Link copied to clipboard!
  • ShareIcon

    Share this article

Published January 19, 2022

The best used SUVs for under $20,000

  • ShareIcon

    Share this article

Photo shows a woman sitting with a beagle in the open liftgate of a small SUV. There is a field and trees in the background.

SUVs are known for their impressive specs and space, so you would be forgiven for thinking one might be expensive. But when you buy a used SUV, you’ll find a range of excellent options for under $20,000.

Used cars are available for a fraction of the price of a new SUV, so you don’t have to sacrifice quality to save money.

Perhaps you’re looking for an SUV under $20k to drive your family around on much-needed breaks, or you want to downsize from your trusty pickup? Or maybe you like how it’ll look in your driveway?

Whatever the reason, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best used SUV options for $20,000 or less.

Top SUVs for Under $20k
Volkswagen Tiguan

Used price: $19k-$45k

This compact crossover SUV seats up to seven people, so it’s perfect for large families. It’s known for its comfortable and smooth ride and has plenty of interior storage and cargo space.

The second generation Tiguan was released in 2018, which includes even more storage space, extra legroom and plenty of tech extras. If you’re wanting to buy a Volkswagen Tiguan for 20k and under, you should be looking at models released pre-2020.

Shop Volkswagen Tiguan

Jeep Patriot

Used price: $14k-$25k

The Jeep Patriot was discontinued in 2017 but is still an extremely popular and sought-after model. It’s favored for its ample space, contemporary styling and famous Jeep durability.

This affordable compact SUV seats seven and drives well in all weathers and terrains – with its smooth city handling and ability to take on off-road routes. What’s more, most Patriots sit comfortably under the $20k mark.

Shop Jeep Patriot

Hyundai Kona

Used price: $20k-$35k

The Hyundai Kona was released in 2018 and seats five. This great get-around handles like a smaller vehicle – yet has the space and utilities of a SUV. It also comes with optional all-wheel drive for extra control, so is one of the best all-round SUV options under $20,000.

This SUV is known for its acceleration power – it’s agile and fun to drive in most terrains. There’s also plenty of technological and safety features to enjoy – such as collision and rear-view monitors. If you’re wanting a model for under $20K, Konas released in 2018 is where you need to look.

Shop Hyundai Kona

Ford EcoSport

Used price: $19k-$28k

This compact SUV seats up to five and can easily squeeze around corners and into tight spaces. The perfect reliable city SUV, the EcoSport offers a comfortable ride and includes added luxuries such as heated seats and plenty of power outlets.

In terms of its interior sizing, also compact, this SUV has plenty of passenger and storage space – not to mention famously comfortable seats. Models released in 2018 and 2019 are the best choice if you want to stay under 20k.

Shop Ford EcoSport

Kia Sportage

Used price: $15k-$35k

The Kia Sportage is a 4-wheel drive, compact SUV that can seat up to five passengers. It boasts plenty of storage and passenger space, and plenty of legroom for its two-row interior.

The nifty Sportage has great handling and power for a compact and is perfect for both city and rural route journeys. Like most Kias, these SUVs are one of the more affordable models.

Shop Kia Sportage

Chevrolet Trax

Used price: $16k-$27k

The subcompact Chevrolet Trax seats five, so is great for families and single drivers alike. There are both front-wheel and all-wheel drive options available, depending on the type of driving experience that best suits you.

All Trax models have automatic transmission and are therefore known for their smooth handling and healthy gas mileage.

This durable vehicle comes with extensive safety and tech features onboard but is still one of the most affordable used SUVs out there. Look at 2019 or earlier models if you want to find a Trax under 20k.

Shop Chevrolet Trax

Kia Soul

Used price: $15k-$29k

This SUV’s classic Kia exterior makes it instantly recognizable on the streets. This great family-sized car seats five and is known for its quiet ride – that won’t wake up the kids. Although it’s smooth and silent, the Soul boasts a turbocharged engine, and is one of the best small SUV options under $20,000 in terms of power.

Shop Kia Soul

Ford Escape
Image shows a red Ford Escape parked on a dirt road with a lake and city skyline in the background.
Ford Escape

Used price: $15k-$31k

The Ford Escape was first released in 2000 and has remained as one of the most popular affordable SUV models. This compact crossover has excellent handling and agility, paired with the build and 5-seater space of a regular-sized SUV.

Shop Ford Escape

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Used price: $16k-$20k

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is an affordable SUV that boasts 4-wheel drive, superb handling and enviable stability. This compact SUV is a family-friendly option that includes a roomy, practical cabin and plenty of cargo space.

Shop Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Buick Encore

Used price: $17k-$28k

A solid subcompact SUV option, the Buick Encore seats five and features an intuitive infotainment system, roomy cabin and slick handling.

The Encore boasts impressive reliability ratings from the 2018 model onwards, with a host of safety features, like a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring and parking sensors. Shop for the 2019 release or earlier to pick one up for around $20k.

Shop Buick Encore

Buy a used SUV for under $20,000 from EchoPark

Explore our extensive range of affordable used SUVs at EchoPark to find the drive that’s best for you.

Want to learn more?

Chat with us or learn more about EchoPark.

About EchoPark