Best Used SUVs for Tampa Drivers

Tampa Bay living practically demands an SUV. Whether you're hauling beach gear to Clearwater, navigating afternoon thunderstorms on I-275, or fitting the whole family for a weekend trip to Disney, an SUV gives you the space, visibility, and capability you need.

Top Picks for Tampa SUV Buyers

Toyota RAV4 — The gold standard of compact SUVs. The RAV4 delivers exceptional reliability, good fuel economy (up to 35 MPG on newer models), and a comfortable interior. It's perfect for Tampa families who want something bigger than a sedan without the bulk of a full-size SUV. Model years 2017 and newer come with Toyota Safety Sense standard.

Honda CR-V — Honda's best-selling SUV offers a spacious interior that punches above its class, with one of the largest cargo areas in the compact SUV segment. The CR-V is a smart choice for Tampa drivers who prioritize interior space and fuel efficiency. Known for excellent resale value.

Nissan Rogue — The Rogue offers a comfortable ride, intuitive technology, and competitive pricing. It's been Nissan's best-seller for years and delivers solid value in the used market. The divided cargo area is great for organizing beach and grocery trips.

Chevrolet Equinox — An often-overlooked gem in the used SUV market. The Equinox offers a smooth ride, user-friendly infotainment, and typically costs less than comparable Japanese SUVs. A smart value pick for budget-conscious Tampa families.

Ford Escape — The Escape offers sporty handling uncommon in the SUV class, plus Ford's efficient EcoBoost engines. Great for Tampa drivers who want an SUV that's actually fun to drive, especially on the curving roads around Bayshore Boulevard.

What to Look for When Buying a Used SUV in Tampa

When shopping for a used SUV in Tampa, pay attention to the A/C system (it works hard in Florida summers), check for any signs of rust underneath (salt air can take a toll), and make sure the tires are in good condition. Also consider fuel economy — you'll appreciate good gas mileage during those I-4 commutes.

At Tampa Autohaus, every SUV on our lot has been inspected for quality. Browse our current SUV inventory below, and contact us to schedule a test drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most reliable used SUV?

The Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V consistently rank as the most reliable used SUVs. Both offer excellent long-term dependability, strong resale value, and low cost of ownership.

What is the best used SUV under $20,000?

In the under-$20,000 range, the Nissan Rogue, Chevrolet Equinox, and Ford Escape offer excellent value. You can find 2018-2020 models with modern features and reasonable mileage at this price point.

Are used SUVs good for Florida weather?

Yes! SUVs offer higher ground clearance for flooded roads during storm season, better visibility in heavy rain, and modern SUVs have advanced traction control systems. The higher seating position also provides better visibility on Tampa highways.

Find Your Perfect Car at Tampa Autohaus

Browse our full inventory or contact us for personalized recommendations.

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