How many miles are acceptable on a used midsize SUV?

Condition and service history matter more than mileage alone. A 70,000 to 110,000 mile SUV with full records can be a solid purchase. Verify the vehicle history report and use a thorough inspection checklist before finalizing.

Is AWD necessary for a midsize SUV?

AWD is beneficial for snow, rain, and light off road conditions. Drivers in warm climates may prefer front wheel drive for reduced cost and better fuel economy. Choose based on local weather and intended use.

What features should families prioritize in a used midsize SUV?

Focus on advanced driver assists, easy third row access, cargo space behind the third row, multiple USB ports, rear climate vents, and power liftgates. These features improve daily convenience and safety.

How do I keep long-term costs low with a used midsize SUV?

Select reliable models with documented maintenance, follow service intervals, and address minor issues early. Compare insurance, fuel, and parts costs before purchasing to ensure the total cost of ownership fits your budget.

Get Best Used Cars Shop Used Cars and Pre-Owned Vehicles by State with Inventory and Financing Options

Q: Which used midsize SUVs are most reliable for long-term ownership?

Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot frequently top reliability results. Mazda CX-9, Subaru Ascent, and well maintained Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento also perform well. Prioritize vehicles with complete service records and recall completion.

Searching for the best used midsize SUVs that balance space, comfort, and long-term value? This in-depth guide highlights proven models, smart trims and years to consider, reliability insights, and what to check before you buy. From fuel-efficient two-row options to three-row family haulers with advanced safety tech, we break down the features that matter most. Compare cargo room, towing capability, all-wheel drive availability, safety ratings, and ownership costs to find the right fit. For real-world shopping, explore our updated used-inventory, see what similar vehicles have sold for in sold-inventory, and estimate trade equity with value-my-trade. When you are ready to experience a midsize SUV in person, set your plans with schedule-a-test-drive and review flexible options at payment-options. Use the expert tips below to shop with confidence and make a smart decision for daily driving, road trips, and everything in between.

The strongest used midsize SUVs stand out for reliability, safety, and everyday versatility. In the sections below, you will find side-by-side insights on popular models, recommended year ranges, and ownership tips that keep long-term costs in check. You can also dive deeper into related resources like best-used-suvs, most-reliable-used-suvs, and helpful buyer guides on financing, inspections, and vehicle history checks. Start with the quick model recommendations, then use the checklists and links to make an informed pick.

Top Picks: Best Used Midsize SUVs Worth Your Attention

Midsize SUVs offer the do it all combination of comfort, capability, and space. The models below are consistently praised for reliability, family friendly features, and compelling value on the used market. Availability and pricing vary by mileage, options, and condition, so use these as a smart starting point when comparing vehicles in used-inventory.

Recommended Models and Notable Year Ranges

Toyota Highlander 2016-2020: Strong reliability, refined ride, available V6 and hybrid, excellent safety scores. Families appreciate three-row flexibility and resale strength. Consider XLE or Limited for comfort features.
Honda Pilot 2016-2020: Spacious three-row cabin, confident V6 power, good ownership costs. EX-L and Touring trims add driver assists and convenience features that age well.
Mazda CX-9 2016-2020: Premium feel without luxury prices, engaging drive, upscale interior. Touring and Grand Touring deliver excellent tech and safety content for the money.
Subaru Ascent 2019-2021: Standard all-wheel drive, strong safety ratings, comfortable three-row layout. Great pick for winter states and outdoor lifestyles. Check service history for regular maintenance intervals.
Hyundai Santa Fe 2017-2020: Two-row comfort, high value, and generous features. Look for 2.0T or V6 options if you want stronger passing power. Good pick under many budget caps.
Kia Sorento 2017-2020: Available third row in a smaller footprint, solid warranty coverage when newer. SX and EX trims offer robust active safety and infotainment features at used pricing sweet spots.
Ford Explorer 2016-2019: Wide availability and strong towing when properly equipped. Look for models with thorough service records and consider trims with advanced safety tech added mid-cycle.
Chevrolet Traverse 2018-2020: Very roomy three-row, smooth V6, and family friendly storage. LT and Premier deliver technology and comfort at attainable prices on the used market.
Nissan Murano 2017-2020: Comfortable two-row with a quiet cabin and compliant ride. SL and Platinum trims bring upscale amenities for commuters and road trippers.
Jeep Grand Cherokee 2017-2020: Available V6 or V8 power and real towing capability. Consider it if you value off-road readiness and confident highway manners. Verify maintenance on 4x4 components.

What To Consider When Choosing a Used Midsize SUV

Seating and space: Decide between two-row and three-row layouts. Measure cargo behind the third row if you carry strollers, sports gear, or pets regularly.
Safety tech: Look for blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and high crash test ratings. Compare against safest-used-suvs and used-cars-with-best-crash-test-ratings.
Drivetrain: AWD enhances traction in rain and snow. See more winter tips at best-used-vehicles-for-winter-driving and best-used-cars-for-snow.
Fuel economy: Compare EPA ratings and real-world reports. Browse efficiency picks at used-cars-with-high-mpg.
Towing needs: Check tow ratings and required packages. For capability focused shopping, see best-used-vehicles-for-towing.
Ownership costs: Research common maintenance items and part costs. Explore low cost options at used-cars-with-lowest-maintenance-costs.

Budget Tiers and Smart Targets

Pricing varies by region and condition, but these ranges can help narrow searches. Always verify mileage, service history, and options to confirm value.

Under 15000: Consider Hyundai Santa Fe 2014-2017, Kia Sorento 2014-2016, Nissan Murano 2014-2016, and earlier Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot with documented maintenance. See more at best-used-suvs-under-15000.
Under 20000: Strong picks include Honda Pilot 2016-2017, Toyota Highlander 2015-2017, Mazda CX-9 2016-2018, and Chevrolet Traverse 2018. Explore value choices at best-used-suvs-under-20000.
Under 25000: Target newer safety tech and lower miles. Look for Toyota Highlander 2017-2019, Honda Pilot 2017-2019, Subaru Ascent 2019, and Kia Sorento 2018-2020. See more budget focused picks at best-used-cars-under-25000.

Reliability and Long-Term Value

Consistent maintenance often matters more than brand alone. Look for clean vehicle history, regular fluid services, and recall completion. Toyota and Honda models frequently earn top marks in resale and reliability, while Mazda, Subaru, Hyundai, and Kia deliver excellent feature value and strong safety content. Evaluate expected lifespan and depreciation trends with resources like used-cars-with-longest-lifespan, used-cars-with-best-resale-value, and most-reliable-used-suvs. If you prioritize low running costs, compare models featured in used-cars-with-lowest-cost-of-ownership and used-cars-with-lowest-repair-costs.

Ownership Experience: Comfort, Tech, and Safety

Infotainment: Look for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, clear touchscreens, and multiple USB ports. Touring, Limited, and Platinum type trims often add premium audio and navigation.
Seating versatility: Split folding seats, easy third-row access, and power liftgates are worth seeking out. Families may also compare best-used-3-row-suvs and best-used-family-cars.
Driver confidence: Evaluate surround view cameras, parking sensors, and adaptive headlights. For peace of mind, check used-vehicles-with-best-warranty-coverage.

How To Evaluate Any Used Midsize SUV

Start with a plan: Outline needs and shortlist models with our template at research-page-template and best-used-suvs.
Check history: Review title status, accidents, service intervals, and open recalls with how-to-check-used-car-history and used-car-vin-check-guide.
Inspect thoroughly: Use used-car-inspection-checklist and used-car-buying-checklist. Confirm engine bay leaks, suspension wear, tire condition, brake life, and infotainment functions.
Drive in varied conditions: City streets, highway speeds, and rough pavement reveal noise, vibration, and transmission behavior. Schedule time via schedule-a-test-drive.
Finalize the numbers: Explore payment-options, review rates at used-car-loan-interest-rates, and pre-qualify with applications. If you have a vehicle to trade, estimate with value-my-trade.

Model Snapshots: Strengths To Know

Toyota Highlander: Strong resale and available hybrid powertrain help stretch your fuel budget. Interior materials wear well, and driver assistance grew significantly after 2017. Honda Pilot: Roomy third row, smooth V6, and well tuned ride quality. Touring and Elite style trims are tech rich without luxury pricing. Mazda CX-9: Sporty handling and refined cabin feel unique in this class. Turbo engine offers ample torque for daily driving. Subaru Ascent: Standard AWD confidence, high safety scores, and user friendly tech. Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento: Feature packed choices that often cost less than rivals at the same mileage. Ford Explorer and Chevrolet Traverse: Abundant selection with towing and space advantages. Nissan Murano: Comfortable, quiet, and easy to live with for commuters prioritizing two-row simplicity. Jeep Grand Cherokee: Real capability plus upscale comfort in higher trims, ideal if you plan to tow or explore trails.

Helpful Related Links

Frequently Asked Questions: Best Used Midsize SUVs

Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot regularly top reliability lists. Mazda CX-9, Subaru Ascent, and well maintained Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento also perform well. Focus on documented service history and recalls addressed. See more at most-reliable-used-suvs.

Condition and maintenance matter more than mileage alone. A 70,000 to 110,000 mile SUV with complete records can be a smarter buy than a lower mileage vehicle without documentation. Use used-car-inspection-checklist and verify history at how-to-check-used-car-history.

AWD improves traction in rain and snow and helps with light off road use. If you live in a warm climate and drive mostly on highways, front wheel drive can save fuel and cost. For winter states, compare picks at best-used-vehicles-for-winter-driving.

Look for advanced safety assists, easy to clean interiors, rear seat vents, multiple USB ports, power liftgates, and flexible seating. Third row access and cargo space behind it are important for daily errands. Compare options at best-used-3-row-suvs.

Choose reliable models with complete service records, follow maintenance schedules, and address small issues early. Compare insurance, fuel economy, and parts costs. Browse cost effective picks at used-cars-with-lowest-cost-of-ownership and used-cars-with-lowest-maintenance-costs.

Plan Your Next Steps

Use the guides and tools on our site to compare trims, confirm condition, and align a purchase with your budget. Explore current options in used-inventory, review trade estimates through value-my-trade, and finalize a plan via payment-options. If you want more background, visit blog, learn about the team at meet-our-staff and bios, or connect directly through contact-us and locations. For policies and visitor information, see privacy-policy, terms, and visitor-agreement.