Best SUVs under $20,000
SUVs under $20,000
We've compiled a list of the 10 most popular used SUVs under $20,000 with CarMax customers. Learn more about how our lists work.
1. Ford Escape
CarMax owner rating
4.3
Pros
Smooth city and highway ride Intuitive SYNC® 4 infotainment system Plenty of engine choices
Cons
Handling lacks liveliness Transmission can be abrupt when shifting Body roll in tight corners
2. Chevrolet Trax
CarMax owner rating
4.1
Pros
Large cargo area Lots of standard tech features Spacious interior
Cons
Unimpressive interior materials Underwhelming acceleration No all-wheel-drive option
3. Jeep Renegade
CarMax owner rating
4.2
Pros
Nimble handling for an SUV Impressive standard tech features Cool off-road Trailhawk version
Cons
Small size means less interior room Shape creates wind noise on the highway Some go-to comfort features are optional
4. Buick Encore
CarMax owner rating
4.4
Pros
Tiny size makes Encore a good urban runabout At highway speeds, the interior is remarkably quiet Fully featured infotainment system
Cons
Offers little in the way of cargo space Unimpressive fuel economy estimates Limited number of driver-assist features, and they’re optional
5. Hyundai Santa Fe Sport
CarMax owner rating
4.5
Pros
Supportive and comfortable rear seats Lots of available features Spacious passenger and cargo areas
Cons
Stiff ride on rough surfaces Visibility is limited out the rear window Not as fun to drive as other SUVs
6. Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
CarMax owner rating
4.3
Pros
Bluetooth® connectivity 60/40-split rear bench seat Easy-to-read instrument panel
Cons
Underpowered base 2.0L engine Bumpy ride on poor road surfaces Large roof pillars block visibility
7. Dodge Journey
CarMax owner rating
4.1
Pros
Extra versatility provided by a standard three-row seat Price-competitive against smaller vehicles Some clever features such as built-in booster seats available
Cons
Lacks many modern safety and convenience features, even in top trims Below-average fuel economy Disappointing and outdated base engine and transmission
8. Ford EcoSport
CarMax owner rating
3.7
Pros
Spacious and upscale interior design Quiet cabin User-friendly technology
Cons
Low power and lack of refinement Fuel efficiency disappoints, despite low-power engines Missing key driver-assist equipment found on most rivals
9. Jeep Patriot
CarMax owner rating
4.2
Pros
Cool optional tailgate speakers Great off-road ability Good looks
Cons
Unrefined base engine No telescoping on the steering wheel Rough ride
10. Mazda CX-3
CarMax owner rating
4.3
Pros
Comfortable Stylish design inside and out Fun to drive
Cons
Small rear seat Firm ride Limited cargo space
How we ranked this list
To create our "Best Of" lists, our analysts look at CarMax vehicle and sales data over a recent 6-month period, from December 2023 through May 2024. Looking back over a 6-month period allows for the highest sample size possible while also providing up-to-date pricing information. Some articles may include data points with lower sample sizes.
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2006-2020 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy.
Fuel economy figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new. Fuel economy may vary for reasons like driving conditions and vehicle history. Unless specified, figures are for vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission. See fueleconomy.gov.
Range figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new and assume a full battery charge. Range will vary based on things like battery age, vehicle condition and history, driving and charging habits, accessory use, and driving conditions. Battery capacity may decrease with time and use. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
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We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
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We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.