An SUV (sports utility vehicle) is a great option for middle-class families who need ample space or want something that performs well in less-than-ideal driving conditions. But not all SUVs are created equal. And with some going for well over six figures, they're not always worth the price tag.
Note that for this article, "middle class" is defined as anyone earning two-thirds to double the median U.S. household income (as per the Pew Research Center's definition). Since the median household income in 2023 was $80,610, this means you're considered middle class if you earn $43,350 to $130,000 annually.
Using recent Kelley Blue Book data, GOBankingRates compiled this list of 2025 SUVs the middle class should avoid buying.
Just like the 2024 model, the 2025 Audi RS Q8 has a high starting price point. In fact, it's nearly $140,000.
Assuming a $20,000 down payment on a five-year auto loan with a 5% interest, the monthly payments would be around $2,265. For many people in the middle class, this payment falls beyond the typical budget.
Beyond price, the 2025 Audi RS Q8 has just 16 combined mpg. You can expect a fairly high gas bill -- and many trips to the gas station -- with this SUV.
The 2025 BMW X7 is also projected to be more expensive than your standard SUV, though the final price depends on the trim. It does get slightly better mileage with a combined 17 to 22 mpg.
Keep in mind that luxury vehicles are often more expensive when it comes to repairs and maintenance. If the (potentially) lower sticker price doesn't deter you, the other fees might.
As far as price goes, the 2025 Volkswagen Taos seems like a great deal. But it hasn't been rated that highly -- only 3.6 out of 5 consumer stars on KBB.
According to KBB, customer reviews gave the 2024 model of this vehicle a fairly low rating, too. It got a 3.4 out of 5 in performance and quality, and a 3.5 out of 5 in reliability. Reliability in particular is crucial since a lower rating could mean more frequent trips to the shop -- and possible safety issues.
One reviewer also commented that the interior feels cheap in terms of quality. Another stated that German cars tend to have service requirements beyond more limited budgets.
On KBB, the 2025 Land Rover Discovery only gets 2.9 out of 5 stars from expert reviewers. Two of the most notable drawbacks to this SUV are its poor reliability and low average fuel economy.
The 2025 model has 19 to 21 combined mpg -- again, expect frequent trips to the gas station. Other SUVs also have more cargo space, better mileage and lower prices.
The average price of a new car is $48,644, according to KBB, so the 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric's price tag might not be a deterrent. But again, price isn't everything.
This electric SUV has a consumer score of 3.3 stars with 40% of reviewers giving it just 1 star. Reliability and quality are ranked low, but the fact that KBB calls this vehicle "underwhelming" for an entry-level model might be reason enough to look elsewhere for a new vehicle.
Price is a major reason to avoid the 2025 Cadillac Escalade. It also gets a combined fuel economy of just 12 mpg, meaning you're likely to spend much more time -- and money -- at the pump than you'd like.
As a luxury SUV, it comes with many upgradable options that increase its base price. Annual repairs can also be high at an estimated $1,000 or so for the make and model.