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Best 500+ hp used SUVs under $30,000: what to watch

© A. Krivonosov
Explore five high-performance used SUVs with 500+ hp under $30,000. Pros, common issues, and maintenance caveats for F-Pace SVR, Cayenne Turbo, X5 M, ML 63.
Michael Powers, Editor

If what you want is an SUV that moves with sports-car intent but your budget tops out around the price of a new Toyota RAV4, the U.S. used market still hides a few rare yet tempting finds. SPEEDME.RU singles out five SUVs with more than 500 hp that can be had for under $30,000—with one important caveat: maintenance costs sit squarely in premium territory, and sometimes even higher.

Jaguar F-Pace SVR

One of the standout picks. Its 550-hp supercharged V8 sounds fantastic, and early 2019–2020 examples are priced attractively and already come with CarPlay. The trade-offs are expensive parts and the risk of coolant leaks, so a careful inspection pays off.

Porsche Cayenne Turbo

In its first two generations, it offers a twin-turbo V8 with 500+ hp but demands vigilance: known weak points include the cooling system, cam phaser bolts, and the transmission. Still, by feel, it comes across as one of the most driver-focused choices here, rewarding those willing to stay on top of upkeep.

Range Rover Supercharged

It shares the 5.0-liter supercharged V8 with Jaguar, rated at 510 hp. More comfortable and spacious, it also carries a status-heavy presence. Typical headaches revolve around electronics and the air suspension, which means condition and service history matter as much as the badge.

BMW X5 M
© press.bmwgroup.com

BMW X5 M and X6 M

These bring a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 and seriously strong performance, but they insist on diligent care. Rod bearing wear, cooling-system stress, and oil consumption are known issues—cutting corners here usually costs more later.

Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG

A genre classic, offered with a naturally aspirated 6.2 V8 or the later 5.5 twin-turbo. Both deliver a stirring soundtrack. Early engines may need cylinder head bolt repairs, and the air suspension isn’t cheap, yet the payoff in character and punch can be worth the patience—and the maintenance budget.