With all of the advancements in automotive technology, the price of buying a new vehicle keeps rising. This is especially true in the new SUV market. However, buying new isn’t always the best idea. Did you know that the value of your car depreciates by 20% within the first 12-months of ownership? And that insurance and taxes are more on a new car?
A way around these expensive taxes and depreciation is to check out the pre-owned market. Usually, you can find exactly what you want in next to new conditions. And if you extend your search a few years back, you’ll usually be able to buy an even nicer car than you would if you were buying on the new market. Like stepping up from a Jeep Compass to a Toyota 4Runner.
To help give you some guidance, we’ve compiled a list of the best-used SUVs on the market by price and by function. The prices listed below are based on prices as of February 2021 and include a range of options and accessories.
Best Used SUV under $10,000
2011 Honda CRV
For the under $10,000 price range, we recommend the 2011 Honda CRV. These are great little SUVs that are known for lasting a lifetime. In fact, with regular maintenance, you can expect up to 250,000 miles on this vehicle.
Not only are CRVs known for their longevity, but also for how inexpensive they are to maintain and their great gas mileage. If you’re on a budget, this is a great option for you.
Something to look for when buying a Honda CRV is a service record that matches Honda’s recommendation and has been regularly serviced at a Honda dealership.
Best SUV under $20,000
2017 Mazda CX-5
We choose the 2017 Mazda CX-5 because it’s the first year that Mazda produced the Gen2 for this model. The Gen2 CX-5 has a ton of improvements over the Gen1 including a sharp looking body style. 2017 is also a recent enough year that you can find models with relatively low miles on them.
Notable features of the Mazda CX-5 include:
- A comfortable backseat that reclines
- A sophisticated infotainment system that’s mounted high so you can operate without taking your eye off of the road
- A quiet cabin ride
- Great gas mileage
The handling on this vehicle is also great making it a fun and sporty ride. Especially for a crossover SUV. One thing to note when you’re looking for a CX-5 is the drivetrain. AWD is optional, so be sure to avoid the 2WD option if you frequent the mountains.
Best Used SUV Under $30,000
2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland
The Overland edition of the Jeep Grand Cherokee is a great SUV. It’s the perfect cross between luxury, off-road, and comfort. Upgrades unique to the Overland include air suspension with height control, multiple terrain modes (for rock, sand, mud, & snow), and vented/heated seats in the front and back. There are also tow hooks on the front if you get stuck driving to the mountain.
In terms of luxury features, the Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland edition comes with a
- Digital dash
- Comprehensive infotainment system that shows various off-road info, GPS, phone controls, and more
- Premium sound system
- Moonroof
- Lush leather interior
These capabilities will provide you with the perfect ride whether you’re going camping, commuting to work, or picking up the kids from soccer practice. As an added bonus, the overland comes with dual exhaust that looks amazing and sounds great.
On top of these added feature
- Vented and heated seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Off road information in infotainment showing wheel angle while steering, terrain mode, altitude, long and lat, suspension height, downhill speed control
- Front tow hooks
- Adjustable headlights based on car angle (up down and steering
- Heated reclining backseats with a a/c plug and usb power
- Standard tow package
If you’re looking for a “new” used vehicle this year, be sure to check out our 3-Step Used Car Buyers Guide.
