Our Favorite Family-Focused SUVs on the Pre-Owned Market

Are you looking to treat your family to a great vehicle even though you’re on a tight budget? Consider a used SUV! Even an SUV that’s a few years old can cut your upfront costs by 40% or more while providing you with many years of reliable service. They also give you access to higher trim levels and other features that you may not be able to afford on a new SUV, further elevating your purchase.

At Lupient Chevrolet, we have a wide selection of used cars for sale, including a fleet of used family-oriented SUVs. Across all the major automakers, there are dozens of options for families to choose from. While each family has its own preferences, we understand that you may want some guidance in making your choice. With that in mind, we’ve picked some of our favorite used family-focused SUVs that may offer what you’re looking for.

The Three Main Categories of SUVs

First, we want to discuss selecting the right SUV based on your needs. While there are seemingly infinite family SUV designs, they can be divided into three main categories…

• Compact SUVs: A small SUV is perfect for younger families who live in an urban environment. It’s big enough to hold a couple of kids plus all your cargo, yet nimble enough for busy city streets and crowded parking lots.
• Midsize SUVs: These vehicles are more spacious on the inside, expanding as your family does. A two-row configuration offers ample legroom for teenagers, while a three-row layout provides additional seating for young children or pets.
• Full-Size SUVs: If you have a large family, generally pack a lot of gear, or frequently chauffeur your kids’ friends, a big SUV is a must. Many full-size SUVs have traditional body-on-frame construction, which is better for off-roading and towing.

Now that we’ve established the types of family SUVs, let’s get to our favorites. We’ve selected two SUVs from each category, giving you options based on where you drive, how big your family is, and what you want the driving experience to be like.

Compact SUVs for Families

Chevy Equinox

As one of the best-value compact SUVs when it’s new, the Chevrolet Equinox offers even more bang for the buck when it’s used. The Equinox was reclassified as a compact SUV when its third generation was introduced in 2018, yet it is surprisingly roomy, offering some of the best second-row space in its class. Solid fuel efficiency, excellent handling, and good safety ratings are other things to love about the Equinox.

Chevrolet also brings its commitment to advanced tech. The touchscreen is easy to use, and it’s outfitted with the latest connectivity tools, whether corded or wireless. Each edition also has the latest version of Chevy Safety Assist for that model year, meaning top-of-the-line active driver assistance features. With Chevrolet’s legendary reliability, you’ll have a family SUV everyone can enjoy for years without spending a ton.

Toyota RAV4

This crossover is one of the most popular vehicles ever made because it can do it all. From city streets to backwoods trails, solo adventures to family outings, you’ll be well-equipped with a Toyota RAV4. Even the lowest trim levels offer excellent performance and the latest tech features. Other trims are equipped for light off-road adventures, have a sporty style, and even embrace elegance.

The fifth-generation RAV4 (introduced in the 2019 model year) offers the best combination of value and modern performance. Several powertrains are available, including hybrid and PHEV variations that boost efficiency and reduce emissions. This model’s dynamic torque vectoring all-wheel drive adapts to any driving conditions, and there is a lot of cargo room for luggage and gear. Available features like leather upholstery, fog lights, premium audio, and Toyota Safety Sense will make long drives a blast.

Midsize SUVs for Families

GMC Acadia

Those who have a little more money to spend can make every dollar count while giving their loved ones more sophistication. GMC’s SUVs offer a tinge of luxury without breaking the bank. While the latest Acadias are somewhat larger, the second generation (made from 2017 to 2023) is an ideal midsize SUV for families who want more power, roominess, and comfort while maintaining a deft touch in everyday driving situations.

As a cousin of the Chevy Blazer, the second-gen GMC Acadia offers a refined counterpoint to the Blazer’s sportiness. High-end infotainment tech, high-quality interior materials, and eye-catching exterior style are some of the highlights. It’s also a remarkably versatile SUV; off-roading trims are available for hitting the trails, and the available six-cylinder engine can give a thrill or haul small campers and trailers. There are enough seats for seven people, letting a full house pile into this SUV.

Jeep Grand Cherokee

Whether you’re getting the two-row Grand Cherokee or the three-row Grand Cherokee L, this family SUV is another impressive all-around steed. It combines Jeep’s reputation for adventure, a foundation that also works well for daily use, and a trace of luxury. The fifth-generation Grand Cherokee (made since 2021) will offer the most advanced performance and tech. It’s also available with a long wheelbase that makes for three rows of comfortable seating (and borders on full-size territory).

But don’t sleep on the fourth generation. Grand Cherokees made from 2011 to 2020 are reliable, and since much of this model’s technology was ahead of its time, you will still get plenty of useful goodies. These SUVs also offer more powertrain options, such as a HEMI V8. Whether your family prefers a smooth drive, an off-road trail, or an adrenaline rush, the Grand Cherokee will provide it.

Full-Size SUVs for Families

Chevy Tahoe

Buyers of used family SUVs are spoiled in that Chevy offers two great full-size vehicles to accommodate everything you could ask for. It’s a close call to pick a favorite, but we think the Tahoe is a stellar bet for many people. With a body slightly shorter than the Suburban, you get more maneuverability for city driving, and its lighter weight slightly increases towing capacity. Yet there’s still plenty of legroom and cargo space for everything from your kids’ sports gear to band equipment.

Either way, you’re getting a vehicle made for whatever your family is up to. Both the fourth-gen and fifth-gen Tahoe are prime SUVs to buy used, with their burly truck-origin engines, roomy seats, advanced technology, and deft handling. Their body-on-frame design makes them trail-friendly and capable of hauling larger campers and boats. With trim levels ranging from the sporty to the chic, a used Tahoe delivers the goods.

Ford Expedition

Another great used SUV for your family is the fourth-generation Ford Expedition, made from 2018 to 2024. Depending on what you’re looking for in your body-on-frame steed, the Expedition could be your ride. It’s one of the more agile full-size SUVs, making it attractive for those who primarily drive in the city. Its turbocharged engines offer some of the best fuel economy and towing power in the segment, simultaneously meaning you spend less money on gas and can go on the grandest adventures.

Furthermore, the Expedition is one of the safest SUVs in any size, receiving top ratings from the NHTSA. You’ll be confident that you and your passengers are protected thanks to great active and passive features. Used Expedition models may even come with BlueCruise semi-autonomous driving. Add stellar infotainment, roomy seating, and a variety of trim levels, and the Expedition is a sure winner.

Find Your Family’s Next Used SUV Today

If you’re searching for a used SUV that your family will love, visit Lupient Chevrolet. We are the leading used vehicle dealer in the Greater Twin Cities Area, with dozens of pre-owned SUVs on our lot and additional options constantly arriving. Our no-pressure sales team will help you find the right SUV for your needs and budget, regardless of the manufacturer. With competitive financing, regular specials, and a comprehensive service center, we’re here to make buying and owning a used SUV simple.

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