Used SUV Dealer: Explore a Wide Range of Options
Studies show that SUV popularity rapidly increased between the 1990s and 2000s. The popularity of the Used SUV dealer increased over the years such that the vehicles controlled 45.9% of the world’s passenger car market share.
Consumer taste change resulted in automakers making SUVs instead of sedans and wagons. Companies like General Motors even discontinued some sedan productions to concentrate on making new SUVs and pickup trucks.
So why do SUVs sell so well?
It’s not just about the leather seats and alloy wheels but rather how they contribute to versatile performance. SUVs are ideal for families, people who need reliable vehicles for running errands, and seasoned adventures.
In addition, SUVs provide higher safety levels and have a luxurious look that attracts automotive customers. Most of all, SUVs come with various modern and advanced features, such as rear backup cameras and parking assistance systems that help with maneuverability and control.
These and other characteristics continue to be desirable even when the car ages. That is why many people on a budget are buying used cars.
You, too, can be an SUV owner if the budget for a new vehicle is not in the works. Used SUVs are an excellent option for people who need a car in a hurry but have limited funds. If you shop in the right places, you can find a good used car that will serve you for years.
Keep reading to learn where to find reputable used SUV dealers and how to choose a used SUV.
Benefits of Buying a Used SUV
Affordable Price
Buying a new vehicle is expensive. Because SUVs are so reliable, the price for a new one can be well over your budget, costing more than $70,000 for 2023 models. If you are on a limited budget, it is an impractical choice that could land you in severe debt.
With a used SUV, expect lower prices, even as low as $20,000 for a well-functioning car. Therefore, used SUVs are a more practical choice. Even with limited features and a few years under the belt, the trade-off in price for a used SUV is often worth it.
Less Depreciation
Vehicle depreciation is, unfortunately, unavoidable. And it happens fast for new cars, depreciating by about 20% after the sale. Depending on maintenance and use, new cars can lose another 10% during the first year of ownership.
Used cars depreciate a lot slower than new vehicles. It is because the car will have gone through a significant depreciation cycle. Someone else already took the biggest hit on depreciation, so you can enjoy a slower cycle.
So, buying a used SUV means you enjoy a lower depreciation, translating to a more stable loan-to-value ratio.
Variety of Model Options
More cars are in the used market than in the new vehicle market. And given the popularity of SUVs in the last few years, you could be looking at an endless pool of vehicles for your choosing.
You will have access to various SUV options from different brands, model years, traditional, luxury, sporty, and many more. In short, there is a car or three for every need.
With the effects of the pandemic still looming over the new car market, the focus is on used vehicles. More dealers are acquiring used vehicle inventory, giving buyers a better choice of options when shopping for SUVs.
Lower Insurance Costs
Car insurance costs depend on various factors, including driving history, credit score, location, age, and mileage. In addition, it also depends on the cost of the SUV, where the higher the cost, the higher the insurance.
The car’s value significantly affects how much insurance you will pay for the car. Used cars have less value than newer versions. Therefore, the cost of insurance is likely to be less.
Registering a used SUV may also be cheaper, depending on your residency. Some states have a vehicle license tax, which reduces the percentage each year from when the car was first registered.
Easier Research
Purchasing a car means conducting extensive research into the vehicle to ensure you get a car that will serve you well for years.
The unfortunate disadvantage of purchasing a new model is that there is not much research to go on. People have yet to give their opinions on the vehicle, meaning you cannot identify any inconsistencies or issues until later.
The benefit of purchasing a used SUV is that you can find a lot of car forums and review sites that reveal insight into owning an older model. You will know exactly what you are getting into, making it easier to find a car with flaws you can accept.
Finding a Reputable Used SUV Dealership
The key to owning an excellent used SUV is finding a reputable dealer. Some people believe that used cars are costly in the long run. However, if you can find a reputable dealer, you will come across used SUVs that have held their value for years.
Not every dealer who claims to have an SUV for sale is legitimate. Some are scammers, and you could lose money in your investment. Weeding the real dealers from the scammers can be tough, but the following tips should be helpful.
Check Reviews and Ratings
When you find a used SUV dealer, check their reviews and ratings.
People rarely leave good reviews for inadequate services or products. So, if you find a dealer with good reviews, chances are they are legitimate and will sell you a good SUV at a great price.
Be sure to check reputable review websites such as Yelp and car forums. Alternatively, you could use Google reviews. You can also check the dealer’s social media sites or website for customer recommendations and comments. If they are bad at business, you will be able to tell.
Ask Someone to Recommend a Dealership
If this is your first time buying a used vehicle, finding a dealer within your local area can be challenging. That’s where friends and family come in. Ask for recommendations from car owners or people who’ve lived in the area for a long time.
Chances are they know about the various dealers and the kind of vehicles for sale. You can use these recommendations to narrow down an SUV dealer with great prices. Personal referrals can be very trustworthy and the key to finding a fantastic SUV.
Verify Licensing and Certification
Always ensure the dealer is registered and licensed per state and local regulations. You should also ask about industry certifications and memberships. Dealers who confidently present these licenses and certifications are likely legitimate and can offer good SUVs.
However, it is important to note that these licenses increase the dealers’s credit, not affordability. It is why you should look up various dealers to find the best price for the SUV you want.
Visit the Dealership in Person
Does the dealer have a physical location? If they do, visit the lot. A physical visit can tell you a lot about the dealership since it represents their professionalism.
If the area is clean, organized, and with a good system, chances are they are legitimate and will make your next car purchase a breeze. However, any sketchiness should be treated with suspicion. For example, if they claim to have certain cars online but you visit a lot with none of the vehicles, maintain some suspicion.
Check the Dealer’s Inventory
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Check out if the dealer really does sell SUVs. Ask about the make and model you are interested in and similar SUVs.
Pay attention to the SUVs the seller has in stock. Reputable dealers often offer various models, makes, and price points. In addition, their online inventory should match the physical inventory to some extent.
Ask About Warranties and Guarantees
Ask the sales associates about any guarantees or warranties the dealer offers on their used SUVs. Trustworthy dealers may offer limited warranties or Certified Pre-Owned Options.
Pay Attention to Selling Tactics
Lastly, always listen to the sales associate and the type of selling tactics they use. Legitimate dealers give you time to take advantage of an offer or give you time to gather funds. Pressure tactics may be a sign of unprofessionalism.
Considerations When Choosing a Used SUV
It’s settled; you are getting an SUV. But just like any other car, there are multiple considerations when choosing the ideal SUV. Use the following to guide you into picking a good SUV:
Budget
It is important to stick to your budget. Getting a good used SUV is the goal, but it should not cost all your savings. Instead, consider how much money you have or can spare without losing emergency funds. This will guide you into picking a good used SUV.
For example, if your spending limit is $15,000, you can find a good quality 2012 Toyota RAV4. But if you are not looking to go over 10,000, the 2012 KIA Sportage may be a better choice for that budget.
As you plan your budget, remember to include interest costs if financing via loan. In addition, consider insurance costs, processing fees, and other related costs.
Common SUV Problems
No car is perfect. So, as you shop for an SUV, research any common problems users have experienced with the vehicle. Determine if these challenges worsen with time or if you can fix them easily without breaking the bank.
For example, some Ford SUVs are known for oil leakage problems, compromising the vehicle’s overall performance. Some owners were able to fix the problem, while others spent over $1,000 on engine repairs.
Therefore, when you find an SUV model and year, check online forums for any recurring problems and determine if they are worth the work or something that could be costly in the long run.
Safety Features
Always check for safety features such as airbags, antilock brakes, a backup camera, stability control, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, plus automatic emergency braking.
Some sellers insist that the vehicles have these systems. But checking for yourself through a test drive or consultation with an experienced mechanic is always good. Also, it helps to check if the car has a functional navigation system.
Fuel Efficiency
If you plan on using the car daily, evaluate its fuel efficiency. Every car owner must keep fuel consumption within reasonable amounts, even with daily use. Consider alternatives if the car’s consumption does not align with your budget.
Note that smaller SUVs are more fuel-efficient. So, if you do not need cargo and passenger space, consider smaller models for better efficiency. Similarly, hybrid models are generally more fuel-efficient.
On the other hand, larger SUVs may have lower gas mileage. So if you need something bigger, be ready for more consumption but keep it within a reasonable range.
Size and Space
What are your SUV cargo and passenger size needs? If you have a family or consistently transport cargo, springing for a car with third-row seating is practical and worth it. However, if the vehicle is strictly for your use, consider getting a compact or midsize SUV since it will serve your needs while ensuring you do not spend too much on fuel.
It can be tempting to get huge SUVs, but if you do not need them, settling for a smaller one will save you money in the long run.
Mileage
Like any other used car, mileage says a lot about an SUV. If you are buying a used car, always consider the mileage of the vehicle. Generally, lower mileage means the car is in better mechanical condition. On the other hand, high mileage is considered risky since it has more wear and tear.
In relation, it is worth noting that low-mileage SUVs often cost more than those with high mileage. Therefore, you need to find a balance between these two elements.
Total Ownership Costs
And finally, always consider the total cost of ownership. Ask yourself if buying the car will require repairs before going on the road.
Similarly, consider the maintenance costs of the SUV and decide if they align with your financial capabilities. Also, will fuel be an issue? Answering these questions ensures you purchase a used car that you will actually use.
Best SUV Cars to Buy Used
There are many SUVs in the used car market. Below is a list of the best SUVs you can purchase used:
2017 Chevrolet Equinox
If you are in the market for a compact SUV with a surprisingly roomy interior, keep the Chevrolet Equinox in mind. The comfortable ride comes equipped with modern features such as Bluetooth connectivity, a WIFI hotspot, and a 7-inch touchscreen.
You can find the 2017 model with a V6 engine, leather seats with a heated function, and automatic climate control. This car earns high reliability scores with low transaction prices, making it an ideal choice for people on a budget.
2019 Hyundai Santa Fe
The Hyundai Santa Fe is one of the best midsize SUVs you can find in the used market at an affordable price. The 2019 model was completely redesigned for a futuristic style. One of the good things about the change is the V6 engine, which is an upgrade from the base four-cylinder. So you will enjoy more power in a small car.
The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe also has alloy wheels, with modern features such as remote keyless entry and a USB port. As for safety features, buyers will enjoy forward collision warning, automatic high beams, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and driver-attention monitoring.
2019 Hyundai Tucson
The Tucson is a compact but comfortable car ideal for buyers with average requirements from a vehicle. The 2019 version got an interior remodel, helping it move into the later years with grace. The car comes with a base four-cylinder engine. The 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine outputs 181 horsepower, offering more power than its predecessors.
Like most modern SUVs, the 2019 Hyundai Tucson has numerous safety features, such as forward collision warning, driver attention monitoring, plus automatic emergency braking. Overall, you will enjoy a balanced ride and user-friendly tech.
2018 Buick Envision
If you are in the market for a vehicle between luxury and non-luxury, the Buick Envision is a great choice. In 2018, the car was in its second year of production. The vehicle has a slightly underwhelming base engine, but the four-cylinder engine for 252 horsepower provides plenty of power.
Heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a WIFI hotspot are some of the great modern features of the 2018 Buick Envision. There were no major changes compared to predecessors, but it is a reliable, comfortable, roomy ride.
2019 Kia Sportage
Kia Sportage owners enjoy great value, and buying it used ensures it comes with the advantage of reliability without costing a lot of money. In fact, it is the ideal choice for SUVs under $10,000. Not only does the shortage have amazing aesthetics, but it also has terrific interior design.
Buyers can access easy-to-use features such as a hands-free power liftgate and the UVO infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 2018 model comes with a standard four-cylinder engine for 1818 horsepower. You can go up to 240 horsepower if you choose the SX Turbo.
2018 Lexus GX
The Lexus GX is what you purchase when you need a comfortable cruiser with off-road capabilities. The comfort is not the same as other Lexus vehicles, but it is a luxury SUV that will not disappoint on dusty and muddy trails.
Buyers enjoy a V8 engine that offers 301 horsepower. This power helps you overcome rough trails while maintaining decent highway speeds. The car also offers plenty of cargo space, ideal for people who pack heavily.
2019-2022 Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 speaks for itself when it comes to measuring SUVs. It holds a gold standard among compact sport utility cars with a wide range of features that make it capable and reliable. Consider any model between 2019 and 2022.
These cars have various engine options, including a four-cylinder engine and a hybrid choice. The 2019 model has dynamic torque vectoring, an 8-speed Electronically controlled automatic transmission, and an all-wheel drive with multi-terrain selection. In addition, all RAV4s have superior cabin comfort, so expect a comfortable ride.
BMW X1
If you can finance a luxury SUV, put the BMW X1 at the top of your list. The compact car offers a sport driving experience characterized by advanced features for the whole luxurious experience.
Get ready for a practical but exciting driving experience. You will love the sleek design, take advantage of impressive performance, and find use for the spacious cabin.
The 2015 BMW X1 is one of the most competent in its class. It has a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which produces 240 horsepower. You can alternatively find the X1 xDrive35i for a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission.
Audi Q3
The Audi Q3 is popular among car buyers, especially in the Italian market. It is because this car is reliable, even rated as one of the most reliable gasoline cars. Its competitors can barely keep up in terms of dependability.
The Q3 is additionally a statement piece with excellent technology and excellent handling. The posh cabin and smooth controls offer a comfortable driving experience. The Q3 is not ideal for offroading capability, but it will serve you well if you live and commute within the city.
Mazda CX-5
Practicality was one of the most significant selling points of the Mazda CX-5, and it remains even for used cars. Owners love the ample space up front, supported by even more comfortable rear seating. In addition, the car has ample cargo space, making it a top choice for used family cars.
The Mazda CX-5 provides a sporty driving experience. If you go for the 2019 model, expect a 2.5-liter I-4 base engine connected to a six-speed automatic transmission. You can choose between the front and all-wheel drive.
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Powerful SUV Options at an Affordable Price: No Fighting With Titan!
Finding a good sports utility vehicle involves working with a good dealer. Luckily, you do not have to go too far to find the car of your dreams.
Titan Auto Group offers an expansive inventory of used SUV dealer cars at an affordable price. But more than that, we offer financing options to help you get the vehicle of your dreams with no hassle.
No credit? No problem! There’s no fighting with Titan Auto Group when you are in the market for a preowned car. Contact us today to learn more about our interest rates and available vehicles.
