What Are the Best Used SUVs and Trucks if You Want a Great Vehicle?

We understand the dilemma. You’re looking for a high-quality SUV or truck to meet your driving needs, but you don’t have the budget for the latest models. The good news is that there are numerous used cars for sale that offer lasting value. You skip the steep initial depreciation and still get the features and reliability you need. It’s a win-win situation.

The only challenge is navigating the massive selection. By some estimates, nearly three used cars are sold for every new car. In other words, there are a lot of used trucks and SUVs out there, and we understand if you’re having difficulty narrowing your focus.

That’s where our team can help. We’ve used our decades of experience working with vehicles to present three SUVs and three trucks that will be fantastic choices. Whether you’re a hard-working young professional, a recent graduate, a serious off-roader, or raising a family, you’ll find an SUV or truck on this list that meets your needs.

Chevrolet Trailblazer: A Small SUV With a Big Attitude

Subcompact SUVs have become popular among city dwellers who want the space and style of an SUV but still need an agile and efficient vehicle for crowded streets and tight turns. The Chevy Trailblazer fits this description perfectly while adding some personality to your drive.

Reborn in 2021 as a small crossover, the Trailblazer has become a popular budget-friendly pick among those who don’t settle for plain. Choose between two different engines with available AWD, explore trims like the sporty RS and the adventurous ACTIV, and enjoy some of the segment’s best legroom and cargo space, all with a bold, ready-to-go attitude.

The Trailblazer received a refresh for the 2024 model year, including a larger touchscreen and more standard features. These models are starting to filter onto the used market, giving you a great opportunity to own a modern subcompact SUV at a bargain price.

Toyota Tacoma: Lasting Value on a Tough Truck

For over 30 years, the Toyota Tacoma has been a living legend among small truck enthusiasts. Other trucks might be slicker and more refined, but none offer the Tacoma’s variety and reliability. From the overlanding-equipped Trailhunter to the amenity-filled Limited to the huge lineup of TRD (Toyota Racing Development) trucks, you can do anything with a used Tacoma.

When you’re shopping for this truck, you’ll find an array of options. The current fourth-generation Tacoma offers hybrid engines and massive touchscreens while retaining traditional options, such as a manual transmission. The third generation offers excellent towing capacity, and the Tacoma is still available with multiple cabs and box lengths for however you use your truck. However, durability might be the Toyota Tacoma’s biggest asset. The data shows that this truck depreciates more slowly and lasts longer than any other model, making it a sound investment at any stage.

Mazda CX-5: Premium Excitement in an SUV Body

Do you want an SUV with more advanced features and athletic, car-like performance, yet still practical for everyday driving? A used Mazda CX-5 may be the answer. Mazda is known for premium yet affordable vehicles that are engaging to drive. The CX-5 brings this to compact SUVs, and buying a used model gives you even more value.

Mazda introduced a new generation of this crossover in 2026, but the previous generation is still a great performer. Second-generation used CX-5s still have the turbocharged engine upgrade for sporty power and dynamics, or choose the base engine for efficient commuting. Standard AWD, good towing capacity, strong technology, and cool trim levels make this used SUV a great bet. As a slightly shorter version of the Mazda CX-50, the Mazda CX-5 is impressively agile while still offering solid passenger and cargo space. With another generation now on the market, you can find an even better deal on used CX-5 models.

Chevy Colorado: Urban and Off-Road Utility

If you’re looking for a truck that’s equally adept on Main Street or in the middle of a forest, the Chevrolet Colorado is it. This midsize truck has some of the best towing capacity, cabin legroom, and technology in its class. Add its solid longevity and value retention, and this is a great-performing truck for all situations.

Off-road, though, is where the Chevy Colorado really shines. You’ll find three different all-terrain trim levels: the Z71 for casual adventurers, the Trail Boss to get serious, and the ZR2 for extreme outings. Chevrolet is also well-known for its extensive line of OEM parts and accessories to customize your truck. The third-generation model introduced in 2023 is a great pick to balance performance and value. However, second-generation Colorado trucks offer plenty of intriguing features, including a classic V6 engine and a long bed to fit your lifestyle.

Honda Pilot: A Family Adventure SUV

Sometimes, two rows of seats aren’t enough for you and your loved ones. A used Honda Pilot is the right SUV for large families and big-time adventurers. This three-row crossover is more than capable for highways, backroads, suburbs, and trails alike. Because it’s a Honda, you know it will live a long, happy life and be one of the safest vehicles around.

Having a used SUV that you can pile up to seven people into, or remove the seats for a massive cargo area, opens up a new world of driving. It’s offered in a variety of trim levels, including the TrailSport for off-roading, the Touring for travelers, and the Black Edition for bold, luxurious appeal. Both third- and fourth-generation Pilot SUVs have a 5,000-lb towing capacity for your equipment and accessories. Add the first-rate technology, and you can feel like you’re on the forefront even when buying used.

Ford F-150: Proven Capability for Serious Haulers

As versatile as midsize trucks are, a full-size truck is often necessary for professional contractors and serious DIYers. The Ford F-150 has been the best-selling North American truck for nearly 50 years because it’s one fantastic truck. That also means there are endless used F-150s available for every requirement and budget.

A used F-150 can do anything. The current 14th generation has the best towing and payload of any half-ton pickup. Some used models perform even better than new models. There is also a smorgasbord of choices for engines, cab and bed sizes, trim levels, conveniences, and upgrade packages. With an F-150, you get a hard-working truck that’s also an adept daily driver. Check out the sporty STX, the sophisticated King Ranch and Platinum, the off-road-ready Tremor and Raptor, and more in our used selection.

Find a Used Truck or SUV at Rusty Wallace Chevrolet

As you can see, there are many fine choices for used SUVs and trucks. Whether you’re looking for a commuter vehicle, a work vehicle, a family vehicle, or something for a weekend getaway, one of these used cars will get the job done. By choosing a trusted dealership, you’ll get an unbeatable deal and assurance that your pre-owned vehicle runs like new.

Rusty Wallace Chevrolet is here for Clinton, Oak Ridge, Powell, and Rocky Top drivers who need a proven used car. Visit us to see the latest inventory or shop online for these and other top brands, including Subaru, Jeep, and Nissan. With our complimentary vehicle history reports, no-hassle financing, and certified on-site service and collision centers, we’re eager to make you part of our family.