The global computer chip shortage is making things difficult for people who want a new SUV. Inventory is limited, and auto manufacturers are facing delays, but you can get a used SUV. Plus, we can help you find the most reliable options with a few of the best used SUVs.  

The most reliable used SUVs 

Before we dive in, we need to thank Consumer Reports for putting a list of the best-used SUVs together. This list involves options that are three years old. This way, the older SUV models will probably have similar features to the brand-new models without the high price. 

But CR won’t recommend any old option. Their list includes the most reliable used SUV options to help you avoid buying a lemon. They sent out surveys to acquire data on more than 329,000 vehicles to identify the most dependable choices. 

Their list includes eight options listed in alphabetical order. Then we narrowed it down to the three options with the best reliability rating and consumer satisfaction rating. 

1. 2018 Ford Edge 

2. 2018 Honda Pilot 

3. 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe 

4. 2018 Kia Sorento

5. 2018 Mazda CX-9 

6. 2018 Nissan Murano 

7. 2018 Subaru Outback 

8. 2018 Toyota Highlander 

The 2018 Subaru Outback is very reliable 

The 2018 Subaru Outback serves as one of the best-used SUVs you can buy because it’s a reliable option that makes drivers happy. Consumer Reports gave it a reliability rating of four out of five and an owner satisfaction rating of four out of five. This is above average for both categories. 

The average retail price ranges from 20,550 to $29,075. There are two engine options. The base engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder option with 175 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque. Car and Driver noted that it’s a little sluggish. But the 3.6-liter V6 engine with 256 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque ups the fun. 

You’ll find an upscale interior in the cabin with soft-touch plastics. The glossy black trim has pops of silver to outline controls. It has plenty of cargo space with 36 cubic feet behind the rear seats but lacks storage bins and cubbies. 

A 6.2-inch infotainment system is standard, but higher trim options get an 8.0-inch touchscreen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and plenty of USB ports are found in the front and second row. 

The 2018 Mazda CX-9 makes people happy 

The 2018 Mazda CX-9 is another used SUV recommended by Consumer Reports. It has a predicted reliability rating of five out of five and an owner satisfaction rating of four out of five. It should go the distance. It has an average retail price of $22,775 to $32,475. 

There is one engine option, which is the 2.5-liter turbo-four with 250 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. Edmunds shared that the Mazda CX-9 has a peppy acceleration, smooth handling, and a quiet cabin. 

The interior has a luxurious feel with plenty of space. The third-row seats are reserved for children, though. The technology is simple and easy to use, but this model year doesn’t have Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. 

The 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe is a great SUV 

Another great used option includes the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. Consumer Reports gave it a five out of five for its reliability rating and a three out of five for its owner satisfaction rating. It shouldn’t let you down and has an average retail price of $21,375 to $29,025. 

The 2.4-liter four-cylinder turbo delivers 185 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque. With the 3.3-liter V6 engine, you get 290 hp and 252 lb-ft of torque. Edmunds shared that it has a great ride quality with a sporty acceleration and responsive handling. 

Inside the cabin, you’ll find a comfortable and particle interior with plenty of cargo space. The third row is spacious for kids, but adults may feel cramped. The infotainment system is pretty fast and intuitive. Plus, this model includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.