Great Cars to Buy Used

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Top 10 Reliable Used Cars

When putting together this list of Top 10 Used Cars we looked at vehicles that are known for their safety, reliability, and longevity. These are cars that owners love to keep for the long term. Used cars can also be attractive because a car that is a few years old has already gone through depreciation to make them a better deal financially while still offering attractive styling, the latest safety tech and driver assist features.

Cars today last longer than vehicles 20 years ago. It is not unusual to drive a modern day used car for up to 300,000 miles if properly maintained. A good used car will not only save you money at the dealership but also on things like taxes and car insurance.

With all that in mind, here's our list of the Top 10 Used Cars that are great to buy and own. We'd suggest checking out versions of these cars that are three or four years old. They are listed in alphabetical order by automaker. Note that used pricing are estimates only.
We start our list with an all-electric car, the Chevy Bolt. If you're in the market for an EV, the Bolt is a great buy. It can take you an EPA estimated 259 miles on a charge and offer a roomy interior, a 10.2-inch infotainment touchscreen, and such standard driver assist features as forward collision warning, automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning and lane-keep assist. A clean 2022 model can be had for around $17K. 

Originally launched in 2001, the Ford Escape is a small off-road capable crossover SUV with front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Available with a turbocharged three- or four-cylinder engine as well as two hybrid powertrain options, the faithful Escape has plenty of room for passengers and cargo. A great car for the money, it comes with a suite of standard driver assist features. Models that are just a few years old can be had for under $24K. 

A truly remarkable and reliable car, the Honda Civic has been around since 1972 as a fuel-efficient two-door fastback sedan. Currently in its 11th Generation as both a four-door sedan and hatchback with four engines to choose from, it's combination of reliability, efficiency, value, and refined road manners make it a used car winner. Quality four-year-old versions in good condition are available for around $22K. 

A three- or four-year-old Sonata is one of the best used car values today, especially since Hyundais come with a five-year, 60,000-mile warranty. This stunning four-door family sedan is known for its luxurious interior and is available with a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine, a hybrid version, and even a 290-horsepower high performance N Line model. The NHTSA has given it a Five Star Safety Rating and good four-year old versions go for under $20K. 

A great buy for a used car, the Rio has a lot to offer at a reasonable price. Available as a sedan or hatchback, the compact is both fuel efficient and surprisingly sophisticated. Powered by a 1.6-liter inline-four engine, 120 horsepower are on tap. It is available with forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning and more. Models from 2022 can be had for around $17K. 
A super midsize sedan, the Altima offers a comfortable cabin, and surprising prowess on the road. It comes standard with a 2.5-liter 188-horsepower engine, or you can upgrade to a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 248-horsepower. A suite of driver assist safety features are available including ProPilot Assist self-driving mode. A good clean 2022 model may be had for around $19K. 

All Subaru models are known for excellent off-road agility and the fact that they come with all-wheel drive as standard. The faithful Outback is one of the automaker's most popular family haulers. Known for low cost of ownership and high reliability, the Outback offers excellent ground clearance for off-road adventures and a cargo-friendly interior. Two four-cylinder motors are available; the 182-hp 2.5-liter or the 2.4-liter turbocharged engine that produces 260-hp. Four-year-old models can be had for around $28K. 

Toyota's best-selling model, the Camry has been around since 1982. This family sedan comes in four-cylinder, hybrid, and even a 301-hp V6 configuration. Available in nine trim levels, the Camry has something for everyone and delivers high reliability and low maintenance costs. The XLE model offers luxury and every bell and whistle. Camrys from 2022 are available for around $25K. 

The Sienna mini-van is built for many years of solid performance and is great for big families, seating eight passengers. A gas-sipping Hybrid, it is available in front-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations. The EPA estimates the Sienna will take you 36 miles on a gallon of gas and higher trim version include second row captain's chairs and even an onboard vacuum cleaner. Four-year-old versions can be had for under $30K. 

Volvo vehicles are known for their excellent safety scores, safety tech and long-term reliability. The XC90 is a luxury three-row SUV that seats seven passengers. Two four-cylinder options and even a plug-in hybrid version that will take you 36 miles on electric power only is available. Inside, you'll find attractive design and quality materials with plenty of cargo room. A good clean 2022 model will run you around $35K.
*See dealer for limited warranty details.
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