12 Best Used SUV under 20000 Dollars (for 2018) to Ride in Style

If you recently got a promotion with a considerable increase in your monthly paycheck or recently found that you’ll have a new member arriving in your family, your old sports coupe which is already on its last leg won’t cut in anymore. With a perfect balance of space, style, and features, an SUV can be an excellent replacement. But if you have a limited budget, going for a brand new SUV cannot be an option for the majority of the good, new SUVs cost above $25,000.Here we are up with a list of 12 Best Used SUV under 20000 so that you can ride with style.

However, this doesn’t mean that you cannot get our hands on some of the best SUVs with a limited budget.

Rather than going for a new SUV, you can go for a used model at a discounted price. Going for a CPO (Certified Pre-Owner) SUV makes great financial sense when you have a tight budget. These used models have been used for some time by the previous buyers and are now available with sharp discounts and many-a-times with a warranty, right from the manufacturer.

As a result, the pricey repairs which were very commonly linked to used cars in the past are completely eliminated.

However, a used SUV is still a huge investment and thus, you should do adequate research about the SUV model you are looking to buy to ensure that you get the best value for your money. But if you don’t know where to begin your search for a used SUV, we’ve created a list of some of the

Best Used SUV under 20000

#12. GMC Acadia 2018- $15,980

While new Acadia’s come with a hefty price tag, you can buy a used variant at around $15,980. Acadia is one of the most popular mid-size SUVs from GMC that features a comfortable 3^rdrow seat, making it a perfect family car. Apart from the comfort and stylish looks, the SUV is an impressive performer as well.

It features a 288HP V6 engine and a number of great features along with the premium image that GMC, as a brand carries.

If possible, try to go for the SL model of Acadia as it comes with features, like rear parking sensors, Bluetooth, remote engine starting, power liftgate, backup camera and a lot more. While Acadia is indeed a catch under $20000, it has a few drawbacks as well.

Many buyers have mentioned that there is acceleration loss when the car is fully loaded and its mileage to is not very impressive when compared with other SUVs in the same price range.

Specs

• 288HP V6 3.6l Engine
• All-Wheel Drive
• 6-Speed Automatic Transmission
• Mileage of 17/24 mpg

Pros

• Roomy interiors
• Premium looks
• Large cargo space
• Number of safety features
• Multiple airbags

Cons

• Acadia can be cumbersome to manage in limited space
• Loses acceleration when loaded fully
• Gas mileage is not too good

#11. Chevrolet Equinox 2018- $14,000

While the original model of Equinox, which was launched in the year 2009, was not highly impressive, its 2^nd generation which was launched in 2010 is still around and an excellent used-SUV option.

One of the best things about a used Equinox is the fact that it is easily available for around $14,000 and even for less.

Chevrolet Equinox also carries a large list of some amazing features, like powerful safety features, modern aesthetics, and two equally amazing models- the 3.6l V6 model that has a torque of 222lb-ft and 264HP or 2.4l 4-cylinder model that offers an impressive 32mpg on highway and 22mpg in the city.

If you are planning to buy used Equinox, try to go for LTZ or 2LT models as they offer standard types of equipment that are commonly found in luxury cars. While the 2^nd version of Equinox is widely appreciated by buyers and experts, its cargo space could have been better.

Specs

• Automatic Transmission
• Front-Wheel Drive
• Mileage of 22/32 mpg

Pros

• 4-cylinder is pretty powerful
• Driving dynamics are impressive
• Great safety ratings
• Interior is highly versatile

Cons

• Cargo space could have been larger

#10. Nissan Micra 2018- $16,500

If you are looking for reasonably priced used SUV that has some amazing off-road abilities, Nissan Xterra can be a great choice.

While the car is not known for the luxury, mileage or comfort that it offers, its bold aesthetics, ability to go anywhere and space for five passengers is its USP.The car also boasts a powerful V6 engine that offers 261HP and torque of 281 lb-ft.

If you are looking to buy a used Xterra, try going for the off-road-focused PRO 4X version to experience the best of its abilities.

If an off-road SUV is not what you are looking for and are focused on models that are more pavement-friendly, other SUVs in this list can be a better option. As mentioned above, poor comfort and gas mileage are two of its most common drawbacks.

Specs

• Automatic Transmission
• Rear-Wheel Drive
• Mileage of 16/22 mpg

Pros

• Impressive off-road capabilities
• Cargo space is large
• Engine is pretty powerful

Cons

• Front seats are not comfortable
• Mileage is not good
• Interior materials are cheap
• Ride is somewhat stiff

#9. Jeep Compass 2017- $13,900

If an SUV with off-road capabilities is what you are searching for, but are not impressed with the above mentioned Nissan Xterra 2014, the Jeep Compass 2014 can be a better choice. The SUV is stylish, comfortable, and the off-road capabilities of cars from Jeep are well-known in the industry.

The crossover SUV comes with a number of impressive features, like anti-lock brakes, front and side curtain bags, traction and stability control. While these features are also available in the previous Compass models, 6-speed automatic transmission is new in the 2014 model.

When compared with other crossover SUVs in this price range, Compass 2014 has more space in the front seating area. Passengers sitting behind get to enjoy taller seats, but might complain about the limited legroom. Majority of the buyers have positively reviewed Compass 2014 for its ability to tackle all the different types of road conditions.

Specs

• 5-Speed Manual Transmission
• Front-Wheel Drive
• Mileage of 23/30 mpg

Pros

• Ideal for a variety of road conditions
• Attractive aesthetics
• Roomy front seats
• Optional 2.4-liter engine

Cons

• Safety rating is average
• Engine is not very powerful
• Limited legroom in the rear

#8.Subaru Outback 2018- $17,000

One of the best-used luxury SUV under 20000 is not much of an SUV. Outback from Subaru with SUV characteristics, like high seating arrangement, raised ground clearance and all-wheel drive, comes with a luxury car characteristics, like excellent ride and gas mileage.

Moreover, it is also one of the easiest to find used SUVs.

But if you are planning to buy a used Outback, go for the 4-cylinder engine model to get great power without making any compromise on the mileage. Moreover, if you go with the premium trim package, you’ll also get a variety of other features like power seat for the driver, Bluetooth, keyless entry, allow wheels, etc.

While its features, like roomy interiors, excellent safety, fuel economy, and comfort are widely appreciated, some buyers have pointed a few drawbacks, like unimpressive acceleration and all-wheel drive.

Specs

• Automatic Transmission
• Standard All-Wheel Drive
• Mileage of 25/33 mpg

Pros

• Interiors are roomy
• Impressive safety
• Electronics are great
• Visibility is good
• Fuel economy is decent

Cons

• Accelerations are not very good
• Standard AWD

#7. Jeep Patriot 2016- $14,975

While you might find it a little difficult to find a used Patriot 2016, the SUV is worth all the extra efforts. It is one of the least expensive SUV that has great off-road abilities. The entry-level model of this SUV features a powerful 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine that can generate 158HP. You can also look for a 2.4-litre model that generates 172HP.

Patriot 2016 is available with an all-wheel-drive system if you are looking to drive on rainy roads and snowy highways. But if you want to experience its actual off-road capabilities, go for the one with Freedom-Drive II Off-Road package, which comes with a low-range 4-wheel drive system, hill descent control, and many other all-terrain features.

Fuel economy of its base model is 23/30 mpg and transmission choices include continuously variable automatic transmission and 5-speed manual transmission.

While the Patriot 2016 is undoubtedly one of the best off-road SUV, Jeep should have made some more changes to its aesthetics. Apart from the aesthetics, even the other specs are almost the same.

Specs

• Manual Transmission
• Front-Wheel Drive
• Mileage of 23/30 mpg

Pros

• Good horsepower
• Fuel economy is excellent
• Performance of the drivetrain is pretty good
• Number of built-in features
• Premium-quality wheels
• Safety features are great

Cons

• Same look of the previous Patriot models
• Specs are almost similar to the previous versions

#6. Toyota RAV4 2018- $15,990

The next entry in this list of Best Used SUV under $20000 is RAV4 from Toyota. As a car manufacturer, Toyota is known for the tough-build of its cars and the crossover SUV RAV4 is nothing different. The car has all the features that you would expect from a modern SUV.

Apart from a reasonable price tag, the SUV has a number of features that make it a perfect family car.

If we talk about the fuel economy, the base-model of RAV4 features a 4-cylinder engine which offers an excellent mileage of 24/31 mpg. If you are looking for power, the V6 engine-version of RAV4 generates 270HP and can go from 0 to 60 mph in less than 7 seconds.

Moreover, the latest model of RAV4 also features a 3rd-row seating, making it an excellent family car.

A used RAV4 is easily available and should cost around $15,990. While the car has thousands of positive reviews, complains of poor interior quality and awkwardly-positioned cargo door are also pretty common.

Specs

• Automatic Transmission
• Front-Wheel Drive
• Mileage of 24/31 mpg

Pros

• Large cargo space
• Highly fuel efficient
• 3rd-row seating
• Powerful V6 engine

Cons

• Cargo door is awkwardly-positioned
• Interior quality could have been better

#5. Nissan Rogue Select 2019- $16,997

While Nissan has not made a lot of changes to the 2014-version of Rogue Select, it is still an excellent choice if you are looking for the best used SUV under $20000. The 5-seater is available with all-wheel and 4-wheel drive. Sporty handling, excellent driving experience, and direct steering are some of the most complimented characteristics of this car.

Rogue Select 2014 comes with a number of safety features, like overhead and side airbags, a system for monitoring the pressure of the tires, lane change, blind-spot warning, 360-degree camera, and an innovative steering column for absorbing energy.

Moreover, it also features Nissan’s innovative Active Trace Control feature for enhanced safety while maneuvering around the corners.  If we talk about the mileage offered by this SUV, the all-wheel-drive version offers 22/27 mpg and the 4-wheel model offers 23/28 mpg.

While the SUV is an all-rounder performer, many buyers have mentioned that its engine is noisy and the noise intensifies while driving on granular surfaces.

Specs

• Automatic Transmission
• All-Wheel or 4-Wheel Drive
• Mileage of 22/27 mpg (All-Wheel Drive), 23/28 mpg (4-Wheel Drive)

Pros

• Technological features are pretty impressive
• Fuel economy is good
• Interiors built from premium-quality materials
• Large cargo space

Cons

• Engine is a little noisy
• Engine could have been better

#4. Ford Explorer 2015- $15,200

The next SUV in this list of best-used cars under 20000 is the Ford Explorer. The mid-size SUV is known for its reliability and is one of the most entry-level SUV which is perfect for a small family.

The SUV has the roomy cabin and its exteriors and interiors are highly impressive as well.

If we talk about the comfort, both the front and rear seats offer adequate legroom and the drive offered by the vehicle is pretty quiet.

While the SUV has a pretty standard set of features, it comes with some innovative features like Curve Control, optional MyFord Touch, etc. Explorer 2015 has 5-star crash ratings, making it a highly safe and efficient family car.

The SUV is available with three different engines. The standard 3.5l V6 engine generates 290HP and is available with a standard front-wheel and a 4-wheel drive.

Buyers can also go for a turbocharged 2.0l 4-cylinder engine which generates 240HP and torque of 270 lb-ft. The Sports trim version is available with a V6 turbocharged engine as well.

While Explorer 2015 is a reasonably priced SUV, many buyers have mentioned drawbacks like poor visibility, lower cargo space, and a bulky feeling while driving.

Specs

• Automatic Transmission
• Front-Wheel Drive or 4-Wheel Drive
• Mileage of 17/24 (Standard Front-Wheel model)

Pros

• Spacious cabin
• Quiet drive
• Multiple engines to choose from
• 5-star crash ratings
• Excellent interiors

Cons

• Cargo space is less than average
• Visibility is poor
• Bulky feeling while driving

#3. Kia Sportage 2015- $18,200

The first Kia Sportage was launched in the year 1993 and since then, it has been one of the most popular compact SUVs.

The easy handling and sporty style of its 2015 model is the reason for its widespread popularity among individuals looking for a compact family SUV.

The car features Kia’s signature Sportmatic 6-speed automatic transmission which enables the driver to drive this SUV like a coupe or a compact car.

The standard 2.4l engine of this SUV generates 182HP while its advanced 2.0l turbocharged engine can offer 260HP.

Kia Sportage comes with a standard all-wheel drive with advanced features, like on-demand electronic control to over enhanced traction even when it rains or snows.Moreover, an optional 4-wheel drive is also available.

The cabin of Kia Sportage 2015 is highly stylish and safety features can be found on all the sides. The only reasons that can discourage you from buying this fantastic SUV are its limited cargo capacity and average fuel economy.

Specs

• Automatic Transmission
• Front-Wheel Drive
• Mileage of 21/28 mpg

Pros

• Easy handling
• Stylish interiors and exteriors
• Multiple drivetrain options
• Excellent safety features

Cons

• Cargo capacity is below average
• Fuel economy is mediocre

#2. Hyundai Tucson 2015- $18,700

While Hyundai has not made any large modifications to its 2015 Tucson, there are several small changes like power seat for the driver, touchscreen radio, LED taillights, etc. that add up to the safety, aesthetics, and comfort offered by this compact SUV.

Tucson 2015 has excellent looks with curvy lines on the sides that go all the way to the rear of the vehicle.

Moreover, a sunroof is also available in the limited version.

The rear and front passenger seat can be folded for accommodating loads and there are multiple holders and nooks for holding smaller items.

The SUV is available with two different engines- a standard 2.4l engine that offers a mileage of 20/25 mpg and a 2.0lfront-drive model which offers 23/29 mpg.

Even the visibility offered by the car is pretty amazing and it has a decent set of safety features which have enabled it to pass all the safety checks. While Tucson 2015 was well-received in the market, its mediocre power and smaller-than-average cargo hold are very commonly mentioned in a number of buyer reviews.

Specs

• Automatic Transmission
• Front-Wheel Drive
• Mileage of 23/29 mpg (Front-Wheel Drive)

Pros

• Easy car-like handling
• High-quality interiors
• Stylish aesthetics
• Good visibility

Cons

• Cargo space is small
• Engine is not very impressive

#1. Honda CR-V 2012-2014- $17,500

If you want to buy a used SUV which is wallet-friendly and has all the features that you’d expect from a family car, Honda CR-V 2012-2014 can be a great option.

The car stood at the 1^st spot in U.S. News and World Report’s list of Affordable Crossover SUVs and 1^st spot in Kelley Blue Book’s list of 10 Best Affordable SUVs.

With such impressive ratings, it is pretty easy to understand why this car was the best-selling crossover SUV in 2012-2013 in U.S.

The car features a 2.4l 4-cylinder engine that offers a mileage of 23/31 miles per gallon of fuel and is very popular for its reliability and legendary durability.

One of the most impressive reasons to invest in a used CR-V is its excellent safety ratings, which makes it a perfect family car. It has large storage space and has an attractive interior design.

The SUV is high on technology with features, like Bluetooth, Pandora connectivity, 5” color touchscreen, an option to install DVD entertainment system or a satellite-linked navigation system from Honda.

While the SUV is undoubtedly an excellent purchase, some users have defined driving this Honda CR-V to be a dull experience.

Specs

• Automatic Transmission
• Front-Wheel Drive
• Mileage of 23/31 mpg

Pros

• Roomy interiors
• Large cargo space
• High on technology
• Won several awards for Affordable SUV
• Safety scores are excellent

Cons

• Driving is somewhat dull

Conclusion

After going through this list of Best Used SUV under $20000, it is very easy to understand why so many buyers prefer buying a used model over a new one. With a large number of used SUVs available in excellent condition and with amazing discounts, they are undoubtedly an excellent investment if you have a limited budget.

If you still have any queries on the above-mentioned models or want to know more about any other used SUV, feel free to send us your doubts with the help of the comments section below.