Most Reliable Used Cars That Fit Your Budget
One way to ensure you get the most value for your money when car shopping is to buy a used
vehicle rather than a new one. Used cars are not only cheaper than new cars but also have
much of their depreciation already accounted for. This means that when you purchase a used
car, its value does not immediately shrink the second you drive it off the lot.
The Benefits of Buying Used Cars
When considering your next car purchase, buying used offers several advantages. Firstly, used
cars are generally more affordable than their new counterparts. Additionally, the depreciation hit
has already been absorbed by the first owner, meaning the car holds its value better over time.
According to recent data from CarEdge, the average used car listing in 2024 is $25,571.
Although this is still a considerable sum, it is well below the average price of a new car, which
Kelley Blue Book estimates was $48,401 in July 2024. With some research, you can find quality
used cars at even lower prices.
Understanding Depreciation
Depreciation is the loss of value over time, and it significantly impacts new cars. When you buy
a new car, its value decreases rapidly in the first few years. For used cars, much of this
depreciation has already occurred, allowing you to avoid this initial loss in value.
Factors Affecting Used Car Prices
Several factors influence used car prices, including the car’s make, model, age, mileage, and
overall condition. Market demand and supply also play a significant role. Platforms like CarEdge
and Kelley Blue Book provide valuable insights and tools to help you determine fair prices for
used cars.
Reliable Used Cars to Consider
Here are ten of the best and most reliable used cars that can fit your budget heading into the
new year:
- 2016-2019 Chevrolet Cruze
Price Range: $7,475-$9,925
Owner Reported MPG: 33 mpg
The second-generation Chevy Cruze receives great reviews from Consumer Reports for its
smooth power, big cabin, and comfortable ride. In its second year, it became more reliable,
which increased the appeal of the 2017 model year. - 2015-2018 Toyota Prius
Median Price: $14,000-$17,000
EPA Combined Fuel Economy: 46-50 mpg
The Toyota Prius was chosen as a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway
Safety (IIHS) and won Cars.com’s 2016 Eco-Friendly Car of the Year. It provides very low fuel
consumption in a reasonably priced hatchback. - 2010-2013 Honda Fit
Price Range: $6,850-$7,250
Owner Reported MPG: 32 mpg
Redesigned in 2009, this generation of the Honda Fit is quicker, safer, and more modern than
previous models. The Fit has a willing and smooth engine, nimble handling, and a responsive
feel. - 2014-2017 Acura ILX
Median Price: $13,000-$17,000
EPA Combined Fuel Economy:
38 mpg for hybrids and 25–29 mpg for gas-only vehicles
This version of the Acura ILX features upgraded suspension and steering, offering decent
handling and ride quality. Also, it is a Top Safety Pick by IIHS. - 2016-2017 Chevrolet Volt
Median Price: $15,000-$16,000
The hybrid vehicle achieves an EPA Combined Fuel Economy of 42 mpg after 53 miles of
all-electric driving with a full battery charge.
The Chevrolet Volt has a useful all-electric range for daily driving and good fuel economy. Also,
it is a Top Safety Pick by IIHS. - 2013 Mazda3
Price Range: $6,275-$9,925
Owner Reported MPG: 32 mpg
The Mazda3’s powertrain changes in 2012 improved its fuel economy. It delivers smooth and
ample performance and earns high marks for its handling. - 2017-2018 Toyota Corolla
Median Price: $15,500-$17,000
EPA Combined Fuel Economy: 30-34 mpg
The 2017 Toyota Corolla includes impressive standard safety and driver-assistance features.
These include a backup camera, forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, and more,
earning it a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS. - 2011 Lexus ES
Price Range: $9,500
Owner Reported MPG: 24 mpg
The Lexus ES provides a smooth ride and excellent fuel efficiency. It is a reliable luxury
automobile with standard rear-seat side airbags. - 2015 Honda CR-V
Median Price: About $16,500
EPA Combined Fuel Economy: 28-29 mpg
The Honda CR-V is known as a carpool SUV due to its wide door openings, low step-in height,
and ample cargo floor.Also, it is a Top Safety Pick by IIHS. - 2010-2013 Toyota Corolla
Price Range: $7,525-$8,125
Owner Reported MPG: 30 mpg
The Toyota Corolla offers excellent fuel economy, sound handling, and a suspension system
that absorbs bumps well.
|
New Vehicles Highest Predicted Reliability for 2025 |
Auto Brands Highest Predicted Reliability for 2025 |
||
|
Consumer Reports |
Reliability Rankings |
Consumer Reports |
Reliability Rankings |
|
Toyota Corolla Hybrid and Prius |
76 |
Toyota |
62 |
|
Lexus NX Hybrid |
76 |
Lexus |
65 |
|
Lexus NX |
77 |
Honda |
59 |
|
Hyundai Elantra Hybrid |
79 |
Acura |
55 |
|
BMW i4 |
83 |
Mazda |
55 |
|
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid |
83 |
Audi |
54 |
|
Mazda MX-5 |
84 |
BMW |
53 |
|
Toyota RAV4 PHEV |
84 |
Kia |
51 |
|
Subaru Impreza |
85 |
Hyundai |
52 |
|
Tips for Buying a Used Car |
|
|
Tips |
Description |
|
Set a Budget |
Determine how much you can afford to spend on a used car, including insurance, taxes, and |
|
Research Models |
Choose models that are renowned for their dependability, safety features, and fuel efficiency |
|
Check Vehicle History |
To find out about any previous collisions, repairs, or title problems, get a vehicle history report |
|
Inspect the Car |
To make sure the car is in good shape, have it inspected by a reliable technician. |
|
Test Drive |
To evaluate the car’s handling, comfort, and performance, take it for a test drive. |
|
Negotiate Price |
Based on your research and the condition of the automobile, be ready to haggle over the price with the seller. |
Final Thoughts
Choosing a reliable used car involves careful research and consideration of several factors,
including price, fuel economy, and safety ratings. By opting for one of the models listed above,
you can find a dependable vehicle that fits your budget and meets your needs.
FAQs
Q: What are the advantages of buying a used car instead of a new one?
Buying a used car is generally more affordable than a new one. Additionally, much of the
depreciation has already occurred, meaning the car holds its value better over time. You can
obtain greater value for your money as a result.
Q: How can I determine the fair price for a used car?
You can determine the fair price for a used car by using online tools and resources such as
CarEdge and Kelley Blue Book. These platforms provide insights into the current market value
of used cars based on make, model, age, mileage, and condition.
Q: What aspects need to be taken into account while purchasing a secondhand car?
When buying a used car, consider factors such as the car’s reliability, fuel economy, safety
ratings, price, mileage, and overall condition. It’s also important to check the vehicle history
report and have the car inspected by a trusted mechanic.
Q: Are there any reliable used cars that are also budget-friendly?
Yes, several reliable used cars fit various budgets. Some options include the 2016-2019
Chevrolet Cruze, 2015-2018 Toyota Prius, 2010-2013 Honda Fit, 2014-2017 Acura ILX,
2016-2017 Chevrolet Volt, 2013 Mazda3, 2017-2018 Toyota Corolla, 2011 Lexus ES, 2015
Honda CR-V, and the 2010-2013 Toyota Corolla.
Q: How does depreciation affect the value of used cars?
Depreciation is the loss of value over time. New cars experience significant depreciation in their
first few years, while used cars have already absorbed much of this depreciation. As a result,
used cars tend to hold their value better over time.
Q: In a vehicle history report, what should I check for?
vehicle history report provides information about the car’s past, including any accidents, repairs,
title issues, and previous ownership. Look for red flags such as major accidents, salvage titles,
or multiple ownership changes in a short period.
