By their very definition, SUVs are known as vehicles that provide individuals with unparalleled utility in their day-to-day lives. But which used SUVs separate themselves as the crème de la crème for the class and offer top notch versatility for car buyers? Below, we’ve compiled our list of the top five most versatile SUVs.
2014 Chevrolet Traverse
- The cargo capacity for the Chevy Traverse registers in the upper tier for family-sized three-row crossover SUVs. Even with third-row seating in place, the Traverse has 24.4 cubic feet of cargo space. With the second and third row folded down, the Traverse allows for just over 116 cubic feet (116.3) of storage area.
- In Edmunds brake testing, the Traverse came to a stop from 60 mph in 119 feet; a better than average distance for vehicles in this segment. Additionally, the Traverse took home a five-star rating for overall performance in government crash tests, as well as the IIHS’ highest rating of “Good” in its moderate frontal-offset, side-impact and roof-strength tests.
- According to Autotrader.com, “Both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions of the Traverse earned the NHTSA’s top rating. That’s not always the case; some vehicles require pricier all-wheel-drive systems to deliver the highest crash-test scores.”
- Per Edmunds: “The 2014 Chevrolet Traverse checks nearly all of the right boxes for a large crossover SUV and remains a worthy choice for consumers who need three rows of seating.”
2015 BMW X1
- For those favoring luxury and performance when seeking a fuel-efficient SUV or crossover, the X1 is your bag. However, 23 mpg city/34 mpg hwy is nothing to scoff at, as the X1 comes close to providing the fuel-efficiency of Mazda’s CX-5.
- Nimble, “sport sedan-like” handling gives X1 owners the feeling of unparalleled freedom on the open road when stacked up against comparable makes and models.
- With only 25 cubic feet of cargo space, the X1 is most ideal for small families who use the car for transporting kids around town and the occasional weekend road trip.
- Per Edmunds: The 2015 BMW X1 has sharp handling and exciting performance, which is rare for a small crossover SUV. However, most other luxury crossovers are roomier and can offer more value for the money.
2012 Cadillac SRX
- In IIHS crash testing, the Cadillac SRX received the top rating of “Good” in the trio of tests for frontal-offset, side-impact and roof strength integrity. The SRX also came to a stop from 60 mph in 120 feet; an average number for the SRX’s segment.
- Critics argue that perhaps the most notable takeaway from the SRX is its styling and the overall quality of materials that make up its interior. Furthermore, technology considerations such as a large touchscreen that rises out of the dashboard and a rear-seat video system that can play two different programs sources at once are also included.
- Per Edmunds: “Handling is better than you’d expect from a 2-ton-plus luxury crossover, especially with the available sport-turned suspension. The steering is fairly quick and there’s minimal body lean in faster corners, making the SRX fairly athletic for its size.”
- Per Kelley Blue Book: “If you are looking for a luxury crossover with distinctive styling, car-like handling, an overabundance of available features and an appealing base price, the 2012 Cadillac SRX is worth a closer look.”
2015 GMC Acadia
- Compared to other rivals in its class, the Acadia is a leader when it comes to cargo space offerings. With the Acadia’s third-row taken out, there’s room for 116.1 cubic feet of cargo, large enough to fit 25 bags of golf clubs.
- In government crash test scores, the Acadia earned a top five-star rating for overall performance. Standard safety equipment includes antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control, front seat side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags, a rear-view camera and rear parking sensors.
- Though it receives a slight knock for being a bit cumbersome, the overall driving impressions of the Acadia are solid, delivering a quality balance between secure handling and a luxurious ride.
- Per Edmunds: “With a big cargo hold, a comfortable ride and generous standard features, the three-row 2015 GMC Acadia ably meets the needs of crossover SUV shoppers. It’s one of our top picks.”
2014 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
- When it comes to performance, there may not be a better luxury SUV on the market than the GL-Class. Available in four different models, the GL450 model’s 4.7-liter turbocharged V8 engine produces 362 horsepower, 406 lb-ft of torque and the ability to accelerate to 60 mph in a scant 6.2 seconds.
- With seating capacity to comfortably fit seven people, the GL has a legitimate full-size third row that offers plenty of room to all passengers. The interior materials and features are also excellent, featuring heated seats, a dual-screen entertainment system and a panoramic sunroof.
- The safety features available on the GL are similarly remarkable when compared to its performance and interior design. In fact, in Edmunds brake testing, all non-AMG GL-Class models came to a stop from 60 mph in around 115 feet – an exceptionally short distance for a vehicle of its size and stature.
- Per Edmunds: “Roomy, powerful and solidly built, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class is one of the very best three-row crossover SUVs you can buy.”
