5 Used SUVs That Are Perfect For Southern Drivers

Looking for a used SUV dealer in Atlanta? Look no further than Rick Hendrick Buick GMC Duluth. We’ve got all the models you’ll need. You’re living the southern life, which means you want a model that can head off-road with ease. You also likely need something that can handle a decent towing weight so you can take your boat to the lake without worry. Our used SUV options have you covered. While we’re centered on GMC models, we also offer other powerful SUV models, and we’re excited to tell you all about them.

The GMC Yukon XL

When it’s power that you’re seeking, GMC won’t let you down. This is especially true when it comes to the Yukon XL. For example, a 2016 Yukon XL Denali comes with a standard V8 engine that produces 420 horsepower, with a max torque of 460 lb-ft and a 7,900-pound max towing capacity. Further, earlier models such as the 2012 Yukon Denali XL can tow up to 9,400 pounds despite having a lower horsepower and torque rating. No matter which used GMC Yukon XL model you choose, you can guarantee that it’ll be a powerful one.

The main thing that people complain about with larger vehicles like the GMC Yukon XL is the gas mileage. That’s all a part of that classic V8 engine. However, the good news is that this model’s mileage gets better and better with age. So, the 2016 model does far better than the 2012 model does. If you’d rather spend more on gas and pay less upfront, though, the 2012 GMC Yukon XL is definitely worth checking into.

The GMC Acadia Denali

Looking for something that’s not quite so powerful yet strong enough to tow the boat or haul the ATVs? The GMC Acadia Denali is the model for you, then. The 2018 model comes with a standard V6 engine, getting 310 horses and a max torque of 271. It can tow a maximum of 4,000 pounds, and thanks to its smaller engine, it gets better fuel economy than the Yukon does. If you’re not towing ridiculously large items, the GMC Acadia provides you with more than enough power. Plus, its traction select system makes it easier to head off pavement and tackle adverse weather conditions such as thick mud and heavy rain.

Older models such as the 2013 Acadia Denali can tow up to 5,000 pounds, making them the better deal if you’re more concerned with power and less bothered with needing modern tech features. Whether you choose an old used Acadia Denali or a new one, you’re sure to find the perfect balance between commuter and power wagon.

The Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk

We all know that Jeep models are the off-roading masters. However, most people think of Jeep Wranglers when they picture off-roading. A great way to switch it up is by choosing a Trailhawk trim on the Jeep Cherokee. A great example of this is the 2016 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk model. It comes with standard four-wheel drive, and despite its turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, it’s able to handle muddy terrain with ease. This model tows up to 2,000 pounds, making it ideal for towing small boats and winching ATVs and side-by-sides. When choosing a used SUV in the Atlanta area, the Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk is one of the most affordable off-roading options.

The Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro

When you’re looking for something that isn’t a Wrangler but acts like a Wrangler, the Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro is the model for you. The 2015 model can tow up to 4,700 pounds, all while handling backroads and trails with ease. On this model, you’ll get an off-road specific suspension, TRD Bilstein shock absorbers, and class III towing equipment. This model offers a great balance of off-roading and towing. It’s the balance between the Acadia Denali and a Jeep Wrangler.

If you really want to kick things up a notch and purchase a newer used model, the Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro Off-Road Edition heats things up with a 5,000-pound max towing capacity and more horsepower and torque. Furthering its off-roading perks, this model gets up to 9.6-inches of ground clearance, and it comes with CRAWL control which is designed to make off-roading better. It does this by ensuring that the driver doesn’t have to worry about brake or acceleration, instead focusing only on steering. You’ll also get to choose from 5 different driver select modes, including Mud, Sand, and Rock modes, to name a few. Overall, the Toyota 4Runner TRD trims are ideal for Atlanta off-roading enthusiasts, especially because of their water fording and mudding abilities.

The Jeep Wrangler

We obviously can’t skip out on the Wrangler when we’re talking about off-roading. Heading off the pavement in Atlanta in a Jeep Wrangler is obviously a great choice. The best thing about buying a used Wrangler is that these models hold their value for a reason: they’re built to last. We know that the price tag is a little high on new Wrangler models, but that’s not the case for used models. You can purchase a used Jeep Wrangler and fix it up to be just as good as a new one.

There are a few ways you can go here for off-roading. The most affordable route is to just get a basic Wrangler Sport trim. No matter what year or trim you choose, the truth is that all Wranglers are ready to head off-road. It’s just that some are more capable than others. If you want to step it up a notch, consider the Jeep Wrangler Willys trim. It’s a bit pricier, but it comes equipped with tons of off-roading gear, off-road specific suspension, and standard mud tires.

The most popular yet most expensive route to go is with the Wrangler Rubicon. The Rubicon is built for heading off the pavement. It’s the priciest model, sure, but when you buy a used SUV, you can get away with a lower price and upgrade it as you go. We don’t recommend any specific used Wrangler year because they’re all off-road ready. However, if you need towing capacity alongside off-roading capability, a Rubicon trim with an EcoDiesel engine is the way to go.

How Do I Pick Between All These Options?

All these options sound great, right? The truth is that while each model carries its own unique features, at the end of the day, these models are all similar. Towing capacity and off-roading don’t always come together, so if you’re looking for both of these features, the Toyota 4Runner is your best bet. All of these SUVs are towing and off-roading capable, but the 4Runner offers the most balance between the two. With the 4Runner, you get impressive towing capacity along with high-quality off-roading capability.

However, if towing is your number one concern, we must recommend going with the GMC Yukon Denali XL. When you’re focused purely on staying safe in bad weather and hitting the trails, Jeep never fails. Stick with the Cherokee Trailhawk or the Wrangler in these cases. However, if you plan on heading over rocky terrain, the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon is a must, thanks to its Rock-Trac feature. No matter what kind of capability you need for the adventures you have in mind, you can find the perfect vehicle at Rick Hendrick Buick GMC Duluth – so contact us today!