Each year, Vincentric analyzes the cost of ownership of vehicles to determine the best Certified Pre-Owned or CPO value. The company measures the cost of depreciation, fees, financing, maintenance costs and more to determine which SUVs offer the lowest operating costs in the United States and Canada. Two SUVs might cost the same at a dealer, but one could be more expensive to own once you add in actual costs of ownership. Which SUVs offer the most value?
Nissan Kicks, the best subcompact SUV
According to Vincentian, the 2023 Nissan Kicks costs 6.8% less than expected. It earned recognition for its fuel economy, low operating costs and the lowest cost of ownership in its class. The $21,585 Kicks had no major revisions for 2023. It remains Nissan’s cheapest SUV, thanks to its car-based chassis that only comes with two-wheel drive.
Subaru Crosstrek, best compact SUV
In the compact class, the Subaru Crosstrek won for operating costs that were 5.8% lower than expected. It has the lowest cost of insurance and lowest cost of ownership of 21 other compact SUVs. The Crosstrek outperforms many rivals with a solid feel, spacious cabin, and standard all-wheel drive. The Crosstrek starts at $23,645 and is happily one of the few cars that can still be ordered with a six-speed manual transmission. It is also known as a reliable SUV.
Subaru Outback, the best midsize SUV
Like the smaller Crosstrek, the Outback is a lot of value, and Vincentric says it costs 6.7% less than expected. It ranks high because insurance costs are the lowest in its class, it has the best fuel economy, and the lowest operating costs. The Outback, like the Crosstrek, is a tall wagon that can outperform many taller, truck-like SUVs. The Outback starts at $28,395 and, like the Crosstrek, comes standard with all-wheel drive.
Ford Expedition, Best Large SUV
The Ford Expedition is a beast that seats eight and is built on a Ford truck platform. However, Vincentric says it has the lowest operating cost in its class and gets the best fuel economy. Sure, 17 MPG city and 23 MPG highway aren’t stellar, but compared to its competition, the Expedition is the SUV to beat for value and cost of ownership. A 2023 Ford Expedition starts at $55,125.
Kia Sorento Hybrid, best hybrid SUV
Hybrids have their own category at Vincentric, and it makes sense because they’re a bit more expensive than their gas-powered cousins, but generally have lower operating costs. The Kia Sorento Hybrid took top CPO honors this year because its cost of ownership is 11.9% lower than expected. It has the lowest repair costs, the lowest maintenance costs, and the lowest operating costs.
The 2023 Kia Sorento Hybrid starts at around $36,000, which is around $6,000 more than the gas-powered version. The Sorento Hybrid is roomy, seats five comfortably, and gets a combined 34 MPG.
Ford Escape, the best SUV EV/PHEV
Plug-in hybrids make a lot of sense because they combine the all-electric capability of an electric vehicle with the ability to increase range on regular gasoline. The Ford Escape was recognized as Best Value because its cost of ownership is 5.9% lower than Vincentric expected. The Escape PHEV starts at $38,500; however, thanks to its motor/generator configuration, it can get up to 117 MPG in the city. The Escape gets a whole new look, inside and out, for 2023.