Written by: Jen Wagner
Last updated: December 1, 2022
According to Kelley Blue Book (KBB), car buyers are facing an unprecedented market in 2022. With low inventory and high demand continuing to be a problem in the U.S., shoppers are paying much more than the sticker price for a new car. In fact, purchase prices currently average just over $1,000 more than the MSRP, with a new non-luxury vehicle costing $43,942.
Because the effects of inflation are being felt across the board—at the car lot, gas station, grocery store, etc.—sticking to a budget is becoming even more critical. Accordingly, searching for a used car might be the most practical option for some people, and identifying some of the top used SUVs can help you begin your search for an affordable vehicle.
7 Used SUVs You Can Find Under $25,000
#1. 2015 Toyota Highlander
As a midsize SUV offering front and all-wheel drive options, the Toyota Highlander is convenient and economical for families who desire space and comfort. It has room for eight and ranks high in reliability and safety, with standard features including:
- Eight airbags
- Lower anchor and tethers for children (LATCH) points
- Stability and traction control
- Anti-lock brakes with brake assist
- Rearview camera
- 6.1-inch touchscreen display
KBB Rating: 4.6/5.0
Safety Rating: 5.0/5.0
Fuel Economy: City 18/Hwy 24/Comb 20 MPG
#2. 2016 Honda Pilot
This roomy crossover SUV is another popular choice for families, especially those looking to save on gas without compromising on space. Its standard 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers a smooth ride and handling, and its comfortable interior provides ample cargo room accommodating 7-8 passengers. It also offers several electronic driving aids like:
- Forward collision and lane departure warning
- Lane keep assist
- Adaptive cruise control
Eco mode for better fuel economy
- Honda LaneWatch passenger-side blind spot camera
In addition, the 2016 Pilot was a U.S. News & World Report winner for Best 3-Row SUV for the Money and Best 3-Row SUV for Families.
KBB Rating: 4.8/5.0
Safety Rating: 5.0/5.0
Fuel Economy: City 18/Hwy 26/Comb 21 MPG
#3. 2016 Honda CR-V
Another great option from Honda, the 2016 CR-V, was the KBB winner of the Best Buy Award among small SUVs for that year. Although it is a smaller SUV, the interior is roomier than it appears and can comfortably seat five. Additionally, the 2016 CR-V has an excellent reliability record and high resale value.
KBB Rating: 4.8/5.0
Safety Rating: 5.0/5.0
Fuel Economy: City 25/Hwy 31/Comb 27 MPG
#4. 2017 Subaru Outback
If you want a vehicle that keeps you safe on or off the road, the 2017 Subaru Outback is a reliable choice. As an all-wheel-drive vehicle, the Outback is a solid option for families or individuals who love exploring the great outdoors and desire generous travel cargo space. It even offers excellent resale value, safety, and fuel economy.
KBB Rating: 4.3/5.0
Safety Rating: 5.0/5.0
Fuel Economy: City 25/Hwy 32/Comb 28 MPG
#5. 2017 Toyota RAV4
The compact-crossover Toyota RAV4 is a dependable and safe option for smaller families or single drivers. It can comfortably seat five because it offers ample interior space and is known for delivering a smooth ride for enjoyable traveling. Additionally, every model includes the Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P), a suite of safety features including pre-collision braking, automatic high beams, lane-departure alert, and Toyota’s Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.
KBB Rating: 4.5/5.0
Safety Rating: 5.0/5.0
Fuel Economy: City 22/Hwy 28/Comb 25 MPG
#6. 2018 Mazda CX-9
Growing families don’t have to sacrifice space or luxury with the 2018 CX-9. Instead, you get the best of both worlds. This 7-seater vehicle has a 3rd row that’s efficient for kids and an impressive interior with luxury quality that the adults will appreciate. As Mazda’s biggest SUV, all CX-9 models come with Smart City Brake Support, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot monitoring. KBB customers give it a 4.8/5.0 rating, confirming it’s a well-loved vehicle.
KBB Rating: 4.1/5.0
Safety Rating: 5.0/5.0
Fuel Economy: City 22/Hwy 28/Comb 24 MPG
#7. 2017 Subaru Forester
The 2017 Forester is another desirable SUV that delivers robust on and off-road capabilities and has a strong reputation for reliability. Because it has an all-wheel-drive system, the Subaru Forester will benefit any driver but is especially practical for people in snow belt regions. It also has improved fuel economy to help preserve your bank account at the pump.
KBB Rating: 4.5/5.0
Safety Rating: 5.0/5.0
Fuel Economy: City 26/Hwy 32/Comb 28 MPG
Keep Your SUV in Top Shape With Extended Vehicle Protection
Once you find the best used SUV for your needs, ensure you’re covered during a mechanical breakdown by researching affordable coverage plans. Unless you buy a certified pre-owned vehicle, you’ll likely have no active warranty coverage. But investing in a vehicle service contract from a reliable third-party provider can give you peace of mind when you face a mechanical failure. And depending on the provider and plan you pick, it might even cover maintenance. Not sure where to start? Check out our vehicle warranty program reviews here.
