SUVs have become such a popular style of vehicle that manufacturers have made more bad models than good. Further, picking through the affordable used SUVs can be a challenge. Which ones are most reliable? Which models offer the best features? Is an SUV the right choice?
Though SUVs come in various shapes, sizes and options, there is little doubt that an SUV can be both capable and practical. Not everyone has the money to go out and buy a brand new Ford Expedition, nor do many need an SUV of that size. In fact, many compact and mid-size SUVs offer everything the modern family could need. Here are the best used SUVs that won't cost a fortune!
10 Nissan Juke
Much argument has surrounded whether the Nissan Juke is really an SUV or not. The concerns are valid, as this 2-door sub-compact looks less like an SUV than competitors, but ride height and increased cabin room give it a distinct SUV feel.
The Nissan Juke has generous gas mileage, up to 215 hp, and a NISMO trim variant making it an excellent SUV for less than $15,000!
9 Honda CR-V
Originally a compact SUV, the Honda CR-V has since gone through several size increases to bring it to the mid-sized SUV we have today. The CR-V is highly rated and scores well in terms of reliability and quality.
Filling the size spot between the HR-V and the Pilot, the CR-V offers moderate size, seating for 5, and almost 200 hp to make the CR-V one of the best SUVs you can buy. It's hard to go wrong with the CR-V!
8 Toyota RAV4
The RAV4 has been a staple for the Toyota lineup for over 25 years. This compact SUV features some of the most decisive quality awards out there, plus being a Toyota means it'll last a lifetime!
The Toyota RAV4 may be the best SUV out there. The Smooth ride, the raised drive height, available 4-wheel drive, and of course, the reliability make the RAV4 one of the best rides; plus finding great deals is quite easy!
7 Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester sits slightly taller than the Outback yet has a shorter length and width. Since its heyday in the early 2000s, the Forester has been a mainstay for the Subaru brand.
Featuring a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine and AWD standard, excellent gas mileage, and solid safety features make the Forester is practical and affordable! Indeed, the Forester is one of the best SUVs out there!
6 Mazda CX-5
Though smaller than the CX-9, the Mazda CX-5 offers quite the suite of capabilities from the 2000lbs towing capacity to the 31mpg on the highway; the CX-9 covers all the bases!
Mazda's CX-5 features some creature comforts such as heated seats, modest 227 horsepower, and beautiful styling. With such a compliment of options, this compact SUV is a great find under $15,000!
5 Toyota 4Runner
Few SUVs are built like the 4Runner. This mid-sized SUV features a beautiful 6-cylinder engine and towing up to 5,000lbs! From off-road adventures to trailer hauling and city driving, the Toyota 4Runner is capable in every environment.
Built like a tank, three rows of seating and 4-wheel drive give the 4Runner an absolutely thrilling on and off-road experience. For less than $15,000 these SUVs will last forever!
4 Buick Enclave
Buick has made the leap from an old-person car to a competitive SUV with the Enclave. Known for upscale interior design, smooth ride, and decent towing capacity, the Buick Enclave is one of the best SUVs on the market.
As a luxurious mid-sized SUV, the Buick Enclave starts well over $40,000 new but can be found for less than $15,000! With three rows of seating, AWD, and a cabin built for comfort, the Enclave is one of the best cheap SUVs!
3 Nissan Murano
With a similar style to the Rouge, the Nissan Murano gives a standard mid-size SUV an upgrade with generous cargo space and a silky smooth driving experience.
The Nissan Murano also features AWD, comfortable seating for five and 260 hp. Further, the Murano sports towing capability of 1,500lbs, all for less than $15,000!
2 Volkswagen Tiguan
A slightly forgotten model, the Volkswagen Tiguan offers a credible entry as an SUV! The Tiguan features copious cargo space and a third row of seating!
Though the Tiguan has a slightly underpowered engine, the interior is upgraded, the handling is fluid, and the cabin is quiet, making the Tiguan a comfortable commuter SUV for less than $15,000.
1 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
In the late 2000s, Toyota began to offer hybrid versions of some of their best-selling models, including the Highlander. As a result, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid became a vehicle that provided gasoline capabilities with the fuel efficiency of a hybrid engine.
The Highlander is an outstanding SUV; the hybrid is even better. Being able to withstand the elements with a 4-wheel drive, seating for 7 with 3rd-row seating, and great gas mileage make the Highlander hybrid one of the best sub-$15K SUVs!