Why Are These Three Small SUVs Our Top Picks to Buy Used?
Looking for a small SUV that gives you the comforts and capability of a modern crossover without the sticker shock? At The Auto Group of Mt. Pleasant, MI, we see drivers every day who want dependable, practical small SUVs, but at a smart price. Below are the top three small SUVs to buy used: the Jeep Cherokee, Nissan Rogue, and GMC Terrain. We’ll explain what makes each one a strong used-buy, what to watch for, and why buying from your hometown dealership, where many used SUVs qualify for lifetime powertrain warranties, and every vehicle receives a full inspection and professional detailing, gives you extra peace of mind.
Top Three Small SUVs to Buy Used
1) Jeep Cherokee: Rugged comfort and off-road capability in a small package
Why the Cherokee is a great used buy
- The Cherokee blends comfortable on-road manners with genuine capability on rough roads (especially in 4×4 trims). That makes it a versatile choice if you want a daily driver that can also handle trips to the lake, light trails, or snowy Michigan winters.
- Available engine options (including efficient four-cylinders and more powerful V6s in some older models) give shoppers flexibility between fuel economy and towing/passing power.
- Many Cherokees offer user-friendly infotainment and comfortable seats, features that keep them feeling fresh.
Best-used tips & trims to consider
If you want better fuel economy and fewer complex systems, look for Cherokee Latitude or Latitude Plus trims with the standard four-cylinder. If you need capability, the Trailhawk trim brings more off-road hardware and protective cladding.
2) Nissan Rogue: Practical, comfortable, and economical daily driver
Why the Rogue is a great used buy
- The Rogue is consistently praised for passenger comfort and cargo flexibility, ideal for families, commuters, or anyone who wants a spacious compact crossover.
- Good fuel economy and relatively low maintenance costs make it an economical long-term choice.
- Recent model years added modern infotainment and driver-assist tech, so lightly used Rogue models can feel contemporary.
Best-used tips & trims to consider
Look for SV or SL trims if you want a balance of tech and value. If safety features are a priority, pick a Rogue equipped with the Nissan Safety Shield suite.
3) GMC Terrain: Quiet, upscale ride with strong value on the used market
Why the Terrain is a great used buy
- The Terrain delivers a quiet, composed ride and a more upscale interior feel compared with many competitors, which is great if you want near-luxury comfort without the luxury price tag.
- Engines are efficient, and the platform prioritizes comfort and refinement, so it’s a solid choice for long highway miles.
- Used Terrain models tend to hold value and offer well-built interiors and modern features, depending on model year.
Best-used tips & trims to consider
SLT or Denali trims offer upgraded comfort and features; they can be great used buys if you want premium touches without paying new-car Denali prices.
Why buy from The Auto Group of Mt. Pleasant, MI?
Buying any of the SUVs above used is a smart way to get strong features and reliability for less money. But buying from The Auto Group of Mt. Pleasant gives you additional advantages that matter:
- Hometown dealership service and trust: We’re local to Mt. Pleasant and treat customers like neighbors, not numbers.
- Lifetime powertrain warranties on many used SUVs: For qualifying vehicles, our warranty dramatically reduces long-term ownership risk and can save you thousands over the span of ownership. (Ask our sales team which used SUVs qualify and about the warranty terms.)
- Comprehensive inspections on every used SUV: Before any vehicle is offered for sale, we perform a multi-point mechanical inspection, so you get confidence in your purchase.
- Professional detailing for every used SUV: Each vehicle is cleaned and detailed, so it looks great and is ready to drive home.
- Transparent service history: We’ll share inspection results and the vehicle’s service background whenever available.
Practical checklist: what to do when buying any used small SUV
- Ask for the inspection report and vehicle history (CARFAX-like summary). Verify service items and accident history.
- Get a test drive that covers local roads. Listen for unusual noises, test HVAC, infotainment, and adaptive safety features.
- Confirm warranty details in writing. If a lifetime powertrain warranty is offered, read what’s covered and any exclusions.
- Check common wear items. Tires, brakes, suspension components, and fluid conditions. These can mean immediate maintenance costs if worn.
Find Compact SUVs for Sale in Mt Pleasant, MI
The Jeep Cherokee, Nissan Rogue, and GMC Terrain are all smart small-SUV picks on the used market. Each brings a different mix of capability, comfort, and style. Your best choice depends on whether you prioritize off-road capability (Cherokee), everyday economy and space (Rogue), or a quieter, more upscale ride (Terrain). Regardless of which model you choose, buying from The Auto Group of Mt. Pleasant, MI, reduces risk and makes the used-car experience far more comfortable.
Want us to pull our current used inventory for any of these models, check which ones qualify for our lifetime powertrain warranty, or schedule a test drive? Stop by The Auto Group of Mt. Pleasant or give us a call. We’ll show you the best local options and the inspection report on every vehicle.
