11 Used SUVs Built To Hit 250,000 Miles—Most Buyers Walk Away Too Soon

A 1980s Toyota 4Runner equipped with the “unkillable” four-cylinder engine has been cited with claims of over 1,000,000 miles, far beyond any typical high-mileage benchmark, with the highest photo-verified example documented at over 700,000 miles. Several versions of the 1980s Toyota 4Runner have reached more than 300,000 miles, and one such version has been cited by automotive sources as achieving well over 1,000,000 miles. As FinanceBuzz notes, “many buyers can be put off if a used vehicle has high mileage, but some SUVs are designed to go well past 200,000 miles with the right maintenance”.

Acura MDX

ACURA MDX YD2 China
Photo by Dinkun Chen on Wikimedia

The Acura MDX blends Honda-engineered reliability with upscale comfort, making it a top pick for high-mileage buyers. FinanceBuzz reports that most users see their MDX last between 200,000 and 250,000 miles, with many surpassing 300,000 or even 400,000 miles. Ideal model years are 2011, 2014, 2016, and 2019, each offering refinements that reduce long-term ownership costs. The MDX is widely regarded as delivering a premium feel without the premium repair bills typically associated with European luxury SUVs.

Honda CR-V

A 2023 Honda CR-V EX-L 4WD in Radiant Red Metallic with Gray Leather interior 1 5T L15BE engine with 190hp and the usual CVT Built in Greensburg Indiana
Photo by Mr choppers on Wikimedia

The Honda CR-V remains a longtime favorite for families thanks to its smooth ride, efficient engine, and the fact that minimal maintenance is needed. FinanceBuzz highlights model years 2005, 2012, 2016, and 2019 as particularly durable, with many examples exceeding 200,000 miles through routine oil changes and brake service. As the site notes, “the CR-V is known for minimal maintenance and long life”.

Honda Pilot

Honda Pilot YF5-6 Washington DC USA
Photo by OWS Photography on Wikimedia

The Honda Pilot offers three-row versatility and proven durability, with FinanceBuzz citing model years 2005, 2009, 2016, and 2020 as standouts. Most Pilots last over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance, and many reach the 300,000-mile mark or higher. As the report states, “most last over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance, with some hitting the 300,000+ mark”. Its shared platform with the Honda Odyssey and Passport contributes to readily available parts and predictable ownership costs.

Hyundai Santa Fe

Hyundai Santa Fe at Auto Z rich 2024
Photo by Matti Blume on Wikimedia

The Hyundai Santa Fe has earned a reputation for lasting well into the six-figure mileage range when cared for properly. FinanceBuzz points to model years 2012, 2018, 2019, and 2020 as especially reliable, noting that these SUVs can last around 200,000 to 250,000 miles without major issues. As the site observes, “the Santa Fe offers distinctive styling and a comfortable ride that rarely surprises owners with major repairs”.

Kia Sorento

Kia Sorento MQ
Photo by Benespit on Wikimedia

The Kia Sorento combines high build quality with strong resale value, making it a smart used-SUV choice. FinanceBuzz highlights model years 2011, 2016, 2020, and 2022, emphasizing that the Sorento’s durability means even a used example delivers good value for the money. As the report puts it, “known for its high build quality, reliability, and durability, the Sorento provides strong used-vehicle appeal”.

Lexus RX 350

LEXUS RX 350 AL10 China
Photo by Dinkun Chen on Wikimedia

The Lexus RX 350 delivers luxury sedan refinement in an SUV body while maintaining impressive longevity. FinanceBuzz notes that with proper care, owners can expect the RX 350 to pass the 250,000-mile mark easily and remain reliable on the road. Preferred model years are 2010, 2015, 2018, and 2021. As the site states, “you can expect it to pass the 250,000-mile mark easily and still be reliable on the road”.

Mazda CX-5

Mazda CX-5 KF Maxx 2WD wagon Photographed in Fremantle Western Australia Australia
Photo by EurovisionNim on Wikimedia

The Mazda CX-5 offers sport-tuned handling and strong fuel economy, attributes that complement its ability to withstand high mileage. FinanceBuzz reports that most owners see well over 150,000 miles without many repairs, with ideal model years being 2016, 2017, 2019, and 2021. As the site notes, “the CX-5 often exceeds 150,000 miles with few repairs”. Its Skyactiv-G engine and lightweight chassis help keep maintenance costs low as the odometer climbs.

Nissan Xterra

Nissan Xterra photographed in College Park Maryland USA
Photo by IFCAR on Wikimedia

Though discontinued after 2015, the Nissan Xterra remains a cult favorite for off-road capability without a luxury price tag. FinanceBuzz describes it as an ideal choice for drivers who want a vehicle that’s especially capable off-road without a luxury price tag, highlighting model years 2009, 2011, 2012, and 2015. As the report observes, “its body-on-frame construction and simple mechanicals contribute to a reputation for enduring tough trails and daily commutes alike”.

Subaru Forester

2018 Subaru Forester 2 0XT EyeSight
Photo by TTTNIS on Wikimedia

The Subaru Forester leans on its symmetrical all-wheel drive and high ground clearance to deliver dependable service in rough weather. FinanceBuzz notes that well-maintained older Foresters may last well over 200,000 miles, with standout model years from 2009, 2014, 2018, and 2020. As the site puts it, “well-maintained models regularly exceed 200,000 miles”. Its horizontally opposed boxer engine design reduces vibration and wear, helping the powertrain go the distance.

Toyota Highlander

Toyota Highlander XU40 in Stuttgart-Vaihingen
Photo by Alexander-93 on Wikimedia

The Toyota Highlander holds up well over time, particularly the V6 variants, and is frequently cited as a benchmark for long-life SUVs. FinanceBuzz points to model years 2008, 2013, 2017, and 2020 as especially durable, noting that the Highlander holds up well over time with minimal issues when routine maintenance is followed. As the site states, “the Highlander holds up well over time”.

Toyota 4Runner

Toyota 4Runner photographed in Silver Spring Maryland USA
Photo by IFCAR on Wikimedia

The Toyota 4Runner’s legendary durability is backed by real-world data, with many examples exceeding 300,000 miles and some approaching 400,000 miles on original drivetrains. Greenville Toyota affirms, “Most 4Runners comfortably reach 200,000 miles, with many exceeding 300,000+ miles when well cared for”, while a YouTube mechanic notes these engines routinely run to 300,000-400,000 miles with just basic maintenance. Ideal model years include 2006, 2009, 2014, and 2020, each bringing incremental improvements to the proven V6 power and body-on-frame chassis.

Sources

“11 Best SUVs Projected to Reach 250,000 Miles (Or More).” FinanceBuzz, 2025.
“11 Used SUVs Worth Buying (Even With High Mileage).” FinanceBuzz, 2025.
“The Highest Mileage Toyota 4Runner.” CarBuzz, 2024.
“SUVs With Unkillable Engines: Models Known to Run for Over 300,000 Miles.” TopSpeed, 2024.
“Acura MDX Generations Ranked by Reliability.” CarBuzz, 2025.

Similar Posts

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *