These Are the Used Cars Everyone Is Searching for Right Now

Each year, Consumer Reports analyzes which used vehicle pages its members visit most, and the results serve as a near-perfect window into how Americans think when buying a car on a budget. The 2026 list, drawn from searches across vehicles up to 20 years old but with particular focus on three-year-old models, is telling not just for who made it, but for why they made it. Consumer Reports flags many of these as "CR Recommended", meaning they passed road tests, have strong reliability records, carry standard electronic stability control, and performed well in crash tests.

What The Most-Searched Used Cars Tell Us

American buyers aren't chasing flashy cars with cutting-edge technology, nor are they taking chances on unproven platforms. They are gravitating toward vehicles with long track records, predictable running costs, and long-term dependability. Unsurprisingly, Toyota and Subarudominate the list, with Honda close behind. Here's the top 10 most-searched used models, why buyers are searching for them, and what Kelley Blue Book private party values look like currently.

1. Toyota RAV4

America's best-selling SUV has that distinction for a reason. The 2022–2023 RAV4 offers a nimble, fuel-efficient AWD experience, clear controls, and a genuinely roomy cabin, all wrapped in Toyota's legendary long-term reliability. The 2022 model year is particularly attractive for value-hunters. KBB private party value for a 2023 RAV4 runs approximately $24,100 to $31,300, depending on trim.

2. Honda CR-V

The CR-V grew significantly in this generation, gaining more rear seat room and a more premium interior. The 1.5-liter turbo delivers quick acceleration, and the hybrid variant is among the most fuel-efficient in the segment. The 2022–2023 model years are the sweet spot, often coming off-lease with low mileage. KBB private party value for a 2023 CR-V sits around $22,800 to $30,200.

3. Subaru Forester

Forester buyers tend to be loyal for good reason. Outstanding visibility, standard AWD, generous cabin space, and a simple, honest character that wears well over time. The 2022–2023 Forester delivers competitive fuel economy and an interior that is easier to get in and out of than most rivals. KBB private party values for a 2022 Forester range from roughly $18,750 to $23,500.

4. Nissan Rogue

The post-2021 Rogue is a major upgrade over earlier versions. The 201-horsepower turbocharged three-cylinder pulls strongly and returns decent fuel economy, and interior quality has improved considerably. Buyers are drawn to its combination of comfort, tech, and competitive pricing. The 2022–2023 model years offer the best value. KBB private party values for a 2023 Rogue fall in the $18,300 to $23,900 range.

5. Toyota Highlander

For three-row family needs, the Highlander is the go-to safe choice. The 2022–2023 models offer a composed ride and a significantly improved interior over older generations. The hybrid version, which manages around 35 mpg overall, holds its value especially well. KBB private party values for a 2023 Highlander run from approximately $27,700 to $35,400 for the standard model, and somewhat higher for the hybrid.

6. Mazda CX-5

The CX-5 punches above its price point in terms of refinement and driving enjoyment, and buyers searching for it on Consumer Reports are almost certainly aware of that. It's one of the better-driving compact SUVs on the market, with a premium interior feel that belies its segment. The 2022–2023 models represent the current generation at its most refined. KBB private party values for a 2023 CX-5 sit in the $20,000 to $24,000 range.

7. Ford Escape

The Escape has wide appeal among buyers who prioritize front-seat comfort and nimble city handling. The 2023 refresh brought a cleaner look and improved tech, including a standard 12.3-inch screen with wireless connectivity. The hybrid variant is particularly economical. Used prices for a 2023 Escape are among the most accessible on this list, with KBB private party values typically running $15,150 to $21,300 - making it one of the more affordable entry points.

8. Subaru Outback

The Outback occupies a unique niche as a practical, go-anywhere wagon with genuine off-road capability, and buyers who want it tend to know exactly what they want. Standard AWD, excellent cargo space, and strong safety scores make it a perennial CR favorite. The 2022–2023 models are the target years. KBB private party values for a 2023 Outback range from approximately $19,850 to $26,300.

9. Ford F-150

America's best-selling vehicle overall, and the only full-size truck in the top 10. Buyers searching for the F-150 used are typically drawn to the crew cab configurations with the popular 2.7-liter turbocharged V6, which delivers strong performance and respectable fuel economy. The 2022–2023 models introduced Sync 4 infotainment and improved hybrid powertrains. KBB private party values for a 2023 F-150 vary widely by configuration, ranging from around $21,100 for a base regular cab to well over $40,000 for loaded Lariat trims.

10. Chevrolet Equinox

The Equinox makes the list largely on the strength of its price. It offers a feature-rich experience at a lower cost than many rivals, though it trails the Subaru, Honda, and Toyota options in reputation for reliability and driving enjoyment. The 2023 model brought minor refinements. KBB private party values for a 2023 Equinox fall between roughly $16,900 and $20,400.

Why the Used Car Market Is Bigger Than Ever

The economics of buying used have rarely been more compelling. The US used car market stood at roughly 38.5 to 39 million total transactions in 2025, or more than double the new car market. Average new car payments have climbed toward $750 a month, and with new vehicle prices still rising in early 2026, used cars are the obvious choice for buyers who've had enough.

The shift shows up clearly in what people are searching for. SUVs and crossovers account for over 43 percent of used car transactions, and 14 of the 20 most-searched models on Consumer Reports are exactly that. Off-lease supply is also expected to improve through 2026, meaning more low-mileage, late-model inventory should gradually enter the market. When every dollar of a car purchase matters more, people gravitate toward vehicles with known quantities - proven reliability, manageable running costs, and strong resale value.

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This story was originally published April 27, 2026 at 9:30 AM.