10 Best Used SUV/Crossovers Under $25,000

SUVs are the most popular vehicle type in the US. For most households, the first vehicle is an SUV, and sometimes the second one. With the average price for a new car currently over $48K, many of us on a budget find new SUVs out of range. That, of course, is why a used car superstore like Alderman Automotive exists. Kelly Blue Book (KBB), arguably the oldest name in used car research, has conducted a list of what, in their opinion, are the best used SUVs that can be found under $25,000.  

Just a note: When you get technical, an SUV-shaped vehicle based on passenger car mechanicals is more accurately called a “crossover,” which leaves the term SUV to describe truck-based models like the Chevrolet Suburban or Toyota 4Runner. All of the vehicles on this list are crossovers, but we will refer to them as SUVs as that is how KBB and the public, in general, refer to them.  

These models range in size from subcompact to large 3-row models. All that was required was that they be classified as SUVs and available under $25K. So, you will notice that the years change based on size and brand reputation. Unless specified otherwise, all models are available with both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). 

2017 Toyota Highlander 

Based primarily on Camry mechanicals, the Highlander covers all the bases for a family vehicle. It is safe, roomy, reliable, economical, and comfortable. KBB notes that the XLE model is the easiest to find, but the higher-equipped Limited Platinum may also be within your reach.  

2019 Honda Pilot 

While the Highlander is primarily a 2-row SUV that sometimes has a third seat wedged in the rear, the Pilot is a dedicated 3-row SUV. It is another good all-rounder with a great model and brand reputation, plenty of passenger and cargo room, and a standard V6 engine under the hood. 

2019 Honda CR-V 

The CR-V is an economical alternative if you don’t need the third-row seat. Like most compact crossover models, it has an economical four-cylinder engine, offers plenty of space for five, drives well, and has many technology and safety features. It also has the Honda reputation for reliability and quality engineering.   

2019 Toyota RAV4 

As the country’s best-selling SUV, Toyota’s RAV4 is a people-pleaser. Like the similarly sized CR-V, it does most everything well and earns Toyota’s sterling reputation for quality and reliability. Hybrid models sold well and thus are not uncommon on the used market. As with all hybrids, they will cost a bit more but cost less to operate. 

2021 Subaru Forester 

The Forester is another well-respected model in the compact class. All models have all-wheel drive, and its ground clearance is higher than most of its competitors. Its boxy shape provides good head and cargo room, and its unique 4-cylinder boxer engine (an engine configuration Subaru only shares with Porsche) is rated at 33 mpg on the highway. 

2021 Mazda CX-5 

Typical of Mazda, the CX-5 has the sportiest dynamics of its class. Its curvy exterior gives it luxury brand vibes, though at the expense of cargo space and some rear legroom. Within the budget, you can find turbocharged models with 250 horsepower and/or higher trims than you may see in the Honda and Toyota models.  

2020 Kia Telluride 

This dedicated three-row crossover has plenty of space, V6 power, and a luxury-leaning exterior and interior. It may lack the brand rep of Honda or Toyota, but the Telluride gets good quality and reliability marks. It is primarily the base LX trim that falls under the $25,000 barrier. 

2022 Subaru Crosstrek 

Like its Outback big brother, the Crosstrek is a raised version of the compact Impreza compact hatch, which also comes exclusively with AWD. Subaru does this kind of thing well, and the Crosstrek is actually among the most off-road capable models in its sub-compact class.  It also boasts impressive safety scores and standard safety features. KBB recommends the Sport or fully loaded Limited. 

2020 Hyundai Kona Electric 

Yes, you can get an emission-free EV SUV for under $25,000, and it’s the real deal with a 258-mile range, making it ideal for those who can charge at home. KBB also gave this model their Subcompact SUV Best Buy Award in 2019. They describe it as stylish, fun to drive, and the perfect size for crowded cities. They also point out that you can get the loaded trim under the price ceiling. 

2019 Buick Enclave 

The Enclave is Buick’s large three-row crossover. True to the Buick brand, it specializes in quiet, comfortable driving and a plush interior. The Premium and Avenir trims add more safety and luxury features and can still be found under the $25K mark.  

As used cars, prices for all these models depend on mileage and condition. Plus, your priorities may differ from KBB’s general assessment, and you may need more information on these models. For example, towing capacity may make you consider the more truck-based models.  

Fortunately, on the Alderman Automotive site, finding SUVs under $25,000 is as simple as selecting “Priced under 25K” under “Inventory” and then selecting SUV for body style in the filters, which will take you here. If you have a different price ceiling, that is also easy to do at the top of the filter list. Alderman Automotive wishes you good SUV hunting.