The Best Used Cars To Buy In The USA In 2024

Buying a used car can be a wise financial decision. Whether you’re looking for affordability reliability or luxury on a budget the used car market has plenty to offer. In 2024 certain models stand out due to their performance durability and overall value.

This article will guide you through some of the best used cars to consider purchasing in the USA this year.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Used Car

Before diving into the list of best used cars it’s essential to understand the key factors to consider when making your purchase:

1. Reliability:
2. Look for models known for their durability and minimal maintenance issues.
3. Safety:
4. Ensure the car has good safety ratings and features.
5. Fuel Efficiency:
6. Consider how much you’ll be spending on gas.
7. Resale Value:
8. Some cars depreciate slower than others which is crucial if you plan to sell the car in the future.
9. Cost of Ownership:
10. Include maintenance insurance and repair costs in your budget.
11. Previous Owner History:
12. A well-maintained car with fewer owners is often a better choice.
13. Mileage:
14. Lower mileage often indicates less wear and tear.

Top Used Cars to Buy in 2024

1. Toyota Camry

The Toyota Camry has long been a favorite in the mid-size sedan category. Known for its reliability and comfortable ride the Camry is an excellent choice for families and individuals alike.

• Reliability:
• Toyota consistently ranks high in reliability studies and the Camry is no exception.
• Fuel Efficiency:
• The 2020 Camry offers around 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway.
• Safety:
• High safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
• Features:
• Look for models with advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.

2. Honda Civic

The Honda Civic is another stalwart in the used car market known for its sporty design and excellent fuel economy.

• Reliability:
• The Civic has a reputation for longevity and minimal issues.
• Fuel Efficiency:
• Expect around 32 mpg in the city and 42 mpg on the highway for the 2020 model.
• Resale Value:
• Civics hold their value well making them a smart investment.
• Performance:
• Sporty handling and a comfortable ride make it a joy to drive.

3. Ford F-150

For those needing a reliable and powerful truck the Ford F-150 remains a top choice.

• Versatility:
• Excellent for both work and personal use.
• Towing Capacity:
• Impressive towing and hauling capabilities.
• Engine Options:
• Multiple engine choices allow you to find the perfect balance of power and efficiency.
• Technology:
• Newer models offer advanced tech features like the SYNC infotainment system.

4. Subaru Outback

The Subaru Outback is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor adventures and need a vehicle that can handle diverse terrains.

• All-Wheel Drive:
• Standard on all models providing excellent traction.
• Safety:
• Top safety ratings and features like EyeSight driver assist technology.
• Utility:
• Spacious interior and cargo space.
• Fuel Efficiency:
• Around 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway for recent models.

5. Mazda CX-5

If you’re in the market for a compact SUV the Mazda CX-5 offers a blend of style performance and practicality.

• Driving Experience:
• Sporty handling and responsive steering.
• Interior Quality:
• Upscale interior with high-quality materials.
• Fuel Efficiency:
• Approximately 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
• Safety:
• Strong safety ratings and available advanced safety features.

6. Lexus RX 350

For those seeking luxury the Lexus RX 350 provides a premium experience without the new car price tag.

• Luxury Features:
• High-end interior finishes advanced technology and comfortable seating.
• Reliability:
• Lexus is renowned for its reliability and low maintenance costs.
• Performance:
• Smooth ride and powerful V6 engine.
• Resale Value:
• Lexus vehicles tend to hold their value well.

7. Chevrolet Equinox

The Chevrolet Equinox is a solid choice for a compact SUV offering a comfortable ride and plenty of features.

• Comfort:
• Spacious interior with comfortable seating.
• Fuel Efficiency:
• Around 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway for newer models.
• Safety:
• Good safety ratings and available safety features like forward collision warning.
• Technology:
• User-friendly infotainment system.

8. Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V is a versatile and reliable compact SUV that suits a variety of needs.

• Reliability:
• Known for its longevity and minimal maintenance issues.
• Fuel Efficiency:
• Expect around 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
• Space:
• Ample cargo space and comfortable seating.
• Safety:
• Excellent safety ratings and features like Honda Sensing.

9. Toyota Highlander

For families needing a bit more space the Toyota Highlander is an excellent midsize SUV option.

• Reliability:
• Consistently high reliability ratings.
• Interior:
• Spacious and well-appointed interior.
• Fuel Efficiency:
• Around 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway for the 2020 model.
• Safety:
• Strong safety ratings and numerous safety features.

10. Nissan Rogue

The Nissan Rogue offers a comfortable ride and a wealth of standard features.

• Interior Comfort:
• Comfortable seating and a user-friendly infotainment system.
• Fuel Efficiency:
• Approximately 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
• Safety:
• Good safety ratings and a suite of standard safety features.
• Cargo Space:
• Ample cargo space for a compact SUV.

Electric and Hybrid Options

With the growing emphasis on sustainability and fuel efficiency electric and hybrid vehicles are becoming increasingly popular in the used car market. Here are some notable options:

11. Tesla Model 3

The Tesla Model 3 is a top choice for those seeking an electric vehicle with excellent range and advanced technology.

• Range:
• Up to 358 miles on a single charge for newer models.
• Performance:
• Quick acceleration and impressive handling.
• Technology:
• Advanced features like Autopilot and a cutting-edge infotainment system.
• Resale Value:
• Tesla vehicles tend to hold their value well.

12. Toyota Prius

The Toyota Prius remains a staple in the hybrid market known for its exceptional fuel efficiency.

• Fuel Efficiency:
• Around 58 mpg in the city and 53 mpg on the highway.
• Reliability:
• Proven track record of durability.
• Interior:
• Comfortable and spacious with user-friendly tech.
• Cost of Ownership:
• Low maintenance and fuel costs.

13. Chevrolet Bolt EV

The Chevrolet Bolt EV is an affordable electric vehicle with a respectable range and practical features.

• Range:
• Approximately 259 miles on a full charge.
• Performance:
• Responsive acceleration and handling.
• Interior:
• Spacious and practical with modern technology.
• Cost of Ownership:
• Lower maintenance costs compared to gasoline vehicles.

Luxury and Performance Vehicles

If you’re looking for a bit of luxury or performance in your used car purchase there are several excellent options to consider.

14. BMW 3 Series

The BMW 3 Series is a luxury sedan known for its dynamic driving experience and upscale interior.

• Performance:
• Sporty handling and powerful engine options.
• Interior:
• High-quality materials and advanced technology.
• Reliability:
• Generally reliable with proper maintenance.
• Resale Value:
• BMWs hold their value well particularly the 3 Series.

15. Mercedes-Benz C-Class

For those who prefer a touch of luxury the Mercedes-Benz C-Class offers elegance and performance.

• Luxury Features:
• Premium interior with cutting-edge technology.
• Performance:
• Smooth ride and powerful engine options.
• Safety:
• Advanced safety features and high safety ratings.
• Resale Value:
• Maintains value well over time.

16. Audi A4

The Audi A4 is a well-rounded luxury sedan with a blend of performance comfort and technology.

• Driving Experience:
• Agile handling and comfortable ride.
• Interior:
• High-quality materials and user-friendly tech.
• Reliability:
• Generally reliable with regular maintenance.
• Resale Value:
• Holds its value relatively well.

Affordable and Budget-Friendly Options

If you’re on a budget there are still plenty of reliable and efficient used cars to consider.

17. Hyundai Elantra

The Hyundai Elantra is a compact sedan offering good value for money with a comfortable ride and a long list of features.

• Fuel Efficiency:
• Around 33 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway.
• Warranty:
• Hyundai’s generous warranty can often be transferred to the second owner.
• Safety:
• Good safety ratings and available advanced safety features.
• Cost of Ownership:
• Low maintenance and repair costs.

18. Kia Soul

The Kia Soul is a unique and practical choice offering ample space and a distinctive design.

• Interior Space:
• Spacious interior and cargo area.
• Fuel Efficiency:
• Approximately 27 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
• Features:
• Modern technology and safety features.
• Reliability:
• Generally reliable with proper maintenance.

19. Toyota Corolla

The Toyota Corolla is a dependable and efficient compact sedan perfect for those on a budget.

• Reliability:
• Known for its longevity and minimal issues.
• Fuel Efficiency:
• Around 30 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway.
• Safety:
• Good safety ratings and available safety features.
• Cost of Ownership:
• Low maintenance and repair costs.

20. Nissan Sentra

The Nissan Sentra is a practical and affordable compact sedan with a comfortable ride and modern features.

• Fuel Efficiency:
• Approximately 29 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway.
• Interior:
• Comfortable and well-designed interior.
• Safety:
• Good safety ratings and available advanced safety features.
• Cost of Ownership:
• Affordable maintenance and repair costs.

In 2024 the used car market in the USA offers a wide array of options to suit various needs and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a reliable family sedan a rugged truck a fuel-efficient hybrid or a luxurious ride there’s something for everyone.

When purchasing a used car it’s crucial to consider factors such as reliability fuel efficiency safety and cost of ownership. By doing your research and choosing wisely you can find a used car that will serve you well for years to come.