Complete Guide to Buying New and Used SUVs: Top Models and Tips

This comprehensive SUV buying guide covers essential factors, types, safety features, and comparisons between new and used models. It highlights top SUVs of 2020 and offers tips for making an informed purchase, whether you seek family-friendly space or off-road capabilities. Perfect for buyers at all levels, the guide ensures you understand vehicle options, drive configurations, safety tech, and towing capacities to find the ideal SUV for your needs.

Comprehensive SUV Buying Tips for New and Used Vehicles

SUVs have surged in popularity, often surpassing sedans in sales due to their versatility and style. Offering ample interior space, generous cargo capacity, and towing power, they are a practical choice for many drivers. With numerous manufacturers providing feature-rich models at competitive prices, choosing the right SUV can be challenging. If you're considering purchasing an SUV but unsure where to begin, this guide covers essential factors to consider, from vehicle types to safety features, and compares new versus used options.

We’ll explore various SUV categories, discuss benefits of new and pre-owned models, and highlight top choices from 2020.

Key Considerations Before Purchasing an SUV

Vehicle Type SUVs come in several sizes to fit different needs and budgets. Sub-compact models are ideal for performance-focused drivers with limited cargo space. Small SUVs provide adaptable cargo and modest off-road capabilities. Midsized and large SUVs offer more cargo room, stronger towing capacity, and better off-road performance. Prices range from $20,000 to $80,000 based on size and features.

Seating arrangements typically accommodate five passengers, but larger models might include a third row, boosting capacity to eight. However, third-row seats may reduce available cargo space when in use, though they can usually be folded to expand storage.

Cargo Space and Flexibility

Look for SUVs with foldable seats that unlock maximum cargo capacity—some models feature split-folding third rows or fold flat second and third rows for seamless loading. Luxury models sometimes include air suspension systems for easier cargo handling.

Drive Systems: FWD, AWD, or 4WD

Most SUVs are front-wheel drive with optional all-wheel drive, suitable for most conditions. Truck-based SUVs often feature rear-wheel drive with available four-wheel-drive systems. AWD automatically adjusts power between wheels to improve traction in bad weather or rough terrain. True 4WD, especially with low-range gearing, is designed for serious off-road challenges. Opt for full-time 4WD to prevent potential transfer case damage when off-roading or in adverse conditions.

Safety and Driver Assistance Tech

Forward Collision Warning (FCW) Alerts the driver of an impending crash, providing audible, visual, or tactile warnings.

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) Automatically applies brakes to prevent or reduce collision impact if the driver doesn’t react in time.

Blind Spot Monitoring (BSW) Detects vehicles in blind spots and notifies the driver, enhancing lane change safety.

Additional features may include lane departure alerts, lane assist, rear cross-traffic alerts, and telematics systems that notify emergency services after airbags deploy.

Towing Capacity

For heavy-duty towing, truck-based SUVs lead the market, with large models capable of hauling around 9,000 pounds, making them suitable for boats or campers. Mid-sized SUVs typically tow up to 5,000 pounds, better suited for lighter towing needs.

New vs. Used SUVs

The used SUV market has expanded significantly, offering budget-friendly options. New SUVs come with the latest safety and technology features, along with warranties, and minimal risk of hidden damages. They also often have lower financing rates. However, they depreciate rapidly, losing about half their value in the first three years. Used SUVs can provide significant savings but require thorough inspection, especially if modified for off-road use, to avoid costly repairs. Always verify vehicle condition and history before purchasing a used model.

Top SUV Picks of 2020

Volvo XC40

Kia Telluride

Cadillac XT6

Chevrolet Trax

Honda CR-V

Hyundai Palisade

Ford EcoSport

Mazda CX-3

Jeep Renegade

Chevrolet Traverse