Top Picks for Second Hand SUVs


July 10, 2020

SUVs have become a staple choice for motorists Down Under, particularly those with big families. This should come as no surprise. They have proven to be dependable, four-wheel-drive vehicles that offer unmatched versatility on the road. For adventure lovers, they can take on rugged, off-road conditions with ease making them the perfect road trip companions.

Of course, these frills don’t come cheap. If you’re planning to buy a brand new SUV, be prepared to fork out the big bucks. The larger models are particularly pricey.

If you can’t afford a new car, explore used options at dealerships or through private sellers. The used car market us full of modern SUVs which give you all of the benefits for less.

To help you on your quest towards your dream used SUV, Just Honk have compiled a definitive list of the best on the market. To simplify things, we’ve broken our list into two categories: medium and large models.

Top Picks for Medium Second Hand SUVs

top picks for second hand SUVs

#1 The 2017 Holden Equinox EQ LS Wagon

A latecomer on medium-sized SUV market, the Holden Equinox graduates top of class when it comes to kit. Among its most attractive features are active noise cancellation, 17-inch alloy wheels, a reversing camera and automatic headlights. With an engine that delivers a whopping 188kW of power, the Holden Equinox is a force to be reckoned with.

A 2017 Holden Equinox EQ LS with low mileage won’t disappoint. In addition to those features listed above, this model comes with built-in Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Digital DAB+ Radio, a 7-inch touchscreen, 6 speaker stereo, reverse parking sensors, hill holder, cruise control, LED daytime running lamps, rain sensor auto wipers and so much more.

Pros: powerful engine, advanced technology features, generous rear seat space, functional and comfortable interior.

Cons: bland styling, hard cabin plastics, clumsy auto shifter.

#2 The Mazda CX-5

top picks for second hand SUVs

CX-5 is up there with the crème de la crème of medium-sized SUVs and the very first to feature a lane departure warning and high beam control. Taking inspiration from luxury cars like Audi, CX-5 has refined its interior with attractive soft-touch materials for a luxurious ride. As well as an exceptional climate control system, the CX-5 offers a comprehensive range of safety features such as dynamic stability control, ABS Brakes, 6 airbags, emergency brake assistance and electronic brake force distribution. There’s also plenty of space, which is a big plus for families.

Pros: smooth and quiet ride, outstanding craftsmanship, proven reliability, high-quality infotainment system, above average fuel economy.

Cons: no smartphone connectivity, could improve its grunt.

# 3 The Honda HR-V

top picks for second hand SUVs

Whether you’re driving in city traffic or on a cross country road trip, the HR-V is your perfect travel companion. With Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Integration, you can connect seamlessly with maps, music, messaging and even a few of your favourite apps. It boasts a roomy interior and magic seats that can accommodate lots of luggage.

Because of its stylishness and versatility, market demand for the Honda HR-VR is booming. This car is perfect for Australia’s rugged countryside, so this comes as no surprise.

Another selling point for the HR-V is its safety features. This model has earned a 5-star ANCAP safety rating, the highest possible accolade.

Pros: versatile, attractive design in and out, safety features (including solid electronic stability control), good frontal and side visibility.

Cons: the base engine consumes more gas than the turbo, faulty navigation system, overly-sensitive touchscreen.

Top Picks for Larger Second Hand SUVs

#4 The Holden Trailblazer

top picks for second hand SUVs

The Holden Trailblazer is leading the pack of Australia’s best large SUVs. This is a powerful and dynamic ride that’s perfect for off-road conditions and uneven terrains. It also offers superior seating capacity, and can safely accommodate up to seven passengers. The Trailblazer’s improved dashboard design gives the driver a wide view of the road ahead, ideal for those who enjoy a scenic route. Its features include automatic headlights, rain sensing wipers and lane departure and blind spot warnings. Its engine also packs a punch and is perfectly complemented by its tyre monitoring system.

Pros: spacious and well-designed interior, excellent safety features, comfortable seating.

Cons: rides more roughly than other rugged SUVs, boot is slightly smaller.

#5 The Mazda CX-9

top picks for second hand SUVs

If you’re after a large SUV with a touch of luxury, look no further than the Mazda CX-9. Sharp and sophisticated to a tee, this model features an elegant leather steering wheel paired with classy black cloth seat covers. Its safety features are also top-notch and include a high-resolution rear-view camera, blind spot monitoring, autonomous braking in case of emergencies, ISOFIX connection points and six airbags.

Pros: high-quality interior design, powerful engine, excellent safety features, precision steering, reliable brakes.

Cons: obscured visibility when turning, low towing capacity, lacks cargo capacity.

#6 The Hyundai Santa Fe

Hyundai’s Santa Fe is everything an SUV should be and more. Loaded with stellar features, it has a pristine engine that delivers optimum performance, smooth handling and responsive steering. Its interiors are also beautifully designed. To top it off, the Santa Fe has top-of-the-range safety features that include blind spot monitoring and radar-guided cruise control.

Pros: great safety features, outstanding engine, good infotainment system, decent storage space.

Cons: tighter space at the back seat, not suitable for serious off-roading.

Although this list is a solid guide, you might want to do your own research too to find out what best suits your needs. A second-hand SUV may not be as shiny as a new one, but in many ways its pros outweigh its cons.

If you’re looking for a quality used SUV in excellent condition, check out Just Honk’s range. In addition to a prime selection, we also offer car finance, warranties and roadside assistance from our trusted partners so you can choose a plan that suits your needs.

For a straightforward, stress-free shopping experience, choose www.justhonkusedcars.com.