Discover the essential features that set a used SUV apart from the crowd with these top five models for college kids to get around at school.
Everything Parents Need to Know
Sending a recent high school graduate off to college in a used SUV is a great way to help them start the path to adulthood off right, but only if it meets their needs. Parents can find out about the top five used SUV models for college students below.
1. 2019 Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 is a sporty crossover SUV with excellent fuel economy and a stylish design. The small SUV’s 4-cyl engine puts out 187 hp but gets an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on highways, making it affordable at the dealership and the pump.
This compact four-door SUV is large enough to comfortably accommodate up to five adults, and the rear seats fold down to produce 65 cu ft of cargo space. An AWD CX-5 will provide extra traction and peace of mind for college kids going to school in cold climates.
2. 2021 Buick Encore
Discontinued in 2022, the Buick Encore is a subcompact SUV perfect for college kids. J.D. Power gave it the best reliability score in its class, and its small size means this used SUV is easy to drive, even in tight spaces.
The Buick Encore isn’t the most fuel-efficient subcompact SUV, clocking in at 27 mpg combined. However, it’s one of the most affordable. If budget is a top concern, parents should seriously consider the Encore.
3. 2020 Honda CR-V
The 2020 Honda CR-V makes the cut as one of the best used SUVs for college kids thanks to its excellent crash-test ratings, ample cargo space, and fuel efficiency. The 2020 CR-V also came standard with driver assistance features like adaptive cruise control.
The non-hybrid CR-V features a turbocharged 1.5L engine, while the hybrid powertrain features a 2.0L paired with two electric motors. The downside is that it features an unimpressive infotainment system that could leave kids used to modern alternatives disappointed.
4. 2018 Subaru Outback
Not all college-bound kids are heading to major cities. For those who love outdoor adventure, more rural campuses are the favored choice thanks to their proximity to nature, and the 2018 Subaru Outback is a great used SUV to take advantage of long weekends.
In addition to being off-road capable, the 2018 Outback offers reassuring active safety features, comes standard with AWD, and received excellent crash test ratings. Most models also feature 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment systems, USB ports, and other extras.
5. 2021 Kia Sportage
The 2021 Kia Sportage is an affordable, reliable used SUV, making it a good fit for budget shoppers. The compact crossover SUV is also quick if buyers can find models with the turbocharged engine.
The downside to the 2021 Sportage is that the best models will still cost buyers extra, even if used. Most buyers prefer the turbo engine and want SUVs outfitted with the EX Technology package, but they come at a premium.
How to Choose the Right Used SUV
For most buyers, choosing the right used SUV is a matter of balancing priorities. Parents should keep their kids’ anticipated college activities and lifestyles in mind when buying a used SUV, but they also need to set realistic budgets for themselves and stick to them.
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