Best Used Compact SUVs on a $5,000 Budget

When you’re on a tight budget, spending your money wisely is essential. If you plan on buying a used car for less than $5,000, making a good decision is often less about choosing the right model for you and more about choosing a vehicle that has been properly cared for over the years. Some models routinely appear on the market despite being nearly 20 years old, which speaks to their longevity. When shopping at this end of the market, getting an independent inspection is always a good idea to ensure you’re buying solid transportation and not someone else’s problems.

Here are 10 good compact SUVs under $5,000.

1. 2008 Chevrolet Equinox

Critics and consumers hailed the 2008 Chevrolet Equinox for its excellent passenger and cargo space and strong V6 engine when new, and it carries those strengths into the used market. While it is essential to shop for the best condition and lowest mileage you can afford on a $5,000 budget, you should be able to find a nicely equipped mid-range LT model. See 2008 Chevrolet Equinox models for sale

2. 2007 Ford Escape

If the Blue Oval is more your style, the 2007 Ford Escape is a great choice, with even the top-spec Limited model in reach of our budget, meaning a V6 engine and 4-wheel drive are possibilities, too. A roomy rear seat and decent fuel economy are among the 2007 Escape’s other strengths. See 2007 Ford Escape models for sale

3. 2005 Honda CR-V

A legend of the compact SUV category, the 2005 Honda CR-Van is an excellent all-arounder, with reliability and low operating costs to go with our budget. It’s an obvious choice, but that’s only because it works out so well for so many people.

See 2005 Honda CR-V models for sale

4. 2010 Jeep Compass

The 2010 Jeep Compass is an option for those who need improved traction in snow or inclement weather but don’t fancy themselves serious off-roaders. Unlike Jeep’s other offerings, the Compass is designed for comfort and functionality primarily on pavement, and it’s a uniquely styled, comfortable choice.

See 2010 Jeep Compass models for sale

5. 2009 Kia Sportage

The 2009 Kia Sportage is one of the SUVs that helped build Kia’s image and reputation into what it is today, with features, design, and functionality that continue to show their value in the used market. On our budget, look for 4-cylinder LX models, with or without the optional AWD system.

See 2009 Kia Sportage models for sale 

6. 2008 Mercury Mariner

If you’re young enough, you may not remember Mercury as a living, breathing car brand because it was killed off in 2011. However, the 2008 Mercury Mariner should be familiar to everyone as it’s essentially a clone of the Ford Escape. With the same strengths as the Ford, plus more refined styling, the Mariner is an equally good option for $5,000 or less.

See 2008 Mercury Mariner models for sale

7. 2010 Nissan Rogue

The 2010 Nissan Rogue was the stylish alternative to the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 when it was new. These days, you can find considerably newer used Rogues on our budget than you can either of the others, and that is only to our advantage. In addition to being stylish, the 2010 Rogue is practical, comfortable, and surprisingly engaging to drive.

See 2010 Nissan Rogue models for sale

8. 2008 Saturn Vue

Closely related to the contemporary Chevrolet Equinox, the 2008 Saturn Vue offered a different look and feel that went along with Saturn’s brand image of being a different kind of car company. Boldly styled and nicely equipped, the Vue carries on despite the demise of its parent company in late 2010.

See 2008 Saturn Vue models for sale

9. 2006 Subaru Forester

If you’re looking for a used compact SUV to get you around all through winter or up that gravel road to your campsite, the 2006 Subaru Forester is a great choice, thanks to its standard AWD and relatively high ground clearance. Its boxy shape also makes for lots of interior passenger and cargo space.

See 2006 Subaru Forester models for sale

10. 2004 Toyota RAV4

Alongside the Honda CR-V, the 2004 Toyota RAV4 stands as one of the legends of the segment. Even nearly 20 years on, the RAV4 is lauded for its reliability, comfort, and practical interior. If you’re having trouble finding some of the less common models on this list, there should be several RAV4s within budget near you.

See 2004 Toyota RAV4 models for sale

Best Used Compact SUVs On a $5,000 Budget

1. 2008 Chevrolet Equinox
2. 2007 Ford Escape
3. 2005 Honda CR-V
4. 2010 Jeep Compass
5. 2009 Kia Sportage
6. 2008 Mercury Mariner
7. 2010 Nissan Rogue
8. 2008 Saturn Vue
9. 2006 Subaru Forester
10. 2004 Toyota RAV4