10 Underrated Used SUVs That Deserve More Attention

We know all about the traditional SUVs that many people buy. The Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V have dominated the automotive landscape for years, but what about the underrated SUVs? Do some of the often-overlooked models deserve more attention than they get?

Several great SUVs wear badges that are different from the traditional models that are found in every parking lot. Some SUVs bring a bit of style and personality to the road, giving you something different from what you normally see. These ten underrated SUVs could give you what you want in your next vehicle and deserve more attention than they get.

2000 Ford Excursion, front quarter view

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Reliability ratings were sourced from J.D. Power, while powertrain specifications and general vehicle information were sourced from various automakers. This list is sorted by reliability rating from worst to best.

2021 Kia Sorento

Reliability Rating: 77/100

Kia

The 2021 Kia Sorento is a handsome SUV with three rows of seats that can be useful sometimes. You’ll find a long list of desirable features and polished driving manners in the Sorento. These qualities make it a compelling midsize SUV to drive and enjoy.

Most Popular Powertrain Specifications

Engine	2.5-liter 4-cylinder
Transmission	8-speed automatic
Horsepower	191 hp
Torque	181 lb-ft
Driveline	FWD
Fuel Efficiency	24/29 mpg
Towing Capacity	2,000 pounds

This Kia SUV was redesigned for a new generation, giving you a great choice when you want something new and interesting in a used SUV. The boxier look and bolder styling make it stand out against the curvier traditional SUVs.

Pros

Two powertrain options
Handsome exterior and upscale interior
Satisfying ride and handling

Cons

Third row isn’t exactly adult-friendly
Larger touchscreen lacks wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Small cargo area with the third row up

2023 Volkswagen Tiguan

Reliability Rating: 77/100

Volkswagen

If you want to drive a stylish European SUV that has crisp handling and something different from other models, you’ll be glad to have the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan. This impressive little SUV can fit large families looking to enjoy a three-row SUV.

Most Popular Powertrain Specifications

Engine	2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder
Transmission	8-speed automatic
Horsepower	184 hp
Torque	221 lb-ft
Driveline	FWD
Fuel Efficiency	23/30 mpg
Towing Capacity	1,500 pounds

Despite only offering one engine choice, this Volkswagen SUV has enough power to get the job done. You’ll find a host of tech features on every model, giving you the benefits of a digital gauge display, infotainment connectivity, and driver-assistance features that you need.

Pros

Lithe chassis
Roomy inside for people and cargo
Some models have a third-row seat

Cons

Could use more power
Seats might feel too firm for some drivers
Interior design is a bit too stark and sterile

2022 Genesis GV80

Reliability Rating: 77/100

Genesis

If you want to see a unique approach to the luxury SUV market, the 2022 Genesis GV80 can give you a tour. It stands out among its rivals for the lack of compromises required to get a great SUV at a reasonable price.

Most Popular Powertrain Specifications

Engine	2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder
Transmission	8-speed automatic
Horsepower	300 hp
Torque	311 lb-ft
Driveline	AWD
Fuel Efficiency	21/25 mpg
Towing Capacity	6,000 pounds

This Genesis SUV is the perfect flagship of the lineup, giving you the impressive build and quality you want. The cabin is filled with luxury features and finishes and the exterior is stylish and smooth, making it easy to enjoy what the GV80 brings to the table.

Pros

Nicely tailored cabin
Plethora of standard technology features
Smooth and quiet ride

Cons

Optional third row isn’t roomy
Heavy-weighted steering
Standard four-cylinder lacks punch

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2021 Dodge Durango

Reliability Rating: 77/100

Stellantis

The midsize SUV class is topped in power and muscle by the 2021 Dodge Durango. While most SUVs work with smaller engines with half the cylinders, the Durango has impressive power from the Hemi V8 engines.

Most Popular Powertrain Specifications

Engine	5.7-liter V8
Transmission	8-speed automatic
Horsepower	360 hp
Torque	390 lb-ft
Driveline	AWD
Fuel Efficiency	14/22 mpg
Towing Capacity	7,200 pounds

The 2021 Durango has fresh looks with new headlights, an updated grille, and a revised rear spoiler, giving this Dodge SUV a sportier and more aggressive appearance. The dashboard has been updated to give it a more driver-oriented layout than before.

Pros

Oozes machismo
Unbeatable towing capacity
Quick acceleration with the V8

Cons

Not particularly fuel-efficient
Driver-assistance features aren’t standard
Third-row seats cost extra

2020 Lincoln Corsair

Reliability Rating: 78/100

Lincoln

The 2020 Lincoln Corsair entered the market to provide a fresh take on the American luxury SUV. This small and enjoyable vehicle is comfortable and refined, but it’s not a game-changer. Still, the Corsair has a lot going for it, which could make it right for you.

Most Popular Powertrain Specifications

Engine	2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder
Transmission	8-speed automatic
Horsepower	250 hp
Torque	275 lb-ft
Driveline	FWD
Fuel Efficiency	22/29 mpg
Towing Capacity	3,000 pounds

Many Lincoln SUVs end up being underrated because this brand focuses on comfort over performance. If you’d rather be comfortable during your commute or on road trips, the Corsair could be a much better choice than some of the more popular luxury SUVs.

Pros

Attractive styling
Smooth ride even on larger wheels
Refined cabin design

Cons

The best features make this SUV much more expensive
The optional engine offers only a slight performance bump
Not as engaging to drive as most rivals

2022 Lincoln Aviator

Reliability Rating: 79/100

Lincoln

The 2022 Lincoln Aviator has all the trappings of the Navigator without the massive size. If you want your SUV to fit in your garage, the Aviator is what you want to drive. This SUV has a stylish exterior, a plush cabin, and an excellent powertrain for your driving pleasure.

Most Popular Powertrain Specifications

Engine	3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6
Transmission	10-speed automatic
Horsepower	400 hp
Torque	415 lb-ft
Driveline	AWD
Fuel Efficiency	17/24 mpg
Towing Capacity	5,600 pounds

The 2022 Aviator is offered with the Appearance package for the base model, which means this Lincoln SUV might have a panoramic sunroof and 20-inch wheels when you go shopping for it. The Aviator is an underrated SUV that could easily give you a comfortable and enjoyable ride every day.

Pros

Refined twin-turbocharged V6
Deluxe cabin
Stylish exterior design

Cons

Hybrid powertrain could use some polish
Fuel economy is unimpressive
Top models are expensive

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2021 Honda Passport

Reliability Rating: 80/100

Honda

The 2021 Honda Passport is an off-road SUV derived from the Pilot, making it easier to get on the trails for some fun. This midsize SUV has two rows of seats and a pleasant drive, but the real fun begins when you leave the paved roads behind and head out on the trails.

Most Popular Powertrain Specifications

Engine	3.5-liter V6
Transmission	9-speed automatic
Horsepower	280 hp
Torque	262 lb-ft
Driveline	AWD
Fuel Efficiency	19/24 mpg
Towing Capacity	5,000 pounds

The only update to this Honda SUV for the 2021 model year was a new standard 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is much better than the old 5.0-inch screen. The Passport could be a great choice when you want the ability to go off-roading in your SUV.

Pros

Spacious interior for people and cargo
Powerful V6 engine
Plenty of standard safety features

Cons

Base model isn’t well-equipped
Occasional rough ride
Not so stylish

2020 Ford Edge

Reliability Rating: 81/100

Ford

The 2020 Ford Edge is an interesting choice in the used SUV market. You can find models that range from barely adequate to sporty and fun. The Edge is a two-row midsize SUV with lots of room and comfortable seats for five people to enjoy their time together.

Most Popular Powertrain Specifications

Engine	2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder
Transmission	8-speed automatic
Horsepower	250 hp
Torque	275 lb-ft
Driveline	AWD
Fuel Efficiency	21/28 mpg
Towing Capacity	3,500 pounds

Despite tons of new competition in the market, this Ford SUV continues to be a sharp contender and an impressive choice in the class. It has a quiet cabin with lots of standard features, giving you an excellent feeling when you get behind the wheel.

Pros

Quiet Cabin
Comfortable seats
Plentiful standard equipment

Cons

Subpar interior materials
Clumsy driving experience
Starting to show its age

2022 Kia Sportage

Reliability Rating: 82/100

Kia

If you want a small SUV that can do a lot of things well, the 2022 Kia Sportage might be right for you. Its not going to blow you away with performance or features, but it has a lot of what you want, making it fun to drive.

Most Popular Powertrain Specifications

Engine	2.4-liter 4-cylinder
Transmission	6-speed automatic
Horsepower	181 hp
Torque	175 lb-ft
Driveline	FWD
Fuel Efficiency	23/30 mpg
Towing Capacity	2,000 pounds

This Kia SUV is one of the original names that was brought to America when the brand began doing business here. The Sportage is an attractive, well-built SUV that provides plenty of room for passengers, giving you an SUV that could be right for your growing family.

Pros

One of the nicer cabins in this class
Engine adds excitement
Satisfying ride-and-handling traits

Cons

Cargo area is tight
Worse fuel economy than most others in its class
Turbo engine limited to most expensive trim

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2023 Subaru Ascent

Reliability Rating: 84/100

Subaru

The 2023 Subaru Ascent is the only three-row SUV in the brand’s lineup, and it gives you an excellent package of driving features to make your time behind the wheel more enjoyable. This SUV can handle some off-road adventures and has good towing power to make it versatile.

Most Popular Powertrain Specifications

Engine	2.4-liter turbocharged flat 4-cylinder
Transmission	CVT
Horsepower	260 hp
Torque	277 lb-ft
Driveline	AWD
Fuel Efficiency	19/25 mpg
Towing Capacity	5,000 pounds

This Subaru SUV was updated for 2023 with a new grille design, revised lighting elements, and an improved list of standard equipment. The EyeSight safety suite gained important features, making the Ascent an even better option for your family than it was before.