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While going for a used SUV over a new one can save you big bucks, picking one that's reliable enough is still a challenge.
With the cost-of-living crisis biting large swathes of the population, the prospect of buying a new SUV may not be something you particularly relish at the moment. Sure, you can finance a new car and pay across several months to spread out the burden, but why spend beyond your means when you can have a used model that guarantees quality as any new vehicle, especially in the face of rising prices and bills?
While going for a used SUV over a new one can save you big bucks, navigating the used car market requires extra precautions to ensure you purchase a solid vehicle. To help, we've identified the ten most reliable SUVs on the used car market that will be well worth investing money and time.
The Toyota RAV4 has been the go-to compact SUV for North America for decades, as the brand's reputation within the automotive industry continues to set the well-rounded utility vehicle apart from its top rivals.
The RAV4's consistent reputation among consumers is also thanks to it being a solid, efficient, and dependable SUV. With a predicted reliability score of 81 out of 100 from J.D Power, the 2021 RAV4 is among the most reliable used SUVs you can buy.
If you're the type who craves excitement in your drive, you'll appreciate the 2021 Mazda CX-5. Its chassis is optimized for sporty and razor-sharp handling, while its optional turbocharged engine delivers a relaxing and refined ride.
Performance aside, the Mazda CX-5 is a trusted model for an ever-increasing number of delighted North American customers because it can do so much and be totally in adequacy with the current economic context, thanks to its excellent reliability and low cost of ownership. J.D Power rates the 2021 CX-5 81 out of 100 for reliability.
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The Honda CR-V is just as widely popular as the Toyota RAV4, and for good reasons. It offers solid performance, tried-and-tested technology, roomy accommodations, quality materials, and precise finishes that users appreciate.
The 2021 CR-V features a 190-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a slick-shifting continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), and excellent fuel economy rated at 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. This SUV scores 84 out of 100 for reliability, per J.D. Power.
According to the automotive stereotype, American cars are usually less reliable than their foreign counterparts. The Buick Encore dispels this notion and helps to build the reputation of U.S manufacturers as brands of long standing.
Not only is this subcompact SUV rated highly for its reliability (85 out of 100), but it also delivers a thrilling ride courtesy of its responsive performance, roomy interior, and an extensive list of standard tech features.
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If you're considering a family-friendly midsize SUV with three rows of seats, a used 2020 Toyota Highlander will be a very affordable and enticing option. It offers a standard V6 engine, a choice between front and all-wheel drivetrains, a power-adjustable driver's seat, tri-zone automatic climate control, alloy wheels, and so on.
Add a slew of safety and technology features such as an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, Amazon Alexa connectivity, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, etc., and the Highlander's intentions as a convenient family hauler become even more evident. J.D Power awards the 2020 Toyota Highlander an 85 percent score for predicted reliability.
No discussion of reliable SUVs is ever fully complete without reference to the Chevrolet Equinox. It's that dependable. Especially the 2019 model. This charming compact SUV reigns as much for its excellent reliability rating as for its precise handling and roomy, comfortable cabin.
Depending on the trim level you buy, the Equinox offers leather upholstery, eight-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and cooling functionality, dual-zone automatic climate control, a panoramic sunroof, a leather-covered heated steering wheel, and more. The 2020 Chevrolet Equinox has an outstanding predicted reliability rating of 87 out of 100.
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The 2018 Hyundai Tucson is an accomplished, practical compact SUV that's aesthetically pleasing and well suited to the modern lifestyle. Its small print makes for snappy city driving capabilities, while its intuitive infotainment system benefits users who demand straightforward connectivity features.
Additionally, the 2018 Tucson has a spacious and quiet cabin with well-padded seats that guarantee a high level of comfort. Second-row seats are easy to get in and out of due to the vehicle's wide door opening and sufficiently spacious second row. The 2018 Hyundai Tucson has an impressive predicted reliability rating of 4.5 out of five from J.D. Power.
Hyundai has become synonymous with reliability, and one of the most dependable Hyundai models you can buy used is the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. This midsize SUV is competitively priced and can be equipped with many available safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, etc.
Sante Fe also offers an excellent choice of engines, including a peppy turbocharged unit generating 240 horses. With a 4.5 out of five reliability rating from J.D. Power, the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe is among the most reliable vehicles in the midsize SUV segment.
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With an outstanding safety pedigree running through its veins, the Kia Sorento has an obligation not to disappoint consumer expectations. Built in Georgia, this midsize SUV offers an upscale cabin crafted with meticulous attention to detail, comfortable seats, an intuitive infotainment system, and an available V6 with 290 hp.
There's also a wide range of trim levels to choose from, ranging from the entry-level L to the LX, S, EX, SX, as well as top-of-the-line SX Limited. What secured the 2019 Sorento a seat at the table among the most reliable used SUVs is its notable predicted reliability rating of 4.5 out of five.
Known for its contemporary and eye-catching designs, the Kia Sportage has a well-deserved reputation as an exceptionally reliable compact SUV that upholds the impeccably high reliability standards associated with Kia and its parent company Hyundai.
But that's not all. Sportage is also celebrated for its excellent everyday usability, high-quality interior, cushioned ride, and splendid choice of engines. If you're looking for a used small SUV that will reliably haul you around in comfort for years, the 2019 Kia Sportage is an excellent investment, especially given its affordability and excellent predicted reliability rating (4.5 out of 5).
Monday Goma delights in writing about cars. He has written buyer's guides, car reviews, product reviews, etc., for a bunch of car dealership sites in the U.S. When not writing about cars, Monday can often be found either playing FIFA or researching new automotive technologies. Monday is married to a very devout, hardworking, strong-willed, and truly remarkable woman.