CarScorer

Best Used SUVs Under $20,000

Our data-driven ranking of the best used SUVs under $20,000 — scored on recalls, owner complaints, and model-specific reliability.

Ranked by CarScorer’s public reliability score — a model-level estimate from brand reliability, NHTSA recalls and complaints, and curated known issues. It is not a per-listing deal score; score a specific VIN for a full breakdown.

  1. 1
    2021 Mazda CX-57.5 · Recommended

    Consistent reliability leader — few documented issues; excellent long-term ownership costs.

    $20,000–$27,0000 recalls143 complaints
  2. 2
    2021 Subaru Forester7.5 · Recommended

    Solid reliability record continues — one of the best AWD buys in this segment.

    $20,000–$27,0000 recalls207 complaints
  3. 3
    2020 Nissan Rogue6.2 · Solid choice

    Final year of second gen — familiar CVT concerns; inspect carefully above 80k miles.

    $14,000–$20,0001 recall149 complaints
  4. 4
    2018 Mazda CX-96.2 · Solid choice

    Upscale 3-row SUV — sharp handling and interior; turbo-4 needs regular oil service.

    $20,000–$27,0002 recalls126 complaints
  5. 5
    2021 Hyundai Tucson5.9 · Do your homework

    Fourth-gen redesign — bold styling and improved powertrains; verify for early launch bugs.

    $18,000–$25,0001 recall78 complaints
  6. 6
    2021 Kia Sportage5.9 · Do your homework

    Pre-redesign final — well-sorted and dependable; new SX trim adds value.

    $16,000–$22,0002 recalls50 complaints
  7. 7
    2016 Subaru Crosstrek5.7 · Do your homework

    Reliable AWD crossover — head gasket history on earlier models is worth checking.

    $9,000–$14,0001 recall131 complaints
  8. 8
    2020 Kia Sorento5.5 · Do your homework

    Last pre-redesign model — well-developed platform with known maintenance profile.

    $17,000–$24,0001 recall134 complaints
  9. 9
    2020 Hyundai Santa Fe5.5 · Do your homework

    Hybrid and plug-in options available — ICE 2.5T is reliable and widely supported.

    $19,000–$27,0002 recalls206 complaints
  10. 10
    2021 GMC Terrain5.1 · Do your homework

    Consistent reliability record — GMC dealer network makes service easy nationwide.

    $18,000–$24,0002 recalls34 complaints
  11. 11
    2020 Honda CR-V5.0 · Do your homework

    Refined 1.5T; turbocharged variants still recommended for fuel economy over reliability.

    $20,000–$27,0007 recalls350 complaints
  12. 12
    2021 Chevrolet Equinox4.4 · Higher risk

    Good value compact SUV — major dealer network means easy servicing nationwide.

    $17,000–$23,0004 recalls91 complaints

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