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1955 Ford Crown VictoriaMost Reliable Used SUVs Under 15k
Cheap and reliable SUVs are available if you just know where to look. We’ve rounded up the most reliable SUVs on the market that you can score for $15k or less
Cheap SUVs that are Easy on Your Wallet
SUVs have taken over the roadways of America and with that are countless buyers looking for a good deal on one that can last for years. Today, we’re solving that problem for you as we’ve listed out the top ten most reliable SUVs available for just $15,000 or less. Inside we’ve got something for everyone whether your tastes lean toward uber-efficient or truck-like towing ability. Just be sure to use our used-car checklist before making any purchase.
2009 Honda CR-V
One of the absolute standard bearers in this segment is the Honda CR-V. A used model in our price range takes us back to the late 2000s or early 2010s but even back then it was an excellent SUV. Today, models from those years are notable for clever storage solutions, exceptional reliability, and top-notch safety scores.
2013 Ford Escape
Old boxy Ford Escape models aren’t well known for reliability but later models from, say, 2013 and onward are a different story. This little SUV is based on the now-discontinued Focus so it handles well and was available with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 240 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque. It’s one of the very best vehicles on this list when it comes to driving feedback and sharpness. Starting in 2016, Ford introduced its Sync3 infotainment system which we love too
2006 Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler might as well be listed next to the word reliable in the dictionary. This is one of the rare times when having a used model might actually be better than a new one too. While Jeep’s modern V6 has a few real pain points, the older inline-six and four-cylinder versions aren’t as troublesome. There’s no end to the amount of customization
2016 Hyundai Santa Fe
The new Santa Fe might be as flashy as it gets but don’t overlook the value of a well-maintained used model. Hyundai started to turn a corner about a decade ago and it shows in used versions of the Santa Fe. Most come standard with a slew of safety features, excellent interior quality, comfortable seating, and some come with a turbocharged 2/4-liter inline-four that makes 264 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque.
2006 Toyota 4Runner
Used-car values are astronomical right now so you’ll have to go back almost two decades to find a 4Runner under $15k. That being said, there’s a reason for such incredible value longevity. The 4Runner is simply one of the most reliable and capable SUVs on the market. When it inevitably does have problems, most are inexpensive to repair. On top of that, it’s considered to be one of the best SUVs of this generation when it comes to on-road manners.
2010 Chevrolet Tahoe
The Chevrolet Tahoe is an SUV that deserves serious consideration if you have a family and plan to haul lots of stuff regularly. It comes standard with a 5.3-liter V8 and some versions can tow up to 8,500 pounds. It’s nowhere near as easy to drive in tight spaces or as practical for everyday commuting though so keep that in mind. Fuel economy is another downside as it gets just 17 mpg combined according to the EPA.
2015 Dodge Durango
The Durango is long in the tooth but it’s also nearly unbreakable. Both the base 3.6-liter V6 and the available 5.7-liter V8 are outstanding engines. We love the way the Durango is the closest thing you’ll get to a muscle car in this segment so we can’t help but love it. Surprisingly, the V6 gets up to 18 mpg in the city and 25 on the highway which is good enough to match the Honda Pilot.
2014 Honda Pilot
Speaking of the Pilot… It might not be as big and spacious as the Dodge and Chevrolet here but the Honda Pilot is easier to drive in tight spots and feels nicer in the cabin. The V6 under the hood gets better fuel economy than the Tahoe and matches that of the Dodge. Front or all-wheel drive is available and the Pilot comes with an 8-inch infotainment screen dating back almost a decade.
2012 Mazda CX-9
The CX-9 is notable for a handful of reasons that all start with its robust 3.7-liter V6. It makes 273 hp and sends it through the front or all four wheels with a six-speed automatic transmission. That powertrain imbues the CX-9 with a sense of sportiness not found in most of these choices. It’s also one of the most spacious SUVs here and that adds a lot of value for those who need to move a lot of people or things regularly.
2015 Toyota RAV4
We’re bookending our list with another benchmark of the segment, the Toyota RAV4. This small but powerful SUV offers up to 30 mpg along with all-wheel drive, dual-zone climate control, clever storage, and excellent safety scores. Speaking of storage, the RAV4 beats all other competitors in its segment with up to 73.4 cubic feet worth of cargo storage behind its front seats. That adds a lot of utility to an otherwise diminutive SUV.
