CarScorer

Best Used SUVs Under $30,000

The strongest used SUV picks under $30,000, ranked by CarScorer’s public reliability score built from free 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 recalls62 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
    2022 Toyota RAV46.2 · Solid choice

    Near-new reliability data — warranty coverage still active on many examples.

    $26,000–$34,0001 recall132 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 recall147 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 recalls234 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 recall72 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 recalls46 complaints
  8. 8
    2018 Toyota 4Runner5.9 · Do your homework

    Strong off-road capability with Toyota reliability — few documented mechanical issues.

    $30,000–$40,0005 recalls57 complaints
  9. 9
    2019 Mercedes GLC5.7 · Do your homework

    Mid-cycle refresh adds carplay and improved safety — verify any outstanding recall campaigns.

    $30,000–$42,0000 recalls
  10. 10
    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
  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 recalls
  12. 12
    2021 GMC Terrain5.1 · Do your homework

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

    $18,000–$24,0002 recalls33 complaints

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