Great Commuter-Friendly Used SUVs for Drivers on a Budget

SUVs remain the most popular vehicle in North America because they’re capable, versatile, and stylish for the modern driver. People who want maximum value will often buy used SUVs because they cost less upfront and give you the most bang for your buck. A smart buyer knows that not just any used SUV for sale will do, though. With numerous types of SUVs, you need a model tailored to your specific driving needs.

Sometimes, the main goal is to find an SUV that will get you from point A to point B—but do so in style and comfort. Like traditional sedans, these “commuter SUVs” should offer some combination of efficiency, comfort, ride quality, convenience, and safety. Where should you start your search? Here are seven commuter-friendly SUVs that used vehicle shoppers should consider for everyday needs.

Toyota RAV4

This compact SUV has become one of the best-selling vehicles year after year because it does everything, including elevating your daily drive. On the used market, you can find the RAV4 with a traditional gas, hybrid, or plug-in hybrid powertrain, giving you excellent fuel economy and range at the price point you can afford. Its active driver assistance is top-notch as well, with some models providing more than a dozen aids.

Technology is also a highlight of the Toyota RAV4. Whether your commute is five minutes or five hours, you’ll stay entertained and informed with upgradable touchscreens and gauge displays, plenty of connectivity options, premium audio, wireless charging, and more. Finally, the selection of used Toyota RAV4s includes models that deliver solid off-road ability without compromising on-road performance. It’s all backed by Toyota’s legendary long-lasting quality.

Nissan Rogue

If you want a more sophisticated drive to work or the grocery store, the Nissan Rogue is up to the challenge. The best attribute of the Rogue is how smooth the suspension feels. Even if you’re stuck driving through road construction or rush-hour traffic, this compact SUV will be cozy. It also has excellent gas engine efficiency for those who can’t afford a hybrid or don’t want to deal with the more complex system.

Other things to love about the Nissan Rogue are the large cargo area, modern style, quiet urban riding, and high-level tech. An array of trim levels is available, from more basic commuter SUVs to vehicles that have leather seating surfaces, moonroofs, and other slick amenities. A used Rogue lets you experience the finer aspects of getting around Virginia without needing a hefty bank account.

Chevrolet Equinox

Even when your SUV is primarily for commuting, you still want it to drive well. That’s where the Chevrolet Equinox (and its cousin, the sporty Chevy Blazer) makes its case. The handling has been described as “poised,” navigating you across Main Street, down the nearest boulevard, and across the interstate with ease. Its standard safety features are overflowing, too, with plenty of active driver assistance to protect you and your passengers.

Fuel mileage is solid, and as a compact SUV, the Equinox is a great pick if you want your commuter vehicle to also be stout on road trips. The passenger compartment is incredibly roomy, with good cargo space for your suitcases or fishing gear. With standard, sport, outdoor, and upscale trim levels, the Equinox will provide an extra pop every time you go driving.

Hyundai Tucson

Your days can get hectic, and you may want a vehicle that will help calm you down instead of further stoking the flames. The Hyundai Tucson offers a quiet, serene drive even when you’re in the middle of the big city. Its smooth powertrain reduces road noise, and Hyundai makes extensive use of noise-damping materials to keep ambient sounds out of the cabin. Beyond this, the Tucson is very roomy, as the second-row legroom and cargo space with the seats up are among the best in its class.

A used Tucson isn’t just about comfort, though. The Tucson Hybrid has excellent range, and the Tucson Plug-In Hybrid further reduces your carbon footprint. There’s still a gas-powered Tucson as well, with strong highway fuel mileage for long-distance commuters. You’ll also find great infotainment technology and models like the Limited that are borderline luxury.

Subaru Outback

If you want your commuter SUV to be a little larger, a little more powerful, or a little more outdoor-capable, the venerable Subaru Outback is a good bet. Having evolved from a station wagon to a midsize SUV, this machine has impressive passenger and storage space. It’s comfortable, too, with ergonomic seat designs, high-quality materials, and numerous convenience features to personalize the cabin.

As for drivability, the Subaru Outback comes standard with AWD, and trim levels are available with tuning options for off-road adventures, long-distance vacations, or making the most of a 10-minute commute to work. You can easily find an Outback with a high-powered engine, leather seating, a big touchscreen, or anything else you prioritize for daily driving.

Kia Sportage

When the objective is to drive, drive, and drive some more, the Kia Sportage is happy to oblige. In particular, the Kia Sportage Hybrid ranks among the best total range for any vehicle, including SUVs. With some configurations approaching 600 miles, it handles long commutes and vacations with equal aplomb. Gas-powered and PHEV models are also available, with each offering a cavernous, upscale cabin that treats you like royalty.

The Sportage also boasts comfortable driving dynamics, industry-leading cargo space, excellent infotainment, and convenient features for keeping track of items like beverage cups and small bags. It’s a looker as well, with lighting accents and optional two-tone colors to give your daily ride some personality. It’s a charming yet practical vehicle that you’ll like climbing into.

Honda CR-V

As the “something for everyone” SUV, the Honda CR-V can accommodate just about any commuting need. The CR-V boasts one of the most spacious interiors in the compact SUV segment, offering sufficient rear legroom for tall adults and ample cargo space for packing up for a business trip or weekend getaway. Its hybrid powertrain offers impressive city mileage and range, while the gas-powered CR-V is a budget-friendly choice for those who primarily drive on the highway.

Handling-wise, the CR-V is predictable in the best way, with accurate steering, strong grip in all conditions, and a composed feel. Honda is well-known for its infotainment and safety technology, which is carried over to the CR-V. Add the modern exterior styling and Honda’s deserved reputation for reliability, and you get what some would consider the ideal daily driver.

Find a Used Commuter SUV With Us Today

Many pre-owned SUVs are ready to get you back and forth Monday through Friday—and maybe have a little fun on the weekend. They offer some of the industry’s best value when new, and going the used route means your bank account will be even happier.

Visit HoneyCar or shop online to see our large selection of these and other commuter-friendly used SUVs. We are revolutionizing the way Virginia drivers shop for used cars by combining cutting-edge technology with a human touch. Enjoy haggle-free transparent pricing, support from a dedicated service team, and a powertrain warranty that shows we stand by each vehicle’s quality. Come in today and we’ll find you a great pre-owned SUV?