When it comes to shopping for a used three-row SUV, you’ve got plenty of choices. But if you’d prefer a certified pre-owned (CPO) three-row SUV and are shopping with a specific budget in mind? Kelley Blue Book (KBB) suggests checking out the 2017 Toyota Highlander, the best CPO three-row SUV under $30,000.

What’s the difference between a CPO car and a used car?

If you’re shopping for a used car at a car dealership near you, chances are you’ve also come across several certified pre-owned cars (CPO). But do you know the difference between a CPO car and a used car? Suppose you’re unfamiliar with what a CPO car is. In that case, it’s important to understand that, unlike your typical used car, a CPO car must undergo a rigorous vehicle inspection before securing its certified status. Car dealerships typically carry out any needed repairs and replace all worn parts before listing a CPO for sale, too, Autotrader reports.

Not all used cars qualify for certification either. In fact, most car manufacturers have specific criteria for becoming a certified pre-owned car. To qualify as a CPO car, a used car must be in excellent condition and be both mechanically and cosmetically sound. It must have low mileage, too, Autotrader reports. “If a car doesn’t meet the CPO program requirements, it is either fixed or rejected from the program,” Autotrader added.

The 2017 Toyota Highlander is the best CPO three-row SUV under $30,000

Now, let’s get back to the 2017 Toyota Highlander. After all, it is the best CPO three-row SUV under $30,000, according to KBB. The organization had plenty of reasons for tapping the 2017 Highlander as its top pick too. In fact, according to KBB, the 2017 Toyota Highlander has a lot going for it.

First, let’s talk about what’s under the hood. The 2017 Highlander is standard with a 185-hp 2.7-liter inline-4 engine, though it can also be had with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that offers up an impressive 295-hp. When it comes to getting behind the wheel of this CPO three-row SUV, KBB says you can count on it to deliver a comfortable ride.

The 2017 Toyota Highlander offers no shortage of family-friendly features too. Standard are features like 8-passenger seating, a rearview camera, a day/night rearview mirror, three 12-volt auxiliary power outlets, and a 6.1-inch touch-screen display featuring Toyota’s Entune audio system, Bluetooth, and voice recognition.

How safe is the 2017 Toyota Highlander?

Perhaps what’s most enticing about the 2017 Toyota Highlander, aside from it being KBB’s top pick for the best CPO three-row SUV under $30,000, is that it’s a remarkably safe three-row SUV. In fact, it comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense Plus, which includes safety features like active cruise control, forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic high beams, and lane-departure alert and warning. 

As for how the 2017 Toyota Highlander did in crash tests? You’ll be pleased to know that the 2017 Highlander is an IIHS Top Safety Pick+. The NHTSA also gave it a five-star overall safety rating. If you’re in the market for a safe three-row SUV, you really can’t go wrong with the 2017 Toyota Highlander.

How reliable is the 2017 Toyota Highlander?

The 2017 Toyota Highlander is reliable too. Consumer Reports gave it a five out of five reliability rating, which is nothing to scoff at. Though, the Highlander has always been lauded for its overall reliability. As a matter of fact, J.D. Power also gave the 2017 model high marks for reliability.

Reliability isn’t the only reason to put the 2017 Toyota Highlander at the top of your list. There are plenty of reasons KBB named the 2017 Highlander the best CPO three-row SUV under $30,000. It’s enjoyable to drive, stock full of features, and safe enough for families.