Buying a brand spanking new vehicle just may not be in the cards for you because of cost-cutting, but you still need a great car, SUV, or minivan for your family. You can get a great deal these days on cars that are in great condition with low mileage, otherwise known as used. You just need to be selective, so we offer up seven great option for vehicles that are still in excellent shape. Here are the ones we chose, in no particular order.
2017 Dodge Durango
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Best for muscle car fans |
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The Durango has soldiered on longer than anyone expected and for good reason. It's a roomy and capable SUV that can fit seven adults while towing up to 7,200 lbs with the HEMI V8 engine (6,200 lbs with the Pentastar V6). The big rear doors allow easy access to the large third row, and all passengers (adults) will find the Durango to be a comfortable ride. Expect prices to range from the low $20K up to the mid $30K mark.
2017 Subaru Outback
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Best for small suburban families |
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The Outback has a cult following for a reason. It's Subaru's best-selling vehicle, and it's a station wagon. That fact alone should get your attention since wagons don't sell well, to begin with. The Outback's reputation is superb for families thanks to solid safety, great optional EyeSight Safety System equipment, and roominess that competes with crossovers that are bigger on the outside. Expect to pay between the low $20K and low $30K price range for a good one, depending on trim level.
2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee
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Best for Off-Roaders |
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The Jeep Grand Cherokee is like an American Range Rover. It's handsome inside and out, as well as seriously capable when it goes off pavement. In higher trims, the cabin is truly luxurious with high-grade leather, solid ergonomics, and a great Uconnect infotainment system. For the 2016 model year, all non-SRT trims received updated steering, tires, and suspension for a better ride and improved driving experience. It's one of the best American SUVs on the market that will satisfy the whole family, and with the V8 engine, it's a powerhouse. Look for prices between the low $20Ks and the mid-$30Ks.
2018 Chrysler Pacifica
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Best for Upsized families |
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The Pacifica proves minivans aren't dead yet, and it's a superb family hauler that makes long hauls and noisy families more than manageable thanks to well thought-out space, brilliant storage options, and enough power to satisfy parents in a hurry. The instrumentation and the Uconnect system are some of the best you'll find in any vehicle, and the easy rotary shifter makes quick work of gear changes. In Limited trim, it has just about everything you need, and it easily borders on premium in terms of looks and materials. Look for used examples ranging from $22K to $35K.
2017 Buick Enclave
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Best for Luxury Lovers |
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The Enclave is the rightful king of the Buick crossovers since it does just about everything well. Easy to drive, nicely appointed, and as smooth as a luxury sedan, the Enclave is popular for a reason. Its looks have slightly changed since 2017, but only via slight refreshes. The 288 horsepower V6 engine is great for most occasions, but it can feel taxed when the Enclave is loaded to the gills. On the plus side, it's more than sufficient for most daily tasks. The 2017 model still looks great today, and it gets top scores in crash testing, making it ideal for drivers and families.
What do I gain from buying used?
- Depreciation is greatest within the first two years of the vehicle's life, so you can avoid that hit by purchasing a 2-year old vehicle in great condition.
- If it's only a couple of years old, it will still have modern technology like Bluetooth and a touchscreen infotainment system that's current.
- They may also still have the factory warranty depending on mileage.