Spending thousands on a new SUV is a significant commitment for most buyers, making it essential to ensure you’re making the right choice.
Opting for a used model is a savvy way to avoid the immediate depreciation of a new vehicle, but it’s still possible to end up with a purchase that falls short in quality, reliability, or overall satisfaction.
That’s where our guide comes in a carefully curated list of the best used SUVs for 2025 to help you make an informed decision.
Our research covers a range of styles and price points, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Keep reading to discover some top-tier pre-owned crossovers and SUVs.
Our ranking process considers many of the same factors as our new car evaluations. For this research, we focused on vehicles that are between three and five years old, meaning our selections begin with the 2021 model year.
We prioritize vehicles with an above-average J.D. Power quality and reliability rating.
To be recommended, a model must have earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick or an NHTSA overall five-star safety rating and be available in used car listings with mileage under 80,000 miles aligned with the upper limit of many automaker-certified pre-owned (CPO) programs.
1. 2022 Acura RDX
Pros:
- All-wheel-drive (AWD) models offer agile handling.
- Driver assistance features are well-integrated and not intrusive.
- The premium interior provides ample space despite the SUV’s compact size.
Cons:
- The touchpad-based infotainment system can be frustrating to use.
- The 10-speed automatic transmission doesn’t always deliver perfectly smooth shifts.
- The RDX’s large blind spots make its driver-assist technologies even more essential.
2022 Acura RDX Specifications
- Approximate Price: From $28,500
- Safety Ratings: IIHS Top Safety Pick+, NHTSA five stars overall
- Fuel Economy: 22/28 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 410 miles
- 0–60 MPH Acceleration: 6.4 seconds
Also Read: 12 Secret Features Hidden in Popular Cars That Will Surprise You
2. 2022-2023 BMW X3
Pros:
- The BMW X3 delivers a sporty and capable driving experience for an SUV, with enough agility to even allow for drifting.
- It offers some off-road capability, and M variants provide impressive speed though they aren’t the fastest in the segment.
- The standard 10.3-inch infotainment screen and the available 12.3-inch display are both generously sized.
- The power-folding second-row seats add convenience.
- The cabin provides ample space, and starting with the 2023 model, keyless entry comes standard.
Cons:
- The M suspension setups are on the stiff side.
- Transmission shifts can occasionally feel rough, impacting overall refinement.
- The interior styling is functional but lacks a strong visual impression.
2022-2023 BMW X3 Specifications
- Approximate Price: From $23,000
- Safety Ratings: IIHS Top Safety Pick+, NHTSA five stars overall
- Fuel Economy: 23/29 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 430 miles
- 0–60 MPH Acceleration: 6.3 seconds
3. 2023 Genesis GV70
Pros:
- The GV70 is a pleasure to drive, delivering a well-balanced combination of ride comfort and handling dynamics.
- Its distinctive, high-quality cabin stands out, featuring impressive technology such as a 12.3-inch 3D driver display, a 14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a fingerprint scanner for added convenience.
- Despite its compact classification, the GV70 offers generous interior space, even when all seats are in use.
Cons:
- Fuel efficiency isn’t particularly strong, especially in urban driving conditions.
- The brakes can feel a bit grabby, affecting smoothness in stop-and-go situations.
2023 Genesis GV70 Specifications
- Approximate Price: From $35,000
- Safety Ratings: IIHS 2022 Top Safety Pick+, NHTSA five stars overall
- Fuel Economy: 22/28 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 418 miles
- 0–60 MPH Acceleration: 6.0 seconds
4. 2022-2023 Genesis GV80
Pros:
- Much like its smaller counterpart, the GV70, the GV80 establishes itself as one of the best used SUVs available, thanks to its high-end design and outstanding feature-per-dollar value.
- The cabin is spacious, modern, and highly practical, featuring luxurious materials that elevate the interior feel.
- The 14.5-inch touchscreen remains an impressive highlight.
- A comprehensive suite of standard driver assistance features includes adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring for added safety and convenience.
Cons:
- Driving dynamics are not as polished as some competitors.
- Ride quality can feel firm, lacking the plush refinement of certain rivals.
- Both available powertrains tend to be on the coarse side, and the turbocharged four-cylinder engine struggles at times to move the SUV’s 2.5-ton weight efficiently.
2022-2023 Genesis GV80 Specifications
- Approximate Price: From $35,000
- Safety Ratings: IIHS 2022 Top Safety Pick+, NHTSA five stars overall
- Fuel Economy: 21/25 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 485 miles
- 0–60 MPH Acceleration: 6.4 seconds
5. 2022-2023 Hyundai Palisade
Pros:
- The 2023 Hyundai Palisade received a notable exterior refresh that enhances its upscale appeal.
- Both model years offer well-thought-out interior packaging with high-quality materials, even on lower trims.
- The Calligraphy trim delivers a truly premium experience, standing out in the segment.
Cons:
- Acceleration from a standstill is only average for the class.
- Suspension compliance and seat cushioning could be improved, though the 2023 model benefits from updated front seats for better comfort.
- The center console has an overwhelming number of buttons, making it somewhat cluttered.
2022-2023 Hyundai Palisade Specifications
- Approximate Price: From $24,500
- Safety Ratings: IIHS Top Safety Pick+, NHTSA five stars overall
- Fuel Economy: 19/26-27 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 414 miles
- 0–60 MPH Acceleration: 7.1 seconds
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6. 2021 Lexus NX
Pros:
- The Lexus NX excels as a comfortable cruiser, offering a smooth and quiet ride ideal for daily driving.
- As the final model year of the first-generation NX, this SUV boasts a high-end interior with premium materials that enhance its luxurious feel.
- The NX 300h hybrid delivers impressive fuel efficiency, achieving 33/30 mpg city/highway.
Cons:
- The exterior styling may not appeal to all buyers.
- Instead of a more intuitive infotainment touchscreen, the 2021 model relies on a center console touchpad controller, which can be distracting to use.
- Despite its sporty appearance, the acceleration is underwhelming regardless of the chosen powertrain.
2021 Lexus NX Specifications
- Approximate Price: From $23,000
- Safety Ratings: IIHS Top Safety Pick+, NHTSA five stars overall
- Fuel Economy: 22/28 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 398 miles
- 0–60 MPH Acceleration: 6.9 seconds
7. 2023 Lexus UX
Pros:
- Perfectly sized for city driving, the Lexus UX is both efficient and practical, making it a great choice for a used luxury SUV.
- Despite being an entry-level model, Lexus ensures a premium cabin experience with high-quality materials.
- For 2023, all UX models are hybrids, improving fuel efficiency.
- The infotainment system now features a standard 8.0-inch touchscreen, with an available 12.3-inch upgrade, eliminating the previous model’s cumbersome center console touchpad controller.
Cons:
- Acceleration is lackluster, and the stiff standard suspension combined with the F Sport adaptive suspension results in uninspiring driving dynamics.
- The rear passenger area is cramped for adults, limiting comfort on longer trips.
- The cargo space is also tight, reducing practicality for hauling larger items.
2023 Lexus UX Specifications
- Approximate Price: From $32,000
- Safety Ratings: IIHS Top Safety Pick+, NHTSA five stars overall
- Fuel Economy: 43/41 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 445 miles
- 0–60 MPH Acceleration: 8.2 seconds
8. 2022-2023 Subaru Ascent
Pros:
- The Subaru Ascent delivers confident driving dynamics, featuring a strong and smooth powertrain with excellent body control.
- The spacious interior is designed for practicality, incorporating various storage compartments and easily adjustable second-row seating for added convenience.
- As expected from Subaru, the Ascent is equipped for off-road capability and boasts solid safety ratings, making it a dependable choice for families.
Cons:
- While highly practical, the exterior design is rather unmemorable compared to some competitors.
- Like most SUVs in its class, the third-row seating is cramped, limiting comfort for adult passengers.
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto do not come standard until the 2023 model year.
- The 2022 Ascent is equipped with smaller, less advanced infotainment screens (6.5-inch or 8.0-inch), whereas the 2023 model upgrades to a standard 11.6-inch vertically oriented touchscreen for a more modern experience.
2022-2023 Subaru Ascent Specifications
- Approximate Price: From $21,500
- Safety Ratings: IIHS Top Safety Pick+, NHTSA five stars overall
- Fuel Economy: 20-21/26-27 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 425-444 miles
- 0–60 MPH Acceleration: 6.9 seconds
9. 2021-2022 Toyota Highlander
Pros:
- For a non-luxury model, the Toyota Highlander offers a premium experience, making it one of the best used three-row SUVs available.
- It delivers a relaxed and quiet ride, ensuring a comfortable driving experience.
- Higher trims feature upscale cabin materials and an impressive array of features, enhancing overall refinement.
- Cargo capacity is generous, making it a practical choice for families.
- A fuel-efficient hybrid model is available for those looking to maximize gas mileage.
Cons:
- Power delivery can feel uneven, affecting overall smoothness.
- Regardless of the powertrain choice, the Highlander isn’t particularly quick in a straight line.
- Like many three-row SUVs, the third-row seating is cramped, limiting comfort for adult passengers.
2021-2022 Toyota Highlander Specifications
- Approximate Price: From $23,500
- Safety Ratings: IIHS Top Safety Pick+, NHTSA five stars overall
- Fuel Economy: 20/28 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 412 miles
- 0–60 MPH Acceleration: 7.4 seconds
10. 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
Pros:
- The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class features a spacious and tranquil interior, delivering a premium luxury experience.
- Most GLE-Class models offer refined power delivery and sophisticated handling, ensuring a smooth and composed ride.
- Unlike many luxury SUVs, the GLE is capable of off-road driving, adding to its versatility.
Cons:
- The GLE350 base model has a firm suspension, which can compromise ride comfort.
- The infotainment system is hampered by unintuitive menus and a fussy console-mounted touchpad, making navigation cumbersome.
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Specifications
- Approximate Price: From $44,500
- Safety Ratings: IIHS 2022 Top Safety Pick+, NHTSA five stars overall
- Fuel Economy: 20/25 mpg city/highway
- Driving Range: 495 miles
- 0–60 MPH Acceleration: 7.6 seconds