SUVs are the most popular vehicles sold in the U.S. They occupy approximately 60 percent of the new car market, and an even higher percentage of used car sales. Available in a wide range of sizes, from fuel efficient subcompact models to large SUVs that prioritize third-row accommodations and cargo space, there’s an SUV to serve nearly every consumer need. However, if you prioritize a smooth ride and maximum passenger space more than ground clearance and towing capacity, the best car for your needs might be one of the top-selling used minivans, which are also discussed below.

 

The 25 Most Popular Used SUVs

For shoppers seeking the best used SUV to buy, listed below are the 25 top-selling utility vehicles from the last five model years. The Chevrolet Equinox, a compact SUV offering practicality, fuel economy, and a comfortable ride, tops the list of used SUV sales. Other top-selling small SUVs include the Nissan Rogue, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape. Midsize SUVs ranked in the top 10 include the Jeep Grand Cherokee, a highly capable off-road adventurer, and the Toyota Highlander, one of the most reliable used SUVs you can buy.
Most Popular Used SUVs in the U.S., 2024 - iSeeCars Study
Rank Model % of 1- to 5-Year-Old Used SUV Sales
1 Chevrolet Equinox 3.3%
2 Nissan Rogue 2.9%
3 Ford Explorer 2.8%
4 Toyota RAV4 2.8%
5 Honda CR-V 2.4%
6 Jeep Grand Cherokee 2.3%
7 Ford Escape 2.2%
8 Toyota Highlander 1.9%
9 Mazda CX-5 1.8%
10 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 1.7%
11 Jeep Cherokee 1.7%
12 Ford Edge 1.6%
13 Jeep Compass 1.6%
14 Toyota 4Runner 1.6%
15 Hyundai Tucson 1.5%
16 Chevrolet Traverse 1.5%
17 Honda Pilot 1.4%
18 Volkswagen Tiguan 1.4%
19 Hyundai Santa Fe 1.4%
20 Subaru Outback 1.4%
21 Honda HR-V 1.3%
22 Chevrolet Tahoe 1.3%
23 Subaru Forester 1.2%
24 Kia Sportage 1.2%
25 GMC Terrain 1.2%
The best SUVs deliver maximum flexibility, offering all-wheel-drive confidence during inclement weather, advanced safety features to avoid or survive an accident, and an effective infotainment system accessed through an intuitive touchscreen interface. Buyers seeking higher grade leather, a premium audio system, and even more advanced technology might consider a luxury SUV or crossover from brands like Acura, Audi, BMW, Cadillac, or Mercedes-Benz. Models from these brands sell in smaller volumes and don’t make the best-selling used SUV list, but they are desirable if you value a luxury experience paired with SUV practicality.

 

The 10 Most Popular Used Minivans

Buyers looking to save money on their next used vehicle purchase while still maximizing passenger accommodations might consider a minivan instead of an SUV. The boxy shape of a minivan may not be as appealing to the eye, but it creates the roomiest, most efficient passenger space offered in the automotive world. Speaking of efficiency, minivans tend to deliver higher MPG ratings than similarly sized non-hybrid SUVs, while also having lower insurance rates, further adding to their cost savings.
Most Popular Used Minivans in the U.S., 2024 - iSeeCars Study
Rank Model % of 1- to 5-Year-Old Used Minivan Sales
1 Chrysler Pacifica 32.2%
2 Honda Odyssey 22.7%
3 Toyota Sienna (hybrid) 13.8%
4 Dodge Grand Caravan 9.1%
5 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid 5.9%
6 Chrysler Voyager 5.7%
7 Toyota Sienna 4.6%
8 Kia Carnival 3.7%
9 Kia Sedona 1.7%
10 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid 0.6%
Whether you’re buying an SUV or a minivan, you should always follow some standard guidelines when purchasing a used vehicle. First, confirm the vehicle’s value with free online resources like iSeeCars’ pricing tool . Then, get the vehicle identification number (or VIN) to confirm its original equipment and ensure there’s no history of flood, salvage, or theft damage with iSeeCars’ VIN check

Finally, take the vehicle on a thorough test drive and have it inspected by a third-party mechanic who has no interest in the vehicle’s sale. This can help ensure the car’s mechanical and cosmetic condition are in line with what the dealership or private party seller is claiming. For further peace of mind, you can consider a certified pre-owned (CPO) used car, which will likely cost a little more but offer warranty coverage similar to a new vehicle.

If you’d like to see the 100 best selling, most popular used cars check out our Most Popular Used Cars study.