A reputation for stellar reliability and unmatched resale value set the Toyota RAV4 apart from its competition. While this could result in the RAV4 commanding a premium price versus others in its segment, the good news is that Toyota built a whole lot of RAV4s in 2016, 2017, and 2018, so the average price of a good RAV4 isn’t crazy high.

This compact SUV seats five, and even in its base trim, it offers a bevy of features. Base-level 2017 RAV4s include remote keyless entry, a backup camera, cruise control, 6.1-inch touchscreen-operated infotainment, and automatic headlamps. Under the hood is a robust 176-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine backed by a six-speed automatic transmission. Base models are front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive is available, as is a hybrid version. Upgrades include leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, and a collision-mitigation system.

Toyota

RAV4 Hybrid

2017 Toyota RAV4

The compact Honda CR-V is one of the vehicles that started the crossover craze way back when. It remains one of the most popular SUVs of all time because it delivers economy, practicality, and a fun-to-drive demeanor in a five-passenger package.

The base 2017 CR-V offers nice touches like alloy wheels, LED running lights, automatic climate control, and an electronic parking brake. Remote keyless entry and cruise control are also standard features. Equipment available in higher trim levels includes a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, heated front seats, LED exterior lighting, a powered liftgate, a sunroof, and remote entry/start. Fuel economy is right there with the best of the segment at up to 28 mpg city/34 mpg highway/30 mpg combined.

Honda

 Rogue Hybrid

2017 Honda CR-V

The Toyota Highlander is a comfortable mid-size crossover SUV that offers substantial interior space, making it a popular family SUV. Depending on how it was ordered, its three-row versatility enables seating for up to eight, but we suggest a couple of them should be small children.

For 2017 the Highlander was nicely decked out even in base trim — alloy wheels, automated headlamps, remote keyless entry, a split/reclining second row, and a 60/40-split third-row. Among the cool upscale features on many used Highlanders are leather seating, a 110-volt power outlet, a 9-inch touchscreen, a rear-passenger communication system, parking sensors, a backup camera, and rear-seat entertainment. Under the hood is a 295-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine, backed by an eight-speed automatic transmission. Base models are front-drive, while all-wheel-drive is widely available.

Highlander

2017 Toyota Highlander

The Chevy Traverse is a large eight-passenger vehicle that will hold more stuff than other crossovers in its class. Its total cargo capacity is a whopping 116.3 cubic feet, and it is rated to tow more than 5,000 pounds. Ample power comes from the Traverse’s 281-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 engine teamed with a six-speed automatic transmission.

For 2017, the Traverse was offered in three trim levels — LS, LT, and Premier. Even the base LS offers dual-zone air conditioning, a backup camera, and six-speaker audio with USB and iPod inputs, while the Premier is loaded with features including a navigation system with real-time traffic information. Cruise control, heated exterior mirrors, and heated steering wheel are other luxury touches. The Chevy MyLink infotainment system is very easy to operate thanks to a big screen and large graphics.

Pilot

2017 Chevrolet Traverse

Like the Chevrolet Traverse, the Honda Pilot is one of the largest of the mid-size crossover SUVs. The Pilot’s sizable width means the third-row seat is more than adequate for adults, and therefore the Pilot can transport up to eight passengers.

A 250-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine is the driving force behind the Pilot. When mated to the base six-speed automatic transmission, the powertrain delivers 18 mpg city/26 mpg highway/21 mpg combined fuel economy. Almost the equivalent of a minivan in interior space, the Pilot’s ride quality has a bit of a minivan feel, especially in its front-drive version.

2017 Honda Pilot

General Motors’ Buick brand struck a jackpot with the Buick Enclave crossover SUV. It has been a Buick mainstay for years because of its combination of good looks, luxurious interior accommodations, comfortable ride, and significant value.

With three rows of seating, it will transport seven passengers with ease and eight in a pinch, and as an upscale brand vehicle, it delivers plenty of upscale features. For example, there is multi-zone climate control, an eight-way power driver’s seat, cruise control, and a power-operated liftgate. Available in front- or all-wheel-drive configurations, the 2017 Enclave is powered by a 288-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 paired to a six-speed automatic transmission. With the driving experience tilted toward comfort and quiet, there is a reason the Enclave finds a home in many suburban driveways.

Buick

2017 Buick Enclave

The Jeep Grand Cherokee can’t be easily categorized. It has an interior that is smaller than many mid-size SUVs, but it can be equipped like a luxury SUV. That said, there is no doubt the Grand Cherokee offers off-road capabilities superior to just about every competitor out there.

The 2017 Grand Cherokee offers a number of powerplant options. An interesting but rare choice is the 240-horsepower 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine, but since we are looking for great value here, you are probably well-advised to consider the 290-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 or the 360-horsepower 5.7-liter V8. (The ’17 SRT version of the Grand Cherokee offers a 475-horsepower 6.2-liter V8.) Most Grand Cherokees are very well finished with plenty of luxury SUV touches like proximity-sensing keyless entry. Traction control, parking sensors, and a rearview camera are fitted across the lineup.

Jeep

2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Explorer is one of Ford’s most popular models, so it is not surprising that in 2017 it was offered in five trim levels, enabling you to get what you need and avoid paying for things you don’t. A lot of used Explorers are on the market, and that is helpful from a price standpoint.

Even the base Explorer is quite well-equipped: alloy wheels, LED headlights, a split-folding third-row seat, and a power-operated driver’s seat. Higher trim levels offer added niceties like a surround-view camera system, remote engine start, and push-button start. Engine choices include the 270-horsepower 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder, 280-horsepower V6, and the 365-horsepower twin-turbo V6. The Explorer is one of the best-looking vehicles in the mid-size SUV segment, but the styling compromises second-row legroom a bit.

Ford

2017 Ford Explorer

If you are planning to take your family and all their gear for a week or two at a lakeside resort or mountain cabin, the Chevrolet Tahoe will provide all aboard with smooth ride and quiet comfort. Ironically, the Tahoe is based on GM’s full-size pickup truck chassis, but it doesn’t ride like a truck. In fact, quite the contrary.

The big SUV is powered by conventional V8 engines that emphasize smooth power delivery. The most popular is the 5.3-liter V8 that produces 355 horsepower. Not surprisingly, the Tahoe’s fuel economy isn’t great at 16 mpg city/22 mpg highway/18 mpg combined, but you have to remember this is a vehicle that will haul eight passengers and tow more than 8,000 pounds. With the off-road-oriented Z71 package, the big vehicle is remarkably capable even when the pavement disappears. But its work as a people-hauler has made the Chevy Tahoe one of the most popular traditional SUVs of all time.

Chevrolet

2017 Chevrolet Tahoe

The Mitsubishi Outlander is a compact SUV that offers a lot of interior space for the money. Its 128.2 cubic feet of passenger volume is among the biggest in the segment, and it is accompanied by 63.3 cubic feet of cargo space. The base powerplant is a 166-horsepower four-cylinder engine that helps deliver the Outlander’s 24 mpg city/29 mpg highway/26 mpg combined EPA fuel economy ratings.

The Outlander is available in two-wheel-drive or all-wheel drive, and it is known for its ruggedness. The typical 2017 Outlander has cruise control, keyless entry, a touchscreen entertainment interface, and a third-row seat. The latter differentiates it from most compact crossovers in the same price range. Hill-start assist and electronic stability control are two systems that make driving easier and safer.

Mitsubishi

2017 Mitsubishi Outlander

10 Used SUVs That Are Great Values

SUVs are everywhere these days, and it seems like most American drivers want one. SUVs are versatile, are easy to get in and out of, and can be a lot of fun to drive. It’s also nice to have a driving position that looks down on traffic, not up at it. That is why we have selected the best options.

Best Used SUVs

Acura

Alfa Romeo

Aston Martin

Audi

Bentley

Cadillac

Chrysler

Dodge

Ferrari

FIAT

Genesis

Hyundai

INFINITI

Jaguar

Karma

Lamborghini

Land Rover

Lexus

Lincoln

Lucid

Maserati

Maybach

Mazda

McLaren

Mercedes-Benz

MINI

Nissan

Panoz

Polestar

Porsche

Rivian

Rolls-Royce

smart

Subaru

Tesla

Volkswagen

Volvo

10 Best Used Pickup Trucks

10 Best Used Small Trucks

Trucks have become the new everyday vehicle for millions of people because modern pickups deliver a unique mix of ultimate utility and comfort that few other vehicles can. Automakers have responded by adding more luxury, better tech, and a load of clever options that make trucks more useful, desirable, and expensive. Buying used can save you thousands of dollars over new, and certified pre-owned (CPO) is even better.
Vehicle manufacturers must authorize dealers before they can certify vehicles. The process involves a rigorous inspection, and only vehicles within a certain age and mileage range qualify. While CPO vehicles can be a little more expensive than other used models, they typically come with long manufacturer warranties that cover a large portion of vehicle systems. That peace of mind is worth the extra cost, and you'll typically end up with a much nicer vehicle overall, as CPOs are held to a higher standard.
Which certified pre-owned pickup truck is right for you? There are so many great choices that it's hard to go wrong. We've gathered a list of our favorite recent model-year CPO trucks. Let's get started. 

10 Best CPO Pickup Trucks

10 Best Used Pickup Trucks Under $35,000

10 Most Reliable Used SUVs

A two-row SUV adds the additional cargo capacity and roomier interior of an SUV while still keeping dimensions manageable for those who live in more urban areas. They also get better fuel economy so they're easier on your budget. Here are the 10 best used two-row SUVs.

10 Best Used Two-Row SUVs

10 Best Used Electric SUVs

There is a wide range of eight-passenger SUVs on the market, but it can be a challenge finding one you can afford. Large SUVs that easily accommodate the kids and their friends are often more expensive than smaller ones, which makes them tough to fit into the family budget. A used eight-passenger SUV is a more affordable option.

Buying used will not only save you money and keep you on budget, but it may also let you get into a higher trim level or more luxurious vehicle than you could afford if you were buying new. Here are the 10 best used eight-passenger SUVs perfect for families.

10 Best Used 8-Passenger SUVs

There is no getting around the fact that the American public loves SUVs. For this model year, many predict that U.S. car buyers will purchase twice as many SUVs and trucks as passenger cars. The reason? Consumers appreciate the elevated driving position and the people- and cargo-carrying versatility that SUVs bring to the party.

Americans love SUVs. This is as true as the sky is blue. Americans love their looks, their versatility, and the aura they project. You don’t hear people who have inactive, sedentary lifestyles talking about their SUVs. The people who drive SUVs are pictured as adventurers who might just head off into the wilderness on an overlanding expedition on a moment's notice.

If there is a problem attached to SUVs and their popularity, it is their expense. For cheap transport, a small sedan, hatchback, or coupe will typically be much less expensive than an SUV. Sure, you can buy a used SUV, but with no warranty, you are out in the cold if something goes wrong. The solution is a certified pre-owned SUV backed by the manufacturer. If you shop and bargain, it will be much less expensive than the same model purchased new, but it will be covered by a comprehensive manufacturer warranty. Problem solved. Here are the 10 best CPO SUVs under $25,000.

10 Best CPO SUVs Under $25,000

We’re not surprised that you are interested in buying an SUV. You are certainly not alone. They used to say that the 1990s was the decade of the sport-utility vehicle, but the argument could be successfully made that this is the SUV decade. We don’t have to tell you why, either. Pretty much everybody is aware of how useful and versatile most SUVs are. For those who have people to transport or stuff to carry, an SUV will get the job done for them. If the SUV has an Achilles’ heel, it is cost. SUVs are typically expensive vehicles. Some of the vehicles on this list had suggested retail prices well over $60,000 when they were new. No matter how you slice it, that’s a lot of money for a vehicle. The answer to that is buying a certified pre-owned SUV, because that can drop the price by thousands of dollars while still offering you new-car-like warranty protection. Here are the 10 best CPO SUVs under $40,000.

10 Best CPO SUVs Under $40,000

Most Americans equate a vehicle’s size and weight to its ability to protect them in a collision. And there is some truth to that. It’s one of the reasons crossovers and SUVs have become so popular. They make you feel safer when you’re behind the wheel. But some SUVs are safer than others. Although modern-day crossovers are the safest the auto industry has ever produced, some models perform better in crash tests than others, or offer more sophisticated accident avoidance systems and driver aids that can help you avoid an accident in the first place.

For millions of Americans shopping for a good used SUV, safety is also a high priority, and you don’t have to compromise on safety to find an affordable SUV. There are many used models out there with the same desirable safety technology and excellent crash performance as the new 2020 models. To help you narrow down your search, we’ve created this list of 10 used SUVs under $40,000 with available accident avoidance systems and excellent crash test scores. Since most are just two to three years old, they can be found with low mileage and they can be purchased through manufacturers certified pre-owned programs.

Used SUVs Under $40,000 With Accident Avoidance Systems

While sedans are waning in popularity, SUVs and crossovers are more popular than ever. That means there are lots of choices for those who want a new SUV for the family. The challenge with buying an SUV is that it can be expensive. Used SUVs are a great way to stay on budget while still getting the car you need.

Since SUVs are often full of people, including lots of kids, safety is a priority. Here are the 10 safest used SUVs you can buy based on Insurance Institute for Highway Safety crash test ratings. All received the highest Top Safety Pick+ rating for the year listed.

10 Safest Used SUVs

Graduate, find a mate, procreate, and buy a crossover with three rows of seats. For millions, it’s the American dream: space for the entire family and then some. SUVs with the ability to carry up to seven passengers are more popular than ever. They’ve become the must-have for dads and moms from Newport, Rhode Island, to Newport Beach, California.

And why not? Little Billy Jr. shouldn’t be forced to share a row with his sister. She’s icky. And sister Jane deserves her own row of seats as well. There you go, girl. Stretch out and dream of someday owning your own three-row family truckster. Yes, we can stop for ice cream. But with dozens of used 3-row SUVs out there, which is best for your family? Well, we’ve done the research for you and narrowed it down to the 10 we think are the best. We’ve also limited the selection to crossovers. We’ll cover big-daddy SUVs like the Chevrolet Tahoe and Ford Expedition separately. Here are our favorites.

Best Used 3-Row SUVs

SUVs are everywhere these days, and it seems like most American drivers want one. In 2020, sales of SUVs topped the 50% level in the light-vehicle market for the first time, and the trend shows no sign of abating. SUVs are versatile, are easy to get in and out of, and can be a lot of fun to drive. It’s also nice to have a driving position that looks down on traffic, not up at it. The only trouble with SUVs is they are, on average, more expensive than their conventional sedan and hatchback counterparts.

The answer to that potential issue is to purchase a used SUV. Studies have shown quite clearly that vehicles that have been manufactured during the past few years have very long useful lives, perhaps the longest in history. That’s why this list of the five SUVs that cost the least to insure can be so valuable.

5 Used SUVs That Cost Less to Insure

When it comes to transportation, most people want comfort. Because of that, SUVs are everywhere. And if you have to ride in the second row of an SUV, there is no more comfortable place than in a captain’s chair. That is why SUVs with captain’s chairs are so popular. People like the elevated driving position and the people-carrying versatility that SUVs are so well-known for. And they love the people-hauling ability of vehicles that offer captain’s chairs in the second row. Not only are the captain’s chairs typically more comfortable than a spot on a bench seat, but the gap between the two captain’s chairs makes it easy to get into and out of the third row. That's a win-win. Of course, when purchased new, three-row SUVs with captain’s chairs are typically expensive. A great way around that is to buy a recent-vintage used version. Here is our list of the 10 best used SUVs with captain’s chairs.


10 Best Used SUVs With Captain’s Chairs

When you’re heading off to college, an SUV makes a lot of sense. It has the spaciousness you’ll need to move your furniture from dorm rooms to apartments, and to carry you and your friends on unforgettable road trips. And it often has all-wheel drive for that time snow fails to postpone that crucial exam or job interview. 

But a new SUV is often tough on a college budget. That’s why we’ve rounded up the 10 best used SUVs for college. Most of these models are small, easy to drive, and relatively affordable, yet also roomy enough to be useful. For variety, we also included a couple of higher-end models — two vehicles with third-row seating and one from a luxury brand. We focused on the 2016 model year to keep things relatively affordable, yet avoiding SUVs that may be too old to reliably get you through college. 

10 Best Used SUVs for College 

Prestige. Panache. Performance. The three pillars of a great German luxury car. The best combine a depth of engineering with exceptional design detail and an extraordinary exploitation of form as well as function. They look good and they drive even better.

You can argue that Germany’s top luxury brands — BMW, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi — build the best cars in the world. And that they have for decades. Many enthusiasts agree. Germany’s best also offer incredible used-car value. That’s right, buying used German luxury can save you big bucks compared to buying the brand new version of the very same car. For a fraction of the price, you get the same prestige, panache, and performance. To maximize your value, we limited our list of the 10 best used German luxury cars to models just four years old or newer. That means they’re still available through factory-certified pre-owned (CPO) programs with extended warranties. Our choices are listed alphabetically. 