Used mid sized suv recommendations

[Curly]

Is a Ford Escape even really midsized?

Seems awfully small too be considered mid sized. To me, mid size is an Explorer.   

[b23]

The Escape is a very solid vehicle but they are relatively small-ish so you'll definitely want to go drive one and check them out.

We just went through this with getting our kid their first car and the Escape was one that I researched the heck out of.  Everything I could learn about them indicates they are a very solid car that'll last many years with relatively low maint. cost/s.  We ended up not getting the Escape but basically a version of.

Another solid vehicle to consider and is a bit larger is the Ford Edge.

Unfortunately, finding something decent under 12K could be a bigger hurdle than which make/model to get.

[pianoman9701]

Never get a Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo under any circumstances. Trust me on this one.

[Alchase]

4Runners are nice rigs, but way over valued and priced.
For $12k any 4Runner below that price will be 10 or more years old with 150k to 200k + miles on it.
I would look at a Honda CRV or Toyota RAV4 with 4wd. Then you will still have a commuter with decent mileage.

[jdb]

Subaru Forester

[cooltimber]

take a look at chev's captiva,get the v6 if you can find one,no problems so far at 80,000.just turned today.look up on craigslist.

[HntnFsh]

Subaru Forester

And prepare to change head gaskets.  I wouldn't own a Subaru if it was gave to me. Especially with the vintage you'll get in that price range!

[magnanimous_j]

Its hard to beat Korean for value.

As others have said, Toyotas are fabulous, but easily the most overvalued used vehicles on the market.

For your intended use and price range, I think a Santa Fe is the best option. I'm having a hard time thinking of anything else that comes close in terms of reliability and overall bang for your buck.

[KFhunter]

subaru forester

[Bofire]

what is more important to you? off road  or on road performance? My wife had a 2004 Escape and a 2008, sold the 2008 at about 50,000 miles after she passed. They were good cars but too small for me. 4runners are priced high but off road they kick butt and they are well built. The Subarus have a great rep. I have never driven one. Never been in a Kia or Hyundi. Buy the one that suits your needs best.
Carl

[WA1232]

We have owned the Nissan Rogue, Ford Edge, Nissan Murano, and now the Chevrolet Traverse. Our favorite is the Traverse, but I wouldn't consider it a midsize SUV. Next favorite was the Edge. The Nissans were good too. We bought them all used with 20-50K on them. A couple were totaled in collisions - but they kept my family safe.

[CAMPMEAT]

I've got a 2018 Jeep Altitude, 4x4, V6. auto. Towing around 16mpg and up to 31 freeway, This SUV is one of the nicest riding cars I've ever owned.

[Sandberm]

We have a 2005 Nissan Pathfinder and love it. Very durable and still feels tight after all these years. It had some issues at first as this was the first year after a redesign. In 2013 they downsized the Pathfinder a bit.

I'd get a 08-12 model

But...doing a craigslist search I came upon this clean 02 model for under $3k. Based on the location it looks like it might come from a winery.
https://eastoregon.craigslist.org/cto/d/2002-nissan-pathfinder-4x4/6746048514.html

[Chase2008]

Thanks all for the recommendations. Really looking for something decent on gas and reliable. Only
Off road will be gravel logging roads so no need for anything that with that capability. Have a liberty now and. Not a fan. Looking for something similar size bit better quality

[JWEBB]

Toyota Highlander. Have 170 on ours. Only have done routine oil changes and it runs and drives like a dream still. Absolutely goes great in the mountains. Make sure you get an awd model with the 3.3