Faced with high prices for new vehicles, consumers on a budget should consider used cars. However, not all vehicles are created equal, and some pre-owned models are better than others. So before you rush to sign on the dotted line, check out these four used Hyundai Tucson model years under $15,000, according to U.S. News.

2016 Hyundai Tucson

The 2016 Hyundai Tucson ranks second only to the 2010 Honda CR-V on U.S. News’ “Best Used Compact SUVs under $15K for 2023” list. The site reports that buyers paid an average of $14,698 to $17,642 for a used 2016 Tucson, depending on vehicle condition, features, location, and other factors.

The base model packs a 164-hp four-cylinder engine, but an optional 175-hp turbocharged version is also available. And fuel economy is decent for a compact crossover: 21 to 26 mpg in the city and 26 to 33 mpg on the highway, depending on the engine.

U.S. News notes this model year’s “respectable performance, spacious interior, abundance of advanced safety features, and high safety and reliability ratings.” Reviewers cite lower-quality interior materials, but the cabin is otherwise spacious and quiet.

2015 Hyundai Tucson

According to U.S. News, a used 2015 Hyundai Tucson ranges from $13,160 to $14,472. Reviewers praise the 2015 model for its handling, drive, stylish cabin, and reliability. However, this SUV, which ranks 15th on the list of 148 vehicles, also has a few drawbacks.

“It has cramped rear seats, less cargo space than many rivals, and a weak base engine,” U.S. News reports. “Despite those negatives, there’s a lot to like about the 2015 Tucson.”

The standard four-cylinder makes only 164 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque. But a more potent engine available on some trims bumps the power to 182 hp and the torque to 177 lb-ft. Front-wheel drive comes standard, but you can find some used 2015 Tucson models with all-wheel drive.

The EPA rates the fuel mileage at 20 to 23 mpg in the city and 25 to 29 mpg on the highway. And the 2015 Tucson has a maximum towing capacity of 1,000 pounds.

2013 Hyundai Tucson

The 2013 Hyundai Tucson came in at 21st place on U.S. News’ list. With an average price of $9,516 to $11,749, it’s a rather good deal for a compact SUV. 

The standard 2.0-liter inline-four engine isn’t worth bragging about, so consider a model with a 2.4-liter engine. It generates 176 hp and 168 lb-ft of torque.

This Tucson model year offered two transmission options: a five-speed manual and a six-speed automatic. 

U.S. News praises the 2013 Tucson for its ability to slide in and out of small places easily and the all-wheel-drive automatic model’s ride quality. But buyers who choose the manual might be in for a bumpy ride.

2012 Hyundai Tucson

The 2012 Hyundai Tucson ranks 29th on U.S. News’ list. It has a price range of $7,726 to $9,957. The 2012 model’s lower ranking is due to poor visibility, limited cargo space, and a firm ride. But it has a well-made interior and maneuvers easily.

In 2012, Hyundai added the Active Eco System and revised the suspension, something you should keep in mind if you’re looking at a model older than 2012. 

The standard 2.0-liter inline-four engine produces 165 hp and 146 lb-ft of torque. Some trims pack a 2.4-liter version. The 2012 Tucson also offered a manual transmission and options for all-wheel and front-wheel drive. 

Its gas mileage is an EPA-estimated 20/26/22 mpg city/highway/combined. And the 2012 Tucson has a maximum towing capacity of 2,000 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,226 pounds. With all the seats upright, the rear cargo area provides 25.7 cubic feet of space. The total increases to 55.8 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded flat.

Other used Hyundai Tucson years on this list don’t rank as highly. The 2014 model is 44th, the 2011 is 62nd, the 2010 is 77th, and the 2009 is 110th. But the fact that the Tucson occupies so many slots on this list is a good indication it’s worth considering for a used SUV under $15,000.