As families grow larger and the necessity for space and cargo capacity increases, the demand for SUVs increases. In the past decade alone, SUVs have made up approximately 81% of automotive sales, making them one of the most prominent vehicle types in the modern world.
Though the average SUV is perfect for the average family, many drivers aspire for more, pursuing high-end powerhouses such as those made by Mercedes-Benz. These SUVs differ from other vehicles in that they’re more luxurious, have better performance on average, and are equipped with many safety and quality-of-life features.
But what makes Mercedes SUVs worth buying secondhand, and which models should you keep an eye out for in particular?
Mercedes SUVs Worth Getting Secondhand
One of the biggest factors that makes any vehicle, secondhand or not, worth getting is how reliable it is. Most people looking for SUVs are keen on finding cars that can accommodate the size of their family, support heavy cargo, and offer solid engine performance without compromising fuel efficiency. With this in mind, the best SUVs are the ones that can reliably satisfy the needs of their drivers.
Some of the best Mercedes SUVs you should consider buying secondhand include the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC, and the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE.
2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK

Renowned for its reliability, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK is a cut above other Mercedes SUVs because of its excellent fuel efficiency and powerful performance. It’s a well-designed vehicle that offers revised power steering and an engine stop-start system on top of excellent safety features like anti-lock brakes, stability control, and traction control.
Engine: 3.5-liter V6 engine
Top Speed: 130 mph
Horsepower: 302 hp
Torque: 273 lb-ft
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC

Another Mercedes SUV worth keeping an eye on is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC — another vehicle lauded by car enthusiasts for its reliability. This model is equipped with a new and improved powertrain that gives it better performance compared to its predecessors. On top of its classy and luxurious appearance, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC offers drivers superb ride quality and a perfect blend of both balance and comfort, making it a solid pick for day-to-day drives.
Engine: 2.0-liter inline-4 engine
Top Speed: 149 mph
Horsepower: 255 hp
Torque: 273 lb-ft
2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE

Though the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE has successors, it is arguably more reliable than newer models of the same line. It’s a powerhouse of a vehicle with solid performance all across the board because of its 3.5-liter V6 engine, and it’s equipped with many standard safety, tech, and luxury features to make for a smoother and safer driving experience. What distinguishes this vehicle from the rest is its comfortable and roomy interior.
Engine: 3.5-liter V6 engine
Top Speed: 130 mph
Horsepower: 302 hp
Torque: 273 lb-ft
What Makes Mercedes SUVs Worth Buying Used?
Good looks and powerful performance aside, Mercedes SUVs are popular for three major reasons: high resale value, advanced safety features, and accessibility despite being luxury vehicles.
High Resale Value
Because Mercedes SUVs are durable and perform well, they retain most of their value. Though this does mean you’ll likely need to spend more on buying one used, you can also sell it for a much higher price than the average used vehicle.
Advanced Safety Features
Many modern Mercedes SUVs are equipped with state-of-the-art safety features designed to keep drivers and passengers alike out of harm’s way. This includes blind spot assist, anti-lock brakes, and active lane keeping assist.
Affordable Luxury
A secondhand Mercedes SUV is one of the easiest and most accessible ways to get your hands on a luxury vehicle. Though secondhand Mercedes vehicles are by no means cheap, they’re significantly more affordable than ones that are brand new.
Tips for Buying Secondhand Vehicles
It’s important to ask the right questions and inspect the right parts if you want to avoid getting a bad deal. If you’re interested in buying a secondhand Mercedes SUV, keep these handy tips in mind to help you stay on top of your game:
- Ensure you get a vehicle that fits your lifestyle and ticks all the boxes of things you need from your car.
- Always inspect the tires and brakes and ensure they work properly before locking in a purchase.
- Take your time doing your research to find the perfect vehicle for you to avoid bad deals from dishonest salesmen.
- Don’t neglect to check vehicle history records and reports to see if any parts have been replaced or if it has any underlying problems.
- Check the age and mileage of the vehicle to help you gauge its condition more accurately.
- Consult your mechanic and ask for their opinion on whether or not the vehicle is worth purchasing.
- Always negotiate for a better price.
Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.