Buying a Pre-Owned SUV: Understanding the Differences Between Compact, Midsize, and Full-Size

Purchasing a pre-owned SUV can be a complex decision given the variety of options available. At AutoPark Brampton, we understand that finding the right vehicle to suit your needs is crucial. Our wide range of used sport utility vehicles offers something for everyone, whether you're looking for a compact, midsize, or full-size SUV. This guide will help you understand the different categories of SUVs, providing detailed descriptions and examples of each, as well as insights into who they fit best and what needs they fulfill.

Pre-Owned Compact SUVs

Compact SUVs are smaller and more maneuverable than their larger counterparts, making them ideal for city driving and everyday commuting. They offer a good balance between size and efficiency, providing more space than a sedan without the bulk of a larger SUV.

Examples of Used Compact SUV Models

• Pre-Owned Honda CR-V: Known for its reliability, comfortable interior, and efficient use of space.
• Used Toyota RAV4: This model is renowned for its practicality, safety features, and ease of driving.
• Pre-Owned Mazda CX-5: The CX-5 offers a sporty driving experience with a well-designed interior and advanced safety features.

Key Features

• Cargo Space: Compact SUVs typically offer between 700 and 1,200 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats. They can expand significantly with the seats folded down.
• Interior Space: These vehicles comfortably seat five passengers, with adequate legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers.
• Fuel Efficiency: Compact SUVs are generally more fuel-efficient than larger models. They often come with four-cylinder engines, which provide a good balance of power and efficiency. Moreover, there are more hybrid and plug-in hybrid used SUV options in this segment than in the midsize or full-size categories.
• Performance: While they may not boast the high horsepower of larger SUVs, compact models like a used Mazda CX-5 offer nimble handling and peppy performance. Moreover, many models offer optional turbocharged four-cylinder engine options, like the Ford Escape, for example, which deliver ample low-end torque and significantly enhance performance.
• Towing Capacity: Pre-owned compact SUVs can typically tow 1,500 pounds with 3,500-4,000 pounds being the maximum. That makes suitable for small trailers or light loads.

Best Fit For

Compact SUVs are best suited for individuals or small families who need a versatile vehicle for urban environments. They are perfect for daily commutes, weekend getaways, and moderate cargo needs. Their smaller size and better fuel efficiency make them ideal for those looking to balance practicality and fuel economy.

Used Midsize SUVs

Midsize SUVs strike a balance between compact and full-size models, offering more space and power with improved towing capacity. They often come with advanced features and greater versatility. That said, they provide better efficiency than full-size SUVs with either turbocharged four-cylinder powertrains or V6 engines.

Examples of Used Models

• Used Ford Edge: Known for its comfortable ride, ample cargo space, and advanced tech features.
• Used Toyota Highlander: A popular choice for families, the Highlander offers a spacious interior, strong reliability, and optional hybrid powertrain.
• Pre-Owned Jeep Grand Cherokee: Renowned for its off-road capabilities, luxurious interior, and powerful engine options.

Key Features

• Cargo Space: Midsize SUVs provide between 850 and 1,500 litres of cargo space behind the second row. Three-row midsize SUVs vary greatly in their available cargo space behind the third row on the pre-owned market, offering between 400 and 600 litres. 
• Interior Space: These vehicles typically seat 7 passengers, although some pre-owned midsize SUVs will offer six seats with the middle row being configured as two captain’s seats. This is usually the case with higher trim models.
• Fuel Efficiency: Midsize SUVs are usually less fuel efficient than compact models, but still more frugal than full-size used SUVs. Hybrid options, like those in the Toyota Highlander, provide better fuel economy without sacrificing power.
• Performance: Midsize models come with a range of engine options. New pre-owned three-row SUVs like the Toyota Highlander or Volkswagen Atlas will offer a turbocharged four-cylinders while used Nissan Pathfinder or Honda Pilot models are powered by a V6 engine. There are few V8 options in the three-row midsize SUV segment, with models like the Dodge Durango or Jeep Grand Cherokee being notable exceptions.
• Towing Capacity: Used midsize SUVs will usually tow 5,000 pounds. Some models offer less, usually 3,500 pounds, while some models offer between 6,000 and 7,500 pounds. This will vary greatly depending on the engine offered as well as the powertrain (FWD vs AWD). 

Best Fit For

Midsize SUVs are ideal for families or individuals who need more space and versatility than a compact SUV can offer. They are well-suited for road trips, family outings, and daily driving with more cargo and passenger space. Even if the third row is usually small in a midsized pre-owned SUV, the second row will generally offer more legroom. Their moderate towing capacity also makes them a good choice for those who need to tow larger campers or boats.

Pre-Owned Full-Size SUVs

Full-size SUVs are the largest and most powerful in the SUV category, offering extensive space, high towing capacities, and robust performance. They are designed to handle heavy loads and provide maximum comfort for large families.

Examples of Used Models

• Chevrolet Tahoe: Known for its powerful engines, spacious interior, and high towing capacity.
• Ford Expedition: Offers an expansive cabin, impressive towing abilities, and advanced technology features.
• Toyota Sequoia: Renowned for its reliability, off-road capabilities, and extensive cargo space.

Key Features

• Cargo Space: Full-size SUVs offer substantial cargo space, with well over 1,000 litres behind the second row. You can expect between 750 and 1,000 litres behind the third row, while full-size SUVs with a long wheelbase offer up to 1,500 litres behind the third row.
• Interior Space: These vehicles can comfortably seat seven to eight passengers, with plenty of legroom and headroom in all three rows. Used Chevrolet Suburban or GMC Yukon XL models, for instance, offer a spacious third row that can accommodate adults comfortably.
• Fuel Efficiency: Full-size SUVs are generally less fuel-efficient due to their size and power. They are often powered by V8 engines, which provide strong performance but consume more fuel. However, if fuel economy is a concern for you, look for models that offer cylinder deactivation, or diesel-powered models. Some recent full-size SUVs offer mild electrification or even a hybrid powertrain in the case of the Toyota Sequoia, although these models are not yet common on the pre-owned market.
• Performance: Full-size models come with powerful V8 engines or advanced turbocharged V6 engines which usually deliver over 400 pound-feet of torque to ensure quick accelerations despite the size of these models.
• Towing Capacity: Full-size SUVs can tow between 7,000 to 10,000 pounds, making them ideal for heavy trailers, boats, and large recreational vehicles.

Best Fit For

Full-size SUVs are best suited for large families, outdoor enthusiasts, and those who need to tow heavy loads. They provide the most space and power, making them perfect for long road trips, hauling equipment, and ensuring maximum comfort for all passengers. If you frequently travel with a full load of passengers or need to tow large items, a full-size SUV will meet your needs.

Conclusion

Choosing the right pre-owned SUV involves understanding your specific needs and how different SUV categories can meet those requirements. Compact SUVs offer excellent maneuverability and fuel efficiency, making them perfect for city driving and small families. Midsize SUVs provide a balance of space, power, and versatility, ideal for growing families and those who need moderate towing capabilities. Full-size SUVs offer maximum space, power, and towing capacity, perfect for large families and heavy-duty needs.

At AutoPark Brampton, we offer a wide range of pre-owned SUVs to fit every need and budget. Our knowledgeable team is here to help you navigate the options and find the perfect SUV for your lifestyle. Visit us today to explore our inventory and take a test drive. With the right SUV, you can enjoy comfort, versatility, and performance on every journey.