CarScorer

Best Used SUVs Under $25,000

The strongest used SUV picks under $25,000, ranked by CarScorer’s public reliability score built from NHTSA data.

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
    2022 Mazda CX-57.9 · Recommended

    Latest pre-redesign model — well-sorted and reliable with strong safety ratings.

    $23,000–$30,0000 recalls63 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 Mazda CX-96.6 · Solid choice

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

    $25,000–$32,0001 recall19 complaints
  4. 4
    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
  5. 5
    2022 Honda CR-V6.2 · Solid choice

    Redesigned for 2023, but 2022 outgoing model is well-debugged and priced fairly.

    $25,000–$33,0003 recalls253 complaints
  6. 6
    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
  7. 7
    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
  8. 8
    2016 Mercedes GLC5.7 · Do your homework

    X253 first year — 2.0T four-cylinder well-proven but plan for premium maintenance costs.

    $24,000–$33,0000 recalls
  9. 9
    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
  10. 10
    2021 Toyota RAV45.2 · Do your homework

    Excellent reliability record continues — low recall count and strong resale value.

    $23,000–$30,0001 recall383 complaints
  11. 11
    2021 Kia Sorento5.2 · Do your homework

    Fourth-gen redesign with turbo-4 standard — verify for early-build quality on used examples.

    $21,000–$29,0004 recalls8 complaints
  12. 12
    2018 Toyota Highlander5.2 · Do your homework

    Midsize 3-row SUV with a strong reliability record and excellent resale value.

    $24,000–$30,0005 recalls264 complaints

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