With the cost of new vehicles still climbing, many buyers are looking to the used market for dependable, affordable SUVs that still have plenty of life left in them. The good news? There are some excellent options out there—if you know what to look for.
Whether you’re after a family hauler, a compact commuter, or something with light off-road chops, this guide walks you through the best used SUVs to consider in 2025 and 2026. These models stand out for reliability, ownership costs, comfort, and everyday practicality.
We’re focusing on SUVs from roughly 2018 to 2022—the sweet spot where value, dependability, and modern features overlap.
1. 2018–2021 Toyota RAV4
Best For: Commuters, families, hybrid shoppers
Why It’s a Smart Buy: The RAV4 has legendary reliability, strong resale value, and efficient hybrid trims.
Toyota’s fifth-generation RAV4 launched in 2019 with bolder styling, more interior space, and an available hybrid with serious MPG (up to 41 city). Even base trims come with Toyota Safety Sense features like adaptive cruise control and lane keeping. The hybrid is especially worth hunting down if fuel savings matter to you.
Avoid: Early 2019 models had some infotainment bugs—aim for 2020 and up if possible.
Price Range (2025): $18,000–$26,000 depending on trim and mileage
2. 2018–2020 Honda CR-V
Best For: First-time SUV buyers, daily drivers
Why It’s a Smart Buy: Quiet ride, huge cargo space, dependable drivetrain.
The CR-V is a staple for a reason. Even the base model feels refined, and if you go for EX or EX-L, you get a sunroof, upgraded infotainment, and more safety tech. The 1.5L turbo engine introduced in 2017 offers a nice balance of power and efficiency, though the non-turbo 2.4L is a reliability king.
Avoid: Turbo engine had early oil dilution concerns in cold climates—2020 models had fixes.
Price Range (2025): $17,000–$24,000
3. 2019–2022 Mazda CX-5
Best For: Drivers who want a sportier feel and upscale interior
Why It’s a Smart Buy: Rare blend of fun, style, and reliability in a compact SUV.
The CX-5 feels closer to a luxury vehicle than most rivals, especially in Grand Touring or Signature trims. The handling is sharp, the cabin is premium, and Mazda’s reliability scores are consistently solid. The 2022 refresh brought a new grille and improved suspension.
Avoid: Base Sport trim if you want Apple CarPlay and Android Auto—those came standard from 2020 onward.
Price Range (2025): $20,000–$28,000
4. 2017–2021 Subaru Outback
Best For: All-weather driving, outdoor lifestyle, cargo flexibility
Why It’s a Smart Buy: Standard all-wheel drive, roomy layout, excellent crash safety.
The Outback is technically a wagon, but it competes in the SUV space with its raised ground clearance and off-road ability. Subaru’s symmetrical AWD system is proven in bad weather, and the 2.5L engine is reliable if not fast. Avoid the turbo 2.4L unless you want the extra power and are okay with more maintenance.
Avoid: 3.6R models if you’re looking to save on gas.
Price Range (2025): $17,000–$26,000
5. 2018–2021 Hyundai Santa Fe
Best For: Families who want value and warranty coverage
Why It’s a Smart Buy: Excellent feature set for the money, newer models still under warranty.
Hyundai redesigned the Santa Fe in 2019 with a sharper look and a more refined interior. Even mid-level trims like SEL or Limited include features like blind-spot monitoring, power liftgate, and heated seats. Hyundai’s long powertrain warranty (10 years/100,000 miles) adds peace of mind.
Avoid: Base SE trims if you want full safety and tech features.
Price Range (2025): $16,000–$25,000
6. 2018–2021 Chevrolet Equinox
Best For: Budget-minded buyers, simple tech, smooth ride
Why It’s a Smart Buy: Solid value, easy to drive, widely available across the U.S.
The Equinox may not have the flash of a RAV4 or CR-V, but it gets the job done for thousands less. Most models use a 1.5L turbocharged engine with decent fuel economy and simple, straightforward controls. Ride quality is soft and quiet—great for highway commuters or small families.
Avoid: Base L trims lack touchscreen and advanced safety features.
Price Range (2025): $15,000–$21,000
7. 2019–2022 Kia Sportage
Best For: Compact SUV shoppers who want features over flash
Why It’s a Smart Buy: Underrated reliability, long warranty, great safety tech
Kia’s Sportage often flies under the radar, but it’s one of the best-kept secrets in the used SUV space. From 2020 onward, Sportage models come with standard automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and an 8-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration.
Avoid: 2017–2018 models if you want modern safety tech.
Price Range (2025): $16,000–$23,000
8. 2018–2021 Ford Edge
Best For: Families needing more space without going full three-row
Why It’s a Smart Buy: Strong engines, roomy cabin, sharp infotainment
The Edge offers midsize space with two-row simplicity. You get a smooth ride, tons of cargo room, and Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment, which remains one of the best in the segment. Models with the turbocharged 2.0L EcoBoost engine offer a good balance of power and efficiency, while the ST version brings sporty flair.
Avoid: 2015–2016 models had early SYNC issues and aging interiors.
Price Range (2025): $19,000–$28,000
9. 2018–2020 Toyota Highlander
Best For: Families needing a third row with Toyota-level reliability
Why It’s a Smart Buy: Proven V6 engine, available hybrid, and strong resale
The Highlander is one of the few three-row SUVs with great longevity and manageable size. It drives like a midsize but has room for seven or eight passengers. Look for LE Plus or XLE trims for the best combination of tech and comfort. The 3.5L V6 is one of Toyota’s best, and hybrid versions offer excellent fuel economy.
Avoid: Third row is tight—only a fit for kids or short trips.
Price Range (2025): $22,000–$32,000
10. 2019–2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Best For: Drivers who want a rugged feel with upscale options
Why It’s a Smart Buy: Real off-road capability, wide range of trims, classic style
The Grand Cherokee offers a rare mix: it’s rugged enough for the trail but comfortable enough for daily driving. V6 models are common and reliable, but V8 and Trailhawk versions offer serious performance. Interiors from 2019 on feel modern, and Uconnect is easy to use.
Avoid: Older models without maintenance history—some had transmission issues before 2016.
Price Range (2025): $20,000–$34,000
Bonus Picks
Best Small Hybrid SUV: 2019–2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid – great fuel economy with no plug, solid resale, roomy interior.
Best Budget Subcompact: 2018–2021 Nissan Rogue Sport – smaller than the regular Rogue, easy to park, lower price, decent tech.
Best Plug-In Hybrid Option: 2020–2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime – pricey but powerful, fast, and over 40 miles of EV range.
Final Tips for Buying a Used SUV
- Always get a pre-purchase inspection. Even reliable models can have issues if they weren’t cared for properly.
- Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles add peace of mind and often extend warranties.
- Check the tires, brakes, and fluids during test drives—expensive wear items can be easy to miss.
- Don’t buy blind. Use services like CARFAX, AutoCheck, and your local DMV records to check for accidents or salvage history.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to break the bank for a safe, comfortable, reliable SUV. The models listed here deliver value in 2025 and 2026—whether you’re buying your first crossover or upgrading for family space. Focus on condition, maintenance records, and the trim level that fits your needs.
At BidForAutos, we help you make smart car decisions. Bookmark this guide and check back for updated pricing, trends, and even future vehicle bidding tools.
