Additional Coverage:
- 7 Small SUVs Worth Buying (Even With High Mileage) (financebuzz.com)
Score Big Savings: 7 Used Small SUVs That Go the Distance (Without Breaking the Bank)
With new car prices soaring to an average of $49,000, smart shoppers are turning to the used market to save thousands. But let’s be real, nobody wants to end up with a “lemon” that constantly needs fixing or leaves you stranded.
Good news! There are plenty of highly-rated, incredibly sturdy used small SUVs out there that are built to last, even with a few miles under their belt.
Choosing a dependable pre-owned vehicle is a savvy move for anyone looking to get the most value for their money without sacrificing reliability. We’ve rounded up seven small SUVs that consistently prove their worth, year after year.
1. Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is a crowd-pleaser for good reason. It offers a comfortable ride, a surprisingly spacious interior, and a lively engine.
The 2019 model, for example, boasts an “Excellent” 4.5/5 rating from RepairPal, placing it among the top compact SUVs. Plus, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the 2019 CR-V a perfect 5/5 safety rating, so you can drive with peace of mind.
2. Mazda CX-5
If you’re looking for a used SUV with a touch of class, the Mazda CX-5 delivers. Its cabin feels upscale, and it provides a delightfully quiet ride on the highway.
For a bit more oomph, consider the 2019 version, which offered an optional turbocharged 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder engine pumping out an impressive 250 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Earlier models, while still good, might feel a tad less spirited.
The 2019 Mazda CX-5 also earned an “Excellent” 4.5/5 from RepairPal and a 5/5 safety rating from the NHTSA, with only two recalls to its name.
3. Ford Escape
The Ford Escape might be a “small” SUV, but its interior feels surprisingly roomy. While it might sacrifice a little cargo space for that extra passenger comfort, it makes up for it with a smooth ride and supportive seats. The 2022 Escape received an “Above Average” 4/5 rating from RepairPal, and the NHTSA has consistently given the Escape a perfect 5/5 safety rating every year since 2018, giving you a wide selection of reliable used models.
4. Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 strikes a near-perfect balance between cabin space and cargo capacity, making it a strong contender. Drivers also appreciate its quiet and comfortable ride, along with its user-friendly controls.
If you’re aiming for a RAV4 under $20,000, focus on 2021 models and earlier. The 2021 RAV4 received an “Excellent” 4.5/5 rating from RepairPal, and the NHTSA has given it a 5/5 Overall safety Rating for 2021 and all subsequent years, ensuring your safety on the road.
5. Kia Sportage
Kia has a reputation for offering quality vehicles without the hefty price tag, and the Sportage is no exception. Expect a quiet, smooth ride, an attractive dashboard, and a cabin with ample room for both front and rear passengers.
RepairPal gives the Kia Sportage an “Excellent” 4/5 rating, a great sign for budget-conscious buyers. And when it comes to safety, the NHTSA has awarded the Sportage a 5/5 Overall rating every year since 2018.
6. Hyundai Tucson
The 2019 Hyundai Tucson stands out for packing a ton of features into an affordable package. For around $12,000, you can enjoy a fantastic infotainment system, a comfortable ride, and interior materials that look far more expensive than they are.
While Hyundai phased out the turbocharged 1.6-liter engine in 2019, the 2-liter or 2.4-liter options still offer plenty of pep. RepairPal gives the Hyundai Tucson an “Excellent” 4/5 rating, and the NHTSA has given almost all Tucson models a 5/5 Overall Safety rating since 2019 (with the exception of 2022).
7. Subaru Forester
For drivers who appreciate an SUV with a hint of wagon utility, the Subaru Forester is a top choice. It offers generous cargo capacity, standard all-wheel drive, and impressive ground clearance, making it comfortable even on unpaved roads.
When shopping for a Forester, aim for models from 2019 or later, as they significantly outshine their predecessors. For instance, Edmunds rated the 2019 Forester as “Good” with a 7.8, while the previous year earned an “Average” 7.3.
RepairPal gives the 2019 Forester an “Above Average” 3.5/5 rating, and the NHTSA consistently awards it a 5/5 Overall rating.
The Bottom Line
Choosing a used small SUV is a fantastic way to save money without sacrificing quality – as long as you pick the right model. Owning a reliable vehicle is key, especially when considering that typical engine repairs can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000.
Investing in a durable, safety-rated vehicle not only helps you avoid costly fixes but could also lead to lower car insurance premiums. Drive smart, save big!
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- 7 Small SUVs Worth Buying (Even With High Mileage) (financebuzz.com)