Need recommendation for used SUV

[ourfirsthome]

Hello,

We currently have two smaller vehicles. They are great for gas millage with all of the driving I do, but not for a family (Me, dw, baby and 2 large dogs). We have decided we are going to need something larger.

We don't know any good SUV's to start looking at and could use some help. This vehicle will just be used when we are all going somewhere otherwise I will use the car for work purposes. We would like 4 wheel drive with all of the winter weather we get here, but not sure how much that affects the price. We would like to stay at 5,000 or less.

Not sure what options we can have for a reliable SUV at that price range. We can go up if needed, but we don't want any loans (just paying cash) so the lower the price the better. Reliability, safety and comfort for all of us would be ideal.

Thanks and I look forward to any suggestions anyone may have so we can begin searching and see what is out there for us.

[ua_guy]

First I'd decide if you truly need an SUV or if a minivan would do. Minivans are much more economical yet still seat 7 comfortably, or the rear seat can be removed for high capacity dog/cargo carrying and still seat 4 humans comfortably. They are also available with all-wheel drive. In this category I'd recommend the Dodge Caravan/ Chrysler Town&Country, Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey.

If you go with an SUV, I'm going to recommend an American brand (Ford, Chevrolet, Dodge/Chrysler, Jeep, etc). Why? Because if you're looking in the $5k range, a lot of models in this category still have poor resale value and they're practically ubiquitous in the wake of the early-mid 2000's SUV craze. My favorite in this category is the Chevrolet Tahoe. It's absolutely huge, has a lot of power, is very comfortable. Parts are plentiful and cheap and they're still relatively easy to work on. I'd also take a look at the Ford Explorer and Dodge Durango. Honda and Toyota had some good models as well- the Honda Pilot and the Toyota 4Runner, but resale value is so high on those I wouldn't think they'd be a value for your situation. In any case, you're probably looking at something well-used and with high miles.

I've left out all the small, car-based SUV's and crossovers because they truly don't offer much more room than a standard sedan. The Ford Escape is great, but it's pretty small. Same with the Honda CRV and Toyota RAV4.

Happy hunting, let us know what you find!