Best Used SUVs Under $20,000: Frugal, Fun, and Family-Friendly
If you have a $20,000 budget, there are some great used SUVs available for a variety of lifestyles.
Used vehicle values have finally dropped in value, meaning it’s now easier to get a nicer SUV for less money. If you have about $20,000 to spend, there are plenty of high-quality options available with relatively modern convenience features and safety tech. You don’t have to compromise on driving dynamics or efficiency, either. For this list, we chose vehicles with fewer than 80,000 miles within the 2021–2023 model years. After all, you may as well buy the newest and most gently used vehicles as possible. Read on for our selections of the best used SUVs under $20,000.
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About MotorTrend's methodology: The Buyer's Guide considers SUVs with multiple trim levels under the $20,000 mark with fewer than 80,000 miles. We prioritize models with an Average or greater score in J.D. Power reliability and take our historic Ultimate Car Rankings data into consideration, as well. We also consider safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA when recommending used cars on this list; a five-star overall score isn't required but is preferred.
2022-2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV - Subcompact Electric SUV
Pros: Larger than the standard Chevrolet Bolt and available with Super Cruise highway driving assistance, the Chevrolet Bolt EUV is one of the most affordable ways to get into an EV with solid driving range. Standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included for all models.
Cons: Although the Bolt EUV is classified as an SUV, it’s more of an oversized hatchback. All-wheel drive was never offered during its short run, the interior was dated-looking when new, and the ride was unrefined. Peak charging capped out at 55 kW, too slow for most Level 3 chargers.
2022-2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV - Subcompact Electric SUV
Specifications
- Approximate Price: From $14,000
- Safety Ratings: NHTSA five stars overall
- Fuel Economy: 125/104 mpg-e city/highway
- Driving Range: 247 miles
- 0–60 MPH Acceleration: 6.7 seconds
2021-2022 Subaru Crosstrek - Subcompact SUV
Pros: The Swiss Army knife of subcompact SUVs, the 2021–2022 Subaru Crosstrek is a multifaceted talent. It offers solid off-road capability and entertaining on-road dynamics. Safety scores and tech are also strong suits of the Crosstrek. The upgraded engine is our pick of the range. What’s more, the interior is roomy for a small SUV. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.
Cons: Although we like the more powerful 2.5-liter engine, Crosstrek models with the 2.0-liter flat-four are slow in comparison. Tech is unimpressive on lower-level trims, and SUVs equipped with the available manual transmission aren't as fuel efficient as those with the CVT automatic.
2021-2022 Subaru Crosstrek - Subcompact SUV
Specifications
- Approximate Price: From $16,500
- Safety Ratings: NHTSA five stars overall, IIHS 2021-2022 Top Safety Pick
- Fuel Economy: 22-28/29-33 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 415-498 miles
- 0–60 MPH Acceleration: 7.8-9.8 seconds
2021-2023 Hyundai Kona - Subcompact SUV
Pros: Distinctive styling sets the 2021–2023 Hyundai Kona apart from other subcompact SUVs while its sporty handling makes it fun to drive. We appreciate the Kona’s intuitive infotainment tech and strong list of standard equipment. The Kona received a face-lift for the 2022 model year, so keep an eye out for these slightly nicer versions of Hyundai’s SUV. All models receive Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Cons: The Kona's interior is very plasticky, a reminder that this is one of Hyundai’s entry-level models. The second row is tight, as well, limiting people-hauling functionality. A weaker base engine serves as an incentive to get the turbocharged option instead.
2021-2023 Hyundai Kona - Subcompact SUV
Specifications
- Approximate Price: From $11,500
- Safety Ratings: NHTSA five stars overall, IIHS 2021 Top Safety Pick
- Fuel Economy: 25-30/29-35 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 356-422 miles
- 0–60 MPH Acceleration: 6.4-8.3 seconds
2021-2023 Kia Soul - Subcompact SUV
Pros: This is one of our favorite small SUVs for good reason. The 2021–2023 Kia Soul exhibits plucky handling and great ride quality. The interior is spacious for passengers and cargo. A user-friendly infotainment system offers a lot of capability across the entire trim range. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are standard.
Cons: Turbocharged versions of the Kia Soul make use of a clunky dual-clutch automatic, which struggles at lower speeds. Additionally, Kia has never offered all-wheel drive for the Soul, limiting its appeal to those in search of a more conventional SUV. Bigger touchscreens are limited to higher trim levels.
2021-2023 Kia Soul - Subcompact SUV
Specifications
- Approximate Price: From $11,000
- Safety Ratings: NHTSA four stars overall, IIHS 2021-2022 Top Safety Pick
- Fuel Economy: 25-29/31-35 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 386-443 miles
- 0–60 MPH Acceleration: 6.5-8.6 seconds
2021-2023 Nissan Rogue - Compact SUV
Pros: When the Nissan Rogue entered its third generation, the compact SUV finally got the equipment and materials necessary to take on rivals in its highly competitive class. A roomy, well-made interior offers comfort and practicality. Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility pairs with an 8.0-inch or 9.0-inch touchscreen.
Cons: The Rogue’s engine is noisy, either with the four-cylinder that powered the 2021 model or with the 1.5-liter VC Turbo mill that replaced it for 2022 onward. It isn’t very quick regardless of what’s under the hood. The cabin gets noisy when the engine is working hard or when the Rogue is traveling at highway speeds.
2021-2023 Nissan Rogue - Compact SUV
Specifications
- Approximate Price: From $12,000
- Safety Ratings: NHTSA 4 Stars overall (2021), NHTSA 4 Stars overall (2022-2023), IIHS 2021-2022 Top Safety Pick+, IIHS 2023 Top Safety Pick
- Fuel Economy: 25-30/32-37 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 406-478 miles
- 0–60 MPH Acceleration: 8.1-8.5 seconds
2021 Mazda CX-5 - Compact SUV
Pros: As one of the sportier models on our list of best SUVs under $20,000, the compact Mazda CX-5 is fun to drive. Steering feel is excellent. Both the interior and exterior designs continue to look attractive years after the SUV first arrived. Safety scores are strong across the board. Mazda equipped Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on the base 2021 CX-5.
Cons: The CX-5’s cargo volume is limited compared to its contemporaries. Some folks won’t like the SUV’s rotary-dial infotainment system, which can be cumbersome compared to a typical touchscreen. Non-turbo models are a bit slower than we’d like.
2021 Mazda CX-5 - Compact SUV
Specifications
- Approximate Price: From $14,000
- Safety Ratings: NHTSA five stars overall, IIHS Top Safety Pick+
- Fuel Economy: 22-25/27-31 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 367-414 miles
- 0–60 MPH Acceleration: 6.1-9.0 seconds
2021-2023 Hyundai Santa Fe - Midsize SUV
Pros: The 2021–2023 Hyundai Santa Fe may not be the prettiest midsize SUV, but it offers a near-luxury experience that should intrigue shoppers looking for the best used SUVs under $20,000. Stuffed with high-tech equipment including standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the Santa Fe’s interior is a great place for a commute or road trip. The cabin stays quiet at speeds.
Cons: We aren’t fans of the previous-generation Santa Fe’s exterior design, which is a bit busy. The console is full of buttons, which isn’t always an issue, but we think Hyundai overdid it when laying out this interior. Finally, we’ve found models with the turbo engine to exhibit clumsy transmission tuning.
2021-2023 Hyundai Santa Fe - Midsize SUV
Specifications
- Approximate Price: From $16,000
- Safety Ratings: NHTSA five stars overall, IIHS 2021 Top Safety Pick, IIHS 2022-2023 Top Safety Pick+
- Fuel Economy: 21-25/25-28 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 451-489 miles
- 0–60 MPH Acceleration: 6.2-8.6 seconds
2021-2023 Hyundai Tucson - Compact SUV
Pros: The 2021 model year was the last before the compact Hyundai Tucson received a redesign. On the older model, ride and handling were strong suits, as was a user-friendly infotainment system with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. For 2022, styling got a reworking, and we noted that the cabin was spacious and full of high-tech equipment, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Cons: Models before the 2022 Tucson’s redesign aren’t as impressive as newer versions of the SUV. Inefficient powertrains and limited standard driver assistance tech hold the 2021 Tucson back. For 2022 and 2023, a firm ride and uneven power delivery are noticeable faults.
2021-2023 Hyundai Tucson - Compact SUV
Specifications
- Approximate Price: From $14,500
- Safety Ratings: NHTSA five stars overall (2021-2022), five stars overall with FWD and four stars overall with AWD (2022-2023), IIHS 2021 Top Safety Pick, IIHS 2022-2023 Top Safety Pick+
- Fuel Economy: 21-26/26-33 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 377-415 miles
- 0–60 MPH Acceleration: 7.9-9.3 seconds
2021-2022 Honda HR-V - Subcompact SUV
Pros: All versions of the Honda HR-V handle well and can be fun to drive on a curvy road. Fuel economy is excellent. Interior space is impressive for the subcompact SUV segment. Second-row seats can be configured in clever positions; they can fold up to hold tall items or lie flat to accommodate longer cargo. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available features.
Cons: The Honda HR-V is a slow vehicle, and the engine gets loud at full throttle. Both 2021 and 2022 models have basic, cheap-feeling interiors. Base models especially have spartan cabins.
2021-2022 Honda HR-V - Subcompact SUV
Specifications
- Approximate Price: From $15,000
- Safety Ratings: NHTSA five stars overall
- Fuel Economy: 26-28/31-34 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 370-396 miles
- 0–60 MPH Acceleration: 9.6-9.8 seconds
2021-2023 Kia Sorento - Midsize SUV
Pros: The 2021–2023 Kia Sorento is an upscale midsize SUV. The Sorento is outfitted with a lot of standard equipment, including Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and models with the turbocharged engine are downright quick. The Sorento feels more maneuverable than many other three-row SUVs due to its smaller size.
Cons: Unfortunately, if you get the turbocharged engine, you have to work with the unrefined dual-clutch transmission. Rivals offer more cargo space, and the third row is really only suitable for kids.
2021-2023 Kia Sorento - Midsize SUV
Specifications
- Approximate Price: From $16,000
- Safety Ratings: NHTSA four stars overall, IIHS 2021-2023 Top Safety Pick
- Fuel Economy: 21-24/25-29 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 425-460 miles
- 0–60 MPH Acceleration: 6.3 seconds (AWD)
Best Used SUVs Under $20,000
- 2022–2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV
- 2021–2022 Subaru Crosstrek
- 2021–2023 Hyundai Kona
- 2021–2023 Kia Soul
- 2021–2023 Nissan Rogue
- 2021 Mazda CX-5
- 2021–2023 Hyundai Santa Fe
- 2021–2023 Hyundai Tucson
- 2021–2023 Honda HR-V
Best Used SUVs Under $20,000 From 2024
There's a new SUV for everyone—unless you're trying to spend $20,000 or less. As new vehicle prices remain high, choosing a used SUV is a smart way to save money. We looked around to find great used SUVs for less than $20,000. There are plenty of appealing options, from the adventurous, to the sporty, to the properly plush. Read on to see which is right for you.
About MotorTrend's methodology: We consider many of the same factors in our new-car rankings system, starting with value. The experts at IntelliChoice conduct extensive research to assess long-term value on 3-5-year-old vehicles, which means our picks start at the 2020 model year. IntelliChoice considers resale value, the cost of insurance, maintenance costs, fuel costs, and more. We prioritize models receiving a Good or Excellent IntelliChoice used-car value rating. An above-average J.D. Power quality and reliability rating is also a plus. Any vehicle we recommend must have earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick award or NHTSA overall five-star safety rating and have some used-car inventory with under 80,000 miles (the upper limit on many automaker CPO programs).
2020-2022 Honda CR-V - Compact SUV
Pros: For the Honda CR-V, newer doesn't necessarily mean better—the generation that went on sale for 2023 isn't significantly improved from the one before it. As such, used CR-V models from 2020 to 2022 are worth a look. Like many Honda vehicles, the CR-V has an enjoyably connected feel from behind the wheel. Its standard driver assist and active safety systems make highway cruising much easier. Thoughtful features and an unexpectedly spacious cabin make 2020 to 2022 used Honda CR-Vs appealing.
Cons: How Honda tuned the CR-V's chassis leads to fun handling, but also a slightly firm ride. With that sensation and the amount of noise that permeates the cabin, the CR-V won't be mistaken for a luxury SUV. The infotainment system's size and user interface are merely decent. Although on paper this used CR-V has similar driver assist features as the CR-V that's on sale now, those are more refined in the new version. The CR-V Hybrid is preferable, but can be tricky to find as a used SUV under $20,000.
2020-2022 Honda CR-V - Compact SUV
- Approximate Price: From $18,000
- IntelliChoice Value Rating: Good-Excellent
- Safety Ratings: IIHS Top Safety Pick; NHTSA five-star overall
- Fuel Economy: 27-28/32-34 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 406-420 miles
- 0-60 MPH Acceleration: 7.8 seconds
2020 Nissan Rogue - Compact SUV
Pros: Versatility excels in the 2020 Rogue. It feels bigger inside than its outside dimensions suggest, and a clever "Divide-N-Hide" cargo organization system proves useful. There's plenty of space in the Rogue's plush, comfortable seats. Standard equipment is generous even on mid-range models, which includes heated front seats, automatic headlights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a power liftgate, and keyless entry with push-button start.
Cons: Enjoyment is hard to find in this Rogue's driving experience. Although power is reasonable for an everyday crossover, the engine suffers from droning caused by its CVT automatic. The dreary dashboard is a mishmash of mismatched plastics and has a low-resolution infotainment touchscreen smack in the center. The third-generation Rogue that went on sale for 2021 is an improvement, but that vehicle doesn't meet our criteria for the best used SUVs for less than $20,000.
2020 Nissan Rogue - Compact SUV
- Approximate Price: $14,000-$20,000
- IntelliChoice Value Rating: Good-Excellent
- Safety Ratings: NHTSA five-star overall
- Fuel Economy: 25-26/32-33 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 392-420 miles
- 0-60 MPH Acceleration: 9.5 seconds
2020 Ford Edge - Midsize SUV
Pros: The engine in the 2020 Edge packs a punch, delivering strong turbocharged torque that readily gets this roomy crossover moving. Between details like the rotary dial shifter and Ford's infotainment interface, the Edge's interior is quite user friendly. Its driver assist features function well, adding ease to everyday journeys.
Cons: Little about the Edge feels premium. Its ride quality is firm and busy on all but the smoothest roads. Even on high-end trim levels, interior materials lack style and quality. The brake pedal tuning makes smooth stops difficult to master.
2020 Ford Edge - Midsize SUV
- Approximate Price: $15,500-$20,000
- IntelliChoice Value Rating: Good-Excellent
- Safety Ratings: IIHS Top Safety Pick; NHTSA five-star overall
- Fuel Economy: 21/28-29 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 426-444 miles
- 0-60 MPH Acceleration: 7.6 seconds
2021-2022 Nissan Murano - Midsize SUV
Pros: More than some Nissan models, the Murano delivers a premium impression. Its seats and ride quality are appreciably plush, keeping the cabin comfortable. Additionally, the Murano's interior provides ample cargo space amidst upscale design touches. Beginning in 2021, Nissan outfitted the Murano with an extensive list of standard driver assist and active safety features.
Cons: Introduced for 2014, this generation of Nissan Murano feels old. In particular, its tech and infotainment features are slow to respond and low-resolution—nowhere close to the performance of modern smartphones. Performance, too, is lacking. Acceleration and fuel economy are merely adequate, while the ride and handling offer little in the way of engagement.
2021-2022 Nissan Murano - Midsize SUV
- Approximate Price: $17,000-$20,000
- IntelliChoice Value Rating: Good-Excellent
- Safety Ratings: IIHS Top Safety Pick+; NHTSA five-star overall
- Fuel Economy: 20/28 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 437 miles
- 0-60 MPH Acceleration: 7.3 seconds
2022 Ford Escape - Compact SUV
Pros: Ford's penchant for performance shows in the 2022 Escape, which has agile handling and an available turbo-four engine. The Escape Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid are also fun to drive, while delivering improved fuel economy or all-electric driving range. The second-row seat's ability to slide fore and aft helps the Escape better accommodate passengers or cargo.
Cons: Firm suspension props up the Escape's handling but also results in a jarring ride quality. The base turbocharged I-3 engine feels underpowered and makes a racket under acceleration. On all trim levels, a considerable amount of cheap-feeling plastic fills the cabin. Note that used 2022 Ford Escape models in SEL and SE Sport FWD trims earn only an Average IntelliChoice value rating, although other trims of the gas Escape and all versions of the Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid get either a Good or Excellent assessment.
2022 Ford Escape - Compact SUV
- Approximate Price: $16,000-$20,000
- IntelliChoice Value Rating: Good-Excellent
- Safety Ratings: IIHS Top Safety Pick; NHTSA five-star overall
- Fuel Economy: 22-44/31-37 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 408-582 miles
- 0-60 MPH Acceleration: 6.9-8.4 seconds
2022 Subaru Crosstrek - Subcompact SUV
Pros: Tiny yet tenacious, the 2022 Crosstrek is ready for adventure. Subaru's standard AWD system keeps it rolling through tough conditions, while high ground clearance and rugged body cladding help it shrug off obstacles (and look the part). That raised suspension returns a comfortable ride on the road, too. Many versions of the used Crosstrek come with Subaru's EyeSight suite of driver assist and active safety features, which makes highway drives to the trailhead much easier. The 2022 Crosstrek is among our favorite used SUVs under $20,000.
Cons: For all the things the Crosstrek can do, accelerate adeptly isn't one of them—this little SUV is slow. Power improves in the Crosstrek Sport model thanks to its larger engine, but those and the Crosstrek Hybrid are difficult to find for less than $20,000 on the used market. Regardless, the Crosstrek's interior appointments and tech features are plasticky and basic.
2022 Subaru Crosstrek - Subcompact SUV
- Approximate Price: $20,000
- IntelliChoice Value Rating: Excellent
- Safety Ratings: IIHS Top Safety Pick; NHTSA five-star overall
- Fuel Economy: 22-28/29-33 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 415-498 miles
- 0-60 MPH Acceleration: 8.8 seconds
2020-2022 Mazda CX-5 - Compact SUV
Pros: The Mazda CX-5 drives far better than it needs to—this is a seriously fun used SUV. It moves with the precise, connected handling Mazda is known for, and when equipped with the turbocharged engine, it's quick, too. Beyond its sleek, understated exterior, the CX-5 presents a cabin that's stylish and premium. Although a used CX-5 might not be the newest SUV on the scene, it's one that'll look and drive great for years to come. A few trim levels (the 2021 Carbon Edition and 2022 Turbo Signature AWD) get an Average value rating, but all other versions of the used 2020 to 2022 Mazda CX-5 earn a Good or Excellent score from IntelliChoice.
Cons: Driving the CX-5 is one thing—living with it is a different story. Other compact SUVs make better use of interior space, providing more capacity for passengers and cargo. The big infotainment screen looks snazzy, but Mazda's dial-controlled user interface is overly complex. Without a hybrid offering, fuel economy isn't great—especially if you drive it like it's meant to be driven.
2020-2022 Mazda CX-5 - Compact SUV
- Approximate Price: $16,500-$20,000
- IntelliChoice Value Rating: Good-Excellent
- Safety Ratings: IIHS Top Safety Pick+; NHTSA five-star overall
- Fuel Economy: 22-25/27-31 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 367-414 miles
- 0-60 MPH Acceleration: 6.1-8.0 seconds
Best Used SUVs Under $20,000 From 2024
- 2020-2022 Honda CR-V
- 2020 Nissan Rogue
- 2020 Ford Edge
- 2021-2022 Nissan Murano
- 2022 Ford Escape
- 2022 Subaru Crosstrek
- 2020-2022 Mazda CX-5
Billy Rehbock's passion for cars started with his dad's Volkswagen Jetta GLX, his mom's Cabriolet, and his own Hot Wheels collection. A USC graduate with a Master of Science in journalism, he's an associate editor for the MotorTrend Buyer's Guide and covers everything from sports cars to SUVs.
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