Five grand SUVs for under five grand

The SUV sector is really booming, but there are bargains to be had.

It’s easy to see the attraction – flexible space, a high driving position, often four-wheel drive for better year-round safety, and a sort of rugged presence that works well on our potholed road system. And off it. There are SUVs like the Bentley Bentayga costing way into six figures, but we’ve found five bargains for under £5000.

1. Honda CR-V

Target example: 2.0i VTEC Executive; 67,000; £4500

This isn’t for the rufty-tufty brigade, but if you spend most of your time on the road, as most owners do, then this is a terrific combination of qualities. It’s big, comfy, simple to drive and has decent interior space given the relatively compact external dimensions. The CR-V is very good value for money, even more so when you bear in mind Honda’s legendary and well-deserved reputation as the purveyors of reliable used vehicles.

2. BMW X5

Target example: 4.4i Sport; 89,000 miles; FSH and MOT; £4,995

Here’s an SUV with undeniable presence on the road. It’s also one of the best to actually drive. The cabin is spacious and classy and it can take five people and all their kit for any distance you want. We realise that choosing the 4.4i with its 4.4-litre V8 will raise some eyebrows, but it’s a great motor. Naturally it burns more fuel than the oil-burner options, but that does mean you get an awful lot of car for your money as the petrol versions are cheaper. Make sure the electrics are all working right and you’ll love what you buy.

3. Hyundai Santa Fe

Target example: 2006 2.2 CRTD CDX 7st; 88,000 miles; FSH; £5000

At one level this doesn’t look like much of a deal for five grand. It doesn’t look that classy, and some of the interior is a bit low-rent, such as the fake wood. However, look beyond that and you have acres of room, the chance of seven seats, plus an SUV that is nice to drive, being quiet and comfy as well. The diesel engines are the best models to go for, which also means you have a very competent towing vehicle.

4. Nissan X-Trail

Target example: 2006 2.2 dCi 136 Columbia; 79,000 miles; £3992

This looks like the real deal, because it is. If you’re after an SUV that can back up its looks, then this large and rugged 4x4 from Nissan fits the bill. You get a good ride, while sitting in a large, practical and unfussy interior. True, a few of the bits and pieces can seem a bit fragile, and reliability isn’t reckoned to be the best, but for under £4000 this is a lot of chunky SUV.

5. Lexus RX

Target example: 2004 RX300 SE; 85,000 miles; FSH; £4850

The Lexus combines high quality and luxury with a solid reputation for reliability. The RX isn’t really a top-line driver’s car but if you’re looking to enjoy a steady rather than spectacular pace, then this Lexus will deliver. It’s also a clever and efficient way to take an SUV into the city, as the hybrid versions give you the chance for some zero-emission miles, although their popularity means you’ll either pay more for one or settle for a higher mileage.