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The best budget SUV. The cheapest SUVs in Russia and the world

Due to the fact that the ruble has become weaker this year, many crossovers have risen in price and become unaffordable for Russians. Since cars of this form factor are highly valued in our country, this issue is very pressing for many car enthusiasts. To help them, today we will talk about which budget crossovers of 2018-2019 in Russia best justify their cost. Go.

#10 – Nissan Terrano

Price: 854,000 rubles

The emphasis in the appearance of the new generation Nissan Terrano is on aggression. It is expressed through the front optics with a predatory look, a massive radiator grille and sharp lines of the bumper. All this is observed in the rear part of the body - the shape of the bumper fits perfectly into the style, and the lights complete the image.

By default, the crossover is equipped with a 1.6-liter engine with a power of 114 hp. The unit can be paired with a manual transmission in five or six gears. All-wheel drive, however, is available only in the second case. The fuel consumption of such an engine is 7.5 liters per hundred square kilometers in mixed mode. The second version of the unit is a two-liter “four” with 143 horses. It consumes from 7.8 to 8.7 liters per hundred. Regardless of the engine chosen, the owner of a Nissan Terrano can be sure that the car will serve him for many years, since the “Japanese” body is made of high-strength steel.

#9 – Hyundai Creta

Price: 810,000 rubles

Hyundai Creta has a fresh and interesting exterior. This was made possible thanks to the unusual angular silhouette, which is perfectly complemented by the lines on the stern. At the front, the radiator grille, designed in the form of a chrome hexagon, attracts attention. On the sides it is decorated with brutal lighting equipment. The rear of the Hyundai Creta is not so interesting and many consider it too narrow, but even if so, the appearance of the SUV does not suffer much from this.

The power palette of the Hyundai Creta is not too rich - only two engines. The first is a 1.6-liter unit with 123 horsepower, which consumes from 6.9 to 7.2 liters and is paired with a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. The second is a two-liter and 149-horsepower engine, combined with a 6-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is available as an option in both cases. Due to this, Hyundai Creta will be an excellent option for all drivers who value cross-country ability.

No. 8 – Renault Captur

Price: 870,000 rubles

In eighth place in our top list of the best inexpensive crossovers of 2018 is the French SUV Renault Kaptur. When creating the car, the proprietary Renault concept of recent years was used, in which the emphasis was placed on dimensions. Therefore, Renault Kaptur looks massive, but at the same time, impressive. The front part is distinguished by spotlight-type optics and a grille with a large diamond shape. A neatly designed bumper stands apart on the rear body.

The Frenchman's range of power units is presented in two options. The first is a 1.6-liter engine with 114 hp, which is combined with a 5-speed manual transmission, the second is a 2-liter engine with 143 horsepower, which is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. There is an option to connect all-wheel drive. It goes well with a high ground clearance of 204 mm, which will allow the car to cope not only with Russian potholes, but also off-road. All this is complemented by a high-quality suspension and the same rack and pinion steering wheel, so you won’t feel any discomfort when overcoming obstacles.

No. 7 – Skoda Yeti

Price: 899,000 rubles

The Czech SUV Skoda Yeti has a huge army of fans who appreciate the car for its distinctive appearance. The developer understands this, so as a result of restyling, the exterior of the crossover has remained virtually unchanged. The most significant change was the appearance of a new radiator grille. All other details, in particular the halogen optics, were only slightly retouched.

The car of the Czech brand is supplied to the market with a fairly rich range of engines - three gasoline units and one turbodiesel. The base engine is a 1.2-liter engine with 105 horsepower, which consumes about 7 liters of fuel. It can work with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed automatic. The top version of the gasoline type is designed for all-wheel drive modification of the SUV. It has a volume of 1.8 liters and a power of 152 hp. The most economical option is a diesel engine with a volume of 2 liters and 140 horses. Over 100 km in mixed mode, it consumes only 6.5 liters. Considering its economy, compactness, nimbleness, as well as the suspension, which has been redesigned for urban conditions, the Skoda Yeti can be considered one of the best crossovers for city driving.

No. 6 – Great Wall Hover H3

Price: 739,000 rubles

The latest restyling gave the Chinese car a more solid and aggressive appearance. This consists of an increase in the size of the radiator grille, an updated design of the bumper, as well as a new headlight concept. All this gives the front of the Great Wall Hover H3 a modern and masculine look. When looking at the car from the side, you will not notice any changes compared to its predecessor. At the rear, new lights appeared, and the bumper was equipped with a trim simulating a diffuser.

Under the hood of the Great Wall Hover H3 there may be one of two power units. The first is a 116-horsepower 2-liter engine, which absorbs up to 11 liters within the city and about 8.5 liters on the highway, the second is a 2-liter engine with 177 horsepower, when driving around the city it requires about 13.5 liters per hundred, on the highway - about 10 liters Since the rear of the SUV rests on a dependent spring suspension with a transverse stabilizer, you can be sure that comfort will accompany you on any terrain. This is complemented by reliable crankcase protection and a ground clearance of 240 mm, thanks to which you will not notice any obstacles.

No. 5 – Chery Tiggo 5

Price: 989,000 rubles

The new generation Chery Tiggo 5 has received an updated appearance, thanks to which the developers hope to attract the attention of young people. The car should win the love of potential buyers with the help of modern lighting technology with LED elements, new bumpers and a radiator grille with a more interesting design.

Chery Tiggo 5 is equipped with only one uncontested engine, a 2-liter Acteco engine with a power of 136 horsepower. It can be assisted by a 5-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable CVT. Depending on the terrain, such an engine absorbs from 8.2 to 9.8 liters of fuel per hundred. Due to the fact that the steering mechanism has a rack and pinion structure and is also equipped with a hydraulic booster, driving the car has become even more convenient than before. This is also influenced by the independent McPherson-type suspension layout at the front and rear.

No. 4 – SsangYoung Tivoli

Price: 998,000 rubles

Externally, the Ssangyoung Tivoli looks fresh and meets all crossover fashion trends. What attracts the most attention on the exterior is the radiator grille with a “two-story” design, which goes well with the sharp look of the lighting equipment and the flat roof. If you look at the SUV from the side, you will immediately notice the wheel arches, which can accommodate 16-inch wheels in their depths.

The car is equipped with one of two engines. The first option is a 1.6-liter diesel unit with a power of 115 horses and an appetite of 4.3-5.9 liters of fuel per hundred. Its alternative is a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine, whose performance reaches 128 hp. Such an engine has a larger appetite - from 6.6 to 7.6 liters per hundred. The main advantage of the car, in our opinion, is that the structure of the supporting body consists of 70% high-strength steel. Thanks to this, you can be sure that the Ssangyoung Tivoli will serve you for many years and will not begin to crumble.

No. 3 – Ford Ecosport

Price: 949,000 rubles

The Ford Ecosport takes bronze in our ranking of inexpensive crossovers. This is a subcompact SUV, with which the well-known company plans to reach the widest possible audience. In their opinion, the model is suitable for both young people leading an active lifestyle and retirees who prefer to relax in their country house. When it comes to the exterior, the Ford Ecosport is doing amazingly well. Due to the unusual design of the headlights, radiator grille and branded bumper, the car looks more interesting than its colleagues in terms of form factor.

Ford Ecosport is supplied to the Russian market with two engine options. The first is a 1.5-liter engine of the Dragon family with 123 hp, its alternative is a 2-liter “four” with 148 hp. The base engine is mated to a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive in both cases. The top version of the unit is paired with an automatic transmission and all-wheel drive system. The body of the Ford Ecosport consists of 80% high-strength metals, so reliability is its strong point. The advantages of the car include the presence of an independent suspension with MacPherson struts at the front. Due to it, bumps and uneven roads will not be reflected on the steering wheel.

No. 2 – Suzuki Vitara

Price: 989,000 rubles

Suzuki Vitara looks fresh and dynamic, so identifying the car in traffic will not be difficult. The model gives off a lean appearance with a sloping roof, sloping bumpers and wide wheel arches. Thanks to the latter, the owner can use 17-inch wheels. An unusual design solution consisting of an inverted radiator grille also adds originality. On its sides there are “squinted” headlights.

On the Russian market, the Suzuki Vitara is available with a non-alternative 120-horsepower 1.6-liter engine. He is assisted by a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. In both cases, the drive is front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is available as an option. The main advantage of the car is its lightness. The traveling weight of the Suzuki Vitara is 1075 kilograms. However, this did not affect the reliability of the design in any way - the body consists of high-strength steel, and the steering system boasts an electric power amplifier. All this allows the driver to feel confident behind the wheel of the SUV and move comfortably on the road.

#1 – Nissan Qashqai

Price: 988,000 rubles

The ranking of inexpensive crossovers in 2018 in Russia in terms of price and quality ratio is headed by Nissan Qashqai. Even taking into account the fact that the new generation of SUV is practically no different in appearance from the old one, this is the best offer on the market at the moment. Among other crossovers, it looks just as distinctive and is easily identified due to its corporate style called V-motion. Its distinctive features are the “boomerang” running lights and a custom-shaped bumper at the front.

The base engine for the Qashqai is a 1.2-liter engine producing 115 horses. It is paired with a 6-speed manual or continuously variable transmission and consumes up to 6.2 liters of fuel in mixed driving mode. The second engine has a volume of 2 liters and a power of 144 hp. For 100 km it requires about 7.3 liters of fuel. The only 2-liter diesel engine has a power of 130 hp. and is distinguished by its economy - only 4.9 liters per hundred square meters. The Qashqai is the world's first car built on the CMF platform. Its features include a front independent suspension based on MacPherson struts, as well as a rear multi-link system. Thanks to them, bumps on the road are smoothed out, and the driver does not feel them, since the rack and pinion steering mechanism is complemented by electric power steering with a sports driving function.

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When compiling a rating of SUVs in terms of reliability among used models up to 10 years old, various factors were taken into account, including reviews from car owners themselves, the frequency of calls to car repair shops and the most common breakdowns characteristic of a particular car. The choice in favor of used cars is understandable, since cars are very expensive. If you have a certain amount of money that definitely won’t be enough for a new car, but you can find something for them on the secondary market, it’s worth looking. Practice has shown that the most reliable SUVs can be used for 10 years without problems. Further problems may arise due to natural wear and tear of parts. Therefore, even the most careful driver will not be able to fully protect himself and his jeep from possible breakdowns caused by the aging processes of engine parts and other systems.

When buying inexpensive SUVs, a car enthusiast wants to get the most out of it. The desire to get the most reliable models is quite understandable, since after the purchase no one wants to become a regular customer of a car service, spend all weekends in the garage, just to be able to drive their own car for several days without incident.

Therefore, when choosing a jeep among used options, you should pay attention to the following points:

  • Don't buy used cars that are more than 10 years old. It is optimal to take a car that is 3-5 years old. As the experience of many drivers shows, after 10 years even the most durable cars begin to show their weaknesses. This will not necessarily be a serious breakdown, accompanied by the need to overhaul the engine or replace it completely. Much depends on the previous owner, his driving style and attitude towards the car.
  • Look carefully at the mileage. The reliability rating includes cars that do not experience any significant problems after a mileage of 300 thousand kilometers. There are individual specimens that are called “millionaires”. They are capable of driving a million kilometers without causing any breakdowns with proper care and maintenance. But it’s not worth buying a car that is 5-10 years old and has covered more than 300 thousand kilometers. The higher the mileage, the sooner you will have to overhaul the engine.
  • The manufacturer plays a role. Used jeeps produced by little-known companies could not be included in the reliability rating. Therefore, all representatives of the top are products of well-known, well-established brands.
  • Before purchasing, do a mandatory test drive and send the car to a service station. Even if the car you choose is among the top most reliable SUVs, it is strongly not recommended to buy it without first examining its condition. It often happens that a car is sold that is no older than 10 years old, has an acceptable mileage and is sold at a price below the market price. Sellers often associate this with the need to urgently sell the vehicle. But in fact, behind such an attractive offer there may be an accident involving a jeep, a twisted speedometer and other pitfalls. Drive the car, feel it. It is better to choose an independent car service, and not one recommended by the seller.

Among the top 10 cars that we managed to collect in this rating, there are no obvious outsiders or clear leaders. All cars have the necessary qualities, but belong to slightly different price segments.

Criteria for compiling the top

In order to objectively determine the most reliable SUVs on the secondary market, you need to present a number of requirements to them. Using certain criteria, it is possible to accurately understand whether the car is worthy of attention, whether it can satisfy the buyer’s needs and how long it will last after purchase.

Let’s say right away that there is always a possibility of encountering:

  • an unscrupulous seller;
  • a car that was in an accident, but it was disguised;
  • a twisted speedometer, on which the mileage was specially reduced;
  • a car on which the VIN code was changed;
  • problematic documents for cars.

This is a natural situation in our secondary market. We took into account only the technical aspects of cars. Your task is to find a car without obvious problems or hidden defects. The concept of reliability includes the following list of criteria:

  • reliability of the engine and other systems;
  • cross-country ability, because these are SUVs;
  • ease of operation (a conditional criterion, since each driver is accustomed to a different level of vehicle equipment);
  • suitability of the power unit for repair;
  • availability of specialists capable of providing quality service for the jeep;
  • service support from official representatives of the manufacturer.

All this is done with an eye to our market. In Russia, SUVs or full-size crossovers are very popular. Now these concepts are almost equal. In its classical sense, an SUV is a large car with a frame suspension. Gradually, such solutions are becoming a thing of the past, although some examples remain and are included in our rating. But in our time, it is fair to call representatives of this class SUVs, jeeps and crossovers.

The reality is that the reliability of modern cars is far worse than those produced 15-20 or more years ago. The only exceptions we can name are elite models of SUVs, and even then only conditionally. One of the reasons lies on the surface - the more complex the car, the more parts, assemblies, and assemblies it contains, the lower the reliability. This is, in general, an axiom for any technology.

If your plans are to purchase a car designed for off-road use, and your budget is limited, you will probably turn to the secondary market. But there is no need to rush into making a choice. For the investment to pay off, it is better to pay attention to the most reliable SUVs in the world, even if their appearance and equipment do not meet modern standards. One of these cars, without a doubt, is the Suzuki Grand Vitara.

This is a real “Japanese”, and not the most expensive and quite torquey. One-piece, suspension with a fairly long stroke, reduction gear with an excellent gear ratio of 1.8 - signs of a real thoroughbred SUV. But the main advantage of the Grand Vitara is its exceptional reliability and ease of operation.

Most offers are a five-door version with a spacious luggage compartment and a spacious four-seater interior that does not lack comfort. The seven-seater modification with the index XL7 is much less common.

The range of engines is quite extensive, but mostly it is a gasoline 120-horsepower two-liter power unit. For a five-door car, its power is enough, although it does not shine with efficiency - 14 liters per 100 kilometers, but for an SUV, and even an older one, these are acceptable figures. Note that all four gasoline engines are very reliable. This cannot be said about a pair of turbodiesels, but they are not popular among Russian consumers.

The body's corrosion protection is good, the transmission is trouble-free if operating conditions are not violated. In a word, if the previous owners were not barbarians, then the car will serve you for a long time, regardless of mileage. A model produced before 2000 can be purchased for 250-300 thousand, but the mileage will most likely exceed 200 thousand km. 2004-2005 will already cost 450 thousand, the most expensive cars are those produced in 2011, for which you will have to pay 850-900 thousand.

The first generation of the famous “American”, designed on the ZJ platform, went on sale in 1992, and was produced for 7 years. With a brutal appearance, but a very comfortable interior, this car was offered with a large number of engines and four different transmissions. In 1998, it was replaced by a second-generation SUV, which also rolled off the assembly line for 7 years, although it was assembled in the Middle Kingdom later, during 2006-2010. Among the improvements, we can note the appearance of new engines and the disappearance of the manual gearbox, but the all-wheel/rear-wheel drive division remains. The next seven-year cycle (2004-2010) saw the third generation of a mid-size SUV with the factory index WK roll off the assembly line. This car turned out to be more powerful and equipped than its predecessor, featuring very good off-road characteristics.

But regardless of the year of manufacture, all Big Cherokees are distinguished by high reliability and an increased level of comfort (compared to the same Japanese), so this model has a well-deserved second place in our ranking of the most reliable SUVs of all time.

But you can’t call them economical, but these are already costs for the American automobile industry.

By the way, most of the offers are cars imported from overseas. There are few Europeans, but it is hardly worth wasting effort to determine the exact place of birth of the car. It's better to look for real flaws.

It is clear that the range of engines is very large, so it makes no sense to advise anything on this matter. Most of them run on gasoline, but there are also diesel engines. All engines are very demanding on oil; it needs to be changed even more often than recommended, taking into account Russian realities. But otherwise, the power units are unpretentious and have a long service life. The same can be said about gearboxes, but if you come across a five-speed copy from Mercedes (equipped with a 2.7-liter diesel engine), then this is an ideal option.

First generation cars are inexpensive, starting from 300 thousand rubles. But a relatively new 2014 Cherokee will cost you 2.5 million (a new 2018 SUV in the minimum configuration costs three million).

In third place in the TOP 10 most reliable SUVs is another representative of the Japanese automobile industry, which has established itself as an extremely simple and undemanding car. Its first generation was released in 1997, although sales in its homeland started a year earlier. Over the almost ten years during which the model rolled off the assembly line, it was repeatedly subjected to modernization, and in 2000, quite seriously. In 2008, Mitsubishi introduced the second generation Pajero Sport, which has undergone significant changes in all aspects, from appearance to technical equipment, while remaining the same reliable frame-based off-road conqueror. In 2013, assembly of the car began in Russia, and two years later, at the auto show in Bangkok, the Japanese demonstrated the third generation, which in the fall began to arrive at car dealerships around the world. Of course, there was some stylization of the exterior/interior in accordance with the trends of the then automotive fashion, but the off-road qualities remained at the proper level.

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport can be called one of the last representatives of “purebred all-terrain vehicles”. A solid frame, plug-in front-wheel drive, and a solid rear axle - this is the gentleman's kit of a real SUV, as is high ground clearance with good off-road geometry.

Most of the offers are classic jeeps with a three-liter gasoline engine or a 2.5-liter turbodiesel. Their capabilities are sufficient to overcome any road surprises, and all of them are characterized as very reliable and trouble-free. Finding a car with a manual transmission is a great success. The proprietary “transfer case” allows you to choose one of three modes – either rear-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive with a low gear, or all-wheel drive without a center differential.

On the Russian secondary market, a model produced in 1999 will cost about 400 thousand rubles, while a relatively recent model produced in 2014-2015 will cost from 1.2 million. The average cost fluctuates around 800 thousand.

The inclusion of the Nissan Terrano II model in the list of the most reliable used SUVs cannot be called accidental - it is a simple, truly trouble-free and practical mid-size SUV. Its sales started in 1993, and it was produced at the Spanish Nissan factory. Six years later, the first restyling was made, affecting both the exterior and the interior. The next update took place in 2002, and four years later the second generation retired.

It cannot be said that the appearance of the car makes a deep impression - it is rough and angular, as befits a classic SUV; among the memorable details of the exterior, one can note the elegant window sill line descending to the front of the car. Ground clearance is standard for cars of this class - 210 mm.

The interior of the second Terrano is cozy, although rustic by modern standards. There are no complaints about the dashboard; the center console has a standard set: a car radio and an air conditioning control unit. The interior trim is made of inexpensive but high-quality materials. The front seats are ergonomic, the rear sofa is spacious, and the five-door has a trunk volume of 335/1610 liters.

The main engine is a 118-horsepower 2.4-liter, which comes with a five-speed manual transmission and all-wheel drive (it is advisable to engage the front axle at speeds less than 40 km/h). There are also a couple of turbodiesel units, with characteristics of 2.7/125 and 3.0/154. Instead of a manual transmission, you may get a four-speed automatic transmission. The gasoline engine is quite economical - 8.7-11.0 liters per 100 km. in mixed mode.

The Nissan Terrano has established itself in Russia as a very reliable SUV with excellent cross-country ability, which is not inferior in level to its classmates in the higher price segment. The cost of cars from 2003-2006 starts at , but the mileages are corresponding. A model from 2014 costs about 750-800 thousand, and if you have enough money, it is better to focus on a car with low actual mileage.

Which SUV is the most reliable on the secondary market? Yes, the one that stays on the market the longest! If we judge solely by this criterion, then Pajero could well top our rating: the first generation went on sale back in 1982, and only 10 years later, after a series of upgrades, in 1991 it was replaced by the second generation model. And if the appearance of the car has changed little, its off-road characteristics have improved dramatically, thanks to the appearance of the SuperSelect 4WD all-wheel drive transmission. The car turned out to be so successful that after the next change of generations its production was not stopped. However, the next generation no longer resembled the angular but elongated silhouette of the old Pajero, and at first this exterior was perceived rather ambiguously. But habit, as they say, is second nature. And yet, with the fourth generation, the Japanese decided not to experiment much, which is why many consider these models to be a restyled version of the previous ones.

One way or another, even today this is perhaps the most popular used SUV on the domestic market, not counting the Niva and UAZ. Well, in terms of reliability and off-road capability, they are simply unrivaled. But the driving characteristics of the car are also excellent - it is easy to drive, regardless of the speed. And yet, the best qualities of the Pajero are manifested off-road, since there is a permanent classic all-wheel drive, reinforced by the presence of a transfer case.

Traditionally for a “Japanese” car, the body is well protected from oxidation, and the chassis is also robust and has a long service life. The most common options are with a 3.5-liter gasoline engine, as well as two diesel engines with a volume of 2.5/2.8 liters. All these engines, with proper care, can last up to half a million kilometers.

Cars from the 1990s are relatively cheap, from 250-300 thousand rubles, but many of them are problematic, lack documents or require serious repairs. It is better to take the golden mean - cars produced in 2003-2006. Their mileage is not so respectable and you can find examples that are quite worthy of attention, fortunately there are more than enough offers. But for a more or less fresh SUV you will have to pay from 650 thousand rubles.

Today this car is known as a full-size crossover, but this was not always the case...

The first generation of this model was a real massive SUV. And although Ford themselves positioned the model as a replacement for the Bronco II, in reality the latter was produced for quite a long time until it was completely replaced by the Explorer, which was produced during 1990-1994.

Traditionally, in the US, the lifespan of a car is much shorter than in Europe, so we didn’t have to wait long for the second generation. And it has already partially lost the privilege of a mid-size all-terrain vehicle, largely due to the removal of a reduction gear (instead of which a Full-time AWD drive was used). In 2001, production of the third generation Explorer began, which turned out to be significantly redesigned: the frame was made even more rigid, the dimensions increased, and the rear suspension acquired independent status.

In 2005, the time came for the fourth generation, in which almost all components and assemblies underwent minor changes. But in 2011, the company decided to take a radical step: the Explorer lost its frame and turned into a full-size SUV.

This is such an interesting evolution of the model. Nevertheless, there is no need to doubt the reliability of the American SUV, and that is why it is on the list of the most unpretentious and reliable SUVs in the world. All over the world he is considered indestructible, and there is a very significant grain of truth in this statement.

Why share? The fact is that age does not spare anyone. If the mileage has exceeded two hundred thousand, and the previous owner was not careful or was a careless owner, minor troubles will accompany you constantly. But this is the privilege of all “elders”; major troubles are expected with a small degree of probability.

Cars produced before 2000 are relatively cheap, starting from 250 thousand rubles, but such offers are becoming less and less every year, and the condition, of course, is not improving. A new car costs an order of magnitude more, that is, 2.5 million, and it is no longer an SUV. So you should choose something in the middle, until 2011, and such a car in decent condition will cost about a million. So your financial fork is quite large, as are the possibilities for choosing the best option.

There is hardly a car enthusiast who has not heard of this famous automobile brand. Few people know about the Escalade model, but it has been and remains popular among fans of off-road vehicles. The history of Escalade begins in 1999. We have already talked about the transience of the life of American cars, but in this case the situation looks anecdotal: a full-size SUV lasted just over a year. But even then it was distinguished by its huge dimensions, a very spacious interior and a number of powerful power units. Be that as it may, sales of the second generation began in 2001, and in this case the model’s production period turned out to be close to overseas standards (about 5 years). The car has become even more luxurious and comfortable, because this has always been given top priority in America. A version appeared in a pickup truck (also traditional for the local market), two types of drive and new, more powerful engines.

In 2005, the company introduced a premium version of a full-size SUV, which unexpectedly turned out to be a long-liver, lasting until 2014. One of the most significant changes is the emergence of a hybrid version that corresponds to the spirit of the times. Currently, the fourth generation of Escalade is rolling off the assembly line, still a huge executive car, which remains brutal in appearance, but with clearly defined modern features.

The presence of the Cadillac Escalade in the ranking of used SUVs in terms of reliability and quality is not only justified - it is, fashionably, one of the most beloved all-terrain cars of a whole galaxy of American presidents. It is not surprising that it is extremely unpretentious in maintenance and everyday use, and the reliability of the vast majority of its components and systems is beyond praise.

It is unlikely that you will be able to find offers cheaper than 600 thousand for this model. A ten-year-old Cadillac Escalade costs at least 1.2 million rubles, and for a fairly recent copy with a symbolic mileage you will have to pay 2.5 million or more. If a frame giant has been used carefully, then ten years is not an age for it, and it will be able to please its new owner for at least as long. Yes, it will be difficult to find branded spare parts, but the resourceful Russian car enthusiast will always have it.

Without a doubt, Toyota can be called the most prolific Japanese automaker - the number of models it has is simply off the charts, and each has its own history with several generations. The same story applies to the iconic SUV of this brand. Land Cruiser is a real legend, whose presence in the TOP 10 most reliable SUVs in the world of the 2019 version looks quite natural and logical. The “Seventieth” series appeared in car showrooms back in 1984, lasting until 1990 and giving rise to a line of modern-class SUVs. Periodically, its production (small-scale) was resumed, until the triumphant return of a completely updated model took place in 2014.

Meanwhile, the “eightieth” series, launched in 1989, turned out to be definitely no worse than the previous one, and it is from this series that the modern history of the model begins. This Cruiser lasted a full decade, which is a great testament to its extraordinary popularity.

“Sotka” had to wait until 1998, and it also came “at home” for millions of car enthusiasts. A light update in 2003 did not spoil the Land Cruiser's karma, allowing the third generation to last another four years. The “200th” series debuted in 2007 and also turned out to be a long-liver, having survived two restylings (in 2012 and three years later).

What is good about this famous Japanese? Yes to everyone: an impressive exterior, a large and comfortable interior, and excellent off-road properties.

So if you come across a well-maintained vehicle whose owner did not ignore routine maintenance, then, despite the high cost, purchasing such a car will be an excellent investment.

For a second-generation model you will have to pay 450 thousand rubles, but if you are concerned about a mileage of about 300-400 thousand kilometers (and this is par for the course for an elderly Cruiser), then it is better to look for a ten/twelve-year-old SUV. And it will already cost at least 1.5 million with a mileage of about 100-200 thousand km. Note that the Land Cruiser has been among the top ten best-selling SUVs for many years, and this trend remains permanently stable.

The German automaker began developing a completely new off-road vehicle back in 1972, but the new product under the symbol W460 appeared on the market only in 1979. At the same time, a car was released with a higher index by one, which was initially intended “for official use.” The decoding of this term was not long in coming - the main batches of the simplified version of the Gelendvagen went to army needs. And this alone suggests that this car is “stuck” on the list of the oldest and most reliable SUVs, if not forever, then for a very long time.

In 1990, the first generation was replaced by “Gelik” with the index W463, which also turned out to be a long-liver - the third generation had to wait 28 years. And although many modernizations have been carried out during this time, American jeeps can only dream of such survivability...

The first generation is poorly represented on the domestic secondary market, so let’s talk about the advantages of the second generation. This is a jeep, in the appearance of which army ascetic features are clearly and unambiguously visible, but this is precisely the main “trick” of the German.

In our country, the W463 can be found with three petrol engine options and one diesel engine. All cars have permanent all-wheel drive, a transfer case with a reduction ratio and three locking differentials with traction distributed separately to each wheel.

Briefly about engines. This is either a 211-horsepower three-liter turbodiesel, or a 388-horsepower naturally aspirated 5.5-liter engine, or a turbocharged unit of the same volume, producing 544 “horses.” The top step is occupied by a 6-liter twin-turbo engine with 612 hp. With. (the famous T-34 had a less powerful engine).

Of course, we are not talking about efficiency here, and the car itself is one of the most expensive in its class. But the rule strictly applies here: the more expensive it is, the more reliable it is. So you'll know what you're paying for.

Well, a car from the first half of the 90s with a mileage of 200-400 thousand will not cost that much, from 600 thousand rubles. You don’t have to worry about an engine with such a resource, for it these are trifles. If you have enough money for gasoline, buy it, you won’t regret it. As age decreases, the price rises sharply: a 2000 jeep will cost a million in a good situation, and a ten-year-old copy will cost at least two million.

Our ranking of the best used SUVs in terms of reliability is completed by the legendary Patrol. This is also one of the longest-livers - the first generation was born in 1951. This vehicle, nicknamed “Sergeant,” closely resembled the American military Willys jeep and already had all-wheel drive and a frame structure. In 1960, the second generation of the Japanese jeep appeared, which lasted on the market for two decades. Almost without undergoing major modifications.

The third generation was sold even longer, from 1980 to 2003. The reason is banal - exceptional reliability. It was these jeeps that the UN used for its numerous missions; an SUV with indexes 160/260 joined the army units of many countries.

The next generation appeared in 1987, the fifth began to roll off the assembly line in 1997, having undergone significant modernization in 2004.

It is the Nissan Patrol that today falls under the definition of “a real frame SUV” - recently such cars have begun to disappear as a class, giving way to less expensive crossovers.

The reliability of the Patrol is evidenced by the fact that it is the most frequent guest of all kinds of rally raids, regardless of the type of road and local climate. Officially, only five-door versions were supplied to our country. On the secondary market, the oldest models start with a mileage of 200 to 400 thousand kilometers. They cost about 400 thousand rubles and more, depending on condition, and are equipped mainly with 2.8-liter diesel engines, which have excellent service life. For 0.9-1 million you can buy an SUV produced at the beginning of the 2000s, with a mileage that rarely exceeds 250 thousand. And here the most common type of engine is a diesel engine, but a three-liter one with a power of 160 hp. With. The transmission can be either manual or automatic - both are moderately reliable and unpretentious.

The all-wheel drive here can be switched off due to the absence of a center differential, so it is recommended to use it only on slippery/wet roads or on serious off-road conditions, which the Nissan Patrol copes with with obvious ease.

The off-road equipment of the Japanese jeep is complemented by a reduction gear, combined with a forced locking of the cross-axle differential.

Looking through the list of cars sold in our country, many are looking not for an ordinary passenger car, but for something with relatively good cross-country ability. But is it really possible to achieve off-road performance at minimal cost? Let's try to understand this issue as objectively as possible, without condescension or prejudice.

What can the domestic car market offer us? So, there are Russian cars here, Chinese ones, and let’s not forget the Japanese and Koreans. There are cheap SUVs in the country.

Announce the whole list please

So, let's list everything except our native automobile industry:

  • From Chinese manufacturers there are Lifan X60, Great Wall Hover M2, Great Wall Hover H3, Great Wall Hover H5.
  • Europe – Opel Mokka, Skoda Yeti, Renault Duster.
  • Japan – .
  • Korea (South) – SsangYong Actyon.

As you can see, cars from China are leading in terms of quantity. The cheapest on this list will be Cherie. Although today the fifth generation is already on sale, which costs much more. Tiggo FL (new) costs from 655.9 thousand rubles. The car is not bad, consumption in mixed mode is a little more than 6.5 liters.

Great Wall are progressing every year. They improve quality and reliability, and their base equipment is quite good. The “H5” is not equipped with a native Chinese unit, but with a Mitsubishi, tuned to new eco-standards. What is very pleasant for our people is the very large volume of the luggage compartment - 810 liters.

The miniature ASX is included in the list in the basic configuration. In which he looks completely “naked”. You can talk for a long time about Japanese quality, but functionality is also needed, there’s no getting around it. Are you ready to pay 850 thousand rubles for a car without all-wheel drive and any useful extras?

That’s why many people pay attention to the Chinese industry, which they themselves were laughing at just yesterday. Meanwhile, the Chinese are actively developing our enterprises for assembling equipment.

SsangYong Actyon is a car from a manufacturer that doesn’t have enough stars in the sky, but has its own fan club and good sales in the CIS. It was produced in Russia for some time, but then the company's management came to the conclusion that the car competes with their own Chiron, which was not part of the plans. Therefore, the release of Aktion was curtailed. But it can still be purchased both at dealerships and throughout the country. The car was not without its flaws, but it was quite good. The picture was spoiled only by the crisis price rise. Now a restyled version in 2014 is being produced. It costs 760 thousand rubles in the company showroom. Yes, much more than at pre-crisis prices.

Our driving force

You can mock the Russian automobile industry for a long time, give cars nicknames, and praise foreign models. But there are several cars that essentially have nothing to criticize. All of them have become popular and are actively sold to this day. These are Lada 4×4, aka Niva, Chevrolet Niva and modifications of our native jeep – UAZ.

In fact, it is the Tolyatti and Ulyanovsk residents who assemble the cheapest crossovers and SUVs that can be bought in our country.

Niva is perhaps the most successful project of AvtoVAZ in its entire history. The car, assembled on the basis of a classic, has become so popular that it has been in production for several decades.

In 1977, the car was officially called VAZ 2121 Niva, until the manufacturer switched to Latin names for all cars. It was produced not only at the Togliatti plant, but also at LuAZ, as well as in the Kazakh Ust-Kamenogorsk. Available in two versions - a three-door and a five-door station wagon.

On the official website you can buy a basic three-door from 405 thousand rubles. “Urban” will cost 450 thousand, and a five-door car – 441 thousand.

As for the Chevrolet Niva, from the point of view of comfort, this is everything that the previous car lacked. Still, this is far from a “six” with all-wheel drive. At the same time, you can buy it from the database for about the same money as Urban. The manufacturer even reduced prices. Previously, the car cost more than half a million rubles. This is how much it costs now in a more advanced configuration with ABS, airbags and other joys of life.

It would seem that Niva is the winner in our competition, but no. Still, the cheapest SUV in Russia is not produced at VAZ.

Now there are discounts on UAZ Hunter. A “Classic” will cost 379 thousand rubles, a car from the so-called “victorious” series will cost 430 thousand. For the same money you can buy a “Trophy”. For your money, you get, although not the most comfortable, but a very reliable jeep with good cross-country ability and a good 128 hp engine. It has a permanent rear-wheel drive with a rigidly connected front-wheel drive.

So, if you want a new inexpensive SUV, and do not suffer from “Russophobia” in the auto industry, then you should pay attention to Russian cars.

Almost Europe

There are plenty of people who frown at the word “Russian auto industry.” And for them there are budget alternatives, such as, for example, the Renault Sandero Stepway, and their “almost French” Duster. The first can now be seen on the official website for half a million rubles, the second is 34 thousand more expensive. The next model, Koleos, is already 2 times more expensive and we are not considering it.

The new Stepway received greater ground clearance - almost 200 mm, 16-inch wheels and a suspension more suitable for off-road use.

“Duster” has truly become popular. Although we can’t even call it “Renault”. Dacia is Dacia. It was under this brand that he began his journey in 2009. Clearance of 21 cm, good approach and departure angles, ABS and much more - this is what attracts people in the car.

In our country, several variants of all-wheel drive Dusters are sold. There are many differences, but the main one is the engine:

  • 4-cylinder, 16-valve petrol, 102 hp, manual.
  • 4-cylinder, 16-valve petrol, 135 hp, manual.
  • 4-cylinder, 16-valve petrol, 135 hp, automatic.
  • 4-cylinder, 8-valve, diesel, 90 hp. 6-speed manual.

It may not be the cheapest SUV in the country, but it's definitely worth a look.

Middle class

If we consider equipment that can be driven into the mud without fear, then we immediately discard the most urban cars, like the Peugeot 2008 or Nissan Juke. In principle, we can consider the Hyundai Tucson. Of course not the newest.

The second contender is Chevrolet Tracker. They are now selling them at pre-crisis prices, so there are a lot of people who want to buy a very good car. No, this is not the “Tracker” that was produced in the 90s - 2000s, but a new car, which is called “Treks” all over the world, except in Russia, where writing it in Latin would be too ambiguous.

Assembly in Kazakhstan, which is a member of the Customs Union, makes prices quite affordable for residents of the CIS.

For about the same money you can buy a Toyota RAV4. This car is one of the “veterans”. It has been produced since 1994. A good choice at a price of up to a million rubles. This is exactly how much it costs in the basic configuration. The car received five stars out of five at Euro NCAP. How "SUV" is this? It depends on where to drive him. We have places from which you can only pull a Defender out by helicopter.

Toyota often offers good, inexpensive SUVs and crossovers with adequate features. However, a lot depends on the assembly.

Since we have repeatedly touched upon the Toyota RAV4 SUV this time, we will have to offer a video about it. Here's a good test drive:

Just twenty years ago, SUVs seemed to belong only to a select few. Today such cars are much more common. Therefore, many are interested in which SUV is the most reliable, economical and relatively inexpensive, and how to choose it correctly among everything that manufacturers offer to our attention.

SUVs have gained popularity among car enthusiasts due to their unsurpassed qualities.

When choosing the most reliable SUV that is inexpensive, you need to pay attention to several important points, which include:

  • crash test results;
  • type, quality and reliability of engines;
  • quality of grip on the road surface;
  • level of road safety while driving.

Initially, jeeps were used as station wagons and pickups, but today they can easily claim to be one of the most popular and in-demand cars. This is very convenient when the car has impressive dimensions and roomy space, is very reliable and at the same time is able to demonstrate good fuel economy. Compared to their predecessors, released 10-15 years ago, modern jeeps have become safer - the vehicle's exchange rate stability system plays a huge role here.

The assortment of such famous automobile giants as BMW, Toyota, Honda and many others includes many models that are distinguished by a high level of reliability. Therefore, let's get to know them better.

The best examples of economical and reliable crossovers

If you are in search of the most reliable, inexpensive SUVs that combine the best features, we recommend that you pay attention to the following items.

Those wishing to purchase the most economical crossover should like the Toyota Sequoia, which is characterized by its large and impressive size, as well as high reliability and safety indicators. This is a reliable frame crossover that is ideal for family travel in comfort thanks to its spacious interior space. It is equipped with a powerful 32-valve engine with a capacity of 4.6 or 5.7 liters, which can be fueled with either gasoline or diesel fuel, depending on the preferences and goals of the car owner. Those looking for the most reliable crossover should also pay attention to this model. The average cost of such a car is about $120,000. This popular SUV is available in two trim levels - all-wheel drive and front-wheel drive. The unconditional reliability of this car is due to such important factors as:

  • the presence of an effective vehicle stability control system;
  • eight airbags;
  • presence of simultaneous key press sensors;
  • Emergency brake assistance is an effective system that guarantees the jeep safe movement even at high speeds.

Toyota Sequoia is characterized by reliability and safety

In short, for those who are interested in reliable seven-seat SUVs, this model will be one of the most promising options.

Honda CR-V is rightfully an excellent car model for those who highly value traditional Japanese quality. It is characterized by such important qualities as efficiency and compact size. The creators of this car model did a great job on both its external and internal appearance, so such a jeep will be able to fully satisfy the owner’s requirements regarding aesthetics and functionality. So, if you are planning to purchase a new car that can handle various types of road surfaces, as well as off-road conditions, take into account all the important properties and characteristics of this car. However, the Honda lineup includes other worthy crossovers that are characterized by excellent functionality and ease of maintenance.

So, those who are looking for the cheapest SUV, which at the same time has the highest quality, should take a closer look at a model such as the Honda Element, which has a number of important advantages and benefits. This SUV looks very solid and confident. Its internal equipment does not let us down either - from the very first minutes spent behind the wheel, the legendary Japanese quality makes itself felt. Excellent efficiency is provided by a 2.4-liter diesel engine equipped with four cylinders. The simplicity and low cost of maintaining this car make it one of the most desirable for those who simultaneously want compactness, spaciousness, safety and reliability.

Advantages of frame construction

If you are faced with a serious question - which SUV to choose, be sure to pay attention to frame SUVs, which are characterized by very high reliability indicators.

Cars with a frame structure have the best characteristics

The main load-bearing element of such a car is the frame, to which the body of the car is securely attached. It has a number of unique features and advantages, one of them is that the car is absolutely not afraid of any off-road conditions. When driving such an SUV, absolutely the entire load is distributed over the frame, which in turn protects the car body from all kinds of loads, even the strongest ones.

Cars of this type also have a number of other unconditional advantages. Among them:

  • impressive wheel sizes to overcome any coating defects;
  • absence of noise from the suspension and wheels;
  • good interior and trunk space.

Of course, many people have a question about which SUV is better. Here you should focus on your personal taste, car brand and, of course, the financial side and your real financial capabilities.

To determine which SUV to choose, you need to familiarize yourself with the most important features characteristic of this range of off-road vehicles. It would also be useful to know which manufacturers are currently offering them to potential buyers.

So, the following examples are excellent frame SUVs:

  • Land Rover Defender;
  • VW Amarok;
  • Jeep Wrangler;
  • Mitsubishi L200;
  • Nissan NP300 and others.

If you are interested in the most accessible and inexpensive SUV, perhaps your choice will fall on the UAZ Patriot or Hunter, or on such as the KIA Mohave, SsangYong Kyron or Great Wall Wingle 5. If you want to purchase a new, well-passed car, be sure to pay attention to the model rows of these brands.

Domestic manufacturer offers UAZ Patriot SUV

Speaking about the important capabilities and advantages inherent in frame SUVs, we need to highlight the following.

  1. Maximum service life of the vehicle thanks to the enormous chassis resources.
  2. A high level of comfort while driving, which is achieved by the fact that no vibrations or noise emanating from tires and various components are almost transmitted to the car body.
  3. Even in the most difficult operating conditions, such SUVs will never let you down thanks to powerful engines and torque.

Best diesel SUV options

Especially for those who are interested in inexpensive diesel SUVs, we offer a list of the best and most profitable examples.

So, Mitsubishi Pajero. This flagship car has been successfully produced since the 70s of the twentieth century. During this significant period, he had to undergo about ten transformations, as a result of which his qualities improved. The power of the diesel engine is 200 horsepower with a volume of 3.2 liters. The average cost of this iron horse is $30,000-31,000.

SUVs running on diesel fuel are quite popular

Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, with a 3-liter engine with a power of 162 hp, represents the optimal balance between quality and cost. Therefore, its popularity is constantly growing.

The Volkswagen Touareg is a relatively inexpensive car that embodies true German quality and will become your faithful companion if you are interested in the most reliable diesel crossover. A three-liter engine with a capacity of 3 liters will allow you to feel as comfortable as possible on any road conditions. In addition, it is very easy to maintain.

Which SUVs are the most economical?

Are you interested in affordable SUVs that offer the best fuel economy? Follow our recommendations and choose the best option for yourself. Choosing an SUV is a responsible matter where many nuances matter.

Fuel consumption is the most important indicator of the efficiency of a vehicle.

Very successful options are present in the model range of the famous Toyota brand. One of them is the Toyota Urban Cruiser, which is available with two engine options - petrol and diesel. At a distance of 100 km, on average they consume about 4.5 liters of fuel.

Another worthy representative of economical crossovers is the Renault Duster, which consumes approximately 5.3 liters over a distance of 100 kilometers. These inexpensive SUVs can be purchased on average for between $14,500 and $16,000.

Among the new inexpensive crossovers, examples such as the Hyundai Creta, Datsun Go-Cross and Lifan X60 FL should be highlighted. At their affordable cost, they are able to cope with their functions 100%. Inexpensive crossovers have proven themselves to be excellent.

To determine which SUV is the most reliable, but at the same time inexpensive and economical, and also to choose the best option for yourself, consider several factors - the purpose of the purchase, operating conditions, power, engine efficiency and, of course, the financial component. Choose what perfectly suits your lifestyle, and then you will feel freedom and comfort on any road.


Many people are accustomed to viewing budget cars quite leniently. Many buyers are willing to put up with the fact that real-looking jeeps are equipped only with front-wheel drive, and full-fledged crossovers can hardly climb a gentle hill, as long as the cost is low. In fact, today you should choose only the best, because in the list of even inexpensive representatives of the class there are such budget SUVs that will give odds to the most productive jeeps.

If we evaluate the most accurate ratings for the 2016 model year, it is worth noting the increase in the number of inexpensive models. Manufacturers are well aware of a certain financial crisis for the residents of the country, so they are trying to offer SUVs that offer the most amazing characteristics and capabilities at low prices. Let's look at these market representatives.

Great Wall Hover H3 - Chinese jeep for little money

The great cars of our time will soon be able to match Chinese production. This is once again proven by the updated Great Wall Hover H3, which has acquired the appearance of a true SUV and fully justifies its title in technical terms. This is the most interesting and probably the best offer of 2015 among SUVs with the following features:

  • the presence of two models at once - old and updated;
  • excellent engines offering power and quick pickup;
  • high potential when traveling on difficult roads;
  • the presence of effective all-wheel drive, good ground clearance.

And outwardly, Great Wall inspires a certain confidence. The new generation costs from 909,000 rubles, and the old H3 version can be bought for only 860,000. This is a real budget offer, which today turned out to be one of the most exciting in the segment. A budget SUV from China pleases you at first acquaintance and in further use.

SsangYong Kyron - if you don't want Chinese



Many buyers of SUV cars in Russia do not want to look towards Chinese industry. In this case, among the budget SUVs that are produced and sold in 2015, the Korean SsangYong Kyron is suitable for you. The main features of the Korean SUV are:

  • an appearance reminiscent of Mercedes' first developments in this segment;
  • a good engine, also created together with the Germans;
  • power and efficiency, high technology, despite the low price;
  • excellent reliability, much higher than that of Chinese competitors.

With all its advantages, the Korean SUV is priced only slightly above 1,000,000 rubles, which makes it one of the budget representatives of the class. Today, budget SUVs and crossovers from SsangYong are beginning to enjoy active interest among Russian buyers.

KIA Sportage - a stylish SUV in an inexpensive class

Visually, it’s difficult to say that the new KIA Sportage is a budget car. This is a crossover that embodies the latest style of a corporation from Korea, which means that the car has beauty, practicality and the highest comfort. Among the important advantages of a crossover are the following features:

  • the best appearance among all representatives of the segment;
  • the most powerful engines in the class for 2015;
  • excellent Korean assembly, high quality car;
  • one of the best places in the international rankings.

In all countries where the KIA Sportage is sold, you can find fans of this model. Despite all the excellent features and wonderful features of the crossover, the Korean development costs in Russia from 905,000 rubles. This is quite an interesting choice for any buyer.

Nissan Terrano is the cheapest Japanese crossover

There are very few worthy representatives in the budget crossover class. This is exactly what fans of compact and relatively passable cars say. Today, the Japanese manufacturer Nissan, in cooperation with Renault, offers the beautiful Nissan Terrano. Previously, this was the name of a real jeep, but today the crossover has the following features:

  • very noticeable similarity with Renault Duster - the most successful SUV in Europe;
  • simple engines of 102 and 135 horsepower with low consumption;
  • a successful salon, reformed to meet the requirements of modern times;
  • good quality of the car, taking into account its availability;
  • the price from 720,000 rubles quite pleases buyers.

Don’t expect cross-country ability from this car, but the car will please you with the build quality and quite adequate comfort. Having appeared on the market two years ago, the new budget crossover did not create the desired sensation, but received many fans who are ready to put the car in the TOP of all existing ratings. Perhaps Nissan simply failed to lure people for a test drive.

Let's sum it up

High-quality and productive, passable and beautiful SUVs are quite expensive cars. But you can choose more affordable representatives of the segment and get quite interesting qualities and features. The main thing is that it is in inexpensive transport that those functions and features are concentrated, without which the operation of the car is impossible. But in more expensive segments there are often functions for which you paid in vain. Among the main advantages of budget crossovers are practicality and good layout.

If you want a crossover or a real off-road SUV, and you don’t have more than a million rubles of money, it’s time to take a closer look at the inexpensive class. This segment today can offer very interesting features for all characteristics and requirements. You just need to choose a car that will fully satisfy your requirements in terms of quality, cross-country ability and other parameters.