In the used SUV market, there are a ton of options, but the models that consistently stand out on top are Toyotas. This is thanks to Toyota models being known for their dependability, as well as efficiency, and power. We’ll be taking a look at some models that you’ll be likely to find on used lots, so you know what to look for.
Key Takeaways:
- There are a few options for you to pick from when it comes to the powertrain. Most models offer a choice between hybrid and traditional gas engines.
- If you like the Highlander, but need more space, then the Grand Highlander is for you.
- If you want the most space, we think the Sequoia is the best bet for that. Giving you plenty of space for your family and their things, making it perfect for soccer moms.
- If you’re a bit of an off-road enthusiast, then you can look for a 4Runner as it comes with some off-road features.
Toyota BZ4X
As the car industry moves forward, so does the next best thing, and this is a product of that. The bZ4X is a fully electric model, helping reduce emissions, as the name “beyond zero” suggests. This model comes with an EPA-rated max range of 252 miles, while this isn’t the most range that you can get, if you’re looking for a daily driver that excels in city environments, this is it.
Being that this model is so new, coming to North America in 2022, this may be harder to find than some other Toyota models. This model comes with some great room for the front, getting 42.1 inches of legroom, but the same can’t be said for the second row. The second row comes with 35.3 inches of legroom, while this isn’t a ton, your passengers won’t be cramped.
The features on this model are pretty standard across the industry, coming with a 12.3-inch screen and a wireless charging pad. When charging at home, you can charge the battery to full in 9 hours, making it possible to charge overnight.
Corolla Cross
At first, for the 2022 models, the Corolla Cross came with a gas-powered engine, but in 2023, the hybrid joined the lineup. If you like gas engines, then you can look for the 2.0L I4 engine; this engine will get you 32 MPG combined. But if you want the hybrid model, then you can look for the same engine, just a hybrid variant. This engine will get you 42 MPG combined, making it the best option for those who want more range.
This model comes equipped with an 8-inch screen, but if you want more desirable features, then you’ll need to opt for higher-end trims. This model also comes with less room, giving the front row 42.9 inches of legroom and 32 inches of legroom for the rear.
For the most recent generation, the Highlander came in 4 trims to pick from, and 3 engines to pick between. The first few years, the Highlander came with the 3.5L, but that was ultimately replaced by the 2.4L I4. This engine came in both traditional and hybrid options. If you find yourself looking at a hybrid model, you will get 36 MPG combined. The base 2.4L I4 gets 25 MPG combined, while the 3.5L only gets 24 MPG combined.
The Highlander comes with both 7- and 8-passenger configurations. The 7 seating configurations come with captain’s chairs. The first row gets 42 inches of legroom, and the rear seats get 38.7 inches of legroom. With all seats in place, you get 16 cu-ft of cargo space.
This model also has access to two infotainment systems, the smaller one being 8 inches, and the larger one being 12.3 inches.
Grand Highlander
The Grand Highlander is a larger version of the Highlander, and thanks to this, it comes with more space. The front row gets slightly less room at 41.7 inches of room, while the second row gets more space at 39.5 inches. The cargo space is also upgraded to 20.6 cu-ft of space.
RAV4
The RAV4 comes in a few variants: there’s the regular version, the hybrid, and the plug-in hybrid named the Prime. The base variant comes with a 2.5L I4, the hybrid is also a 2.5L I4; this engine gets 40 MPG combined, while the Prime gets 94 MPGe, getting 600 miles of total range.
This model comes with an off-road-focused trim that gives you some extra equipment to take it off-roading. Some other features that you can find are a 7-inch multi-touch screen that is standard, as well as the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0. This gives the RAV4 the IIHS’ Top Safety Pick.
4Runner
In recent years, this model has come with 9 trim levels to pick from. The most unique one is the Trailhunter, as it comes with 33-inch tires. The 4Runner is aimed at those who want some more off-road fun, making it a great option for off-road enthusiasts. This model comes with the same engines that are on the Highlander.
For the years that you’re more likely to find being 2016-2022, you’ll note that these models are equipped with an 8-inch screen, as well as later models having some desirable features that may have been added, such as the built-in navigation system and a 15-speaker JBL audio system.
Sequoia
The Sequoia had a long generation in its life, and thanks to this, the features that it came with were a bit lackluster for a while. In 2017, the TRD trims were brought back, and in 2020, the TRD Pro was added. These brought a sportier look and feel to an aging generation.
In more recent years, the model is a lot more tech-friendly thanks to its age. Recent models can be found with a large 14-inch screen for most trims, with the entry trim having a smaller screen. This model comes standard with 8-person seating, but 7 seating configurations are available.
Thanks to its size, this model comes with 41.2 inches of legroom for the front row, and 39.2 inches for the rear. Despite having this much room, you still get access to a ton of cargo space at 22.3 cu-ft.
Unlike other models, this one comes with a hybrid engine as the only engine. This will get you 22 MPG combined, getting you up to 495 miles of range. While this isn’t the best in the Toyota family, this is great mileage for a vehicle of this size.
Which used Toyota SUV is best for families?
There are a few options that can take that crown, but we think that the Sequoia is the best option, thanks to its size, making it the perfect vehicle for those who have older kids who need more legroom.
No matter what you want, we want to help. Come on down to Car2Sell in East Windsor to see what we have in stock. If you find something that you love, we can make it yours!