Best Used SUVs Under $20,000 (Reliable Picks and Years)

The best used SUVs under $20,000 are the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, Subaru Forester and Hyundai Tucson for a compact SUV, and the Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot if you need a third row. These models combine a strong reliability record with good resale value, so you get a dependable SUV that will still be worth something when you sell it.

Used prices depend heavily on mileage, condition, trim and where you live, so the model years below are the ones that commonly list under $20,000 with average mileage. Treat them as a starting point, then compare real listings when you browse used SUVs for sale.

Best Used Compact SUVs Under $20,000

Compact SUVs are the sweet spot of this budget. They are easy to park, reasonably efficient and roomy enough for most families, and the best of them last well past 150,000 miles with regular maintenance.

Toyota RAV4 (2016 to 2018)

The RAV4 is one of the safest used buys you can make. These model years use a proven 2.5-liter four-cylinder with a conventional automatic transmission, a combination known for running a very long time with basic care. All-wheel drive was available, and the cargo area is among the largest in the class.

The trade-off is a plain interior and a ride that is more practical than exciting. The newer 2019 and later RAV4 is a big improvement, but it usually sits above this budget unless the mileage is high.

Honda CR-V (2017 to 2019)

The CR-V offers a roomy back seat, a huge cargo area and good fuel economy for an SUV, which is why it is so popular with families. Most trims from these years use a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with plenty of power for daily driving.

There is one thing to check. Some 2017 and 2018 CR-Vs with the turbo engine had a problem with fuel mixing into the oil in very cold climates. Honda released a software update and extended the warranty, so ask whether that work was done and look at the service records.

Mazda CX-5 (2017 to 2020)

The CX-5 feels more expensive than its price. It has a nicer interior than most rivals, a quiet ride and sharp handling that makes it the most enjoyable to drive in this group. Its 2.5-liter engine is not turbocharged on most trims, which keeps it simple and dependable.

Its back seat and cargo area are a little smaller than the CR-V and RAV4, so bring the stroller or sports gear you carry most and make sure it fits.

Subaru Forester (2017 to 2019)

Every Forester comes with all-wheel drive, and it has excellent outward visibility thanks to its tall windows and upright shape. That makes it a strong choice if you deal with snow, dirt roads or tight parking. The 2019 model began a newer generation with a more modern interior.

The Forester uses a CVT automatic, so check that the transmission fluid has been serviced according to the schedule, and pay attention to how smoothly it accelerates on the test drive.

Hyundai Tucson (2019 to 2021)

The Tucson often gives you a newer model year and more features for the same money, such as a larger touchscreen and more safety technology. Hyundai's long powertrain warranty also applies to the original owner, though the coverage is shorter for a second owner, so confirm what remains.

As with any used car, run the VIN for open recalls and make sure any engine-related recall work was completed. A full service history matters more on this model than on the RAV4 or CR-V.

Best Used Three-Row SUVs Under $20,000

If you need seating for seven or eight, $20,000 still gets you a dependable three-row SUV, but expect older model years and higher mileage than with a compact. Focus on condition and records over age.

Toyota Highlander (2014 to 2017)

The Highlander is the reliability pick among three-row SUVs. Many in this price range have the smooth 3.5-liter V6, which has a strong long-term record. The third row is best for kids, but the first two rows are comfortable and the ride is quiet.

At this budget most Highlanders will have well over 100,000 miles, which is fine for this model if the maintenance has been kept up.

Honda Pilot (2016 to 2018)

The Pilot has one of the most usable third rows in its class and lots of clever storage. Its V6 engine is strong and well proven. Some 2016 and 2017 Pilots with the 9-speed automatic drew complaints about rough shifting, which software updates helped, so pay close attention to the shifts during the test drive.

Fuel Economy and Running Costs

The purchase price is only part of what a used SUV costs you. Fuel, insurance, tires and repairs add up every year, and they differ more between models than most shoppers expect. Among the picks above, the compact SUVs with four-cylinder engines, like the RAV4, CR-V and CX-5, typically return around 25 to 30 mpg combined, while the three-row V6 models usually land closer to 20 to 22 mpg.

All-wheel drive adds traction in bad weather but also adds a little weight and some extra maintenance, such as differential fluid changes. If you live somewhere with mild winters, a front-wheel-drive version with good all-season tires may save you money at purchase and at the pump.

Tires and brakes are the most common big-ticket items on a used SUV, so check their condition before you agree on a price. If they need replacing soon, use that in your negotiation. For a fuller picture of what owning a vehicle costs over time, see our guide to understanding your car's true cost of ownership.

What to Check Before You Buy a Used SUV

Start with the vehicle history report. It shows reported accidents, title problems, the number of owners and often service visits, and our guide to reading a vehicle history report explains what matters. A clean report is not a guarantee, but a problem on the report is a good reason to walk away.

Next, look at the car itself. Check the tires for even wear, look under the vehicle for leaks, test every button and screen, and make sure all-wheel-drive models do not shudder or clunk in tight turns. Our list of the top things to check before buying a used car covers the full walk-around.

Finally, pay for an inspection by an independent mechanic before you sign. It usually costs far less than a single surprise repair, and a good seller will not object.

How to Get the Best Price

Compare several listings of the same model, year and mileage so you know the fair range before you talk numbers. Negotiate the total out-the-door price, including fees, rather than the monthly payment, and see our tips on how to negotiate the best price at a car dealership.

If you are financing, get preapproved by a bank or credit union first so you have a rate to compare against the dealer's offer. Your credit score has a big effect on that rate, as we explain in how your credit score affects your auto loan.

The seller matters as much as the car. A dealership with consistently good reviews is more likely to disclose problems and handle any issue after the sale fairly, so check trusted dealerships and their reviews near you before you visit.

Our Pick

For most buyers, a 2016 to 2018 Toyota RAV4 or a 2017 to 2019 Honda CR-V with a full service history is the safest way to spend $20,000 on a used SUV. If you want a nicer interior and a more enjoyable drive, the Mazda CX-5 is our favorite alternative. If your budget can stretch a bit further, our guide to the best used SUVs under $30,000 covers newer options.