How to Choose the Right Used SUV for Your Family in 2025

The 2025 car market looks different from just a few years ago: new-vehicle inventories are still tight, tariffs are nudging sticker prices upward, and demand for versatile family vehicles remains high. Yet a used SUV can still deliver the safety, space and value today’s families need—if you know what to look for. Below is a guide to navigating the lot (or the online listings) with confidence.

Used Ford Explorer

1. Start with a family-first checklist

Before you ever visit a car dealership, write down the must-haves for your household. How many child seats need to fit across the second row? Do you routinely pack sports gear, strollers or a large dog? Will you tow a small camper or boat? Clarifying passenger count, cargo volume, and lifestyle demands helps you narrow the field from dozens of used SUVs to a short list that truly works as a family vehicle. Mid-size three-row models such as the Toyota Highlander or Hyundai Palisade shine for bigger crews, while compact favorites like the Honda CR-V satisfy smaller families who still want good fuel economy and everyday maneuverability. 

2. Put reliability and safety at the top of the shopping cart

Nothing ruins a road-trip faster than a breakdown. Check third-party dependability studies—J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study and Consumer Reports’ reliability ratings show which model-years age gracefully. In the 2025 rankings, perennial standouts include the Toyota RAV4, Lexus RX, Mazda CX-5 and Honda CR-V, all scoring “Great” or better on predicted reliability. 

Safety tech matters, too. Look for SUVs equipped with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring and LATCH anchors that earn a “Good +” ease-of-use score. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) maintains crash-test databases you can reference quickly on your phone while you’re on the lot. 

3. Get a clear view of 2025 pricing realities

COVID-era production hiccups and today’s tariff pressures mean near-new vehicles—typically 3- to 4-year-old SUVs—can command record prices, with the average three-year-old model topping $30,000 in early 2025. Inventory below $25,000 is especially tight, so set a realistic budget range before you shop.

If your funds are limited, consider certified pre-owned (CPO) programs: they cost a bit more up front than a standard private-party purchase, but include manufacturer-backed warranties and multipoint inspections—valuable peace of mind when you’re ferrying kids every day. Edmunds notes that “near-new” supply constraints are likely to persist all year, so comparison-shopping across multiple dealerships (including online-only retailers) is essential.

4. Verify the vehicle’s past before betting on its future

Once you’ve found what looks like the best SUV for your needs, dig into its history:

  1. Run a CARFAX or AutoCheck report to spot accidents, flood damage or odometer rollbacks.
  2. Ask for service records. A well-documented maintenance log is a strong reliability signal.
  3. Schedule a pre-purchase inspection with an independent mechanic. A $150–$200 inspection can save thousands in hidden repairs (e.g., premature transmission wear in earlier Ford Explorer model-years).
  4. Take an extended test drive. Load the family, fold seats, connect car seats, pair phones—simulate real life. If road noise, seat comfort or visibility feel off in 20 minutes, they’ll be miserable after 20 months.

These steps transform a roll of the dice into an informed decision and protect your long-term total cost of ownership.

5. Match drivetrain and features to everyday life

  • All-wheel drive vs. front-wheel drive: If your winters are mild and paved, FWD may be cheaper to buy and maintain. Those in snow belts—or who enjoy camping on muddy trails—may prefer the security of AWD.
  • Engine choice: Turbocharged four-cylinders dominate 2020-2023 models, blending power and mileage. Hybrids (RAV4 Hybrid, Highlander Hybrid) add 8-10 mpg and can save $500–$700 per year on fuel.
  • Interior versatility: Sliding second rows make it easier to access the third row; 60/40-split seats and a power tailgate simplify Costco runs. Families with infants should test stroller fit behind the third row.
  • Infotainment and driver-assist tech: Apple CarPlay/Android Auto keep teens happy, while adaptive cruise control reduces long-distance fatigue. Many 2021-2022 used SUVs already include these as standard.
Used Ford Explorer

6. Shop the dealership, not just the SUV

A reputable car dealership should offer transparent pricing, a no-pressure sales process, and the option to review inspection reports on site. Some retailers—such as those highlighted in the “No Pressure, No Hype” approach—also provide return or exchange windows that let families drive a vehicle for a few days before committing.

During negotiations, remember that trade-in values remain strong thanks to ongoing inventory tightness. If you’re upgrading from a sedan or older crossover, use that equity as leverage.

Shortlist: Eight family-friendly used SUVs to test-drive in 2025

Size - Model (2019–2022 sweet spot) - Why Families Love It

  • Compact Toyota RAV4 40+ mpg hybrid option, top-tier reliability
  • Compact Honda CR-V Clever cargo floor, roomy rear seats
  • Compact Mazda CX-5 Sporty handling keeps commutes engaging
  • Compact Subaru Forester Standard AWD, excellent outward visibility
  • Mid-size. Toyota Highlander Seats up to eight, hybrid trim rated 35 mpg
  • Mid-size Hyundai Palisade / Kia Telluride Near-luxury cabins at mainstream prices
  • Mid-size Ford Explorer (4-cyl EcoBoost) Strong towing for pop-up campers
  • Luxury Lexus RX Quiet ride, unmatched longevity
  • These picks all appear on multiple 2025 “most reliable” lists and cover a range of budgets. 

Ready to Find Yours?

When it’s time to turn research into reality, the team at Monster Motors will welcome you with a carefully inspected lineup of family-ready used SUVs and a pressure-free atmosphere. Drop by the showroom or give us a call, and we’ll help match your wish list to the right vehicle.

We’ll also set up convenient test drives, explain financing in plain language, and stay transparent every step of the way—so you can drive off confident you’ve found the perfect fit for your family.

Browse Our Inventory Of Used SUVs

White 2022 Lincoln Corsair Reserve for sale in Michigan Center, MIPhotos of 2022 Lincoln Corsair Reserve for sale in Michigan Center, MI at Monster Motors - Jackson, MIAnother view of 2022 Lincoln Corsair Reserve for sale in Michigan Center, MI at Monster Motors - Jackson, MIMore photos of 2022 Lincoln Corsair Reserve at Monster Motors - Jackson, MI, MIMore photos of 2022 Lincoln Corsair Reserve at Monster Motors - Jackson, MI, MI
Stock # MX2144
Reserve
25,014 miles
$31,900
Est. Payment
$554/mo
Monster Motors - Jackson, MI
Black 2021 Ford Explorer ST for sale in Michigan Center, MIPhotos of 2021 Ford Explorer ST for sale in Michigan Center, MI at Monster Motors - Jackson, MIAnother view of 2021 Ford Explorer ST for sale in Michigan Center, MI at Monster Motors - Jackson, MIMore photos of 2021 Ford Explorer ST at Monster Motors - Jackson, MI, MIMore photos of 2021 Ford Explorer ST at Monster Motors - Jackson, MI, MI
Stock # MX2129
ST
33,098 miles
$35,684
Est. Payment
$620/mo
Monster Motors - Jackson, MI
Black 2023 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon for sale in Michigan Center, MIPhotos of 2023 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon for sale in Michigan Center, MI at Monster Motors - Jackson, MIAnother view of 2023 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon for sale in Michigan Center, MI at Monster Motors - Jackson, MIMore photos of 2023 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon at Monster Motors - Jackson, MI, MIMore photos of 2023 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon at Monster Motors - Jackson, MI, MI
Stock # MX2141
Rubicon
22,641 miles
$39,692
Est. Payment
$689/mo
Monster Motors - Jackson, MI
Black 2022 Ford Explorer ST for sale in Michigan Center, MIPhotos of 2022 Ford Explorer ST for sale in Michigan Center, MI at Monster Motors - Jackson, MIAnother view of 2022 Ford Explorer ST for sale in Michigan Center, MI at Monster Motors - Jackson, MIMore photos of 2022 Ford Explorer ST at Monster Motors - Jackson, MI, MIMore photos of 2022 Ford Explorer ST at Monster Motors - Jackson, MI, MI
Stock # MX2231
ST
59,676 miles
$33,947
Est. Payment
$590/mo
Monster Motors - Jackson, MI
Black 2018 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon for sale in Louisville, TNPhotos of 2018 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon for sale in Louisville, TN at Monster Motors - Knoxville, TNAnother view of 2018 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon for sale in Louisville, TN at Monster Motors - Knoxville, TNMore photos of 2018 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon at Monster Motors - Knoxville, TN, TNMore photos of 2018 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon at Monster Motors - Knoxville, TN, TN
Stock # MX2043
Unlimited Rubicon
57,644 miles
$29,201
Est. Payment
$530/mo
Monster Motors - Knoxville, TN
Black 2021 Jeep Wrangler for sale in Michigan Center, MIPhotos of 2021 Jeep Wrangler for sale in Michigan Center, MI at Monster Motors - Jackson, MIAnother view of 2021 Jeep Wrangler for sale in Michigan Center, MI at Monster Motors - Jackson, MIMore photos of 2021 Jeep Wrangler at Monster Motors - Jackson, MI, MIMore photos of 2021 Jeep Wrangler at Monster Motors - Jackson, MI, MI
Stock # MT0613
50,367 miles
$28,900
Est. Payment
$502/mo
Monster Motors - Jackson, MI
Black 2023 Ford Explorer ST for sale in Michigan Center, MIPhotos of 2023 Ford Explorer ST for sale in Michigan Center, MI at Monster Motors - Jackson, MIAnother view of 2023 Ford Explorer ST for sale in Michigan Center, MI at Monster Motors - Jackson, MIMore photos of 2023 Ford Explorer ST at Monster Motors - Jackson, MI, MIMore photos of 2023 Ford Explorer ST at Monster Motors - Jackson, MI, MI
Stock # MX2153
ST
40,545 miles
$40,803
Est. Payment
$709/mo
Monster Motors - Jackson, MI
Black 2022 Lincoln Corsair Reserve for sale in Michigan Center, MIPhotos of 2022 Lincoln Corsair Reserve for sale in Michigan Center, MI at Monster Motors - Jackson, MIAnother view of 2022 Lincoln Corsair Reserve for sale in Michigan Center, MI at Monster Motors - Jackson, MIMore photos of 2022 Lincoln Corsair Reserve at Monster Motors - Jackson, MI, MIMore photos of 2022 Lincoln Corsair Reserve at Monster Motors - Jackson, MI, MI
Stock # MX2221
Reserve
54,980 miles
$27,900
Est. Payment
$484/mo
Monster Motors - Jackson, MI
Black 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit for sale in Michigan Center, MIPhotos of 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit for sale in Michigan Center, MI at Monster Motors - Jackson, MIAnother view of 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit for sale in Michigan Center, MI at Monster Motors - Jackson, MIMore photos of 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit at Monster Motors - Jackson, MI, MIMore photos of 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit at Monster Motors - Jackson, MI, MI
Stock # MX2076
Summit
24,141 miles
$45,296
Est. Payment
$787/mo
Monster Motors - Jackson, MI
Silver 2023 Jeep Wrangler Sport S for sale in Michigan Center, MIPhotos of 2023 Jeep Wrangler Sport S for sale in Michigan Center, MI at Monster Motors - Jackson, MIAnother view of 2023 Jeep Wrangler Sport S for sale in Michigan Center, MI at Monster Motors - Jackson, MIMore photos of 2023 Jeep Wrangler Sport S at Monster Motors - Jackson, MI, MIMore photos of 2023 Jeep Wrangler Sport S at Monster Motors - Jackson, MI, MI
Stock # MX2124
Sport S
22,920 miles
$28,900
Est. Payment
$502/mo
Monster Motors - Jackson, MI
White 2021 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport Altitude for sale in Michigan Center, MIPhotos of 2021 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport Altitude for sale in Michigan Center, MI at Monster Motors - Jackson, MIAnother view of 2021 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport Altitude for sale in Michigan Center, MI at Monster Motors - Jackson, MIMore photos of 2021 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport Altitude at Monster Motors - Jackson, MI, MIMore photos of 2021 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport Altitude at Monster Motors - Jackson, MI, MI
Stock # MX2162
Unlimited Sport Altitude
40,550 miles
$27,800
Est. Payment
$483/mo
Monster Motors - Jackson, MI
Black 2022 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara for sale in Michigan Center, MIPhotos of 2022 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara for sale in Michigan Center, MI at Monster Motors - Jackson, MIAnother view of 2022 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara for sale in Michigan Center, MI at Monster Motors - Jackson, MIMore photos of 2022 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara at Monster Motors - Jackson, MI, MIMore photos of 2022 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara at Monster Motors - Jackson, MI, MI
Stock # MX2022
Unlimited Sahara
20,748 miles
$32,785
Est. Payment
$569/mo
Monster Motors - Jackson, MI
Blue 2024 Cadillac XT4 Sport for sale in Michigan Center, MIPhotos of 2024 Cadillac XT4 Sport for sale in Michigan Center, MI at Monster Motors - Jackson, MIAnother view of 2024 Cadillac XT4 Sport for sale in Michigan Center, MI at Monster Motors - Jackson, MIMore photos of 2024 Cadillac XT4 Sport at Monster Motors - Jackson, MI, MIMore photos of 2024 Cadillac XT4 Sport at Monster Motors - Jackson, MI, MI
Stock # MX2193
Sport
4,536 miles
$41,500
Est. Payment
$721/mo
Monster Motors - Jackson, MI
Black 2023 Cadillac XT5 Sport for sale in Michigan Center, MIPhotos of 2023 Cadillac XT5 Sport for sale in Michigan Center, MI at Monster Motors - Jackson, MIAnother view of 2023 Cadillac XT5 Sport for sale in Michigan Center, MI at Monster Motors - Jackson, MIMore photos of 2023 Cadillac XT5 Sport at Monster Motors - Jackson, MI, MIMore photos of 2023 Cadillac XT5 Sport at Monster Motors - Jackson, MI, MI
Stock # MX2165
Sport
21,846 miles
$36,900
Est. Payment
$641/mo
Monster Motors - Jackson, MI
Gray 2021 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara for sale in Michigan Center, MIPhotos of 2021 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara for sale in Michigan Center, MI at Monster Motors - Jackson, MIAnother view of 2021 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara for sale in Michigan Center, MI at Monster Motors - Jackson, MIMore photos of 2021 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara at Monster Motors - Jackson, MI, MIMore photos of 2021 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara at Monster Motors - Jackson, MI, MI
Stock # MX2138
Unlimited Sahara
24,562 miles
$31,900
Est. Payment
$554/mo
Monster Motors - Jackson, MI