Used Midsize SUVs Under $20,000: Five to Compare Head to Head

Start with the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot and Ford Explorer when you need a family SUV with three rows. Add the Toyota 4Runner or Jeep Grand Cherokee if you need equipment for more difficult terrain.

This comparison uses a 2017 Highlander, 2017 Pilot, 2020 Explorer, 2015 4Runner and 2017 Grand Cherokee as specific shopping targets. The five serve different needs, so the choice starts with how you will use the vehicle. Compact SUVs such as the CR-V and RAV4 belong in a separate comparison.

The budget means an advertised vehicle price below $20,000 before taxes and other charges. Not every example qualifies. Finding a 4Runner within that budget may be harder: the national listing page showed an average asking price above $20,000, although some listings were below it. Check those vehicles closely for wear and needed repairs.

Compare the configuration, not just the model name

The fuel-economy estimates come from manufacturer brochures for the Highlander, Pilot, Explorer and 4Runner, and the EPA record for the Grand Cherokee. Each row identifies the drivetrain used for its estimate. Changing the trim, engine or drive system may change the estimate. Actual fuel economy varies.

RepairPal's ratings cover multiple years and configurations of each model. They do not predict the reliability of the individual vehicles in the table and should not be treated as a head-to-head test of these specific model years.

Highlander: start here if the third row is occasional

Toyota lists 42.3 cubic feet behind the second row of the 2017 Highlander when the third row is folded, but only 13.8 behind the third row when it is in use. That is the central trade-off for a family carrying both people and luggage.

What it gives you: Extra seats when you need them, with more luggage room when the third row is folded.

What could rule it out: Your passengers do not fit comfortably in the third row, or there is too little luggage space with all the seats you need occupied. Bring both passengers and bags when you compare vehicles.

An XLE is worth a look when the equipment suits you, but inspect the best-maintained example you can afford rather than stretching for a trim at the expense of condition.

Pilot: test the whole seating arrangement

Honda's brochure lists a nine-speed automatic for the 2017 Pilot Touring used in the table. Other versions have different equipment, and Honda Sensing was optional on EX and EX-L rather than standard across the range. Confirm the equipment before arranging a visit.

What it gives you: Another three-row cabin to compare with the Highlander, including how easily your passengers can reach the rear seats.

What could rule it out: The everyday combination of child seats, adults and luggage makes access inconvenient, or the inspection identifies work that breaks the budget.

Operate every seat mechanism. Test the transmission when cold and after the drive, and ask the shop to identify major scheduled service due on that vehicle. A model-wide rating cannot answer those questions.

Explorer: weigh the extra luggage space against condition and price

Ford lists 18.2 cubic feet behind the 2020 Explorer's third row and 47.9 behind its second. Both figures exceed the Highlander's published measurements. That makes the Explorer worth a look when luggage space is a recurring problem.

What it gives you: More luggage space behind the third row than the Highlander.

What could rule it out: Expensive repairs identified during the inspection, uncomfortable seating for your passengers or an asking price that leaves no room for immediate work.

The 2.3-liter XLT 4WD is the fuel-economy example here. Do not apply its numbers to a V6, hybrid or another model year. Check records and VIN-specific recalls for the actual vehicle.

4Runner: choose the capability on purpose

The 2015 SR5 4WD belongs in this group for its low-range capability. That equipment may be unnecessary if you simply want a larger commuter car. Its fuel-economy estimate is lower than those of the other configurations in the table.

What it gives you: Low-range four-wheel drive for routes that require it.

What could rule it out: The examples below $20,000 are too worn, rusty or modified to make a sensible purchase. Walk away from a compromised vehicle rather than treating the badge as protection against repair costs.

Have the underside and 4WD operation checked. Use the off-road guide to understand why the SR5 should not receive credit for Trail-model equipment it does not have.

Grand Cherokee: equipment can change the answer

The 2017 Grand Cherokee in this comparison is a two-row choice. If you are considering it for off-road use, identify the transfer case. Jeep's brochure specifies low range for Quadra-Trac II; a general “4x4” description does not establish that the vehicle has it.

What it gives you: A two-row option with low range when equipped with Quadra-Trac II.

What could rule it out: Unclear build information, suspension faults or repairs that push the total cost beyond your budget.

Verify the engine and suspension as well as the transfer case. The V6 fuel figures in the table are not figures for a V8 or diesel.

Which two should you inspect first?

For occasional third-row use, try Highlander and Pilot. For frequent third-row use with luggage, include Explorer and carry the same load in both finalists. For terrain requiring low range, compare the right 4Runner and Grand Cherokee configurations.

Use the family, cargo and safety guides for the details that matter to your household. Make the final decision using inspection results and complete written prices for the vehicles you are considering.