New SUVs come packed with tech, touchscreens, and all the latest features—but that doesn’t always translate to longevity. In fact, some of the most durable SUVs on the road today are older, simpler, and built with longevity in mind. These are the trucks and crossovers that don’t blink at 200,000 miles—and in many cases, they’ll outlast the ones sitting brand-new on dealer lots.
Whether you’re after body-on-frame toughness or a well-sorted unibody workhorse, these used SUVs have earned their reputation for going the distance.
1. 1996–2002 Toyota 4Runner (3rd Gen)
The third-gen 4Runner is a prime example of simple, overbuilt engineering. Powered by the 3.4-liter V6 (5VZ-FE), these SUVs regularly cross the 300,000-mile mark with basic maintenance. It wasn’t fast—183 hp and 217 lb-ft—but it was dependable, even in harsh conditions.
Body-on-frame construction, solid 4WD systems, and minimal electronic distractions make these feel mechanical in the best way. Interiors are straightforward and durable, with hard plastics that age well. You won’t get Bluetooth, but you will get a truck that just keeps going.
2. 2001–2007 Toyota Sequoia
This first-gen Sequoia packed the same 4.7L V8 (2UZ-FE) found in the Tundra and Land Cruiser. With 240–282 hp depending on the year, it wasn’t trying to win any races—but it could tow 6,500 lbs and cruise for hundreds of thousands of miles.
The interior is basic but roomy, with seating for eight and materials that don’t wear out easily. The Sequoia doesn’t try to be flashy—it just works. Properly maintained, these are known to outlast plenty of newer unibody SUVs with lighter frames and heavier tech.
3. 2003–2009 Lexus GX 470
Built on the Land Cruiser Prado platform, the GX 470 hides real capability under a luxury badge. The 4.7L V8 is nearly indestructible, and the full-time 4WD with a locking center diff gives it legit off-road credibility.
Inside, it feels more upscale than a 4Runner, but not overly complicated. The adjustable suspension can be a wear point, but most issues are fixable without major headaches. These things are known to quietly rack up 300K+ miles without a fuss, especially if you stay ahead of timing belt intervals.
4. 1998–2007 Toyota Land Cruiser (100 Series)
This Land Cruiser blends classic truck durability with just enough refinement. The 4.7L V8 is under-stressed, and the Aisin transmission is one of the most reliable in the business. It’s heavy—around 5,400 lbs—but still smooth and composed.
Interiors were well-built, with soft leather and real switchgear. Unlike modern luxury SUVs, it doesn’t feel fragile. Many of these are still running strong worldwide, and there’s a reason they’re in high demand despite their age. It’s not uncommon to find them with 400,000 miles and no signs of quitting.
5. 2007–2014 Honda CR-V
The third-gen CR-V may not be glamorous, but it’s one of the most durable crossovers you can buy. Powered by the K24 engine—a 2.4L inline-four with a strong reputation—it delivers 166–185 hp and a smooth driving experience.
It’s a unibody, front-biased SUV, but the AWD system works fine for most weather conditions. Interiors are practical and surprisingly well-built, with decent ride height and efficient space usage. These regularly clear 250,000 miles with basic care, and parts are cheap and easy to source.
6. 2001–2005 Ford Excursion (with the 7.3L Power Stroke)
If you can handle the size, the Excursion with the 7.3L diesel is a tank. This turbocharged V8 makes 250 hp and 525 lb-ft of torque, and it’s known for lasting well over 500K miles with maintenance. Towing, long hauls, and abuse? No problem.
The interior is utilitarian but spacious—three rows, big cargo area, and a layout that was built for work, not Instagram. Sure, the ride is stiff and parking is an event, but few SUVs can outlast a well-kept 7.3 Power Stroke.
7. 2005–2009 Lexus RX 330/350
These crossovers don’t scream rugged, but they last. The 3.3L and later 3.5L V6s are solid, and the drivetrains are smooth and low-stress. FWD or AWD, they’re reliable mile-eaters that need very little attention outside oil changes and brake pads.
Interiors are quiet, well-finished, and wear slowly over time. Electronics from this era are simple enough to avoid serious headaches, and parts are widely available. If you’re looking for a used SUV that can handle long commutes without complaint, this is it.
8. 1995–2002 Mitsubishi Montero (Full-Size)
The Montero may not get the love that Toyota’s SUVs do, but it deserves a spot on this list. The 3.5L and 3.8L V6 engines are relatively simple and known to run well past 250,000 miles. It’s also one of the few older SUVs with a true off-road pedigree.
It has body-on-frame construction, a proper transfer case, and good ride height. Interiors were plain but comfortable, and it was available with three rows. As long as you keep the cooling system happy, the Montero will keep going long after many newer crossovers tap out.
9. 2000–2006 Chevrolet Tahoe (GMT800)
These Tahoes are about as honest as a full-size SUV gets. The 5.3L Vortec V8 is durable and easy to work on, with plenty of parts still on shelves. Power comes in at around 285 hp, which is more than enough for daily duty or light towing.
Inside, it’s basic GM fare—big seats, simple controls, and hard plastic panels that can take abuse. Rust and suspension wear are the main killers, but a clean Tahoe from this era can easily top 250,000 miles if you stay on top of fluids and bushings.
10. 2008–2011 Subaru Forester (2.5X)
The naturally aspirated 2.5L boxer engine in this generation of Forester is nothing fancy, but with proper timing belt changes and head gasket attention, these engines can run a long time. AWD is standard, and ground clearance is solid at 8.7 inches.
It’s a smaller SUV, but it punches above its weight for winter driving and light trails. The interior is utilitarian—cloth seats, simple dials, and plenty of space in the back. If you need something reliable, cheap to fix, and capable of outlasting newer crossovers, the Forester still makes sense.
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