Whether you are considering purchasing a used Toyota 4Runner or a used Nissan Pathfinder, you'll want to conduct some research into the reliability of the make and model. Often times it's difficult to know what source to trust.

Consumer Reports magazine is your best bet. The publication is controlled by a non-profit volunteer organization, the Consumers Union. Arthur Kallet and Colston Warne founded the group in 1936 due to their own dissatisfaction with the quality of available consumer research in the United States. Today the magazine is also available online at consumerreports.org and has a subscription base of some four million.

All testing conducted by Consumer Reports is independent and unbiased. The organization does not accept any free samples or advertisements in an effort to avoid a perception of giving preferential treatment to any product or service. The only source of funding comes from subscriptions. In addition to its own testing procedures, Consumer Reports elicits feedback from consumers.

Top Rated SUVs and Trucks

As applied to the used car market, Consumer Reports singles out a number of SUVs and trucks as the most desirable purchases in their genre. While basing your purchase solely on the information provided in the magazine is not recommended (you should have any used vehicle fully evaluated by a qualified mechanic), the publication is an excellent place to start your research.

Acura MDX

The Acura MDX is a medium sized SUV introduced in 2001 to replace the SLX. The MDX gets a highly competitive 17 to 23 miles per gallon. The cargo floor can flip up to provide two additional seats and in total the MDX can carry seven passengers. The dealer price for a used Acura MDX with an approximately 65,000 miles should be around $31,700.

Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V is a sport utility vehicle available in all wheel drive and front wheel drive. Due to its fuel efficiency, sturdy look, and quality accessories the CR-V is quite popular. The suggested price for a used Honda CR-V made in 2001 and kept in excellent condition is $11,500.

Infiniti QX4

The Infinti QX4 was introduced in 1997. It is a mid-sized SUV with four-wheel drive and 8.3 inches of ground clearence. Essentially, it is a luxury SUV that can handle some off road conditions. It comes equipped with a 240 hp engine and a used 2001 in excellent condition will cost approximately $17,000.

Continue to: Search for the Used Nissan Pathfinder

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