Kelley Blue Book’s Best Compact Crossover SUVs for under $20,000

As of this writing, the average price for a new car is $46,633. Sometimes, the more affordable option is to shop on the used car market. Kelley Blue Book (KBB), which has been the standard guide in automotive value for almost 100 years, has compiled what they believe to be the best used compact SUVs available for under $20,000. Alderman Automotive shares their findings. 

1. 2018 Honda CR-V 

Honda’s reputation means that its cars always command a price premium in the used car market, so you generally have to look back to 2018 to find a CR-V in the under $20K category. However, what you’ll discover is KBB’s highest-rated compact crossover for that year. Like most Honda models, the CR-V is quite good in all areas. It is spacious, filled with thoughtful features, and efficient, offering either a 184-hp 2.4-liter inline-4 for the base LX or a 190-hp 1.5-liter turbo for the rest of the lineup. KBB’s Fair Market Price ranges from $16,678 for the LX to $21,736 for the flagship EX-L. 

2. 2018 Toyota 4Runner 

A similar premium on Toyota models indicates that 2018 is the model year for finding a RAV4 under $20K. The RAV4 has been the best-selling car without an open cargo bed, and like the CR-V, it excels in nearly all areas of vehicle evaluation. The under $20K price encompasses non-hybrid models powered by a 176-hp non-turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-4. You will find a full suite of safety technologies, good reliability, and careful attention to detail with this model. KBB’s Fair Market Price shows $17,616 for the base LE, reaching up to $22,182 for the Platinum model.  

 3. 2020 Mazda CX-5 

Without the premium associated with the Honda or Toyota brands, you can look to 2020 to find one of these for under $20,000. The CX-5 boasts luxury-brand aesthetics and a relatively sporty driving experience in a vehicle that covers all the essential aspects, although it offers slightly less space than the above models. Power is provided by a 187-hp 2.5-liter inline-4 in the base models and a 227-hp turbocharged variant of the same engine in the higher-end models. KBB’s Fair Market Price ranges from $17,705 to $22,771, with the turbo models exceeding the $20K mark. 

4. 2019 Subaru Forester

Subaru is another brand that retains its value in the used car market. The Forester is a versatile all-rounder with good space, reliability, and the traction optimization of AWD across all models. Every 2019 Forester is powered by a 182 2.5-liter “flat”-4 engine. With a Fair Market Price ranging from $16,491 to $20,691, you might be able to find a Limited model with leather seating, power liftgate, and heated seats that falls under the $20K threshold. 

5. 2021 Chevrolet Equinox 

The Equinox is a solid all-American choice featuring a spacious cabin, reclining rear seats, a good array of safety tech, and a model that is only a few years old. All models are powered by a 170-hp 1.5-liter turbo inline-4. KBB’s Fair Market Price indicates the base L Sport at $16,091, with the flagship Premier at $21,650. This means an LT Sport with power driver seat adjustment and privacy glass could be available for $20K. 

6. 2020 GMC Terrain 

The Terrain is GMC’s counterpart to the Equinox, featuring the same drivetrain but a more truck-inspired exterior and a different interior design. Generally, higher feature packaging costs you an extra year, keeping it under the $20K ceiling. KBB Fair Market Pricing lists the base SL Sport at $17,190, increasing to $23,092 for the overtly luxurious and turbocharged (252-hp) Denali model.  

7. 2021 Hyundai Tucson 

You can get a well-built Tucson that is just a few years old for under $20K. The 2021 Tucson is more conventionally styled than the current model, and its appearance has aged well. Power comes from a 181-hp 2.0-liter inline-4, and the Fair Market Price is $16,690 – $22,071. You may be able to find a SEL Sport model with a heated windshield and mirrors, a power driver’s seat, and a blind spot alert within $20K. 

8. 2020 Nissan Rogue 

KBB points out that the Rogue is roomier than the CX-5 and more efficient than the Escape. If you look back a year, you may be able to find a hybrid model, which was no longer available in 2020. Power comes from a 170-hp 2.5-liter inline-4. There were only three trim levels for 2020, and all three come in under $20K. This means you may find an SL model equipped with a surround-view camera, onboard navigation, and leather seats with power adjustment in the front.  

9. 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan 

The Tiguan offers two unique aspects.  It is the only European model on the list and the only model with a third row on some trims. Granted, it is a third row only kids can be comfortable in, but that is often enough for families with kids who want to bring along friends. The model also offers handsome styling that will age well and 184 horsepower from a 2.0-liter turbo inline-4 that has powered almost every recent VW model. There is an astonishing 12 different trim levels with Fair Market Pricing ranging from $15,784 to $24,683. 

10. 2021 Ford Escape 

This other American-brand option is the only selection on this list that will provide you with the current design generation. You will also find hybrid models with 41 combined mpg for close to the $20K mark. At 163 hp, the hybrid is the least powerful of the three available drivetrains, which include a 181-hp 1.5-liter inline-3 (also the engine for the hybrid) and a 250-hp 2.0-liter inline-4, which also shows a Fair Market Price of under $20K.  

KBB’s Fair Market Price is a national average based on typical miles driven each year. Prices for specific models will vary by region, mileage, options, and, of course, condition. 

Alderman Automotive may not have all these models in its inventory at a given time, but is likely to have some. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, check back in a few days, as our inventory is constantly changing. We also make it easy to find what you need with filters for price range, brand, model, mileage, and almost every other vehicle aspect.  You can even find all our vehicles under $25K with a single click. So, if you are looking for one of these SUVs within this or your own price ceiling, do your shopping at home and then visit Alderman Automotive in Fishers, Indiana.