Buying any used vehicle for less than $5,000 can be a real challenge these days, let alone a used SUV. Finding a quality used SUV at this price point is as much about the individual example as it is about the brand, model, or trim, as how the vehicle was cared for can have a much greater impact on your ownership experience than the amount of equipment fitted or whether it comes with all-wheel drive. Some of the vehicles on this list are nearly 20 years old. Look for well-kept models with good service history and an accident-free report and even these sub-$5,000 SUVs will keep you on the road for years to come.
To help you on your search, here are 10 of the best used SUVs you’ll find for less than $5,000.
1. 2005 Honda Pilot
Generally speaking, if you can find a well-maintained Honda Pilot from the first generation (2003-2008), you will get into a solid, reliable 3-row SUV. Powered by a 255-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 from 2005 on with available all-wheel drive (AWD), the Pilot also has plenty of cargo and passenger space. The 2005 Pilot has a sliding second row and keyless entry. If you can find an EX in your price range, look for standard and optional features like leather seats, a sunroof, and a 6-disc CD changer. See 2005 Honda Pilot models for sale near you
2. 2003 Toyota Highlander
The 2003 Toyota Highlander is the oldest model on this list, but it’s known for its terrific reliability. This SUV is larger and roomier than the RAV4, with plenty of space for five people and their gear. It’s also known for its ride comfort, a plus on road trips. It came in two trim levels, base and Limited, with a choice of a 4- or 6-cylinder engine and front- or all-wheel drive. See 2003 Toyota Highlander models for sale near you
3. 2006 Honda CR-V
The 2006 Honda CR-V is an efficient, reliable option for less than $5,000 on the used market. This compact SUV is powered by a 156-horsepower 4-cylinder engine. All-wheel drive was optional on the LX and EX, but if you find a top-of-the-line SE, AWD is standard. This was the era of the CR-V that came with a fold-out picnic table secured in the cargo area, as well as a swing-out tailgate. See 2006 Honda CR-V models for sale near you
4. 2004 Toyota RAV4
For 2004, the Toyota RAV4 has a 161-horsepower 2.4-liter engine with available AWD. This is also the first year stability control was made standard. There are two packages you may want to look for. The Sport package adds a hood scoop, sport cloth interior, roof rack, gray fenders, and power heated side mirrors. The L also has heated mirrors, as well as fog lights, a hard spare tire cover, leather steering wheel, and more. As you would expect with a Toyota, the pleasant-looking RAV4 is practical, fuel-efficient, and reliable. See 2004 Toyota RAV4 models for sale near you
5. 2004 Subaru Forester
The 2004 Subaru Forester was available with a choice of engines: a 165-horsepower 2.5-liter engine or a turbocharged 210-horsepower 2.5-liter engine. The Forester has decent cargo room, a comfortable ride, and an excellent AWD system plus 7.5 inches of ground clearance. It was available with a manual or automatic transmission. If you are interested in this generation of Forester, both the 2004 and 2005 are solid choices. But if you are buying a model that has more than 100,000 miles on it, make sure the timing belt has been changed. See 2004 Subaru Forester models for sale near you
6. 2008 Mazda CX-7
If you’re looking for something with a bit more pep as well as a bit more style, the 2008 Mazda CX-7 is a fun choice, with a roomy second row, a versatile cargo space, and available AWD. On our budget, the mid-range Touring trim is available, with AWD and the standard 244-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. See 2008 Mazda CX-7 models for sale near you
7. 2004 Nissan Xterra
If you’re looking for a tough, capable off-roader, the 2004 Nissan Xterra has you covered. Based on the same platform as the midsize Frontier pickup, the Xterra is unusual in that it is an SUV with a leaf-spring rear suspension. While ride quality isn’t quite as nice as in a crossover SUV, this is a terrific choice if your goal is to tackle trails. Choose from a 180-horsepower V6 or a 210-horsepower supercharged version of that engine — or the 143-horse 4-cylinder if you want the best fuel economy. True part-time 4-wheel drive (4WD) with low range is available. See 2004 Nissan Xterra models for sale near you
8. 2007 Nissan Murano
The 2007 Nissan Murano is spacious and versatile with a handsome design that’s sure to please many. Standard features include keyless entry, cruise control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a 240-horsepower V6 engine. All-wheel drive is available, and you may even find models equipped with the optional power glass sunroof, 225-watt Bose audio system, or heated leather seats. See 2007 Nissan Murano models for sale near you
9. 2008 Kia Sorento
The 2008 Kia Sorento was a value alternative to the midsize SUVs of the era, and it remains a great bargain, with lots of equipment for the money. Even the base LX model gets a 3.3-liter V6 engine, keyless entry, cruise control, and offers available 4WD. On a $5,000 budget, the LX is easy to find, but persistent shoppers may also find the even better-equipped EX. See 2008 Kia Sorento models for sale near you
10. 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
The 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander was one of the most high-tech vehicles in its segment when new. It also offered peppy driving dynamics and an optional third-row seat. The base Outlander ES includes keyless entry, power accessories, and electronic anti-skid controls, as well as a standard V6 engine. Four-wheel drive was offered on all trims and should be available on ES models within our $5,000 budget. See 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander models for sale near you
10 Best Used SUVs Under $5,000
- 2005 Honda Pilot
- 2003 Toyota Highlander
- 2006 Honda CR-V
- 2004 Toyota RAV4
- 2004 Subaru Forester
- 2008 Mazda CX-7
- 2004 Nissan Xterra
- 2007 Nissan Murano
- 2008 Kia Sorento
- 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
