There are seemingly endless choices if you’re considering buying a used SUV. However, not all are dependable. So, where to begin? You could go with an obvious choice like a Honda CR-V. But don’t discount an under-the-radar option like the 2009 Saturn Vue. Hey, don’t laugh. Hear us out.

Used SUV awards for the 2009 Saturn Vue and 2009 Honda CR-V

In U.S. News‘ “Best Used Compact SUVs Under $15K for 2021” roundup, the Honda CR-V shows up multiple times in the top 10. The 2010 model comes in first, while the 2011 CR-V is tied for second. The 2009 CR-V is one of five SUVs tied for the 10th spot. The 2009 Saturn Vue is also one of the five models tied for tenth. Both SUVs also show up on the U.S. News list “Best 2009 Affordable Compact SUVs” list. In this ranking, the Honda CR-V and Saturn Vue are tied for the first spot. 

The 2009 Saturn Vue

You can find used 2009 Saturn Vue models for between $5,847 and $8,123. U.S. News says this model “has a comfortable ride and an upscale, high-quality interior.” It also boasts high safety scores.

It doesn’t offer a lot of cargo room, and U.S. News found the seats weren’t that comfortable. But it provides plenty of space for passengers. The 2009 Vue has standard cloth upholstery and a CD stereo system. Optional features include navigation, heated seats, Bluetooth, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The Red Line trim has its own leather-covered sport seats.

The gas-powered Vue has three engine options: a four-cylinder generating 172 hp, a 3.5-liter V6 making 222 hp, and a 3.6-liter V6 producing 257 hp. There’s even a hybrid version. The Vue’s handling is good, though the two less powerful gas engines are a little sluggish and best for daily driving, U.S. News says. The four-cylinder gets 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, which isn’t great, but, hey, it’s a 2009 SUV. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is available. The Red Line trim offers sportier, stiffer handling.

The 2009 Vue marked the final year for this model and Saturn.

The 2009 Honda CR-V

You can find a used 2009 Honda CR-V for about $6,600 to $8,000. U.S. News proclaims this model “one of the best used affordable compact SUVs you can buy.” It boasts “excellent safety ratings, well-liked performance, and a roomy interior.”

The 2009 CR-V also has plenty of cargo space and a practical and nicely finished cabin. It includes storage spots for small items and a folding/removable rear shelf on higher trims. Cloth upholstery and a CD stereo come standard. Options include leather seats, a power sunroof, navigation, satellite radio, a premium stereo with a CD changer, and a backup camera.

The 2009 CR-V has a four-cylinder engine that produces 166 hp. (There’s now a hybrid version, too, that Honda introduced for the 2020 model year.) But the 2009 engine is underpowered, and there’s no V6 option. However, it offers good handling. As for fuel efficiency, it gets 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway when equipped with standard FWD. You can also find AWD models.

All in all, if you’re looking for an affordable used compact SUV, consider the 2009 Saturn Vue and 2009 Honda CR-V. Though you may have forgotten about the Vue when Saturn disappeared, it’s as good as the 2009 CR-V.