03 November, 2024
When it comes to purchasing a vehicle, we often find ourselves torn between the allure of a brand-new car and the practicality of a used one. As an automotive enthusiast and researcher, I've discovered that 3-year-old SUVs offer an excellent middle ground, combining modern features with significant cost savings. These vehicles have typically overcome any initial manufacturing quirks, while still boasting relatively low mileage and up-to-date technology.
Opting for a 3-year-old SUV allows us to benefit from the steepest part of the depreciation curve without sacrificing too much in terms of warranty coverage or vehicle lifespan. Many of these SUVs still have some of their original warranty intact, providing peace of mind for potential buyers. Additionally, we can often find certified pre-owned options that come with extended warranties and thorough inspections.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore some of the best 3-year-old SUVs from the 2022 model year, covering a range of sizes, prices, and features. Whether you're in the market for a compact crossover or a luxurious full-size SUV, we've got you covered. Let's dive into the world of reliable, gently-used SUVs and discover which models stand out from the crowd.
The Toyota RAV4 has long been a staple in the compact SUV market, and the 2022 model year continued this tradition of excellence. As we look at these vehicles now, with three years of real-world performance under their belts, it's clear that the RAV4 remains a top choice for reliability and versatility.
The standard RAV4 offers a comfortable ride, impressive fuel economy, and Toyota's renowned build quality. Its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine provides ample power for daily driving, while the available all-wheel drive system ensures confidence in various weather conditions. Inside, we find a spacious cabin with user-friendly technology features, including a responsive infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
For those of us seeking even greater efficiency, the RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid variant is a game-changer. With its ability to travel up to 42 miles on electric power alone, the Prime offers the best of both worlds – electric vehicle efficiency for short trips and hybrid performance for longer journeys. The added power boost from the electric motors also makes the Prime the quickest RAV4 in the lineup, proving that efficiency doesn't have to come at the cost of performance.
The 2022 Honda CR-V continues to impress as a 3-year-old SUV, showcasing Honda's commitment to quality and practicality. We've found that the CR-V excels in areas that matter most to compact SUV buyers: interior space, fuel efficiency, and reliability.
One of the CR-V's standout features is its cavernous cargo area, which offers class-leading storage capacity. This makes it an ideal choice for families, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone who values versatility in their vehicle. The interior also boasts high-quality materials and a thoughtful design that prioritizes comfort and functionality.
Under the hood, the CR-V's turbocharged engine provides a good balance of power and efficiency. The available hybrid powertrain takes this a step further, offering exceptional fuel economy without sacrificing performance. With Honda's reputation for longevity, we can confidently recommend the 2022 CR-V as a reliable choice in the used SUV market.
For those of us seeking a more premium experience in a compact package, the 2022 Mazda CX-30 stands out as an excellent option. Now three years old, this SUV continues to impress with its upscale interior, engaging driving dynamics, and striking exterior design.
The CX-30's cabin feels like it belongs in a luxury vehicle, with high-quality materials and a minimalist aesthetic that exudes sophistication. The infotainment system, while initially criticized for its complexity, has aged well and becomes intuitive with use. We appreciate the attention to detail in areas like sound insulation, which contributes to a quiet and refined driving experience.
On the road, the CX-30 shines with its responsive handling and smooth ride quality. The available turbocharged engine provides ample power, making highway merging and passing effortless. While it may not have the cargo space of some competitors, the CX-30 makes up for it with a driving experience that's a cut above the typical compact SUV.
Subaru's offerings in the compact SUV segment, the Crosstrek and Forester, have proven themselves to be reliable and capable choices over the past three years. Both models come standard with Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive system, making them popular among outdoor enthusiasts and those living in areas with challenging weather conditions.
The Crosstrek, based on the Impreza hatchback, offers a car-like driving experience with the added benefit of increased ground clearance. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver in urban environments, while still providing enough space for weekend adventures. The 2022 model year saw the introduction of a more powerful 2.5-liter engine option, addressing previous concerns about underwhelming acceleration.
The Forester, on the other hand, offers a more traditional SUV shape with excellent visibility and a spacious interior. We've found its boxy design translates to impressive headroom and cargo capacity, making it a practical choice for families. The Forester's off-road capabilities, enhanced by features like X-Mode, set it apart from many competitors in the segment.
Moving up in size, the Honda Passport and Pilot from 2022 have proven to be solid choices in the midsize SUV category. The Passport, essentially a shortened version of the Pilot, offers a more rugged appearance and better off-road capability without sacrificing on-road comfort.
We've found the Passport to be an excellent choice for those who want a spacious two-row SUV with a bit of adventure-ready attitude. Its V6 engine provides strong performance, while the available all-wheel drive system with torque vectoring enhances both on-road handling and off-road capability. The interior is spacious and well-designed, with plenty of storage options and high-quality materials.
The Pilot, Honda's three-row offering, continues to be a top choice for families. Its spacious interior can comfortably accommodate up to eight passengers, and the third row is actually usable for adults – a rarity in this segment. The 2022 model year saw updates to the infotainment system, addressing one of the few criticisms of earlier versions. With its smooth ride, ample power, and reputation for reliability, the Pilot remains a smart choice for those needing extra space.
Toyota's midsize SUV offerings, the Highlander and 4Runner, cater to different needs within the segment. The Highlander focuses on family-friendly comfort and efficiency, while the 4Runner maintains its rugged, off-road-oriented character.
The 2022 Highlander impresses with its refined ride quality and fuel-efficient hybrid option. We appreciate its well-designed interior, which features high-quality materials and a user-friendly infotainment system. The third row, while tight for adults, is suitable for children, making the Highlander a versatile family vehicle. After three years on the road, these SUVs have proven to be reliable and hold their value well.
In contrast, the 4Runner continues to appeal to outdoor enthusiasts and those who prioritize off-road capability. Its body-on-frame construction and available off-road-focused trims make it one of the most capable midsize SUVs when the pavement ends. While it may not offer the same level of on-road refinement as some competitors, its ruggedness and reliability have made it a favorite among adventure seekers.
The 2022 Kia Sportage marked the end of its fourth generation, and as a 3-year-old SUV, it offers excellent value in the compact to midsize crossover segment. We've found that the Sportage strikes a good balance between comfort, style, and affordability.
One of the Sportage's standout features is its spacious interior, which offers more rear-seat legroom than many competitors. The cabin design is attractive and functional, with high-quality materials that have held up well over the past three years. The infotainment system is intuitive and responsive, making it easy to access various features while on the go.
On the road, the Sportage provides a comfortable ride with composed handling. While it may not be the most exciting SUV to drive in its class, it excels in daily driving scenarios, offering a quiet cabin and smooth power delivery. The available all-wheel drive system provides added confidence in inclement weather, making the Sportage a practical choice for a wide range of climates.
For those needing maximum space in a midsize package, the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse continues to impress as a 3-year-old SUV. Its cavernous interior and comfortable ride make it an excellent choice for large families or anyone who frequently needs to haul people and cargo.
The Traverse's third row is one of the most spacious in its class, comfortably accommodating adults even on longer trips. Even with all seats in use, there's still ample cargo space behind the third row – a rarity in this segment. We've found the interior materials to be durable, holding up well to the wear and tear of family use over the past three years.
Under the hood, the Traverse's V6 engine provides strong performance, with enough power to confidently merge onto highways or pass slower traffic, even when fully loaded. While fuel economy isn't class-leading, it's reasonable for an SUV of this size. The Traverse's car-like handling belies its large size, making it easier to maneuver than one might expect.
Stepping into the luxury segment, the 2022 Acura RDX and MDX offer a compelling blend of performance, technology, and value. As 3-year-old SUVs, they provide a taste of luxury without the steep depreciation often associated with premium brands.
The RDX, Acura's compact offering, impresses with its sporty handling and powerful turbocharged engine. We've found its interior to be well-crafted, with comfortable seats and a unique touchpad-controlled infotainment system that becomes intuitive with use. The spacious cargo area and generous rear-seat legroom make the RDX a practical choice in the luxury compact SUV segment.
The larger MDX, redesigned for the 2022 model year, continues to be a standout in the midsize luxury SUV class. Its sharp styling, refined ride, and innovative features like the removable second-row middle seat set it apart from competitors. The MDX's handling is surprisingly agile for its size, thanks in part to its sophisticated all-wheel drive system. After three years, these SUVs have proven to be reliable and well-built, maintaining their premium feel.
BMW's X3 and X5 from 2022 represent the German automaker's commitment to blending luxury with driving dynamics. These SUVs have aged gracefully over the past three years, maintaining their appeal in the competitive luxury SUV market.
The X3, BMW's compact offering, continues to impress with its balance of comfort and sportiness. We appreciate its well-crafted interior, which features high-quality materials and an intuitive infotainment system. The range of engine options, from efficient four-cylinders to powerful six-cylinders, caters to a variety of preferences. The X3's handling is a highlight, offering the engaging driving experience BMW is known for in a practical SUV package.
Moving up to the midsize X5, we find an SUV that truly embodies the luxury segment. Its refined ride quality, potent engine options, and opulent interior make it a standout even three years after its initial release. The X5's advanced technology features, including the latest iteration of BMW's iDrive system, have aged well and continue to impress. While maintenance costs can be higher than non-luxury brands, the X5's build quality and driving experience justify its premium positioning.
Lexus's SUV lineup from 2022, including the NX, RX, and GX, offers a range of options for luxury SUV buyers prioritizing comfort and reliability. These models have consistently ranked high in dependability studies, making them excellent choices in the used luxury SUV market.
The compact NX, which saw a complete redesign for the 2022 model year, impresses with its modern interior and variety of powertrain options, including an efficient hybrid. We've found its touch-based infotainment system to be a significant improvement over previous Lexus interfaces, and it has held up well over the past three years.
The midsize RX continues to be a benchmark in the luxury SUV segment, known for its comfortable ride and whisper-quiet cabin. The 2022 model offered both two-row and three-row configurations, catering to different family needs. While not the sportiest option in its class, the RX excels in providing a serene driving experience and exceptional build quality.
For those seeking a more rugged luxury SUV, the GX offers a unique proposition. Based on a truck platform, it provides genuine off-road capability along with a luxurious interior. While its body-on-frame construction results in a less refined on-road manner compared to car-based crossovers, its durability and go-anywhere attitude have earned it a devoted following.
The 2022 Cadillac XT5 rounds out our luxury SUV options, offering American-style luxury in a midsize package. As a 3-year-old SUV, the XT5 presents an attractive value proposition in the luxury market.
We've found the XT5's interior to be a highlight, featuring high-quality materials and a clean, modern design. The infotainment system is responsive and easy to use, with a mix of touchscreen and physical controls that cater to different preferences. The comfortable seats and quiet cabin make the XT5 an excellent choice for long drives.
On the road, the XT5 prioritizes comfort over sportiness, with a smooth ride that absorbs road imperfections well. The available V6 engine provides ample power for most driving situations, while the base turbocharged four-cylinder offers a good balance of performance and efficiency. While it may not have the brand cachet of some European competitors, the XT5's combination of features, comfort, and reliability make it a smart choice in the used luxury SUV market.
In the subcompact crossover segment, the 2022 Honda HR-V continues to impress as a 3-year-old vehicle. We've found it to be an excellent choice for urban dwellers or small families looking for a versatile and efficient SUV.
The HR-V's standout feature is its innovative "Magic Seat" system, which allows for multiple seating and cargo configurations. This flexibility, combined with the HR-V's compact exterior dimensions, makes it exceptionally practical for city living. Despite its small size, the interior feels surprisingly spacious, with good headroom and legroom in both rows.
On the road, the HR-V offers a comfortable ride and nimble handling, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. While its engine isn't the most powerful in the segment, it provides adequate performance for daily driving and impressive fuel efficiency. After three years, these vehicles have proven to be reliable and low-maintenance, adding to their appeal as used SUVs.
The Toyota Venza, reintroduced for the 2021 model year, stands out in the midsize crossover segment with its stylish design and hybrid-only powertrain. As a 3-year-old SUV, it offers a unique blend of efficiency, comfort, and Toyota reliability.
We appreciate the Venza's upscale interior, which features high-quality materials and a modern design that has aged well over the past three years. The hybrid powertrain delivers smooth and quiet operation, along with excellent fuel economy that rivals many smaller vehicles. The available all-wheel drive system provides added confidence in various weather conditions.
One of the Venza's highlights is its comfortable ride, which soaks up road imperfections with ease. While it may not be the most exciting SUV to drive, its refined manners and efficient performance make it an excellent choice for those prioritizing comfort and fuel economy. The Venza's reliability has proven to be excellent, living up to Toyota's reputation for dependable vehicles.
The 2022 Ford Edge occupies a sweet spot in the midsize SUV segment, offering a spacious two-row layout and a range of powerful engine options. As a 3-year-old SUV, it presents a compelling option for those who want a larger vehicle without the complexity of a third row.
We've found the Edge's interior to be comfortable and well-designed, with plenty of space for both passengers and cargo. The SYNC 4 infotainment system, introduced in recent years, has proven to be responsive and user-friendly, with a large touchscreen that dominates the center console. The materials and build quality have held up well over the past three years, maintaining a premium feel.
On the road, the Edge impresses with its smooth ride and composed handling. The standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides good power for most situations, while the available twin-turbo V6 in the ST model offers exhilarating performance. All-wheel drive is available across the range, enhancing the Edge's versatility in various driving conditions. While fuel economy isn't class-leading, the Edge's combination of space, comfort, and performance make it a solid choice in the used SUV market.
Rounding out our crossover selections is the 2022 Buick Enclave, a full-size three-row SUV that offers near-luxury amenities at a more accessible price point. As a 3-year-old vehicle, the Enclave provides excellent value for those seeking a spacious and comfortable family hauler.
The Enclave's interior is a highlight, featuring premium materials and a quiet cabin that rivals more expensive luxury SUVs. We've found the seats to be exceptionally comfortable, making long trips a pleasure. The third row is actually usable for adults, a rarity in this segment, and even with all seats in use, there's still decent cargo space available.
Under the hood, the Enclave's V6 engine provides smooth and ample power, easily moving this large SUV with confidence. The ride quality is superb, soaking up road imperfections and providing a serene driving experience. While it may not be as fuel-efficient as some smaller crossovers, the Enclave's combination of space, comfort, and refinement make it an attractive option for families or those who frequently transport passengers.
When it comes to family-oriented SUVs, the 2022 Hyundai Palisade and Mazda CX-9 stand out as excellent choices, even three years after their initial release. These vehicles offer a compelling blend of space, safety, and features that cater specifically to the needs of families.
The Hyundai Palisade has quickly established itself as a top contender in the three-row SUV segment. We've been impressed by its upscale interior, which rivals many luxury brands in terms of quality and design. The spacious cabin easily accommodates large families, with a third row that's comfortable even for adults on shorter trips. One of the Palisade's standout features is its abundance of family-friendly amenities, such as multiple USB ports, available second-row captain's chairs, and a quiet mode for the audio system that restricts sound to the front row – perfect for when the kids are sleeping in the back.
On the other hand, the Mazda CX-9 offers a more driver-focused experience without sacrificing family practicality. Its sleek exterior design and upscale interior give it a premium feel that has aged well over the past three years. While its third row is less spacious than the Palisade's, it's still suitable for children or occasional adult use. Where the CX-9 really shines is in its driving dynamics, offering a level of engagement that's rare in the family SUV segment. This makes it an excellent choice for parents who still enjoy a spirited drive once in a while.
Both the Palisade and CX-9 come equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. These systems provide peace of mind for families, especially on longer trips. Additionally, both vehicles have performed well in crash tests, further cementing their status as safe family haulers.
In terms of reliability, both Hyundai and Mazda have built strong reputations in recent years. The Palisade and CX-9 from 2022 have proven to be dependable vehicles, with few reported issues over the past three years. This reliability, combined with their family-friendly features and comfortable interiors, make them excellent choices for those in the market for a gently used family SUV.
When shopping for a 3-year-old SUV, there are several key factors we need to consider to ensure we're making the best choice for our needs and budget. Here's a comprehensive list of elements to keep in mind:
By carefully considering these factors, we can make an informed decision and choose a 3-year-old SUV that best fits our needs, preferences, and budget. Remember, a little extra research and due diligence can go a long way in ensuring satisfaction with your used SUV purchase.
To keep our 3-year-old SUVs running smoothly and reliably, it's crucial to follow a proper maintenance schedule. Here are some essential tips to ensure the longevity and performance of your vehicle:
By following these maintenance tips, we can significantly extend the life of our 3-year-old SUVs and avoid costly repairs down the road. Remember, preventative maintenance is always less expensive than major repairs, so it pays to stay on top of your vehicle's needs.
Finding and properly inspecting a used SUV is crucial to ensuring you get a reliable vehicle that meets your needs. Here's a guide on where to look and what to check when shopping for a 3-year-old SUV:
By thoroughly inspecting a used SUV and being diligent in our search, we can greatly increase our chances of finding a reliable vehicle that will serve us well for years to come. Remember, it's always better to take your time and be thorough than to rush into a purchase and face costly issues down the road.
As we've explored the world of 3-year-old SUVs from the 2022 model year, it's clear that there are numerous excellent options available to suit a wide range of needs and preferences. From compact crossovers to full-size family haulers, and from budget-friendly options to luxury models, the used SUV market offers something for everyone.
When making your final decision, it's crucial to prioritize your specific needs and budget constraints. Consider factors such as:
Remember that while a particular SUV might be highly rated overall, the best choice for you is the one that aligns most closely with your individual requirements. Don't be swayed solely by brand names or popularity – focus on finding the vehicle that will serve you best in your day-to-day life.
It's also worth reiterating the importance of thorough research and inspection when purchasing a used vehicle. Take the time to review vehicle history reports, conduct test drives, and if possible, have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection. This due diligence can save you from potential headaches and unexpected expenses down the road.
Lastly, don't underestimate the value of ongoing maintenance. Even the most reliable SUVs require regular care to continue performing at their best. By following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule and addressing any issues promptly, you can ensure that your chosen SUV remains a dependable companion for years to come.
In conclusion, the market for 3-year-old SUVs from 2022 offers a wealth of options for discerning buyers. By carefully considering your needs, conducting thorough research, and maintaining your vehicle properly, you can enjoy the benefits of a nearly new SUV at a more accessible price point. Happy hunting, and may you find the perfect SUV to accompany you on your future adventures!
Ready to find your perfect 3-year-old SUV? Start your search today and discover the ideal balance of features, reliability, and value. Don't miss out on the opportunity to own a great vehicle at a fraction of the new car price. Begin your journey to SUV ownership now!
Introduction: The Smart Shopper's Guide to Used Ca...
November 03, 2024
Understanding the Used Pickup Truck MarketWhen it...
November 03, 2024
Understanding the Value of Reliable Used CarsWhen...
November 03, 2024
The automotive landscape is evolving rapidly, with...
April 11, 2025
The Lexus 2025 lineup looks impressive in showroom...
April 11, 2025
The automotive world is abuzz with excitement as T...
April 11, 2025
Click to read more ...
Best Dream Car requests your location to offer personalized results and improve your experience.
Would you like to allow location access?
