Picking out a new car is never easy, but picking the style of car you want to buy should be. SUVs are a very popular option, though their price tag tends to inspire buying them used. SUVs provide a versatile option for those who are looking to do a little more than just driving back and forth from the office. More and more people are looking to SUVs to help them deal with the varied needs of day to day living and to be prepared should the unexpected happen, whatever that may be. They provide space for storage and passengers alike while also being reliable in any type of weather. But which to pick? Let’s take a look at some of the more popular used SUVs for sale today.
Jeep Wrangler and Cherokee
Jeep is often the first brand to pop into people’s mind when thinking about SUVs. Their classic and consistent styling is iconic while their legendary ruggedness suggests they’re built for the long haul. With a variety of styles to choose from, it’s easy to find an option that suits any need.
The Wrangler is the quintessential Jeep. Perfect for the adventurous and fun-loving driver, the Wrangler emanates the feeling that nowhere is off-limits. Two or four doors? Soft or hard top? What quirky cover can you get for the rear tire? These are the only questions that come up once you start thinking about a Wrangler. They’re fun all year long and yet still practical enough to be able to get you where you’re going without worry.
Jeep does provide a more practical option for those more concerned with commutes and schedules than off-roading and summer cruising: the Cherokee. Cherokees are designed with everyday life in mind. Four doors permanently locked into position with extra cargo. The Jeep pedigree also maintains reliability in any weather or driving situation should the need arise. Have a big family or always in need of extra room? Move up to the Grand Cherokee for that extra space.
Ford Explorer and Escape
An iconic and trusted brand in its own right, Ford has plenty to offer in the used SUV department as well. While the most consistently recognizable part of any generation of Ford may be the badge, there is something to say about the wider variety of looks available to a buyer interested in a used SUV. Ford is notorious for tweaking and upgrading their style in dramatic ways every so often creating a large pool of styles to choose from.
The Ford Explorer is a great choice for anyone looking for a ton of room. Used Explorers hold their value well and make for an excellent long term investment regardless of their age. They’re a common choice for people looking for a vehicle that can do it all, primarily one equipped to help in a family’s day to day schedule. These All-Wheel Drive utility vehicles have been trusted for almost thirty years and continue to be a top choice today.
Subaru Crosstrek
Subaru has forced its way into the forefront of the used SUV conversation. Consistently putting out models with All-Wheel Drive availability has made it the choice of the outdoorsy and the city folks alike. It’s not uncommon to see some of their sedans out in a snowstorm just because they can, which pretty much puts any questions about a Subarus SUVs reliability to bed. Subaru also has a reputation for building a vehicle that lasts a long time, giving confidence to any buyer that they’re looking at a sturdy car no matter what the model year.
The Subaru Crosstrek is an excellent option for those looking for the crossover style SUV. A more compact style does not limit space with up to fifty-five cubic feet of cargo volume depending on which year you purchase. Like many others in its class, Crosstreks can tow up to 1500 pounds and have around 150 horsepower. One advantage the Crosstrek will have over other used SUVs will be its gas mileage. The last few model years have gotten up to 26/34 city/highway miles per gallon.
Honda CR-V
Honda has done a great job building a reputation and fan base over the years. As one of the most popular brands on the road, it can be challenging to go anywhere without trailing or passing a few. Honda drivers have a storied dedication to their cars, often trading in old ones for a newer model year instead of choosing something different. Honda has a great pedigree for awards, having recently been awarded the 2019 Best SUV Brand from US News and World Report.
Each style of Honda has a following, and the CR-V is no different. Honda’s SUV has a great mix of space and efficiency. Recent models of CR-V have achieved up to 75.8 cubic feet of cargo space with 28/34 city/highway mileage per gallon. All-Wheel Drive is a must-have for most used SUV shoppers, and the CR-V meets expectations. You’re likely looking for value as well as longevity when buying used, meaning a Honda will appeal due to their overall outstanding specs and a reputation for long term ownership.
Toyota Rav-4
While we’ve credited the longevity of other vehicles on this list, the name Toyota has achieved near-mythical status as a company that builds immortal cars. The first thing any Toyota driver talks about is how dependable their vehicle is and how well it runs on the most basic of maintenance schedules. As is the case with the rest of their cars, the RAV-4 is a generational car and tends only to be replaced by a newer RAV-4, continuing a pattern of dependability and value. The RAV-4 has also been awarded the 2018 IIHS Top Safety Pick and achieved the NHTSA 5-Star Overall Safety Pick, both familiar awards for the brand.
The Rav-4 is Toyota’s version of a nearly indestructible SUV that can also brag about being tops in virtually every other meaningful category as well. While having a comparatively modest cargo volume maxing out around 37 cubic feet in recent models, gas mileage in a RAV-4 can get up to 26/35 city/highway miles per gallon. The towing capacity stands out amongst similar-sized SUVs in the class as the Toyota version can achieve between 1500-3500 pounds towing depending on the model you choose.
Putting it all Together
Finding a used SUV for sale, or any car for that matter can be stressful. Luckily, there are plenty of options available. Most of those options will cover every need, while some are designed to scratch a more specific itch. Space is often a top priority when looking for an SUV, so some of the sportier cars won’t be suitable. Then again, some of the bigger SUVs can be an extra drain on your gas budget. Everyone wants their used car to be in the best shape possible regardless of the model year, so maybe it’s best to look for vehicles with the highest reputation of longevity and reliability. Like anything else, though, it comes down to how you feel when you’re behind the wheel.
