SUVs are still one of the most preferred options for American consumers, outselling sedans for the first time in 2015. And fortunately, you've got options if you’re looking for a used SUV in the 10-year range.

Jerry

, the

trustworthy insurance comparison app

, looks into the 2012

Toyota

RAV4, Consumer Reports’ top choice for a satisfying compact SUV.

Reliable and affordable used SUVs

Consumer Reports

compiled a list of the Most Satisfying 10-Year-Old SUVs you can get your hands on. The list includes fuel-efficient, reliable vehicles, and ones that shoppers said they would buy again.

The top picks are also more likely to provide owners with trouble-free service. While Honda and Lexus also made the cut, the 2012 Toyota RAV4 came out on top.

Before shopping, it’s important to manage expectations when it comes to safety features. You won’t likely find active safety features like automatic emergency braking (AEB), lane departure warning (LDW), and forward collision warning (FCW).

To see how your preferred model performed in safety tests, check out the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

MORE: More SUVs Should Copy the Coolest Toyota 4Runner Feature

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2012 Toyota RAV4: the best decade-old compact SUV

If you’re looking for a compact SUV, the Toyota RAV4 is a well-rounded, comfortable ride. Starting at around $11,500, the 2012 model offers a spacious rear seat, impressive fuel economy, and straightforward controls. And an optional third-row seat can provide seating for up to seven people.

The 2012 Toyota RAV4 sports a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 179 hp. Driving on regular fuel, the SUV gets an overall 23 mpg. For owners looking for an extra boost of power, the optional V6 engine comes highly rated, providing a greater towing capacity as well. When tested, the V6 version gets 22 mpg.

Drivers found that the four-speed automatic transmission shifted smoothly and responsibly. While the vehicle does have an intuitive manual feature, a manual transmission was never offered.

The Toyota RAV4 absorbs bumps and pavement flaws with good isolation. While you may experience the occasional odd jiggle, the vehicle is stable on the highway. Riders will experience a mix of wind and road noise in the cabin over a muted engine hum.

Owners are generally satisfied with the base model’s supportive front seats, but tall drivers may find the short seat cushion limiting when it comes to thigh support. Unfortunately, the cushion isn’t adjustable.

The rear bench seat is perfect for two adults, but will feel a bit cramped for three. However, passengers will appreciate the ample headroom and legroom. Both the cloth and leather seat options are comfy and offer supportive cushions.

Entry and exit are a breeze, thanks to flush sills, a low floor, and a generous front door opening. Every door offers assist grips up above. By stowing the third row and folding the 60/40 second-row seats, you can create plenty of cargo space for pool toys on your next

road trip to Palm Springs

The right-hinged rear gate is convenient, but make sure to leave enough room to open it when parallel parking in the city.

Consumer Reports weighs in

The four-door SUV received an overall reliability rating of 5 out of 5 from Consumer Reports. It also received the same score for its excellent transmission, front access, and usability.

For its routine handling, emergency handling, braking, headlights, ride noise, and driving position, the 2012 Toyota RAV4 earned a 4 out of 5. It also scored the same for its front-seat comfort, rear seat comfort, rear access, and interior fit/finish.

Coming in at a 3 out of 5 rating are the SUV’s overall owner satisfaction, acceleration, trunk/cargo area, and climate system. For emissions, the auto also received a 3 out of 5 for its fuel economy, greenhouse gas, and smog rating.

Anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and traction control all come standard.

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