What used SUV should I get for up to €8,000?

Hi, I have €7,000 to €8,000 budget to buy a used SUV. I only drive 3,000 miles per year and I have been told by friends to go for the Toyota RAV4 or Suzuki Grand Vitara. What do you suggest? It will not be used for work or off road etc.

Many thanks, William.

William Ellis (Limerick)

Aug 2014 Filed under: choosing used car

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Expert answer

Hi William,

Both of those are really good options, but with that budget there are some others worth considering. Given your low mileage, you might want to take a look at (shock, horror) some petrol alternatives. Both the Honda CR-V and Kia Sportage are plentiful on the second-hand ground with petrol engines and they're well worth considering.

From personal family experience, I can tell you that a CR-V with the 2.0-litre VTEC petrol engine gets a sold 38mpg in daily use and has been close to faultlessly reliable. Or, if you need an occasional seven-seater, the second-generation Hyundai Santa Fe falls within your budget and is a cracking car, well worth a look.

What do you think?

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Adviser
@neilmbriscoe