4 Wheel Drive/SUVs: used small suv, suzuki vitara, mechanical problems

Question
I am in the market for a 1998-2000 small suv and considering RAV4, CRV and Suzuki Vitara. The Vitara seems to be selling for less than the others. I don't plan to use it off-road; is it whorthwhile considering or should I stick with the Honda and Toyota?

Answer
Hi Dave and thanks for the question.  Used cars are priced according to what the ultimate purchaser will pay.  This is why the Toyota and the Honda are higher priced.  They have less problems, sell rapidly and are a great value for the money.  I do not know much about the Suzuki now but in times past they had a LOT of mechanical problems.  I personally have a RAV4 with over 27,000 miles on it and it has been perfect for me and I only use it on hard surfaced roads.  Again, thanks for the question.  Best of Luck, Bud