According to Market Research Future, the used car and SUV industry in America was valued at $253.47 billion in 2024, and it's anticipated to reach $547.32 billion by 2034. Among the factors fueling growth in this sector is the increasing demand for used cars, including SUVs. These rugged secondhand vehicles are prized all over the nation, including scenic and family-friendly Boardman, Ohio.
If you're in the market for a pre-owned SUV, you should make every effort to choose the right vehicle, so you'll get the most bang for your buck. The big question is, how can you identify the best used SUVs available for sale? Our Boardman Mitsubishi team members will be happy to point you in the right direction. Here are the top used SUV features to look out for before deciding on the car to buy.
Safety Features That Matter Most
The first thing to mull over while planning to invest in a used ride in Boardman is the SUV's safety features. Reliable systems can give you greater peace of mind when you're behind the wheel.
To know whether an SUV will be a great companion when driving to work or dropping off your kids at school, check its Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) ratings. For the latter, we recommend an SUV that's a Top Safety Pick+ or Top Safety Pick. As per the organization, the cars have passed their tests, which cover crashworthiness and safety technologies. The best used SUVs have NHTSA ratings of five stars, based on their overall safety scores.
It's advisable that you assess the driver assistance technology of the SUV you want to buy. Examples of must-have features are:
- Lane-keep assist
- Adaptive cruise control
- Forward collision warning
- Blind spot monitoring
- Automatic emergency braking
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) vs. Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): Which SUV is Right for You?
The next feature to factor in when hunting for a used SUV is the available drivetrain systems, as they affect the power the wheels receive from the engine. Whether you should choose an AWD or FWD SUV depends on your budget, driving needs, and most importantly, the weather.
Although summers are warm in Boardman, winters can come with over 30 inches of rain and up to 97 inches of snowfall. Therefore, if you want an SUV that can handle such harsh winter conditions, choose one with an AWD system. With it, the engine can distribute power to all the car's four wheels, providing better traction.
However, if you plan to drive your SUV during summer or on dry roads, feel free to choose an FWD used SUV. The vehicle is also suitable for moderate snow. You may find that it's more affordable and fuel-efficient than its AWD counterpart.
Interior Space and Comfort Features
A used SUV that offers maximum comfort guarantees long-term satisfaction. We recommend selecting a ride with enough seating, depending on the size of your family. For instance, a compact two-row SUV is ideal for a family of four, but if yours is larger, consider a three-row option with seven or more seats.
Something else you should consider is the available climate control features. Most SUVs usually come with dual-zone or multi-zone climate control systems. The former enables the driver and front passengers to set their temperatures—this perk doesn't extend to the rear passengers. On the other hand, tri-zone or quad-zone climate control technologies allow the driver and all passengers to set their preferred temperatures.
Additional features to look out for to ensure a used SUV is comfy include:
- Comfortable seating material, such as Alcantara and premium leather
- Power-adjustable front seats with lumbar support
- Plenty of headroom and legroom
- The latest technology to minimize cabin noise
Fuel Efficiency in Used SUVs
SUV fuel economy is another important feature to consider when scouring the market for a used SUV. Unless you want to spend a large chunk of your monthly income on fuel, go with the most fuel-efficient vehicles, depending on their size classes.
Subcompact and compact models typically offer better fuel economy than their midsize and full-size rivals. Things can get even better when you choose hybrid and plug-in hybrid used SUVs because they're more fuel efficient than gas-powered cars. If you want an eco-friendly vehicle as well, give thought to used electric models since they produce no tailpipe emissions.
Technology and Infotainment Systems
SUV infotainment systems bring different features that can impact your driving experience. With that in mind, the ride you want to drive home should have a beginner-friendly interface and a responsive touch screen.
For more convenience, confirm that the system can enable seamless smartphone integration via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Ideally, the used SUV's infotainment system should allow you to access navigation apps and voice control software, such as Amazon Alexa.
Maintenance History
A used vehicle's maintenance history tells you everything you need to know about its condition and reliability. Be sure to review its service records to confirm that its previous owners made critical services like tire rotations a priority, as per the manufacturer's instructions. A full-service history suggests that a used car is well-maintained.
Additionally, you should consider a pre-purchase inspection before buying a used SUV in Boardman. This enables a qualified mechanic to evaluate the vehicle and identify any issues it might have, helping you make an informed purchase decision.
Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Programs in Boardman
At Boardman Mitsubishi, we have one of the best CPO programs, which can help you find a used SUV that checks all the boxes. Our certified pre-owned inventory features reliable used vehicles with extended warranties and genuine parts. Also, you can rely on our team of auto professionals to guide you as you choose the right car for your needs.
Ready To Test Drive A Used SUV in Boardman?
With our used buying guide and team's support, you can easily land a used car that matches your driving style and budget. If you have already chosen your desired vehicle, contact Boardman Mitsubishi today to schedule your test drive.