All posts by Cody Cook

Couple with bikes next to a white 2023 Ford Bronco Sport.

Luxurious, All-Electric, or Value-Packed: Our Top Picks for Excellent Pre-Owned Compact SUVs

Shopping for used SUVs for sale at our dealership is guaranteed to put many high-quality models at your fingertips. Our extensive inventory includes best-selling models from the world’s leading automakers. Fortunately, many of those models include compact SUVs that guarantee more for your money. How so? Here’s a closer look at three categories of compact SUVs to consider on the used lot: luxury models, EVs, and value-packed SUVs. 

Luxury for Less: Shop These Compact SUVs 

Luxury SUVs might fetch mile-high prices on the new lot, but you’ll find your money goes much further when you shop our pre-owned inventory. Our selection includes luxury crossovers from Acura, Lexus, and many other brands. More importantly, these sophisticated chariots offer premium features, innovative technologies, and high-end materials at a fraction of the cost. 

Acura RDX (2019-Present)

The RDX has been a staple in the Acura lineup since 2007, with Honda’s luxury division introducing the latest generation in 2019. Because of this, 2019 and newer models are widely popular on the used lot and continue the automaker’s reputation for building sophisticated and reliable vehicles. So, what can you expect from the RDX?

As a premium compact SUV, the RDX is thoughtfully designed to deliver outstanding performance and an exceptional driving experience. Powered by a 2.0L turbocharged inline-four, the RDX is engaging and responsive as the engine produces 272 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque across these third-generation models. This impressive output is a staple across the RDX trim lineup, which spans from the Base and Technology to mid- and top-tier trims like the A-Spec, Advance, and A-Spec Advance. Each trim features a 10.2-inch center touchscreen with smartphone integration, in-vehicle apps, and premium entertainment features.

Grey 2023 Lexus NZ driving on a city street.

Lexus NX (2021-Present)

With the Lexus NX, Toyota’s luxury division builds on a world-renowned reputation for quality and performance. The NX joined the Lexus family in 2015, debuting its second generation in 2021. The new generation has more standard features that add to the NX’s sophisticated and value-rich packaging. 

The NX offers a multi-engine lineup with a diverse trim family that appeals to various performance, style, and budget needs. You’ll find that the NX 250 sets a high benchmark with its potent 2.5L inline-four, which produces 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque across this generation. The turbocharged 2.4L inline-four under the hood of the NX 350 offers more excitement, thanks to a significantly higher horsepower and torque output that makes it engaging and responsive. The NX is also available as a hybrid or plug-in hybrid, guaranteeing a steady stream of on-demand power that complements the NX’s sporty handling. 

As you explore the NX’s diverse trim family, consider the package options and features. Every trim is feature-rich, but top-tier options like the NX 450h+ F Sport Handling are designed to exceed expectations. These trims feature larger digital displays that offer advanced connectivity and entertainment features, including Google Maps, Google Assistant, Waze, Spotify, Pandora, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. 

Go Electric: Shop These EV Powerhouses 

Adopting an all-electric lifestyle no longer requires paying a premium. So, what’s the catch? There isn’t one when you shop our selection of used EVs that includes potent powerhouses like the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E. 

Tesla Model Y (2020-Present) 

Tesla is one of the biggest names in the EV segment, with the Model Y earning its place as the world’s best-selling vehicle in recent years. As a compact crossover, the Model Y offers drivers the spaciousness of an SUV with the electric performance expected from the Tesla name. On the used lot, these characteristics are widely appealing and offer far more value for your investment. 

Shopping for a used Model Y guarantees several performance options, thanks to its motor configurations, drivetrains, and trims. Depending on the year model, you’ll find the Model Y with a single or dual motor and with all-wheel or rear-wheel drive. These configurations yield different EPA ratings, with the Model Y’s estimated driving range anywhere from 260 miles to 330 miles. Most notably, the crossover blends its sleek styling and functional interior with tech-savvy features, including an expansive 15-inch center touchscreen on models built between 2021 and 2024.

Blue 2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E used SUV for sale driving in a city.

Ford Mustang Mach-E (2021-Present) 

Ford turned heads in 2021 when it introduced the Mach-E as the first-ever extension of the Mustang lineup and its first all-electric SUV. The award-winning EV made a lasting impression with its sleek styling and stunning profile that reflects its penchant for performance. Today, those characteristics are prominent on every Mach-E in our used inventory, enticing drivers like you to join the incredible Mustang legacy. 

The Mach-E’s affinity for performance is undeniable when you discover its impressive powertrain lineup, which offers single and dual motor options with a standard or long-range battery. The configurations are plentiful, with the Mach-E setting a high baseline that reflects its namesake. We see this baseline in models like the 2023 Mach-E with a 72-kWh battery and a single motor that produces 266 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque. That output climbs to 387 lb-ft on the 2024 model. 

Reaching the Mach-E’s best performance means shopping for a GT trim. Designed to satisfy any need for speed, the Mach-E GT offers uncompromising power, courtesy of a 91-kWh battery and a dual-motor configuration that launches the SUV to life, delivering 480 hp and up to 700 lb-ft of torque on 2024 models. The combination is extraordinary, especially with the Mach-E’s bold styling and upscale cabin framed by Ford’s renowned SYNC 4 infotainment system on a 15.5-inch touchscreen. 

Enjoy Next-Level Value: Shop These Best-Selling Road Warriors 

Our inventory is unmatched, catering to those looking for luxury, electric performance, and outstanding value. While value is ingrained in every compact SUV, a few automakers go above and beyond to ensure your money goes further and works harder. We see this in best-selling models like the Ford Bronco Sport and Chevrolet Equinox. 

Ford Bronco Sport (2021-Present) 

The Bronco Sport joined the Ford lineup in 2021, instantly earning its nickname as the “Baby Bronco” alongside its much larger sibling. Sharing the same platform as the Escape, the Bronco Sport appeals to drivers with a penchant for adventure beyond the pavement. As a used model, the four-wheel drive performance and the capability ingrained in the Bronco’s DNA are undeniably enticing. 

The Bronco Sport offers broad appeal because it’s a four-wheel-drive SUV with a diverse trim family that extends from the value-packed Base and Big Bend to mid and top-tier trims like the Outer Banks, Badlands, and First Edition. These trims boast exclusive styling details, each building on a proven powertrain—either a 1.5L EcoBoost turbocharged inline-three or a 2.0L EcoBoost turbocharged inline-four. The engines offer a wide range of capabilities, producing anywhere from 181 to 250 hp and 200 to 280 lb-ft of torque, depending on the model year. Tailoring that performance to the situation is straightforward, thanks to Ford’s selectable drive modes that make the Bronco Sport fully tuned to your driving style and the terrain. 

Red 2022 Chevy Equinox near a glass building.

Chevrolet Equinox (2020-Present)

The Equinox shares the spotlight with the Silverado, earning its place as the automaker’s second most popular model. A fan favorite since 2005, every new generation of the Equinox marks another notch in its evolution as Chevrolet maintains the SUV’s relevance and appeal. For customers looking for a great used SUV, models built between 2020 and 2024 offer everything the world loves about this best-selling SUV. 

Chevrolet recently introduced the fourth-generation Equinox in 2025, making these late third-generation models more popular. For starters, the 2020 Equinox is the last to offer a 2.0L turbocharged inline-four engine, which produces 252 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, providing plenty of excitement behind the wheel. Chevrolet discontinued the engine after 2020, leaving the 1.5L turbocharged inline-four as the Equinox’s standard powertrain. Delivering up to 175 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque, the turbocharged 1.5L makes the Equinox engaging, responsive, and efficient. 

Beyond its heartbeat, the Equinox is stylish, sophisticated, and packed with features. With Chevrolet reducing its trim family to three options in 2025, you’ll find far more trim options on the used lot. Likewise, you can find special edition models, such as the Midnight Edition, Sport Edition, and Redline Edition, that give the Equinox a strikingly distinct appearance. 

Getting More for Your Money 

Shopping for a used SUV no longer requires you to compromise or lower your standards. Instead of refining your list of wants and needs to match your budget, we encourage you to dream big. Our vast selection of high-quality, pre-owned compact SUVs proves it’s possible to get everything you want and more without draining your bank account. 

A white 2020 BMW X5 from the front.

Affordable Luxury Is Within Reach With These Six Pre-Owned SUV Options

When looking at used SUVs for sale, you’ll, of course, notice that the prices are much lower than those of brand-new models. There are two main ways that shoppers use this difference in price: get the same kind of model they might get if they were buying a new SUV and pocket the difference in price for a rainy day or use that difference to upgrade to something nicer than they could afford if they were shopping new. The latter is a great way to experience the quality and comfort of a luxury model without spending an arm and a leg.

Today, we’re going to take a look at six luxury SUVs that are worth keeping an eye out for when you come in to explore our extensive pre-owned inventory here at NJ State Auto Used Cars. We’ve selected a range of different sizes and niches so you can find something that fits your needs. Across the board, we’ve put heavy emphasis on reliability because no number of cabin amenities is going to be a comfort to you if your SUV breaks down a few weeks into ownership. Stick with a trusted model, and you can drive with confidence and comfort. Need some guidance? Stop by and talk with our team today, and they’ll be sure to show you some affordable luxury options.

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A white 2020 BMW X5 is shown from the front at an angle after leaving a dealer that has cars for sale.

Three Great Used Luxury Vehicles That Deliver Value and Style

If you’re a smart shopper, then you know true luxury stands the test of time. That’s why buying a luxury vehicle when it’s brand new rarely makes sense. You pay all the high taxes, fees, and other costs associated with a luxury vehicle, only to see your model rapidly depreciate within the first few years. But, when a model is more than just a trend, it’s going to remain a highly sought-after vehicle for years to come, so exploring used cars for sale from luxury brands is the way to go. 

We carry a variety of luxury vehicles that have consistently topped best-of lists in the luxury space. Boasting timeless looks, premium interiors, advanced technology, and inspiring performance, these models give you that “treat yourself” feeling each time you slide into them. Today, we’d like to highlight three exceptional models: the BMW X5, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and the Lexus NX. We believe that no matter what your unique vehicle needs are, you’ll find the piece of luxury you’ve been after below.

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A black 2024 Chevy Suburban High Country parked in a driveway.

Great SUVs You Should Consider

A good vehicle does a lot more than drive. More than getting you from place to place, you want to invest in something that gives you some good utility and functionality for all the stuff that life throws your way, whether it’s work or fun at any given moment. Having a vehicle that’s ready to tackle life can help prevent the feeling that life is tackling you. When it comes to utility, there is one vehicle type in particular that fits the bill: a vehicle type that has utility in the name. That vehicle type is, of course, the Sport Utility Vehicle, better known as the SUV. These vehicles are made to go above and beyond. While they work just as well for commuting, day-to-day driving is, in some ways, the last thing these vehicles are made for. SUVs are designed for a higher level of use, whether it’s towing or extraordinary uses like off-roading.

As SUVs are designed for such utility, they also make up the majority of the vehicle market right now. At this point in time, nobody has any problem finding SUVs for sale. Because of that, however, it can be somewhat difficult to determine what the best options really are. While there are a lot of great options that could reasonably make anybody’s list, there are a few premiere options that we want to cover today. So, if you’re looking to get into an SUV, let’s look at some great SUVs you should consider.

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A red 2022 Nissan Altima is turning on a city street after getting a Bad credit car loan in Hudson County.

Top Used Cars for Hudson County Drivers on a Budget

Whether you’re regularly making frequent trips into the city for work or you’re carting the kids to school most days of the week, the vehicle you drive must be able to keep up with your active and often demanding lifestyle. You may be on the lookout for a new vehicle, one that’s efficient enough to handle traffic on I-78 while offering you the comfort and convenience features you need to remain relaxed during your ride to and from all of your destinations. If you are working on your credit, however, this may seem easier said than done, and you may feel as though you’re never going to be able to get approved for a car loan, assuming that you’re stuck with your current car for the foreseeable future.

This isn’t the case, though, especially when you work with NJ State Auto Used Cars, where we offer bad credit car loans in Hudson County. This way, those working on improving their credit will be able to get behind the wheel of a vehicle that won’t let them down. So, whether you’re in the market for a sedan, SUV, or something else, see what your options are when you choose to buy used. Here are some of our favorite affordable used cars to shop for that will help you revitalize your time on the bustling city streets.

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A small credit repair sign on a desk at a dealership that offers bad credit car loans in Hudson County.

Exploring Bad Credit Loans: A Path to Rebuilding Your Credit

Buying an automobile is often a necessity rather than a luxury. The freedom you gain from owning your own vehicle is unmatched. Additionally, public transit isn’t an option in all circumstances, which makes owning a car increasingly necessary.

Whether you’re commuting to work, running errands, or enjoying family road trips, reliable transportation can greatly impact your daily life. Unfortunately, many potential drivers today face bad credit scores, which leaves them wondering how to obtain a car loan. If this scenario is familiar to you, our NJ State Auto Used Cars team has good news. We not only help you with a large inventory of dependable cars, but we also offer bad credit car loans in Hudson County. Keep reading to learn more.

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A red 2021 Honda CR-V is shown from the side after looking for cars for sale in Jersey City.

Finding All-Season Confidence on the Used Lot: Five Best-Selling AWD Models

Are you tired of relying on public transit to navigate the bustling metropolis? Whether you’re looking for your first vehicle or your current model is overdue for an upgrade, you can trust our dealership to have high-quality cars for sale in Jersey City. But why are we the best? Our inventory is constantly cycling as our team cultivates a shopper’s paradise of pre-owned models that answer every need, from driving and performance to style and budget. We’re here to give you the best models to choose from in one convenient location, and that work begins now. Here’s a closer look at excellent used models with all-wheel drive that offer all-season confidence, giving you one less thing to worry about as you navigate your busy life in the Sixth Borough.

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A blue 2015 Toyota Tacoma is shown driving on a city street.

Ten Great Reasons to Shop for a Used Vehicle

Shopping for a car isn’t always easy; you have a ton of options available to you, and trying to narrow them down can be a hassle. It helps to work with a great dealership that has your back as you look at cars for sale in Jersey City, but it also helps to limit the vehicles you’re looking at to make navigating everything easier. If you focus on only pre-owned vehicles, for example, you have already given yourself an advantage since you have a narrower pool of models to check out and shop from. We have customers come to us all the time wondering if choosing a used vehicle is really the best move, so let’s look at some of our top reasons to pick a used car and see if they speak to you.

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A blue 2022 Honda Civic is shown from the side at night.

Eight Sedans That Are Great Pre-Owned Options

Before the SUV craze took off in the early 2000s, the four-door sedan was considered the most economical and practical means of transportation. In many regards, it still is. Four-door sedans offer conservative fuel consumption, are inexpensive to insure, and are effective for daily commutes and weekend getaways.

Here at NJ State Auto Used Cars, your premier used car dealership; we fully understand how viable the four-seat sedan is regarding the basic needs of the average consumer. It’s why we carry a vast selection of used sedans for sale, as well as many other types of vehicles that are held to the highest standards of quality. Let’s take a closer look at some of the models we feel are too enticing to pass on.

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A red, a white, and a green 2023 Toyota RAV4 are shown parked near a coastline.

Six Models to Consider When Shopping for a Pre-Owned SUV

There are a number of SUVs out there on the market, and many of them have something appealing or worthwhile for all types of drivers out there. But if you’re looking for a used car dealership that carries high-quality SUVs of a certain quality, there are going to be some specific models from certain brands you’re likely going to want to keep an eye on if you want something reliable, great on fuel economy, or extremely versatile when it comes to its feature set. For those kinds of drivers, we decided to compile a list of the top six used SUVs you should certainly consider shopping for if you’re looking for something that you know is worth the price of admission, comes with a lot of great features, and is also highly convenient for driving in and around the city with.

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