The best new cars today cost a small fortune. Car prices continue to go up, and finding a good car on a budget can be challenging. You can land a good brand new car for $20,000, but that sum could get you an excellent used vehicle. There is no need to sacrifice the features – safety, performance, comfort, and technology – you may desire from your next car because of money.
We have reviewed a list of the eight best-used cars you can get for $20,000 and below.
Toyota Camry (2015 – 2017)
The Toyota Camry is one of the best-used cars you’ll find anywhere. The 2015 – 2017 models are renowned for their comfort, ease, and reliability. These cars have a sporty look that offers a combination of value and style. The 2015 model has a modified chassis that makes for more involved driving.
The Camry is fuel-efficient and offers a suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, active lane control, and automatic braking systems.
Honda Accord (2013 – 2017)
The Honda Accord makes almost every list for used cars under $20,000. This car comes with a four or six-cylinder engine with an output of over 250 horsepower. Buyers also have the choice of selecting from a sedan or coupe body style. It also provides excellent fuel economy and an option for drivers who would rather drive manually.
The 2016 Honda Accord saw a tech upgrade that included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The Honda Sensing system enhances safe driving. The 2017 model earned a 5-star rating from the NHTSA and got a top rating from all IIHS evaluations. You can easily find well-used Honda Accord models for below $20,000.
Chevrolet Malibu (2013 – 2018)
The Chevrolet Malibu is a family-oriented mid-sized sedan with a roomy interior and agile handling. The four-cylinder engine offers enough power for your daily driving but may not be suited for long highway cruises. The base engine offers great fuel economy, but an upgraded one will require premium fuel.
The Chevy Malibu earned a 5-star NHTSA rating and rated Good in five out of six IIHS crash tests. The safety features on the Malibu include a rear-seat reminder, forward collision warning, lane speed assist, and blind-spot monitoring. A used Chevrolet Malibu will cost you anything from $12,000 — $20,000.
Toyota Avalon (2013 – 2017)
The Toyota Avalon is best for drivers interested in space and comfort than performance or prestige. The 2013 Avalon was the first car to come with wireless charging. The 2014 models have a rearview camera with blind-spot options on the Touring edition.
The 2016 models received a stylish upgrade with a reworked front end and chrome trim for the rear and revised taillights. It runs on a six-cylinder engine and spots tech features like adaptive cruise control and automatic braking to enhance safety. There are neatly-used Toyota Avalon cars from around $13,000 – $20,000.
Honda Fit (2012 – 2020)
The Honda Fit is a subcompact that maximizes space. This vehicle is not stylish but will serve you well, especially if you won’t be traveling long distances. With a spacious interior and standard Honda infotainment equipment, the Honda Fit makes driving comfortable and fun.
The Honda Fit’s 4-cylinder engine provides great fuel economy and is available as manual or automatic. This car may not give you the acceleration you get from others on the list. Therefore, it may not be best for long highway trips.
The 2020 model of the Honda Fit earned a 5-star NHTSA rating and scored Good after four IIHS crash tests. The Honda Fit is ideal for people on a tight budget who want a car to meet their everyday transportation needs.
Lexus LS (2011 –2012)
A used Lexus LS can be a great option for luxury car lovers on a budget. This car is reliable, safe, and easy to maintain. The 2011 model comes with an eight-cylinder engine for performance in a high-quality environment.
The Lexus LS comes equipped with top safety features, including an advanced parking guidance system, cruise control, and an optional rear camera. You may want to give this car a miss if you’re huge on fuel efficiency. You can get a used 2011 or 2012 model for $16,000 – $19,500.
Mazda6 (2013 – 2017)
The Mazda6 is an elegant 4-cylinder car designed with reliability and ease of use in mind. This attractive machine offers superior driving capabilities and machine handling. It also boasts a stylish interior that rivals any other car in its class.
Several features have been added to the Mazda6 since its debut in 2003. Most models have safety features, including lane departure warning, blind-spot monitors, emergency braking, and adaptive front lighting. The 2016 model comes with an electronic brake upgrade and a sophisticated infotainment system. Mazda6 2017 model offers better control with a new G-Vectoring Control system that increases the front tire grip to make turn-in tenacity more efficient.
Acura TLX (2014 -2016)
The Acura TLX is a quietly luxurious five-seater sedan with a comfortable interior and several features to make owning it worthwhile. This car’s efficient V6 engine offers users manages to combine fuel efficiency with athletic handling. However, you may not get the same reliability as competing cars like the Honda Accord.
The safety features in the Acura TLX give it a 5-star NHTSA rating. The Acura TLX models come with a forward collision warning, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. You can also include optional features like lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, and automatic emergency braking.
Benefits of Buying Used
Buying a used car is like treasure hunting. There are always many options out there for any budget. However, it’s possible to get something that will leave you feeling like you got a bad deal in the long run. The best way to improve your chances of getting value-for-money is to shop with your head and not your heart.
Always remember to follow the standard checklist for buying a used car. Be ready to walk away if anything feels off. The items on the list are:
Engine
Bodywork
Interior
Wheels and tires
Documents
Insist on a test drive