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There’s really no getting around it; new SUVs can be pretty expensive. Sure, you can find an “affordable” SUV like the 2023 Kia Soul, but that might mean making some compromises. Thankfully in 2023, there are some used SUVs out there that you can find for less than $20,000. Even for under $20,000, some of these older SUVs actually boast some legitimate comforts. 

Can you find an SUV for less than $20,000?

In recent years, used car prices have gotten crazy, but even in 2023, you can find an SUV for less than $20,000. Some of these vehicles include models from Subaru, Hyundai, and Ford. And that means even if you are on a budget, you can likely get an SUV that works for your lifestyle. 

According to MotorTrend, there are actually a fair amount of used SUVs worthy of consideration at this price point. These range from the Buick Encore to the Nissan Murano. 

3. 2019 Subaru Forester

Despite coming with features like standard all-wheel drive, you can actually find a redesigned 2019 Subaru Forester for under $20,000. Now, this might require looking for a model with higher mileage, but with proper maintenance, Subarus has a reputation for reliability. 

A green 2019 Subaru Forester, it can be one of the best used SUV for under $20,000.
2019 Subaru Forester | Robert Hradil via Getty Images

For 2019, the Subaru Forester was all-new. Because of that, this SUV rides on the Subaru Global Platform. It is known to be more comfortable and compliant than the Subarus of the past. Some trims will be more expensive than others, but you will be getting something with ample interior space and AWD across the board.

2. 2019 Ford Escape

The Ford Escape is one of those SUVs that seem to be everywhere. The 2019 Ford Escape got a fair amount of updates. So, for a used SUV for under $20,000, that makes it a pretty solid deal. 

A blue 2019 Ford Escape is on display at an auto show. The 2019 Escape is one of the best used SUVs for under $20,000.
2019 Ford Escape | Greg Bake via Getty Images

Updates to this model year of the Escape include standard keyless entry and push-button start on the SE trim. And the SE trim also comes with standard Sync 3 infotainment, which is Ford’s infotainment system. It is worth noting that an all-new Ford Escape came out in 2020. But you won’t see as good of a deal on those models.  

1. The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe is the best used SUV under $20,000

The Hyundai Santa Fe has long been a fairly popular SUV. The 2020 model has unique styling and a livable interior. Plus, like the other used models on this list, you should be able to find one for under $20,000. Some models might go for slightly over the $20,000 mark, especially if the mileage is lower. But if you are OK with getting something that has about 100,000 miles on the clock, the 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe is not bad. In fact, it’s quite good as one of the best used SUVs under $20,000.

The best SUVs of 2023 include this 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe. It's also one of the best used SUVs to buy
A 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe | Hyundai

For some time, SUVs have been one of the most popular segments in the States. In fact, brands like Ford actually killed off car sales in order to focus on building better SUV models. 

Even in 2023, it is possible to find a used SUV for less than $20,000, and you might not have to make as many sacrifices as you may think.

Related The 5 Best Used SUVs of 2022

The 5 Best Used SUVs of 2022