If you're in the market for a midsize SUV, you'll be confronted with several decisions. The first choice you will probably consider is between a new and a used vehicle. And, with many consumers faced with job loss and all kinds of other consequential impacts of a deepening financial crisis, opting for a used midsize SUV may be a relatively easy decision for budget-conscious shoppers who are looking to save as much money as possible.
Updated November 2022: With more and more people turning to the used car market to cut down expenses and save a bit of money at a time of financial crisis, we’ve updated this list to include the most reliable midsize SUVs based on J.D. Power quality and reliability ratings.
However, beyond the substantial cost-saving opportunity, most buyers would want a reliable option that will provide them with peace of mind. Aware of this, we've identified the 10 best midsize SUVs to buy used to enjoy the reliable performance and comfortable experience you desire.
10 2018 Honda Pilot – 82%
The Honda Pilot has had its fair share of troubles over the last decade. However, despite belonging to a family with an oceanful of serious problems, the 2018 model stood out as a hallmark of reliability.
While earlier models have had faults ranging from air conditioning issues to malfunctioning electrical systems, transmission failures, and suspension problems, all the common faults for the 2018 model are minor and relate mainly to unusual suspension noise. That aside, expect to have no headache whatsoever with this vehicle.
9 2020 Toyota Highlander – 85%
The Highlander is one of those SUVs that needs no introduction, as it is well-known for being reliable and having, among many other things, an upscale cabin, a polished ride character, and, well, being a Toyota.
The vehicle does excel in ride quality and performance thanks to a pliant suspension and a 3.5-liter V6 producing 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque.
8 2019 Lexus RX – 85%
Another Japanese with a stellar reputation of being built to last, the Lexus RX is a beautiful, refined midsize SUV that delivers luxury and a pure rush of adrenaline courtesy of a robust 3.5-liter V6 that pumps out 290 or 295 horsepower, depending on the configuration.
While practicality isn't exactly its biggest strength, the option to transport cargo is attractive, as this vehicle offers sufficient cargo space. The standard model has 18.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind its rear seats and 56.3 cubic feet with these seats folded down. The 2019 Lexus RX L, which is essentially an RX with a longer body and an extra row, offers 7.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind its third-row seats, 23 cubic feet behind the second-row seats, and 58.5 cubic feet behind the first-row seats.
7 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe – 86%
The Santa Fe gained instant admiration from American buyers when it arrived as Hyundai’s first entry into the burgeoning SUV market in 2000. Since then, the vehicle has steadily built a strong reputation for high quality and reliability, making it just as competent as its Japanese counterparts.
Today, the Santa Fe is highly coveted by car shoppers for its affordability, short repair times, and low repair costs. J.D. Power gives the 2020 Santa Fe a reliability score of 86%.
6 2020 Chevrolet Blazer – 86%
It may be surprising to find a Chevy placed ahead of a Toyota or Lexus in a reliability ranking, but the 2020 Chevy Blazer has earned its place among the most dependable midsize SUVs to buy used.
Its exotic and potent engine options, razor-sharp handling, newest and latest technology, as well as exceptional build quality, more than equip this vehicle to meet the needs of modern consumers.
5 2020 Dodge Durango – 86%
Yet another reliable vehicle from 2020, the Dodge Durango is a great investment for consumers who are after a used midsize SUV with exciting features and exceptional performance.
Sold in five trim levels, this vehicle offers a wide range of engines, starting with a base 3.6-liter V6 that generates 293-295 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Those wanting more muscle can either opt for a 5.7-liter V8 with 360 horsepower or splurge on the 6.4-liter V8 with 475 hp. All three engines put power to the ground via a slick-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive is available.
4 2019 Kia Sorento – 87%
The Kia Sorrento is always outstandingly reliable and sensible, with lots of likable amenities that are worth every penny. It's got comfortable seats, a rich and modern-looking interior, a straightforward infotainment system, and a smooth ride that will make every trip pleasurable.
Under the hood, there's a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 185 horsepower. If that's not enough for your driving needs, Kia also offers a 290-horsepower 3.3-liter V6 option that should be adequate.
3 2020 Lexus GX – 87%
With a very strong score of 87% for quality and reliability from J.D. Power, the 2020 Lexus GX is a huge guarantee for consumers wanting a well-built midsize SUV with loads of off-road prowess.
Reliability and off-road proficiency aside, the 2020 GX makes small work of big jobs, thanks to a 301-hp 4.6-liter V8 that enables it to tow up to 6,500 pounds.
2 2017 Toyota 4Runner – 88%
The 4Runner is an example of the archetypal reliability we’ve come to associate with Toyota. It boasts well-proven underpinnings, rock-solid body construction, high-quality materials, and excellent off-road ability.
That feeling of dependability is further enforced by a great reliability score of 88% from J.D. Power. When appropriately equipped, the 2017 4Runner can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
1 2021 Nissan Murano – 89%
Depending on who you listen to, you may have heard that Nissans are no longer reliable. Well, the 2021 Murano, as it has always done, dispels such stereotypes and false perceptions, proving that Nissan's quality control is truly present and alive.
Solid and comfortable, this vehicle offers a sporty design, a wide range of advanced driver assistance systems, an intuitive infotainment system, roomy seats, and an efficient 3.5-liter V6 engine that develops 260 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque. The Murano's excellent build quality and a long-standing reputation for reliability have earned it the top spot in the list of the 10 midsize SUVs to buy used, and deservedly so.