
Best Used SUVs and Crossovers
So what's the difference between an SUV and a crossover? Well, from the outside you probably wouldn't notice the difference, they're both high riding practicality mobiles, the difference comes when you look beneath that bulky bodywork. In basic terms, a crossover will tend to be based upon a small hatchback, so all of the mechanical parts such as the engine and the suspension will be virtually identical - an example would be the Renault Captur, which is mechanically identical in many ways to a Renault Clio. This means that, despite a more rugged appearance, it's unlikely to be much better suited to off-roading.
Find our recommendations below:
8. Peugeot 3008
The current 3008 has helped make Peugeots more desirable, replacing the last model that – let’s be honest - looked like a porpoise.
Stylish looks inside and out, comfortable and predictable performance, and the option of a clever system called Grip Control, which can improve traction in slippery conditions are among its key attractions. Some versions return impressive fuel economy too. For example, the 1.6-litre diesel with engine stop and start can return more than 50mpg in real-world driving.
7. Kia Sportage
Buy a three-year old Sportage and you’ll still have four years remaining on its warranty. Bearing in mind a car is probably the most expensive thing any of us will pay for, other than our home, having that peace of mind (thanks to every new Kia’s seven year warranty, that transfers to the next owner) is a serious selling point.
The Sportage is a good-looking car but proves to be more than just a pretty face. Its interior is spacious, the dashboard is sensibly laid out and the boot is large. The tricky bit will come deciding which model to go for. The 1.7 diesel engine has sufficient performance for daily driving duties and is surprisingly pleasant to drive, but those who need four-wheel drive will have to pick the larger, 2.0-litre version.
6. Dacia Duster
Dacia is effectively where Skoda was 15 years ago, offering outstanding value for money to budget-conscious drivers. However, its cars, notably the Duster, are far from dated. Even when new, the Duster was calculated to be Britain’s most affordable car to buy and run over three years. Think of the bargain it becomes after a few years, especially as it has been replaced by a newer model, which tends to push the price down further.
The Duster uses Renault engines, and the diesel is a hard-worker that returns more than 50mpg in real-world driving. There’s a choice of two- and four-wheel drive versions, and with the latter you get a car that’s ideal for tackling winter weather, wet grass fields of slippery slipways.
5. Range Rover Evoque
Buy an SUV and the neighbours can’t help but notice that your life is going swimmingly. And when it comes to getting envious looks from those next door, few cars will have people peering past the curtains quite like the Range Rover Evoque.
There is a trade-off, however. The low roof that gives the Evoque its striking stance means the rear seats feel a little cramped – more like a coupe than a tall SUV. But in other ways this helps, by keeping the car’s weight low and making it feel surprisingly sporty on a nice stretch of road.
4. Volvo XC90
There are no prizes for guessing that the caring Swedes build some of the safest cars. But did you know that since records of vehicle fatalities began, nobody inside a Volvo XC90 has ever been killed in Britain? (At the time of publication, at least).
So if you want your loved ones to be as safe as possible – and who doesn’t – then the Volvo XC90 is for you. A quick exploration of the interior suggests it was designed by someone who has children - lots of children. The space on offer is huge and comfort levels are very high - perfect for keeping parents relaxed and reducing how often shouts of 'are we neally there yet?' are heard, too.
It’s not as expensive as some may imagine, and used versions of the latest model, sold since 2015 is coming down in price.
3. Nissan Qashqai
The current version of the Nissan Qashqai went on sale in 2014 and some of the early models now cost around £9,000, with monthly finance payments close to £150.
It's not the best car in its class, but to many motorists it’s the equivalent of a comfort blanket, taking care of all their needs at a price they can afford with a name they recognise. The interior is well made, some versions come packed with technology - including electronic driving aids - back seat legroom is impressive but the boot is on the small side for a family SUV.
2. Skoda Yeti
With a name like Yeti, you know that Skoda’s SUV is going to be one of the more quirky options before you’ve even set eyes on it. And sure enough, it looks like nothing else on the road, with a bluff nose and boxy passenger compartment that isn’t exactly cut out for the catwalk. However, it really is striking and depending upon the specification and colour chosen can be both striking and even sophisticated.
But look beyond the obvious and you’ll find a practical car that’s surprisingly sprightly to drive. The rear seats, for example, slide on rails; the backrests tilt to help passengers get comfortable; they also fold down in 40/20/40 configuration – perfect for loading some woodwork or plumbing materials through the space in the middle; and can even be removed, giving space to make a van driver envious.
1. Land Rover Discovery Sport
Forget about the ‘Sport’ label on the Discovery Sport; it’s Land Rover’s way of playing tricks on your mind. This is not a sporty car in any sense. Nevertheless, it is a terrific family car.
The ace up its sleeve is that it is compact enough to be relatively easy to manoeuvre in a multi-storey car park, but inside all but the cheapest Pure models come with seven seats. Just don’t expect adults to thank you for spending hours in the rearmost row; children are a much better fit.
Information Source: Buyacar.co.uk
Credit source: buyacar.co.uk
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