A blue 2022 Honda Passport Elite is shown driving on a city street after visiting a used auto dealer.

In today’s fast-paced world, having a vehicle that flows with you as you transition from work to your side hustle or to picking up the kids after school is not only nice, it’s essential. The good news is that our team at Ryan Honda offers a wide selection of midsize SUVs to choose from that will not only meet but exceed your expectations. In addition, as a trustworthy used auto dealer, you can also find a used midsize SUV at a great price when you shop with our team.

The SUV is, by far, the most popular vehicle type in the nation. This makes sense since they offer exceptional cargo space and the functionality you need to manage your everyday tasks. However, this also means that most automotive brands have SUVs in their lineups, and while choices are great to have, it can also be overwhelming if you’re trying to find the right one on your own—especially a midsize one that's pre-owned.

Our team can help streamline the process by focusing on your needs and your plans for your new-to-you midsize SUV. This provides a stress-free shopping experience and gives you much-needed support. Continue reading to learn more about your midsize SUV options and how each one delivers its cargo space and functionality.

Understanding Cargo Volume

When exploring used SUVs, it’s essential to understand the basics of cargo volume. First and foremost, when looking at cargo space, you’ll see that automakers measure the space in "cubic feet." You’ll also notice that there is more than one measurement provided. For instance, if the SUV you’re looking at has three rows, you’ll see the total amount of cargo space with the second and third rows folded down, the amount of space with only the third row folded down, and a third number that is representative of the space you have when all the rows are upright. It can get more confusing when the SUV in question has a passenger seat that folds flat, giving you extended cargo space.

It’s also important to know how manufacturers arrive at this measurement. Generally, vehicles are measured from the top of the seat to the back of the gate. This takes into account that cargo should not go higher than the top of the seat for safety reasons. You might also see information regarding how much luggage the cargo area can accommodate to give you an easier way to envision that space. Finally, there may also be space underneath the cargo floor in some SUVs; while this space doesn’t add much in most instances, it’s still good to know if the SUV you’re looking at has it, as it can come in handy.

Beyond understanding cargo volume, it’s important to evaluate how easy it is to access the space. Many SUVs have a power liftgate that you can open with your foot, a button, or the keyfob. At the same time, when looking at SUVs on our lot, pay attention to the rear bumper. Is it too high or too low for your needs? Do you feel cramped with the liftgate open, or do you have plenty of room to access the space as you feel fit? With these things in mind, let’s look at how the cargo space stacks up for some of today’s more popular SUVs...
A blue 2022 Chevy Equinox is shown driving on a highway.

Finding the Right Midsize SUV for You

As mentioned, you’ll find many used midsize SUVs on our lot that offer modern amenities, advanced driver assistance tech, and the latest connectivity tools. Our team can help you explore each of those, as well as your cargo needs. In addition, we can explore accessories and how those might help you organize or even increase the amount of storage your SUV offers. Some of the midsize SUVs you might consider include...

The Honda Passport

The Honda Passport has consistently ranked at the top of its class since its introduction. It is a great midsize option for the everyday driver who wants fuel efficiency, safety features, an elevated driving position, and more. When looking at a used Passport, you will see that the 2022 model year offers you 50.5 cu.ft. of cargo space with the second row upright. That space increases to an exceptional 100.7 cu.ft. when the second row is folded down. In addition, you’ll also find storage spaces thoughtfully placed throughout the interior and a large center console bin.

When accessing the cargo space, you’ll enjoy the standard power liftgate, which can be operated up to fifty feet away using the Smart Entry Key or from the driver's seat with a push of a button. Even better? The liftgate also closes easily with another button push, so you don’t need to worry about reaching the handle or getting out of the car if you remain seated while the cargo is loaded.

The Chevrolet Equinox

The Chevrolet Equinox offers the same seating capacity as the Honda Passport, as well as safety and technology amenities that give you confidence during the drive. Additionally, like the Passport, it offers a large center console for things you need to access quickly. It's worth noting, though, that the Equinox is technically a compact SUV, even though it's just on the edge of being considered a midsize model.

Regarding cargo space of the 2022 model, you’ll find 29.9 cu.ft. behind the second row and up to 63.9 cu.ft. when that row is folded down. When shopping for a used Equinox, it’s important to check the availability of trims with a power or hands-free liftgate, as the 2022 model comes standard with a manual liftgate. However, when searching our used inventory, you might find one that has all the bells and whistles you need.

The Toyota Highlander

Another used midsize SUV to consider is the three-row Toyota Highlander. Like the Passport and Equinox, the Highlander offers a comfortable second row and thoughtful styling throughout, but it gets extra praise for managing to include a third row for two more seats. This is a popular SUV for family drivers, as it offers great dependability and fuel efficiency.

As for cargo space, the 2022 Highlander offers rear seats that are easy to fold down, giving you wide access to the cargo area. When looking at the measurements, you’ll find the Highlander has 16.0 cu.ft. of storage when all seats are up, 48.4 cu.ft. when the rear row is down, and 84.3 cu.ft. when both rows are folded down. Like the Equinox, you can find 2022 Highlanders with either a manual, power, or hands-free liftgate.
A white 2022 Toyota Highlander XSE is shown driving near a cactus.

Check Out Our Selection of Used SUVs Today

The three SUVs above are only a few of the options we have on our lot at Ryan Honda. You’ll also find a selection of used Honda CR-Vs, which is one of the most popular SUVs in the nation, as well as SUVs from many other well-known brands.

You can start your search online—accessing our inventory from the comfort of your couch—or you can come in and talk with our team about your cargo needs. While there, don’t forget to ask us about accessories that can take your cargo space to the next level. For instance, the Honda Passport can be outfitted with a cargo organizer to ensure everything stays put, or you can move cargo to the exterior rear with the addition of genuine Honda parts like a kayak or bike attachment.

Regardless of the SUV you choose, our team can assist you every step of the way, including offering preventative maintenance to ensure your used SUV continues to work as it should. Stop by and talk with a member of our team today, and start taking advantage of the freedom you'll gain with expanded cargo space and a reliable SUV.

Categories: Used Auto Dealer