Load up on fantastic features instead of unloading your wallet with these amazing used small SUVs.
The market for small SUVs has become increasingly competitive over the years as drivers look for vehicles with many of the capabilities of an SUV but with better fuel economy and at a more affordable price. The number of pre-owned options might seem overwhelming: we’ve picked out a few small SUVs that deliver big value.
Chevrolet Equinox
The primary attraction to having an SUV is having the option to configure the interior to suit your passenger and hauling needs. The Chevrolet Equinox upped the game by making the SUV a Wi-Fi hotspot beginning with the 2015 model year, giving you a truly mobile office. Chevrolet also offers a generous amount of standard safety features such as the rearview camera and Teen Driver, for the new drivers in your family. You can easily find a used late model Equinox in the premium LT trim for under $20,000.
Ford Escape
Ford’s compact SUV if feature-rich without leaving you cash-poor. Fully-loaded relatively late model Escapes at the Titanium trim level can be found used in the low $20,000 price range. If your price point needs to be lower, Ford included many of the most-wanted comfort and tech features in the lower-level trims. Whichever level you choose, the Escape provides a peppy ride that handles as easily as a car and gets a respectable 28-30 MPG highway, making this a great commuter option. With up to 68 cubic feet of cargo space, you have plenty of space, plus the convenience of a foot-operated, hands-free liftgate for when you go a little overboard at the warehouse store.
Kia Sportage
The inside of the Sportage is roomy enough that your taller passengers don’t have to call “shotgun!” to be sure they have legroom. Even in the lower trim, you get plenty of the features that you want, including smartphone capability and USB charging. At 30.7 cubic feet of space with the seats up, you don’t get quite as much space as the Sportage’s rivals, but you still have plenty of room to handle your errands, projects, and weekend getaways. You can find 2016 and 2017 used Sportages in the higher-level LX trim for under $15,000, so you can stack up the features and still get a great deal.
Mazda CX-5
The CX-5 is arguably the most spry of the compact SUVs on this list with nimble handling on curves and zippy demeanor around town. You also have plenty of space to cart the family and their gear to practice or rehearsal, while keeping everyone comfortable. With gas mileage in the 23-24 city/29-31 highway range, the CX-5 is an economical commuter vehicle that is so fun to drive you might catch yourself volunteering for errands and carpool duty.
Mitsubishi Outlander
For those families that need more passenger room, the Mitsubishi Outlander is a good three-row option at a good price point. The Outlander typically gets a solid “meh” from expert reviewers; however, owners seem to love them for their versatility and the number of features for the money. If you have kids to transport, the Outlander can haul everyone around town without being too thirsty at the gas pump. Look for one with the off-road package, if your clan loves outdoor adventure. With Mitsubishi’s outstanding 10-year/100,000-mile warranty, you’re almost assured of finding one that is still covered by the manufacturer.
Details To Consider Before You Sign
You have many options when it comes to buying a pre-owned compact SUV. Besides kicking the tires and taking a test drive, you may want to obtain a vehicle history report and educate yourself regarding the manufacturer’s warranty. Your used vehicle may still be covered under the original new car warranty, or the manufacturer may extend the warranty for used cars. Buying certified pre-owned is another option, but you may pay a premium for that extra peace of mind.
The value of purchasing your next small SUV used is a no-brainer. In most cases, you can get a premium-level trim for the price of a brand-new base model. And with the amount of history available on modern vehicles, buying used is much less intimidating than it used to be. Visit your local used car dealer to see these great options firsthand. Happy car hunting!
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