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Seven Small SUVs We'd Recommend Rhinebeck Drivers Buy Used

Red 2020 Ford Escape parked near a market after visiting a used car dealer in Rhinebeck.

Traveling through Dutchess County, it helps to have a vehicle that can take on everything from traffic on your way to work to bouts of bad winter weather, which leads many area drivers to SUVs. However, although you may be interested in an SUV, you don't want to have to deal with the challenges that many face with larger options, such as parking or navigating traffic. 

This is why small-size options are so popular, for everyone from new drivers to commuters—and if you want to get more for your money, shopping pre-owned is highly recommended. When it comes to the best used car dealer in Rhinebeck, Ruge's Ford is it, and we've compiled a list of great used subcompact and compact SUVs for Rhinebeck travelers.

#1 - The Ford Escape

This compact SUV is known for its eye-catching exterior styling, impressive powertrain options, and car-like handling, making it ideal for a variety of drivers throughout Rhinebeck. Choosing a model from its latest generation, which hit the streets in 2020, will allow you to access advanced driver assistance aids, modern styling, and Ford-level performance to really elevate your time cruising. 

You'll find that models from 2020 and newer showcase the Escape in a whole new light, with bold styling elements and comfortable appointments to attract those who have no need for a large and cumbersome SUV but still want to stand out on the streets. If you want an SUV that handles like a car and offers powerful performance, the Escape is worth a closer look.

#2 - The Honda CR-V

Another superstar in the compact segment is the reliable, practical, and accommodating Honda CR-V. It's known for its exceptional handling, excellent fuel efficiency, and penchant for holding its value among the best on the market. Those seeking the best CR-Vs out there will want to turn their attention to the sixth generation of this Honda favorite, which debuted in 2023.

This iteration brought a larger build to enhance space and comfort inside, as well as a more contemporary design with higher-end appointments to really revitalize your time on the Rhinebeck streets. The CR-V is a jack of all trades, able to appeal to everyone from busy parents to city commuters, weekend road trippers, and any driver in between, providing you with Honda-level dependability during your time on Route 9.

#3 - The Chevy Equinox

Another versatile favorite is the compact Chevy Equinox, recognized for its do-it-all mentality, spacious interior, and affordable price tag. It's a bestseller for the bowtie brand, and when you want to make the most of your time coasting along the Hudson River, you'll want the Equinox in charge of your ride. 

Models from its previous generation, which debuted in 2018, are our top picks, as they offer access to all the latest convenience and safety tech that drivers are looking for, as well as cozy styling components to make your commute more enjoyable each day, all for a reasonable price point. Choosing a model from 2022 and newer helps you take advantage of a design refresh, which consists of a new grille design, lighting elements, and bumpers to make this practical everyday traveler a bit more of a head-turner on the streets.

Side of an orange 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited parked near a brick wall.

#4 - The Subaru Crosstrek

Rhinebeck drivers know that winter weather can wreak havoc on your daily commute, but when you have a vehicle equipped with legendary all-wheel-drive capabilities, conquering the elements is easier than ever. This is why the subcompact Subaru Crosstrek is a favorite for many locals, offering access to standard all-wheel-drive capabilities and a safety suite that's one of the best on the market. 

The Crosstrek has just entered its third generation for the 2024 model year, so sticking to models from its second generation is advised, especially when you want to get more of the features you need for less. Opting for models from 2021 and newer allows you to enjoy a more powerful Sport trim to heighten your time on the road, as well as enhanced styling elements. If you want a vehicle that holds its value among the best in the business, you'll want a Subaru.

#5 - The Toyota Corolla Cross

Another subcompact option is the Toyota Corolla Cross, and although it hasn't been on the market for long, it has made a name for itself. The SUV version of one of America's favorite compact sedans made its debut for the 2022 model year and is still currently in its first generation, meaning that any used model you find will offer the modern features you are looking for to improve your travels. 

You'll find that the Corolla Cross exhibits the same great reliability that all of Toyota's vehicles are known for, and with a higher stance than its sedan counterpart, you'll be able to enjoy improved visibility on board. With a host of tech and safety features, plus ample cargo space, the Corolla Cross makes for a pleasant ride through Rhinebeck and beyond.

#6 - The GMC Terrain

GMC is known for designing rugged yet sophisticated vehicles, and when it comes to a compact option that's unlike the rest, the Terrain is it. It's known for its stylish features both inside and out, as well as its capable handling and roomy interior, making it perfect for daily drivers who want luxury but don't want to spring for a luxury vehicle. 

The Terrain has just entered its third generation this year, so if you want to enjoy outstanding features for less, then the second generation (which debuted in 2018) will do the trick. You'll find that these models are smaller and lighter than previous Terrain models, allowing you to sail down the highway and maneuver through traffic with precision. With a slew of powerful engines available, creating the ride quality you desire is easy with this GMC superstar leading the way.

#7 - The Ford Bronco Sport

Those who daydream about taking an epic adventure to Delaware State Forest but also have their daily commute to think about will want to seriously consider the subcompact Bronco Sport. It's the little brother to the bigger Bronco, known for its legendary off-road chops. The Bronco Sport offers access to impressive off-road features to intensify your journeys off the beaten path.

Yet, it also offers smooth, agile handling and exceptional fuel efficiency, making it a well-respected commute companion. This means you're able to off-road with the best while also seamlessly transitioning back to the pavement. Since this breakthrough Bronco spin-off just made its debut for the 2021 model year, any used model you find will offer you the features and performance you need to venture on the road or off with confidence.

Bronze 2022 Ford Bronco Sport driving off-road.

Ride Through Rhinebeck in the Right-Sized Vehicle

When it comes to your Rhinebeck travels, you'll want to carefully consider the subcompact and compact SUVs mentioned above. From the off-road tenacity that the Bronco Sport offers to top-value options from Subaru, Honda, and Toyota, you'll find that there's a small-sized traveler in the mix to make your time traveling anywhere a more satisfying experience.

Whether you're looking for a vehicle that's a bit roomier so that you can install a car seat in the back and accommodate a stroller, or you're on the hunt for a vehicle with phenomenal fuel efficiency, subcompact and compact SUVs won't let you down. If you're ready to get behind the wheel of a vehicle that meets your every need, you'll want to shop from our superior selection of used vehicles here at Ruge's Ford.

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Rear of a blue 2023 Ford Expedition parked near an ocean after visiting a used car dealer in Rhinebeck.

5 Used SUVs That Are Ideal for Family Life

Are you looking for a pre-owned SUV that's ready for busy carpool mornings, after-school activities, and weekend roadtrips with the family? As a used car dealer in Rhinebeck, we know exactly which models possess the features right for Dutchess County drivers. If you're in that phase of life that involves lots of sippy cups and late-night homework sessions, then you need a vehicle that can keep up. more A select handful of SUVs have proven to not just meet the needs of families, but also stand the test of time. And when you're saving for your kid's college tuition or piano lessons, we know that every dollar counts. Here, we'll cover five of our favorite pre-owned SUVs that are built for family life. From spacious interiors to terrific safety and school-ready technology, these five used SUVs are ready to roll with your kiddos. #1 - The Ford Expedition (2022-2024) When you want a truly spacious vehicle that will eradicate backseat complaints, the full-size Expedition is the way to go. It's known for its roomy rear seats. In fact, the back two rows are power-folding, allowing you to quickly create extra cargo space when you need it. The CenterSlide technology even lets the center seat in the second row slide forward, independently of the bench, providing easy third-row access. With a total of 15 beverage holders throughout the Expedition, everyone can bring up to two beverages along for the ride! So you can encourage your kids to each bring a water and allow for that one "treat" beverage, too. Are you headed on an adventure outside of Rhinebeck? Your young kids shouldn't get too antsy, thanks to the available rear-seat entertainment system. Your children can watch shows and movies to pass the time, instead of repeatedly asking, "Are we there yet?" In 2023 and newer models, the driver can enjoy an available 15.5-inch infotainment touchscreen. This laptop-sized display makes it easy to see your turn-by-turn directions. And when little ones are trying to distract you from the backseat, you need all the help you can get to know when your next turn is. The Expedition has an impressive number of standard and available safety features. Every model includes features like automatic emergency braking, a rearview camera, and lane-keeping assist. Upper trims get adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and parking assist features, so you can hit the road with more confidence that your precious cargo is in good hands. #2 - The Ford Edge (2021-2022) Do you only need seating for five, but want to keep it spacious for all riders? Consider the Ford Edge, a midsize SUV with a comfortable interior. Its five seats are highly configurable, too. An EasyFold rear seat lets you create extra cargo space when you need it, putting down just one or both sides of the rear row, so you can easily haul those groceries across Rhinebeck. Throughout the Edge, you'll find conveniently-placed storage cubbies, perfect for your family's odds and ends, from books to devices to snacks. As for loading up the trunk when your hands are full (like with a toddler and a much-needed coffee), there's an available hands-free liftgate; just wave your foot beneath the bumper with your key fob on your body, and the trunk will open for you. For a traditional gas-engine model, the Edge gets solid fuel economy, too. That means less funds spent on gas (which you'd prefer to spend on karate lessons), and less time at the pump with impatient kids in the car. The Edge also boasts eight cupholders—a generous number for its five seats. Plus, like the Expedition, it's packed with great standard safety features, like a blind spot information system and automatic high beams. #3 - The Kia Telluride (2021-2022) The Kia Telluride is a popular three-row SUV with a fresh, fun, and family-friendly design. Its interior boasts a flexible design that can adapt to your daily needs. The second-row seats fold flat at the touch of a button to create ample cargo space; they also slide forward, creating easy third-row access. The third row even has reclining seatbacks, letting rear passengers get into ultra-comfortable positions for watching shows, reading books, or just relaxing. Plus, if you only need seating for seven, you can opt for the luxurious second-row captain's chairs. Do you want to keep rowdy rear-seat riders in line? The Driver Talk feature can help with that. It projects the driver's voice through rear speakers at the touch of a button, so you can ask your kids to stop fighting over the snacks without having to raise your voice. Do you have kids who are addicted to their devices? Well, they're in luck because there are USB charge ports in every row of the Telluride, so everyone can keep smartphones and tablets powered up. And, when nap time arrives, quiet mode lets you mute the rear speakers to create a peaceful environment. #4 - The Toyota Highlander (2021-2023) Another cavernous three-row SUV, the Highlander, is a favorite among road-tripping families, but it's equally ready for daily life around Rhinebeck. One of the most journey-worthy traits of the Highlander is its available hybrid powertrain. With a hybrid Highlander, you can enjoy tremendous fuel efficiency, comparable to that of a sedan. This should result in serious savings, and what family can't appreciate that? The Highlander also has an in-vehicle PA system called Driver Easy Speak. It lets you speak through a microphone mounted in the overhead console and amplifies your voice through the rear-seat speakers—so, like the Kia Telluride, the Highlander makes it easy to communicate with rear riders. The Highlander also has tons of terrific safety features. A family favorite is the road sign assist, which detects posted traffic signs, like speed and yield signs, and projects their icons onto your driver display. There's never a shortage of distractions when you're driving little ones, so you'll probably appreciate this extra help monitoring the rules of the road. Like the other large SUVs on this list, the Highlander has an impressively flexible interior. The second-row and third-row seats fold flat, while the second-row seats also slide and recline, providing easy third-row access and a comfortable position for riders. #5 - The GMC Yukon (2021-2023) The GMC Yukon has long been a beloved model among families who simply need a lot of space. Not only does the classic Yukon have tremendous passenger and cargo room, but its cousin, the Yukon XL, takes things to the next level. The Yukon XL extends rear-seat legroom and cargo space in the Yukon, making it perfect for Rhinebeck families who have teenagers or kids who've sprouted up faster than expected. When your crew has outgrown most other large SUVs, the Yukon XL can comfortably accommodate them. From a parent's perspective, you might also love the Yukon's famously pleasant luxury trims. The 2021 and 2022 models have the Denali, which gets you heated and ventilated front seats, perforated leather seats, a hands-free power liftgate, and other upscale perks. However, if you're looking for the cream of the crop, find a 2023 Yukon. In 2023, the Yukon got the Denali Ultimate trim. With massaging front seats, this trim might save the day when the day is particularly stressful. It also has standard Super Cruise, GMC's hands-free driving tool. So when you simply need a break from constant steering and speed adjustments, let Super Cruise take over.