Best SUV under $500 per month?

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I’m about 60-90 days from hopping into a new SUV. I currently own a 2020 GMC Terrain that I purchased (short term) in July and will sell in January (have to keep 6 months per dealership finance stipulation). Believe it or not, both Carvana and Algo are offering about $1,500 more than what I originally paid for it brand new.

So here comes the question:

Paying only inceptions, with no MSDs, on what SUV can I get the most bang for my buck? Looking to stay under $500 per month on a 36/10 or 39/10 lease.

Prior to my Terrain I leased a Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland and loved it, i’m considering a V8 version of that which would put me right around $500 per month (or so I think) but the only thing holding me back is the fact that a few months into 2021 Jeep will be coming out with the all new Grand Cherokee…so not sure about pulling the trigger on a model that’s about to be obsolete.

Don’t need (or want) a 3rd row. Would like something mid-sized with good power, preferably sporty look. Looked at the RX350 and it’s ok…but not crazy about it. Maybe an X3? GLC?

Any suggestions?

Alfa Stelvio Ti Sport maybe? Sounds like you could just squeeze under that number with limited drive offs. I’d check to make sure the 6 month requirement is accurate, usually a couple of payments and you’re good from the dealership finance end of things. Your 3rd party offer may not stay this good 60 to 90 days from now.

They did make me sign something saying I wouldn’t sell or refinance before January. I’m sure it’s because they want the full kickback from the finance side of things but i’m ok with waiting another 60 days.

I did look at the Stelvio and it looks nice but the feedback i’ve ready point to a ton of issues with Alfa vehicles. Is that something to worry about?

Its an Italian car lol… I think that sums it up. That being said, they are quite nice and fun to drive. If you were going with a 24 month lease under warranty and avoiding the major services beyond 30K Miles I wouldn’t be too concerned though.

I’d look into the legal enforceability of such an agreement. As far as I know its usually a much shorter term before the dealer gets their kickback from a captive finance arm. They might just be giving themselves extra time to be sure.

RDX Aspec, XT5, 4Runner, and Atlas Cross Sport

As someone who has had this current gen GC 3 times, please do not lease it. The platform is over 10 years old and feels its age. I absolutely loved mine, V8s, even after one of them was bought back on lemon law. The reality is that it’s a 10 year old car and it now feels and somewhat looks it’s age. Try Alfa. XC60 RD T6, maybe a jag if you can find a loaner.

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The Atlas Cross Sport looks decent - too bad the engine choices aren’t great. I may have to go take a look at one.

The XC60 looks too small to me.

The RDX i’m willing to go look at but the ones i’ve seen on the road scream “cheap”.

Did you look through the Marketplace?

It was obsolete a long time ago

Yes I did, and there’s certainly many options at this price point. Just trying to get some feedback and maybe see if i’m missing any vehicles (like the VW Atlas Cross Sport).

I put at least 150 miles on my parents’ 2020 Grand Cherokee today.

I hate SUVs in general. I didn’t hate this one more than any other one I’ve driven recently.

I am 100% certain I’d rather have 1 GC than 27 RAV4s.

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I think the RDX Aspec has a sportier appearance and some color combos only available in that trim.

Subaru ascent top trim should be achievable under 500 especially with paying drive offs.

I secured one for 510 all in just first payment for 36/10 tax rate 5.5%.

Surprised by the engine, it has more life than I expected.

Good luck

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I can’t speak from ownership, but when I was kicking tires, my local Alfa dealer wanted $500 bucks for a service. It’s just nuts.

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Highly suggest a GLC 300, RDX is a great car, GLC 300 is even greater. Having experience with almost every car brands SUV’s I really enjoy my GLC, Especially if you can pick up a STUNNING AMG Package’d one.

Could also take a look at a Passport Sport, F-Pace’s are solid if you can find one under $500, Discovery Sport would be something great to look at as well, especially with the new re-fresh,

Overall: GLC 300, RDX A-Spec, F-Pace & Discovery Sport! Passport Sport if you want something different and strange

Yeah you definitely want to stay away from longer terms and higher mileage allowances. I wouldn’t go higher than 24/12k on one of them. That 30k service is expensive.

I actually like the look of the GLB better than the GLC. The F-Pace and Discovery sport are all over $500 per month.

Disco Sport under 500/month all in is doable. I’ve done it multiple times pre-covid. GLB is very doable under 500 all in.

Interesting, The GLB reminds me of a mini-van for some reason.

A quick search in my tri-state area, found Discovery Sports under $500 with $0 down, Obviously different for each state so good luck!

X3’s Nice As Well, love the styling

The GC looks good and is likeable enough. But as others have pointed out, it makes little sense to pay new car money for such an ancient platform, especially with the next generation due.

Most of the SUVs being mentioned are actually smaller than a GC, but still big enough. If you ask me, X3 > Stelvio (24 months) > GLB/C.