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Looking for an SUV? Here are 4 underrated models on the second-hand market

Most buyers go for the same brands. Here are some others that are worth a look.

IF YOU’RE A buyer looking to get a used SUV, it’s good news – there has never been as much choice.

There are a few very popular models, like the Kia Sportage and Nissan Qashqai, but what other models are there which are more underrated (and possibly a bit cheaper)?

This week we take a look at some alternatives to the mainstream models. While this isn’t a definitive list, here are a few worth considering.

1. SsangYong Tivoli XLV

DoneDeal DoneDeal

There’s no point avoiding it, the SsangYong name isn’t held in the best regard, but its more recent models have improved in quality even if they remain highly priced. The Tivoli is still just about the best car it produces, and the XLV version offers loads of space inside. It isn’t as refined to drive as other SUVs, but it does reasonably well in the fuel economy stakes. Our advice if you plan to seek one out is to drive a hard bargain.

2. Honda HR-V

DoneDeal DoneDeal

The current Honda HR-V makes for a pretty practical small SUV, ideal for a smaller family. Despite its compact size, it does have a versatile interior and generous amounts of boot space. It remains one of the better SUVs to drive, with crisp handling, even if the suspension is a touch on the firm side. Our advice is to stick with the manual rather than the CVT automatic.

3. Subaru Forester

DoneDeal DoneDeal

We’re firm believers that Subaru doesn’t get the recognition it deserves, and the Forester is a prime example of that. When it comes to all-wheel drive, Subaru knows a thing or two. It also scores highly in global reliability surveys, and its boxer engine serves up reasonable levels of performance.

4. Suzuki Vitara

DoneDeal DoneDeal

The Vitara is a name that’s been around for decades, but it’s the current model that we’re looking at in this instance. It went on sale in 2015 in a wild variety of colours.

You can get front-wheel drive versions, but even the all-wheel drive models don’t cost much more to tax or run. The 1.6-litre diesel can return decent fuel economy and has enough power to cruise comfortably at motorway speeds. Good levels of equipment combined with what seems like a close-to-bullet-proof interior finish make us see this as a smart buy, especially if you’re planning on holding onto it for a few years.

Looking for reliability? Here are the top 10 cars for passing the NCT first time>

More: Audi used showdown: Should I go for an A4, or save up for the A5 or A6?>

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    Mute Prince of Burren
    Favourite Prince of Burren
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    Feb 28th 2014, 8:48 AM

    What a bunch of morons out there this morning.I think ye are all jealous of our beautiful county with our great tradition of music,hurling,politics ,even Donald Trump likes us. Have a good day

    57
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    Mute NAMApropertymarket
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    Feb 28th 2014, 2:06 PM

    LOL

    3
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    Mute NAMApropertymarket
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    Feb 28th 2014, 2:07 PM

    I’d rather live in Syria or Ukraine than that little worthless bog you call Clare

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    Mute Jimmy Coonan
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    Mar 1st 2014, 1:54 PM

    Wow..Your uneducated and an idiot..that is some going…

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    Mute Eoin O'Hagan
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    Feb 28th 2014, 8:05 AM

    The Wild Atlantic Way has lived up to its name over the last couple of months. The winter storms have been reshaping the coastline all along the West coast. Here in Co. Clare the tourism infrastructure has been badly damaged, but that won’t stop Clare being open for visitors this year. Voted the best place to holiday in Ireland. Come see why ! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Anftlby4gSE

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    Mute Anton de Buitlear
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    Feb 28th 2014, 11:22 AM

    If heavens not in clare its not any where, ….see ya soon,

    20
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    Mute NAMApropertymarket
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    Feb 28th 2014, 2:08 PM

    With a bit of luck the Atlantic will swallow the kip up one day

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    Mute Jimmy Coonan
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    Mar 1st 2014, 1:55 PM

    I’m surprised you got the “Atlantic” bit right due to your lack of intelligence…your mammy must be by your side therefore

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    Mute Pete Cool
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    Feb 28th 2014, 8:06 AM

    Would it not be cheaper just to let Clare County go altogether. Move everyone out and house then in the ghost estates in other counties. Maybe just maintain two roads into the county – one that leads to the Aillwee Caves and the other to Shannon Airport. It could save a fortune on County Councillors. Plus the fantastic hurlers could improve hurling standards in their new counties. It’s a win-win really.

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    Mute Shanners
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    Feb 28th 2014, 8:23 AM

    Its basically co Limerick anyway

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    Mute johnodonoghue
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    Feb 28th 2014, 8:50 AM

    You are a clown

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    Mute Cpm
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    Feb 28th 2014, 12:27 PM

    Move them to Cork, detach Cork from the rest of the country, Bob’s your uncle.

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    Mute conor hickey
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    Feb 28th 2014, 8:00 AM

    I guess that’ll be an increase on LPT so.
    And a hike at the car park at the cliffs.

    29
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    Mute Keith Fay
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    Feb 28th 2014, 7:55 AM

    Co County? Hahaha

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    Mute Matthew Fitzpatrick
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    Feb 28th 2014, 7:56 AM

    I wonder how the family family feel about this?

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    Mute Keith Fay
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    Feb 28th 2014, 8:00 AM

    Ahhh. They fixed it. The headline said Co County earlier.

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    Mute Angela Coll
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    Feb 28th 2014, 9:55 AM

    We need €36 million we get €16
    Oh yeah great job.. Not!
    If this was on the east coast it would be a different kettle if fish

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    Mute Keano
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    Feb 28th 2014, 10:54 AM

    I’m sure that €36m was over-stated to begin with – don’t forget the €16m doesn’t include a further €6m for Doolin.

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    Mute Jeremy Rammer
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    Feb 28th 2014, 1:48 PM

    @ Angela

    What do you expect there is nothing in that boring little town that is worth investing in

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    Mute Steve Bang
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    Feb 28th 2014, 7:58 AM

    The whole of Clare isn’t worth that much

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    Mute Jimmy Coonan
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    Mar 1st 2014, 1:57 PM

    Steve,your last name is bang..the mother jokes must have been good at school…:)

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    Mute Philip Cooper
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    Feb 28th 2014, 8:56 AM

    Just buy a million worth of sand and throw it around a bit. Sorted.

    17
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    Mute ironman
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    Feb 28th 2014, 9:35 AM

    If there was no property tax there would be no funds for this work. Excellent planning by the government yet again :)

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    Mute Tom O Shaughnessy
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    Feb 28th 2014, 8:25 AM

    What a beautiful county. Well done
    Oval reps like Michael McNamara for fighting for decent allocation.

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    Mute Jeremy Rammer
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    Feb 28th 2014, 1:43 PM

    The place is a kip

    Has nothing going for it

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    Mute Jimmy Coonan
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    Mar 1st 2014, 1:58 PM

    Bit like you then

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    Mute John Smith
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    Feb 28th 2014, 12:00 PM

    Best bet would be to just write it off and get a new one.

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    Mute Jeremy Rammer
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    Feb 28th 2014, 1:43 PM

    Alot of money put in that you will never get back

    Leave the muck savages to fix it themselves

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    Mute ironman
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    Feb 28th 2014, 9:34 AM

    N

    3
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