, a long warranty, and lots of features for your money.
- Keep in Mind: The interior design is radical, which some love and others find too busy. The base engine can feel underpowered when the vehicle is full.
4. 2024 Kia Sportage
Sharing a platform with the Tucson, the Kia Sportage offers a slightly different take. It has its own aggressive styling and often undercuts competitors on price.
- Starting Price (MSRP): Around $27,500
- Why It’s a Great Alternative: It’s frequently one of the most affordable entries in the segment. The available hybrid powertrain is smooth and efficient. Cargo space is generous across all models.
- Consider If: Your budget is tight but you still want modern styling and a great warranty (Kia offers the same 10-year coverage as Hyundai).
- Keep in Mind: Like it’s Hyundai cousin, the base engine prioritizes efficiency over power. Road noise can be more noticeable than in some rivals.
5. 2024 Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester is the go-to for all-weather confidence and outdoor access. Its standard all-wheel-drive and boxy shape are its calling cards.
- Starting Price (MSRP): Around $30,000
- Why It’s a Great Alternative: Standard symmetrical all-wheel-drive provides excellent traction in snow and rain. The tall greenhouse gives you amazing outward visibility. It’s incredibly practical for families and pet owners.
- Consider If: You live in an area with harsh winters, love camping, or simply value visibility and practicality above all.
- Keep in Mind: The engine performance is adequate but not exciting. Fuel economy is decent, but hybrids in this class do better.
6. 2024 Ford Escape
The Ford Escape is a well-rounded contender that often flies under the radar. It offers a comfortable ride and several efficient engine choices.
- Starting Price (MSRP): Around $30,000
- Why It’s a Great Alternative: The available plug-in hybrid version offers a significant all-electric range for short commutes. The interior is straightforward and user-friendly. It often has attractive dealer incentives.
- Consider If: You want a comfortable, no-fuss SUV with strong hybrid and plug-in hybrid options.
- Keep in Mind: Interior material quality in base trims feels a bit basic. Its styling is more conservative than some of the newer models in this list.
7. 2024 Chevrolet Equinox
The Chevy Equinox is a value champion with a comfortable, quiet ride. It’s a sensible choice that focuses on the essentials.
- Starting Price (MSRP): Around $28,000
- Why It’s a Great Alternative: It has a very low starting price and a spacious, quiet cabin. The infotainment system is simple to use. Recent updates have improved its styling and standard features.
- Consider If: Your top priority is getting a comfortable, spacious SUV for the lowest possible monthly payment.
- Keep in Mind: The base engine’s performance is just adequate. It lacks the hybrid option that many competitors now offer as standard.
8. 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan
The Volkswagen Tiguan stands out by offering a third-row seat option in a compact SUV. It has a European-tuned ride and a clean, upscale interior.
- Starting Price (MSRP): Around $29,000
- Why It’s a Great Alternative: The available third-row is a unique feature for occasional use. It feels solid and well-built on the road. Cargo space is massive with the second row folded.
- Consider If: You occasionally need extra seating but don’t want a larger midsize SUV. You appreciate a firm, controlled ride quality.
- Keep in Mind: The standard engine can feel sluggish, especially if you opt for the third row. Fuel economy trails the best in class.
9. 2024 Nissan Rogue
The Nissan Rogue was recently redesigned and is now a much stronger competitor. Its standout feature is a very smooth three-cylinder engine.
- Starting Price (MSRP): Around $30,000
- Why It’s a Great Alternative: The turbocharged three-cylinder engine is surprisingly peppy and efficient. The ProPILOT Assist semi-autonomous driving system is one of the best in the business. The interior is modern and comfortable.
- Consider If: You want a comfortable highway cruiser with excellent driver-assist technology.
- Keep in Mind: The engine can sound a bit rough when pushed hard. Nissan’s CVT transmission, while improved, still isn’t loved by all drivers.
10. 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander
Don’t overlook the Mitsubishi Outlander. It shares some components with the Nissan Rogue but offers its own value proposition and bold styling.
- Starting Price (MSRP): Around $31,000
- Why It’s a Great Alternative: It comes standard with three rows of seating, a rarity at this price point. The design is distinctive and modern. Mitsubishi also offers a strong 10-year warranty.
- Consider If: You need a budget-friendly three-row SUV and like assertive styling.
- Keep in Mind: The third row is very small, suitable only for children. The base engine works hard with a full load, so consider the available more powerful engine option.
How to Choose the Right SUV for You
With so many great options, making a decision can feel overwhelming. Follow these steps to narrow down your choices.
- Set Your Real Budget: Determine your comfortable monthly payment or total price. Remember to factor in taxes, fees, insurance, and fuel costs.
- List Your Must-Have Features: Do you need all-wheel-drive? Is a hybrid system essential? How about Android Auto/Apple CarPlay? Knowing your non-negotiables helps immediately.
- Prioritize Space: Measure your car seats or think about what you regularly carry. Compare cargo and rear-seat specs online, then visit a dealer to see it in person.
- Test Drive Your Top 3: You must drive the SUV. Pay attention to seat comfort, visibility, noise levels, and how the transmission feels. A 15-minute drive tells you more than any review.
- Check Ownership Costs: Research estimated insurance costs, reliability ratings from sources like Consumer Reports, and typical maintenance schedules. A cheaper purchase price can be offset by higher costs later.
Key Features to Compare Side-by-Side
When you’re down to your finalists, create a simple comparison chart. Here are the most important metrics to track.
- Fuel Economy (City/Highway): Compare both standard and hybrid models if available.
- Cargo Space (Behind 2nd Row): Measured in cubic feet. This is crucial for groceries, luggage, or gear.
- Warranty Length: Pay special attention to the powertrain and bumper-to-bumper coverage.
- Standard Driver Aids: Does it include adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking?
- Infotainment Screen Size & Connectivity: Is the system responsive? Are there physical knobs for climate control?
FAQ: Common Questions About CR-V Alternatives
What is the most reliable alternative to the Honda CR-V?
The Toyota RAV4 and Subaru Forester consistently rank at the top for long-term reliability. The Mazda CX-5 also has an excellent reputation. Always check the latest model-year data from J.D. Power and Consumer Reports.
Which alternative has the best gas mileage?
The hybrid versions of the Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson, and Kia Sportage lead the pack. The RAV4 Hybrid often achieves over 40 MPG combined, making it one of the most efficient non-plug-in options available.
Is there a cheaper SUV than the Honda CR-V?
Yes. The Kia Sportage and Chevrolet Equinox typically have lower starting MSRPs. The Mitsubishi Outlander, while starting slightly higher, includes a third row for that price, which can represent a different kind of value.
What SUV is similar to a CR-V but with more power?
The Mazda CX-5 with its available turbocharged engine offers significantly more horsepower and torque. The Ford Escape with its optional 2.0L EcoBoost engine is also a more powerful choice compared to the standard CR-V engine.
Which alternative has the most cargo space?
The Subaru Forester and Volkswagen Tiguan are leaders in usable cargo space. The Forester’s boxy design makes it easy to load large items, while the Tiguan offers exceptional space with its seats folded.
Finding the right SUV takes a bit of research, but it’s worth the effort. The 2024 Honda CR-V is a benchmark for a reason, but as you can see, the alternatives bring their own strengths to the table. From the sporty Mazda CX-5 to the value-packed Kia Sportage and the adventure-ready Subaru Forester, your perfect match is out there. The best next step is to schedule those test drives. Seeing and feeling these vehicles yourself is the only way to know which one truly fits your life and budget. Take your time, compare carefully, and you’ll drive home in an SUV you’ll love for years to come.