The Toyota Highlander is a comfortable mid-size crossover SUV that offers nice drivability and a hybrid powertrain option. It was completely revamped for the 2020 model year, and the more recent Highlanders are very nice. But the 2019 and earlier models are substantially less costly and some offer captain’s chairs. In that configuration, the 2019 Highlander has seating for up to seven with comfortable captain’s chairs in the second row. The third-row bench seat has seat belts for three. The 2019 model-year Highlander is well-equipped. Many used Highlanders have leather seating, 110-volt power outlet, a 9-inch touchscreen, a rear-passenger communication system, parking sensors, a backup camera system, and rear-seat entertainment. 

Toyota

Highlander

2019 Toyota Highlander

Riding the second-row captain’s chairs of a 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe full-size SUV is like being in a limousine. The popular Tahoe got a complete makeover for the 2021 model year. That means for bargain-hunting shoppers, the 2019 and 2020 Tahoes are especially good values right now. Based on GM’s full-size pickup truck chassis, the big SUV will provide passengers with a smooth ride and quiet comfort. Power comes from conventional V8 engines, the most popular being a 5.3-liter V8 that produces 355 horsepower. Another choice is a 420-horsepower 6.2-liter V8 teamed with a 10-speed auto transmission. Not surprisingly, the Tahoe’s fuel economy isn’t great, but this is a vehicle that will transport seven people comfortably with captain’s chairs in the second row. 

Chevrolet

Tahoe

2019 Chevrolet Tahoe

A relative newcomer to the mid-size SUV segment — and a newcomer to the captain’s chair’s list — the Hyundai Palisade delivers a big dose of luxury at a mass-market price. The good news for folks interested in second-row captain’s chairs is the typical Palisade has them. They are a very nice complement to what is one of the nicest interiors in the class. The 2020 Palisade is powered by a 291-horsepower, 3.8-liter V6 that’s mated to a standard 8-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard on all Palisade trim levels, and all-wheel drive is available as an option. Used 2020 Palisades might be somewhat scarce, but they are certainly worth looking for.

Hyundai

Palisade

2020 Hyundai Palisade

You might have to look at many examples of other used SUVs to find one equipped with captain’s chairs, but the 2019 Buick Enclave made second-row captain’s chairs standard. If you seek enduring good looks, luxurious interior accommodations, comfortable ride and significant value, then the Buick Enclave should be on your list. With three rows of seating, it will transport seven passengers with ease, and as an upscale-brand vehicle, it delivers plenty of upscale features. The 2019 model-year Enclave is a good pick because the model got a complete redo in the 2018 model year. 

 

Buick

Enclave

2019 Buick Enclave

The 2020 Ford Explorer was a radical revision of the model, and so it is a wiser pick than the 2019 or earlier versions. Why? Ford switched the Explorer back to a rear-drive-oriented platform, and that has lots of advantages. And Ford also made second-row captain’s chairs the default configuration. So the vehicle answers the bell for this roundup. Engine choices include a 300-horsepower 2.3-liter EcoBoost 4-cylinder, 365-horsepower twin-turbo V6, or 400-horsepower twin-turbo V6 in the ST sport model. A hybrid powertrain is also available in the 2020 model. An 8-inch infotainment display screen is standard with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. 

Ford

Explorer

2020 Ford Explorer

The mid-size Chevy Traverse was all-new for the 2018 model-year with many worthwhile changes. That means the 2019 model year is a sweet spot for new tech at a low price. (The 2018 is a good choice as well.) Compared to other mid-size SUVs, it is notably larger with plenty of interior and cargo space. Ample, if not somewhat uninspiring, power comes from the Traverse’s 310-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 engine teamed with a 9-speed automatic transmission. For 2018 and 2019, the Traverse was offered in six trim levels — L, LS, LT, RS, Premier, and High Country. Second-row captain’s chairs are typical in the Traverse. Three-zone automatic climate control keeps rear-compartment passengers comfortable. 
 

Traverse

2019 Chevrolet Traverse

Captain’s chairs were not available on all Pilot trims for 2019, so you might have to search a bit. But should you find one, you’ll be rewarded because the Honda Pilot is one of the roomiest and most comfortable crossovers. Its 152.9 cubic feet of passenger space outdoes virtually all competitors, and that makes the second-row captain’s chairs very nice places to be. That said, many 2019 Pilots were purchased with a second-row bench seat that accommodates three. The 2019 Honda Pilot is equipped with a 250-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine mated to either a 6-speed or 9-speed automatic transmission. Since you want captain’s chairs, you’ll likely get the 9-speed. 

 

Honda

Pilot

2019 Honda Pilot

The Dodge Durango is a mid-size SUV that offers a variety of interior seating configurations including second-row captain’s chairs. That arrangement is standard in the high-performance SRT version that takes SUVs to a new level of fun to drive. Often called upon to do the work a full-size sport-utility, the Durango’s rear-drive platform and available V-8 engine are up to the challenge. If you tow the Durango is an excellent choice from this group. The 2019 version has Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a rearview camera system. 

 

Dodge

Durango

2019 Dodge Durango

Ford completely redesigned its Expedition full-size SUV for the 2018 model year, and the changes were major. The big SUV received new aluminum bodywork, an all-new powertrain lineup, and a completely revitalized interior. The interior included a captain’s chair option for the second row, but many 2018 Expeditions have a second-row bench. Finding one with captain’s chairs is worth the effort because the 2019 Expedition is so good. The base engine is a 3.5-liter turbocharged EcoBoost V-6 that delivers 375 horsepower, while the up-level engine is a 400-horsepower version that also powers the 2020 Ford Explorer ST.  

 

Expedition

2019 Ford Expedition

As a used vehicle, the 2018 Nissan Armada might be considered a potential bargain-buy among full-size SUVs. It is powered by a 5.6-liter V8 engine with 390-horsepower teamed with a seven-speed automatic transmission. One of the Armada's strong suits is its upscale interior, including the second-row captain's chairs. The interior is well-designed with a premium look, and the seating comfort in all three rows is a cut above many others in the segment. If you are seeking electronic safety aids, look for a Platinum trim version of the 2018 Armada. 

Nissan

Armada

2019 Nissan Armada

10 Best Used SUVs With Captain’s Chairs

SUVs are everywhere these days, and it seems like most American drivers want one. SUVs are versatile, are easy to get in and out of, and can be a lot of fun to drive. It’s also nice to have a driving position that looks down on traffic, not up at it. That is why we have selected the best options.

Best Used SUVs

Acura

Alfa Romeo

Aston Martin

Audi

Bentley

Cadillac

Chrysler

Ferrari

FIAT

Genesis

INFINITI

Jaguar

Jeep

Karma

Lamborghini

Land Rover

Lexus

Lincoln

Lucid

Maserati

Maybach

Mazda

McLaren

Mercedes-Benz

MINI

Mitsubishi

Panoz

Polestar

Porsche

Rivian

Rolls-Royce

smart

Subaru

Tesla

Volkswagen

Volvo

10 Best Used Pickup Trucks

10 Best Used Small Trucks

Trucks have become the new everyday vehicle for millions of people because modern pickups deliver a unique mix of ultimate utility and comfort that few other vehicles can. Automakers have responded by adding more luxury, better tech, and a load of clever options that make trucks more useful, desirable, and expensive. Buying used can save you thousands of dollars over new, and certified pre-owned (CPO) is even better.
Vehicle manufacturers must authorize dealers before they can certify vehicles. The process involves a rigorous inspection, and only vehicles within a certain age and mileage range qualify. While CPO vehicles can be a little more expensive than other used models, they typically come with long manufacturer warranties that cover a large portion of vehicle systems. That peace of mind is worth the extra cost, and you'll typically end up with a much nicer vehicle overall, as CPOs are held to a higher standard.
Which certified pre-owned pickup truck is right for you? There are so many great choices that it's hard to go wrong. We've gathered a list of our favorite recent model-year CPO trucks. Let's get started. 

10 Best CPO Pickup Trucks

10 Best Used Pickup Trucks Under $35,000

10 Most Reliable Used SUVs

A two-row SUV adds the additional cargo capacity and roomier interior of an SUV while still keeping dimensions manageable for those who live in more urban areas. They also get better fuel economy so they're easier on your budget. Here are the 10 best used two-row SUVs.

10 Best Used Two-Row SUVs

10 Best Used Electric SUVs

There is a wide range of eight-passenger SUVs on the market, but it can be a challenge finding one you can afford. Large SUVs that easily accommodate the kids and their friends are often more expensive than smaller ones, which makes them tough to fit into the family budget. A used eight-passenger SUV is a more affordable option.

Buying used will not only save you money and keep you on budget, but it may also let you get into a higher trim level or more luxurious vehicle than you could afford if you were buying new. Here are the 10 best used eight-passenger SUVs perfect for families.

10 Best Used 8-Passenger SUVs

There is no getting around the fact that the American public loves SUVs. For this model year, many predict that U.S. car buyers will purchase twice as many SUVs and trucks as passenger cars. The reason? Consumers appreciate the elevated driving position and the people- and cargo-carrying versatility that SUVs bring to the party.

10 Used SUVs That Are Great Values

Americans love SUVs. This is as true as the sky is blue. Americans love their looks, their versatility, and the aura they project. You don’t hear people who have inactive, sedentary lifestyles talking about their SUVs. The people who drive SUVs are pictured as adventurers who might just head off into the wilderness on an overlanding expedition on a moment's notice.

If there is a problem attached to SUVs and their popularity, it is their expense. For cheap transport, a small sedan, hatchback, or coupe will typically be much less expensive than an SUV. Sure, you can buy a used SUV, but with no warranty, you are out in the cold if something goes wrong. The solution is a certified pre-owned SUV backed by the manufacturer. If you shop and bargain, it will be much less expensive than the same model purchased new, but it will be covered by a comprehensive manufacturer warranty. Problem solved. Here are the 10 best CPO SUVs under $25,000.

10 Best CPO SUVs Under $25,000

We’re not surprised that you are interested in buying an SUV. You are certainly not alone. They used to say that the 1990s was the decade of the sport-utility vehicle, but the argument could be successfully made that this is the SUV decade. We don’t have to tell you why, either. Pretty much everybody is aware of how useful and versatile most SUVs are. For those who have people to transport or stuff to carry, an SUV will get the job done for them. If the SUV has an Achilles’ heel, it is cost. SUVs are typically expensive vehicles. Some of the vehicles on this list had suggested retail prices well over $60,000 when they were new. No matter how you slice it, that’s a lot of money for a vehicle. The answer to that is buying a certified pre-owned SUV, because that can drop the price by thousands of dollars while still offering you new-car-like warranty protection. Here are the 10 best CPO SUVs under $40,000.

10 Best CPO SUVs Under $40,000

Most Americans equate a vehicle’s size and weight to its ability to protect them in a collision. And there is some truth to that. It’s one of the reasons crossovers and SUVs have become so popular. They make you feel safer when you’re behind the wheel. But some SUVs are safer than others. Although modern-day crossovers are the safest the auto industry has ever produced, some models perform better in crash tests than others, or offer more sophisticated accident avoidance systems and driver aids that can help you avoid an accident in the first place.

For millions of Americans shopping for a good used SUV, safety is also a high priority, and you don’t have to compromise on safety to find an affordable SUV. There are many used models out there with the same desirable safety technology and excellent crash performance as the new 2020 models. To help you narrow down your search, we’ve created this list of 10 used SUVs under $40,000 with available accident avoidance systems and excellent crash test scores. Since most are just two to three years old, they can be found with low mileage and they can be purchased through manufacturers certified pre-owned programs.

Used SUVs Under $40,000 With Accident Avoidance Systems

While sedans are waning in popularity, SUVs and crossovers are more popular than ever. That means there are lots of choices for those who want a new SUV for the family. The challenge with buying an SUV is that it can be expensive. Used SUVs are a great way to stay on budget while still getting the car you need.

Since SUVs are often full of people, including lots of kids, safety is a priority. Here are the 10 safest used SUVs you can buy based on Insurance Institute for Highway Safety crash test ratings. All received the highest Top Safety Pick+ rating for the year listed.

10 Safest Used SUVs

Graduate, find a mate, procreate, and buy a crossover with three rows of seats. For millions, it’s the American dream: space for the entire family and then some. SUVs with the ability to carry up to seven passengers are more popular than ever. They’ve become the must-have for dads and moms from Newport, Rhode Island, to Newport Beach, California.

And why not? Little Billy Jr. shouldn’t be forced to share a row with his sister. She’s icky. And sister Jane deserves her own row of seats as well. There you go, girl. Stretch out and dream of someday owning your own three-row family truckster. Yes, we can stop for ice cream. But with dozens of used 3-row SUVs out there, which is best for your family? Well, we’ve done the research for you and narrowed it down to the 10 we think are the best. We’ve also limited the selection to crossovers. We’ll cover big-daddy SUVs like the Chevrolet Tahoe and Ford Expedition separately. Here are our favorites.

Best Used 3-Row SUVs

SUVs are everywhere these days, and it seems like most American drivers want one. In 2020, sales of SUVs topped the 50% level in the light-vehicle market for the first time, and the trend shows no sign of abating. SUVs are versatile, are easy to get in and out of, and can be a lot of fun to drive. It’s also nice to have a driving position that looks down on traffic, not up at it. The only trouble with SUVs is they are, on average, more expensive than their conventional sedan and hatchback counterparts.

The answer to that potential issue is to purchase a used SUV. Studies have shown quite clearly that vehicles that have been manufactured during the past few years have very long useful lives, perhaps the longest in history. That’s why this list of the five SUVs that cost the least to insure can be so valuable.

5 Used SUVs That Cost Less to Insure

When it comes to transportation, most people want comfort. Because of that, SUVs are everywhere. And if you have to ride in the second row of an SUV, there is no more comfortable place than in a captain’s chair. That is why SUVs with captain’s chairs are so popular. People like the elevated driving position and the people-carrying versatility that SUVs are so well-known for. And they love the people-hauling ability of vehicles that offer captain’s chairs in the second row. Not only are the captain’s chairs typically more comfortable than a spot on a bench seat, but the gap between the two captain’s chairs makes it easy to get into and out of the third row. That's a win-win. Of course, when purchased new, three-row SUVs with captain’s chairs are typically expensive. A great way around that is to buy a recent-vintage used version. Here is our list of the 10 best used SUVs with captain’s chairs.


When you’re heading off to college, an SUV makes a lot of sense. It has the spaciousness you’ll need to move your furniture from dorm rooms to apartments, and to carry you and your friends on unforgettable road trips. And it often has all-wheel drive for that time snow fails to postpone that crucial exam or job interview. 

But a new SUV is often tough on a college budget. That’s why we’ve rounded up the 10 best used SUVs for college. Most of these models are small, easy to drive, and relatively affordable, yet also roomy enough to be useful. For variety, we also included a couple of higher-end models — two vehicles with third-row seating and one from a luxury brand. We focused on the 2016 model year to keep things relatively affordable, yet avoiding SUVs that may be too old to reliably get you through college. 

10 Best Used SUVs for College 

Prestige. Panache. Performance. The three pillars of a great German luxury car. The best combine a depth of engineering with exceptional design detail and an extraordinary exploitation of form as well as function. They look good and they drive even better.

You can argue that Germany’s top luxury brands — BMW, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi — build the best cars in the world. And that they have for decades. Many enthusiasts agree. Germany’s best also offer incredible used-car value. That’s right, buying used German luxury can save you big bucks compared to buying the brand new version of the very same car. For a fraction of the price, you get the same prestige, panache, and performance. To maximize your value, we limited our list of the 10 best used German luxury cars to models just four years old or newer. That means they’re still available through factory-certified pre-owned (CPO) programs with extended warranties. Our choices are listed alphabetically. 