If budget is a primary determining factor, consider an unsold SUV over a new one since the former could easily have all the desired features. According to reports, new car sales in the country fell by approximately 15% in 2020., resulting in a build-up of unsold inventory at dealerships. Read on to learn why unsold SUVs make a better deal, top choices, and the factors to look out for when buying one this year.

Top reasons to consider unsold SUVs

Discounts
Automakers may offer deep discounts or incentives to move unsold SUVs off the lot, making them a more affordable option for buyers.
Limited inventory
These unsold SUVs may be the last of their model year and have limited availability. Buyers may get a better deal on these models since they are less in demand than newer ones.
Similar features
Many of the elements in unsold SUVs are identical to the newer models, making them a good option for buyers who don’t need the latest and greatest technology.
Still under warranty
Since these unsold SUVs are typically brand new or have meager miles, they are still covered by the manufacturer’s warranty, providing peace of mind for buyers.
Proven performance
These unsold SUVs have been on the market for some time, which means their performance and reliability have been tested by real-world drivers.

Here are some steps to follow when buying an unsold SUV:

Research the SUV models and brands that interest you
Research the features, specs, and prices of the unsold SUV models you want to purchase.
Check dealership inventory
Visit local dealerships or their websites to see if they have unsold SUVs in stock that meet your criteria.
Negotiate the price
Since these SUVs have been on the lot for some time, dealerships may be willing to negotiate on the price. Be sure to research the fair market value of the SUV you are interested in and arrange it accordingly.
Inspect the SUV
Before making a final decision, inspect the unsold SUV thoroughly to ensure it meets your standards for safety and reliability.

To help you narrow down your choices, here is an example of a comparison of the safety features, engine features, and prices of some of the top SUV brands, namely, the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, and Subaru Forester:

Safety features
All four SUVs have received high ratings from governmental safety institutions. Some of the safety features found in these SUVs include:

Adaptive cruise control
Lane departure warning
Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert

Engine features
These SUVs offer various engine options, including hybrid models for some. Here is a breakdown of their engine specs:

Honda CR-V: 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque
Toyota RAV4: 2.5L 4-cylinder engine with 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque
Mazda CX-5: 2.5L 4-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque
Subaru Forester: 2.5L 4-cylinder engine with 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque

Price
The price of these SUVs varies depending on the trim level and optional features selected, but given below are the base trim costs of each vehicle.

Honda CR-V: starts at $25,350
Toyota RAV4: starts at $26,150
Mazda CX-5: starts at $25,270
Subaru Forester: starts at $25,845

Buying an unsold SUV can be a great way to get a good deal on a new or almost-new vehicle. However, it is essential to research, negotiate, and inspect the SUV thoroughly to ensure you are getting the best for your money.