3 CHEAP SUVs EVERYONE IGNORES (But These 3 SUVs Are Absolute Goldmines)

Summary

In this video, a mechanic shares his top three underrated used SUVs that offer Toyota-level reliability at KIA-level prices. He highlights the Kia Sorrento, Mazda CX-5, and Toyota Highlander—vehicles often overlooked but praised for their low maintenance costs and long-lasting durability. The Kia Sorrento’s bulletproof V6 and excellent powertrain warranty, the Mazda CX-5’s simplicity and efficiency, and the Toyota Highlander’s rock-solid reliability and spacious interior make them excellent choices for savvy buyers. The video provides insights into what makes these SUVs stand out, offering a cost-effective alternative to popular but overpriced models.

Takeaways

• 😀 Kia Sorento offers Toyota-level reliability with a 3.3-liter V6 engine that is bulletproof and low-cost to maintain, with an average used price of $13,000 to $16,000 for a 2018 model.
• 😀 The Kia Sorento has an impressive powertrain warranty, providing coverage even for used vehicles up to 10 years or 100,000 miles from the original sale date.
• 😀 The 2017 Ford Explorer, which was going to cost a customer $18,500, was shown to require $3,500 in repairs, whereas the recommended 2018 Kia Sorento cost only $14,200 with minimal repair costs.
• 😀 The Mazda CX-5 is one of the most reliable compact SUVs, with some of the lowest repair costs in its class, offering great durability with minimal maintenance needs.
• 😀 The Mazda CX-5’s Skyactiv G 2.5L engine uses a timing chain and six-speed automatic transmission, avoiding common issues like turbo failure and CVT problems.
• 😀 Mazda CX-5 depreciates significantly, with a 2018 model priced between $15,000 to $18,000, compared to similar models from competitors like the Toyota RAV4 which can cost $20,000 to $23,000.
• 😀 The CX-5 handles better than most compact SUVs in its class, making it an enjoyable vehicle to drive, though it does have less cargo space than rivals like the RAV4.
• 😀 The Toyota Highlander is an underrated family SUV that shares the same drivetrain as the Lexus RX, offering comparable reliability at a much lower price point, typically $6,000 to $10,000 less.
• 😀 The Toyota Highlander’s 3.5L V6 engine is one of Toyota’s most reliable, capable of lasting over 300,000 miles with minimal issues, and comes with either an 8-speed or 6-speed automatic transmission.
• 😀 A 2017 Toyota Highlander with 80,000 miles typically costs between $20,000 and $24,000, while the Lexus RX 350 with similar mileage costs between $27,000 and $32,000, offering significant savings for comparable reliability.

Q & A

Why are the three SUVs mentioned in the video considered underrated?

These SUVs are considered underrated because they offer exceptional reliability and value, often selling for much less than their competitors, primarily because they are overlooked by most buyers who prefer more popular brands.

What makes the Kia Sorento a standout choice according to the mechanic?

The Kia Sorento stands out due to its bulletproof 3.3-liter V6 engine, which is naturally aspirated, meaning there are no turbo issues to worry about. It also has a long-lasting transmission and a strong warranty, making it an excellent choice for those looking for reliability at a lower price.

How does the 2018 Kia Sorento compare to the Ford Explorer in terms of reliability and cost?

The 2018 Kia Sorento is more reliable and cheaper to maintain than the 2017 Ford Explorer. While the Explorer required $3,500 in repairs over the next 18 months, the Sorento only needed $112 in repairs, which shows its superior long-term value.

What is the key reason the Mazda CX-5 is recommended?

The Mazda CX-5 is recommended for its low repair costs, excellent reliability, and enjoyable driving experience. It has one of the lowest repair costs in its class and is known for having minimal issues, even at high mileage.

How does the 2017 Mazda CX-5's maintenance costs compare to other compact SUVs?

The 2017 Mazda CX-5 has an annual maintenance cost of $447, which is significantly lower than the $573 average for compact SUVs and $652 for all vehicles, making it one of the most cost-effective SUVs to maintain.

What are some of the inspection points to consider when buying a used Mazda CX-5?

When buying a used Mazda CX-5, key inspection points include checking the infotainment controller knob for wear, testing acceleration from 45 to 70 mph for hesitation, and checking for paint issues around the rear wheel wells and hood edges.

Why is the Toyota Highlander referred to as a 'best-kept secret' in the used SUV market?

The Toyota Highlander is considered a best-kept secret because it offers Lexus-level reliability and the same drivetrain as the Lexus RX, but at a much lower price. Despite being an excellent SUV, many people dismiss it because they perceive it as a 'soccer mom' vehicle.

What are the major advantages of the Toyota Highlander over similar vehicles like the Lexus RX and Toyota 4Runner?

The Toyota Highlander offers the same drivetrain and reliability as the Lexus RX but at a significantly lower price. Compared to the 4Runner, the Highlander has a more spacious interior, better fuel efficiency, and is more suited for daily family use, making it a better value overall.

What is the reliability of the Toyota Highlander’s 3.5L V6 engine?

The Toyota Highlander's 3.5L V6 engine is one of the most reliable engines Toyota has ever built. It can last up to 350,000 miles with proper maintenance, and it's known for having no major issues, such as turbo failures or timing belt replacements.

What are the typical repair costs for a Toyota Highlander?

Typical repair costs for the Toyota Highlander are relatively low. For example, a brake pad replacement costs about $320, a transmission fluid change is around $195, and a water pump replacement costs about $680. These costs are significantly lower than many other SUVs in its class.