SUVs are a popular choice for people who need to haul people from point A to B, have a reliable vehicle for weekend getaways, or who just want a big ride. This is probably why more than 36 million SUVs were sold worldwide in 2023. If you are looking to buy an SUV, it doesn’t have to be brand new. You can find reliable affordable SUVs without burning a big hole in your pocket. However, when buying a used vehicle, make sure you do your homework. This article aims to help you pick the best reliable used SUVs today based on information from various experts.
1. 2018 Cadillac XT5
Another top-rated for SUV for reliability is the 2018 Cadillac XT5. This mid-size SUV comes standard with a V-6 engine that produces 310 horsepower. It’s not the most exciting of rides according to owners however it also gives you above average fuel mileage that can save you some hard earned cash in the long term. It comes with a refined cabin that gives you as much as 63 cubic-feet of cargo space, several USB ports, a premium stereo system from Bose, and wireless charging for your smartphones. It has a J.D. Power reliability score of 87 out of 100. The entry level trim of the 2018 Cadillac XT5 sells for $18,132 today compared to its original MSRP of $41,590. Yes, it’s one of those vehicles that will surely not leave you stranded one day.
2. 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe
One of the most reliable affordable SUVs that hit the U.S. market is the Hyundai Santa Fe. For its 2019 iteration, the vehicle was not just given a facelift but rather completely redesigned. Aside from having a reliability score of 86 out of 100 on J.D. Power, this SUV boasts an efficient four-cylinder engine. It might not be as dynamic as its counterparts but who will complain if you get a 22 mpg in city streets and 29 mpg when cruising on the highway. Inside it’s loaded with enough technology and creature comfort features to keep the whole family happy while on the road. Today you can get a 2019 Santa Fe for as low as $15,938, according to the Kelley Blue Book.
3. 2020 Nissan Armada
The technologies of the vehicle may not be at par with today’s SUVs. It’s four years old but it’s still one of the reliabl affordable SUVs, according to owners and experts. In fact, it has a reliability score of 91 out of 100 from J.D. Power. Inside, you have enough space for seven adults who will have enough room to be comfortable. Under the hood of this SUV is a 5.6-liter V-8 that cranks out 390 horsepower. It has enough brute force if you need to tow and haul stuff for your weekend adventures. You can snage this Nissan for $23,297 today. That’s not bad, considering this entry-level’s original price was $49,275.
4. 2020 Kia Soul
The Kia Soul has evolved through the years. The Korean carmaker has done a great job by giving the 2020 release a complete redesign with quite a spunky look. It also came with better cabin design, more generous space, and some tech people will really appreciate. There are two engine options you can choose from for the 2020 Soul. One of that is a 2-liter powerplant that outputs 147 horses and another is a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine that products 201 horsepower. You get a sport-tuned suspension, Apple Car Play and Android Auot, a nice sounds system with six speakers, and a good list of driver assist technologies. For a reliability score of 89 over 100, and a sticker price between $13,000 and $16,000, what more can you ask for?
5. 2020 Chevrolet Equinox
If you’re looking for reliable affordable SUVs made by an American manufacturer, you cannot go wrong with the 2020 Chevrolet Equinox. While the nameplate has had several recalls by the NHTSA, this ride remains trusted by the market. It has a reliability score of 87 out of 100 and yearly maintenance cost might set you back by around $489. It has a powermill under the hood that’s pretty capable and can bring you from a full stop to 60 mph in under seven seconds. You can get the 2020 Equinox today for around $14,000 for its entry level L-Sport trim, and just below $19,000 for the Premier Sport Utility variant.
6. 2020 Mazda CX-5
The nameplate has been one of the mainstays of reliable affordable SUVs lists. The 2020 Mazda CX-5 does not fail its older generations. It’s much more nimble, upmarket, yet keeping everything practical. It constantly receives the nod for its stylish lines and overall looks, but it is also praised for its well-mannered ride and amazing handling. Under the hood is a 187-horsepower four-cylinder engine for its entry-level variant. The top-tier CX-5 boasts a more potent turbocharged block with 227 horsepower. It has a reliability score of 85 over 100 at J.D. Power and an expected maintenance cost of $447, according to RepairPal. You can purchase the base trim of this affordable family SUV for just $15,954 today. Meanwhile, the top-tier of the brood goes for $21,650.
7. 2021 Nissan Murano
The 2021 Nissan Murano comes standard with a V-6 engine that gives out 260 horsepower that distributes power via a continuously variable transmission. Besides its potent powerplant, it’s praised for its good list of active safety that includes rear emergency braking and the brand’s 350 degree active safety suite. When it rolled out the base Murano had an MSRP of $35,535, but you can get it now for $20,473. On the higher end of the spectrum, the Platinum trim can be yours today for $24,411, compared to its original MSRP of $47,085. The Murano has a reliability score of 89 out of 100.
Why Get One of These Reliable Affordable SUVs
When you get one of these top-rated SUVs for reliability, you don’t only save money. You save yourself from big headaches. Remember a good reliability score is an essential item on the checklist when buying used vehicles. Some of the vehicles you might get will most likely be beyond their warranty coverage, so doing your homework is a must if you don’t want to spend on repairs and yearly maintenance. Before shaking the hand of the seller, ask every