11 Best Used Midsize SUVs Under $30,000 That You Can Buy In 2023

best used midsize suvs

If you want to buy a spacious vehicle but can not afford the brand-new market prices, it might help if you explore the best used midsize SUVs in 2023.

Used cars are blessings for people who need personal transportation but are under no circumstances to buy brand-new ones. Buying a used car gives you your personal ride but at an affordable rate that does not crush you.

The only thing you need to be careful of regarding buying used cars is to research well and be aware that you can not buy them just from anyone.

So, whether you are a college-going student, a new teenage driver, or a family person who needs an extra ride for their growing family, a used car is the perfect solution.

Over the last few years, SUVs have become America’s favorite. They offer not only space & comfort but some of the best features you can get in an automobile.

Thus, today in your search for your next vehicle, we bring you this detailed review article about the 11 best midsize SUV to buy used in 2023.

Let us begin and explore top models from the best automakers in America.

Explore Best Used Midsize Luxury SUVs Under $30000

Buying SUVs as brand-new vehicles is a challenging task for some. Plus, with vehicle prices rising yearly, not everyone can enjoy their dream ride.

But the used cars market offers you the luxury to be able to own a vehicle that generally would have been a dream.

So, if you want something premium, look for the best-used luxury midsize SUV. If not, there are a lot of models to explore under different categories.

Here we have some of the best and most affordable used SUVs you can consider buying in 2023:

  1. 2019 Mazda CX-9
  2. 2020 Ford Edge
  3. 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe
  4. 2018 Nissan Murano
  5. 2020 Kia Sorento
  6. 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  7. 2016 Toyota Highlander
  8. 2017 Honda Pilot
  9. 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  10. 2017 Buick Enclave
  11. 2018 Chevrolet Traverse

Here Are 9 Things To Consider Before Buying Best Rated Used SUVs In 2023

Buying a used car is similar to purchasing a brand-new one. The only difference is you will be looking at some scenarios differently.

The used car market has a high evaluation in America. In recent years, especially with the economic crunch, buying a used car seems a more viable option to most people. Thus, buying a used car is an excellent decision as it is where you are more likely to get a better bargain.

But remember, just because you are buying a used car does not mean you have to compromise. You can quickly get a reliable, used ride. All you need to know is how to find one.

To help you search for your first used SUV, below, we have nine key factors you must consider before finalizing a purchase.

1. Budget

The budget is the foremost thing to do before buying a used or brand-new car. Without setting a proper amount that you can afford to spend, it is easy to get overwhelmed by the options available in the market.

Thus, set a budget you can afford without any strain and try to find a ride within it.

Avoid going overboard with the budget, as it can hurt you in the long run.

2. Financing

After setting up your budget, it will be easy to learn if you can pay for the ride upfront or require financing.

Several financing options are available in America, like the best national banks, car dealerships, private lending agency & more.

If you require financing, research the options well. Some financers may ask for minimum details with a small down payment. In contrast, others may ask you to go through extensive paperwork.

So, if you want to save yourself from troubles in the long run, spend time researching & comparing your various financing options to find the right one.

3. Lifestyle

A vehicle will only be beneficial if it complements your lifestyle and fulfills your need to buy it.

A family buying a two-seater ride or a regular person buying a luxurious ride that is high maintenance are the perfect example of a lifestyle mismatch.

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Instead of thinking about what you desire, you need to critically analyze your situation & needs and stick to the ride that complements your lifestyle, not crush it.

4. Insurance

Whether you own a brand-new car or a used one, you need insurance to protect yourself in case of any mishap.

In addition, in the United States, you need insurance to buy a used car. Insurance is an expense that comes with owning an automobile. Thus, you should research well to find the insurance that covers you well and is within your means.

5. Look Up The Dealer

When you find a dealer you want to buy the car from, research them thoroughly. Look online to know what other people are saying about them.

Talk to other people, visit the dealership, and talk to the employees & customers there. Doing all these things will give you a helpful idea of whether a dealer is the right one to buy a used car.

6. Car Title & Ownership

If you are buying your used car via a loan, it is time to get the ownership & title for it.

However, if you are buying the SUV upfront, the seller should be able to provide you with both the car title & the ownership. And if you are buying your car from an individual owner, ensure they are the valid owner of the ride.

7. Vehicle History

Before finalizing your deal on the used car, ask the seller for its history. The vehicle history will let you know how far the ride has been driven, if there have been any issues with it, the last maintenance, and other necessary details.

Do not avoid this crucial step of checking the vehicle’s history because most of the time, cars might look all good from the outside. Still, when you start using them, they turn out to be junk.

8. Do The Inspection

When you buy a used car, the seller usually tries to assure you that they have inspected the vehicle. Do not fall for it.

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Have a professional take a look at the ride for you. Go for someone who you can trust regarding such a delicate matter. This way, you will know whether a vehicle you are interested in is worth buying.

9. Go For A Test Drive

A vehicle is not your ride until you drive it. Take your vehicle for a test drive and check how it runs & how it feels to drive it.

An extended test drive will tell you if it is the right purchase. And if not, you can move on to your next choice, and so on & so forth.

11 Best Used Midsize SUVs Under $30,000 You Can Buy In 2023

The market for used cars is enormous. You can find almost any model at a cheaper rate than its market selling price.

Whether it is an SUV, sedan, sports car, pickup truck, or motorcycle, you can buy them all in the used car market of the USA.

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Currently, the best thing is that most authentic dealerships sell brand-new and used cars to their customers. Thus, eliminating the fear of you getting scammed.

With so many choices and different kinds of buyers out there, we bring you the list of all the top SUV models that you can buy for under $30,000 in 2023.

Check out each model’s detailed overview and description to make an informed decision.

1. 2019 Mazda CX-9

best used midsize suvs
  • Used MSRP: From $26,798 (Estimated)
  • Engine: 2.5 L 4-cylinder
  • Horsepower: 227 hp
  • Cargo volume: 14.4 ft³, 71.2 ft³ with seat area
  • NHTSA Safety Rating: 5 Star

The 2019 Mazda CX-9 is an affordable midsize SUV that costs $33,275 for the brand-new base model. But in the used car market, you can get one for an estimated $26,798.

The model is powered by a 2.5 L four-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 227 horsepower.

This vehicle is light at feet and offers firm suspension & smooth ride. Regarding fuel economy, the 2019 CX-9 is more efficient than many competitors. 

It is one of the best used midsize SUVs with good gas mileage to buy in 2023. In addition, all the tech & entertainment features are high-end in this luxurious SUV.

Lastly, the car holds an impressive five-star safety rating from NHTSA. But to boost the security of this high-end ride, you can always install the best dash cam with night vision.

Pros

  • High-end cabin
  • Agile handling
  • Robust engine
  • Impressive gas mileage
  • Easy-to-use tech controls

Cons

  • Mediocre cargo space
  • The towing capacity is low compared to top rivals

2. 2020 Ford Edge

best used midsize suvs
  • Used MSRP: From $23,947 (Estimated)
  • Engine: 2.0 L 4-cylinder, 2.7 L V6
  • Horsepower: 250 to 335 hp
  • Cargo volume: 39.2 ft³, 73.4 ft³ with seat area
  • NHTSA Safety Rating: 5 Star

The 2020 Ford Edge is a spacious, composed, and fuel-efficient SUV whose used base model can be yours for an estimated $23,947.

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The ride comes with two engine options 2.0 L 4-cylinder and 2.7 L V6, producing 250 to 335 hp. This SUV can sprint from zero to 0 mph in under 7.5 seconds and is available in five trim levels.

The interior is roomy & upscale, making it worth your money. In addition, the ride handling and acceleration are also smooth.

Furthermore, the impressive gas mileage and safety & tech features make it a good steal.  And if you desire to upgrade, we recommend going for the Ford LED tail lights to give it a new-like look.

Pros

  • Upscale cabin
  • Spacious seating
  • Impressive gas mileage
  • Smooth ride

Cons

  • Less agile than competitors
  • Not so a great base engine

3. 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe

best used midsize suvs
  • Used MSRP: From $22,364 (Estimated)
  • Engine: 2.4 L 4-Cylinder, 2.0 L 4-Cylinder
  • Horsepower: 185 to 235 hp
  • Cargo volume: 35.9 ft³, 71.3 ft³ with seat area
  • NHTSA Safety Rating: 5 Star

Santa Fe is one of the most popular SUVs from Hyundai. The 2020 model is powered by a standard 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired with standard 8-speed automatic transmission & front-wheel-drive producing 185 hp.

The optional engine is turbocharged 2.0 liter, channeling 235 hp in the same settings. 

Three trim levels are available for the Santa Fe, and the brand-new base model costs around $26,275. But you can own the used model for around $22,364 easily.

This five-seater ride is an excellent choice for large families or singles who want a spacious ride. 

And you can quickly get rid of the used car smell by installing some of the longest-lasting car air fresheners available in the market.

Pros

  • Spacious cabin
  • Intuitive tech features
  • Impressive fuel efficiency
  • Smooth ride & handling

Cons

  • Underwhelming base engine

4. 2018 Nissan Murano

best used midsize suvs
  • Used MSRP: From $21,700 (Estimated)
  • Engine: 3.5 L V6
  • Horsepower: 260 hp
  • Cargo volume: 31.1 to 32.1 ft³, 65 to 67 ft³ with seat area
  • NHTSA Safety Rating: 4 Star

The 2018 Nissan Murano was labeled an affordable SUV for the model year it was released and still holds the title well. You can purchase the used trims of this model for an estimated range of $21,700 to $28,411.

This Nissan ride has an upscale cabin, spacious seating, simple tech & entertainment features, and good safety scores from NHTSA & IIHS.  And you can make it more comfortable by upgrading the car seat covers with something more up to your taste.

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The SUV is powered by a 3.5 L V6 engine producing 260 hp. It can sprint from zero to 60 mph in 7.4 to 8.2 seconds.

Overall the ride handling is pleasant, and the excellent fuel economy makes it an efficient used midsize SUV with the best gas mileage.

Pros

  • The high-end, spacious cabin
  • Pleasant ride
  • Good fuel economy
  • User-friendly tech & safety features

Cons

  • Subpar cargo & towing capabilities

5. 2020 Kia Sorento

best used midsize suvs
  • Used MSRP: From $27,735 (Estimated)
  • Engine: V engine, Straight engine
  • Horsepower: 185 to 290 hp
  • Cargo volume: 11.3 ft³, 73 ft³ with seat area
  • NHTSA Safety Rating: 5 Star

The 2020 Kia Sorento is one of the best used midsize suvs under $30 000 you can buy this year.

The model has a first-class cabin, good fuel economy, and lower ownership costs.

This SUV can seat seven people easily. The ride controls, handling, and acceleration are all good. And if you own a pet, say a dog, you can easily install dog car seats in both front & rear. 2020 Sorento is powered by powerful V6 and V4 engines boosting 185 to 290 hp.

Five trims are available, and you can buy the used base trim for $24,055, which is more impressive than the original MSRP of $27,735.

Pros

  • Upscale cabin
  • Easy-to-use infotainment system
  • Smooth ride
  • Low projected ownership costs

Cons

  • Low cargo space
  • The base engine is not impressive

6. 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser

best used midsize luxury suv
  • Used MSRP: From $14,047 (Estimated)
  • Engine: 4.0 L V6
  • Horsepower: 260 hp
  • Cargo volume: 27.9 ft³, 66.8 ft³ with seat area
  • NHTSA Safety Rating: 4 Star

If you are exclusively looking for the best used midsize suv under $15000, then the 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser is an excellent choice.

The ride is powered by a 4.0 L V6 engine, either a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission with four-wheel drive producing 260 hp.

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This midsize car offers an upscale cabin with roomy seats, simple tech & entertainment features, and a good safety score.

The fuel economy is good, and the ride quality is pleasant, but the driving dynamics are mundane.

But overall, this efficient ride is an excellent purchase for a highly restricted budget. Doing a little upgrade can go a long way. Use car polish for the body, aluminum polish for the wheels, and new seat covers for the interior.

Pros

  • Roomy interior
  • Impressive fuel economy
  • Pleasant ride quality
  • Easy-to-use tech features

Cons

  • Average cargo space
  • Average towing capacity

7. 2016 Toyota Highlander

best used midsize luxury suv
  • Used MSRP: From $22,492 (Estimated)
  • Engine: 2.7 L 4-cylinder, 3.5 L V6
  • Horsepower: 185 to 270 hp
  • Cargo volume: 13.8 ft³, 82.6 to 83.7 ft³ with seat area
  • NHTSA Safety Rating: 5 Star

The 2016 Toyota Highlander is another excellent choice to consider under your budget crunch.

This midsize SUV boasts an upscale, spacious cabin. Potent V4 & V6 engines are under the hood producing 185 to 270 hp.

You get high-end cabin materials with composed ride & handling. The best part is that it is spacious and can seat seven to eight people. And if you think the ride is too old, you can constantly revamp it by using an electric paint sprayer for cars.

Pros

  • Composed ride & handling
  • Robust engines
  • Good quality materials

Cons

  • The third row is not ideal for adults

8. 2017 Honda Pilot

best used midsize luxury suv
  • Used MSRP: From $23,192 (Estimated)
  • Engine: 3.5 L V6
  • Horsepower: 280 hp
  • Cargo volume: 16 to 16.5 ft³, 82.1 to 83.9 ft³ with seat area
  • NHTSA Safety Rating: 5 Star

Honda is one of the most affordable & reliable car manufacturers in the world. And when it comes to SUVs, there is no denying that their almost decade-old Pilot lineup is among the best.

The used variant of the 2017 Honda Pilot will surely fit into your budget. You can easily own the base variant for an estimated $23,192.

The vehicle is powered by a 3.5 L V6 engine paired with either 6- or 9-speed automatic and front-wheel-drive producing 280 hp.

In addition, the generous cabin space, refined interior, and great tech & safety features make it a good choice.

Furthermore, to ensure you do not get estranged in a used car, it is wise to carry a portable car battery jump starter with you all the time.

Pros

  • Roomy space
  • Quality interior
  • Good cargo space
  • Good safety ratings

Cons

  • The tech controls are frustrating to use

9. 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee

best used midsize luxury suv
  • Used MSRP: From $23,824 (Estimated)
  • Engine: 3.6-liter V-6, 5.7-liter V-8, turbocharged 3.0-liter diesel V-6
  • Horsepower: 240 to 707 hp
  • Cargo volume: 36.3 ft³, 68.3 ft³ with seat area
  • NHTSA Safety Rating: 4 Star

If you seek traveling adventures in your new ride, then there is nothing better than the popular off-roader Jeep Grand Cherokee.

The brand-new model might be out of reach, but you can easily buy the 2018 used variant for under $30,000.

The 2018 Cherokee has robust V6 & V8 petrol & diesel engines paired with standard 8-speed automatic transmission, giving 240 to 707 hp as output.

This SUV is fast for its class and offers robust on- & off-road performance. You get a comfortable interior, top tech & safety features, and a base buying price of $23,824.

And if you will use this ride for off-roading, we suggest you also own the best off-road tires for all kinds of SUVs.

Pros

  • User-friendly entertainment system
  • Comfortable interior
  • Powerful engines
  • Impressive off-road capabilities

Cons

  • Small cargo space

10. 2017 Buick Enclave

best used midsize luxury suv
  • Used MSRP: From $21,008 (Estimated)
  • Engine: 3.6 L V6
  • Horsepower: 288 hp
  • Cargo volume: 23.3 ft³, 115.2 ft³ with seat area
  • NHTSA Safety Rating: 5 Star

2017 Buick Enclave is an affordable midsize SUV with a high-end cabin and spacious seating in all three rows.

This ride is powered by a 3.6 L V6 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic producing 288 hp.

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It offers a composed & comfortable ride with ample cargo space. However, the interior is dated, and the entertainment might not be to the mark for some people.

And if you feel the same, you can upgrade the system by installing a Bluetooth FM transmitter for cars from a professional.

Pros

  • Comfortable & composed ride
  • Good cargo space
  • Spacious seating for up to eight people
  • Good reliability rating

Cons

  • Underpowered engine
  • Below-average fuel economy

11. 2018 Chevrolet Traverse

best used midsize luxury suv
  • Used MSRP: From $23,584 (Estimated)
  • Engine: 2.0 L 4-cylinder, 3.6 L V6
  • Horsepower: 255 to 310 hp
  • Cargo volume: 23 ft³, 98.2 ft³ with seat area
  • NHTSA Safety Rating: Star

If you desire an affordable SUV for those family trips, the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse is a great choice.

The vehicle is powered by four-cylinder & six-cylinder engines producing 255 to 310 hp.

This highly-ranked midsize SUV of the model year 2018 offers a comfortable ride, various standard tech & safety features, and abundant space for seating & cargo.

The smooth handling & comfortable ride quality makes it a good purchase for $23,584 for a used one.

And the best part is that it is compatible with most car seats for 4-year-olds to 10-year-olds to infants available in the market.  Thus, you can ride tension-free and enjoy your family trips while your child is safe & secure in the rear.

Pros

  • Spacious seating area
  • Ample cargo space
  • Good handling
  • A long list of standard tech features
  • Versatile seats

Cons

  • The handling can be dull for some drivers

FAQs About Used Midsize SUV With Best Gas Mileage

What are the different mechanical parts of an engine?

If you want to take good care of your ride, especially its engine, it is better to familiarize yourself with the thing.

There will be times when you can face issues with your engine, especially in a used car. Knowing what the system comprises, finding & handling the situation becomes a lot easier.

An engine comprises various small & big parts that play equally crucial roles in its work. Below are the different parts that form your car engine:

• Cylinder
• Camshaft
• Flywheel
• Crankshaft
• Harmonic Balancers or Pulleys
• Head Gasket
• Intake Manifold
• Timing Belt

How can I find the right engine oil for my used SUV?

Buying a used vehicle is an intelligent decision if you are not financially ready to buy a brand-new one. 

And by exploring the 11 best used midsize SUVs to buy in 2023, you will find something affordable & suitable for you.

Most car owners should pay attention to the fact that you can not put just anything in your car. You must use appropriate engine oil because the wrong one can damage the engine.

Different factors are at play when choosing engine oil. If you explore each factor, you can easily find an oil complimenting your engine.

Check out the various factors you need to consider before buying engine oil:
• Types of engine oil
• The climate of the region where you live
• Viscosity level of the oil
• Verify the oil standards

Putting each product under the examination of these factors will let you find the best one for your ride.

What is the best used midsize suv under $20,000?

2018 Hyundai Santa Fe is an excellent choice if you want a used SUV under $20,000.

This 2018 SUV offers a stellar reliability rating, powerful & energetic engine options, and firm ride quality.

It can easily set five to seven people, but the cargo space is below average for the class.

But overall, the fuel economy and driving dynamics are impressive. You can buy a used 2018 Santa Fe for starting price of $19,158.

What will happen if I put too much oil in my car engine?

More of anything needs to be corrected. And this stands true for you and your ride. Putting engine oil, fuel, and coolant more than required can hurt your engine more than you can anticipate.

If you put too much engine oil in your car, then your engine might start making weird noises. There will be bleeding of oil, degradation in engine lubrication, greasy spark plugs, and frequent engine malfunctions.

Thus, make sure you change the engine oil in the right way. Ask someone else for assistance if you need help to do the job right.

Can I get car deals on buying used SUVs in 2023?

YES. Whether buying a brand-new car or a used one, you will always get deals from the sellers.

Buying used cars is as popular as buying brand-new cars. And after the whole COVID-19 episode, demand for personal rides has only increased.

Thus, you should buy a ride at the initial offering price. Do your research, get all your necessary documents in line, and negotiate to get a price acceptable to you.

Conclusion

Buying a used vehicle is an intelligent decision if you are not financially ready to buy a brand-new one. 

And by exploring the 11 best used midsize SUVs to buy in 2023, you will find something affordable & suitable for you.

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