11) 2014 Toyota Yaris
Average Price: $8,913 | U.S. News Score: 7.5/10
The subcompact 2014 Toyota Yaris may not be the best equipped or quickest used car on the block. Still, its fantastic predicted reliability score and good fuel economy numbers mean it likely won’t cost too much to own.
The two- or four-door hatchback is small and nimble – just what you need in crowded urban areas. The 2014 Yaris earns a spot near the top of our 2014 subcompact car ranking.
All Yaris models are fitted with a four-cylinder engine that produces just 106 horsepower. Opt for the available five-speed manual, and you can squeeze some fun out of the motor. Choose the outdated four-speed automatic, though, and you’ll need to show more patience.
10) 2014 Scion xD
Average Price: $8,862 | U.S. News Score: 7.5/10
Scion saved its best for last when the Toyota sub-brand built the 2014 Scion xD. The final year of the xD’s production run brought a standard touch-screen display audio system to the four-door hatchback’s generous standard feature list. It has both above-average safety and predicted reliability marks.
All xD models include cruise control, a USB port, air conditioning, and Bluetooth connectivity. It has a 128-horsepower four-cylinder engine matched to either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission.
The xD earns a spot in the upper tier in our 2014 subcompact car ranking. It lacks a rearview camera, which was not required by law at the time.
9) 2016 Chevrolet Spark
Average Price: $9,885 | U.S. News Score: 7.7/10
The 2016 Chevrolet Spark is basically the same car you can buy today as a 2021 model. Chevy's made some updates over the last half-decade, but 2016 marks the car's last major redesign. Even by today's measure, the 2016 Spark's list of standard cabin technologies is impressive.
Every Spark comes equipped with a 7-inch touch-screen infotainment system. It supports an onboard Wi-Fi hot spot, a 4G LTE data connection, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. It’s one of only a few cars on this list to support the two smartphone connectivity technologies. However, the Spark only seats four.
Its heartbeat is a tiny 98-horsepower four-cylinder engine. You can opt for either a five-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable automatic transmission.
In our ranking of 2016 subcompact cars, the Spark holds a spot just below the middle of the class. Its ranking is hampered by its anemic engine and small cargo area.
8) 2014 Hyundai Accent
Average Price: $7,948 | U.S. News Score: 7.8/10
The 2014 Hyundai Accent has two things that are uncommon among subcompact cars: a rear seat that's spacious enough for adults and a reasonably powerful engine. You might not win the Indy 500, but you'll feel a bit more comfortable climbing an on-ramp.
The four-cylinder engine makes 138 horsepower. It’s available with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.
You can get the 2014 Accent in either four-door sedan or hatchback body styles. It comes standard with a USB port, a six-speaker audio system, and satellite radio. Bluetooth connectivity and a tilt/telescoping steering wheel are available.
It holds a spot in the upper half of our ranking of 2014 subcompact cars. Its ranking is held down by unimpressive safety ratings and the lack of available driver assistance features, including a rearview camera.
7) 2014 Ford Fiesta
Average Price: $8,868 | U.S. News Score: 7.9/10
Shoppers looking for an affordable subcompact with a bit of a sporty edge should look for a good used 2014 Ford Fiesta. Available as either a four-door sedan or hatchback, the Fiesta has crisp steering and the handling to tackle windy roads without fear.
The 2014 Fiesta is available with a choice of two engines. Base cars feature a 120-horsepower four-cylinder engine that’s decent in the city but taxed on the highway. Step up to the four-cylinder turbo in the Fiesta ST, and you’re rewarded with 197 horsepower and an upgraded suspension to match the power.
It is the winner of both our 2014 Best Subcompact Car for the Money and 2014 Best Hatchback for the Money awards.
Base models of the Fiesta include SYNC voice recognition and Bluetooth connectivity. Upper trims are equipped with the MyFordTouch infotainment interface.
6) 2014 Nissan Leaf
Average Price: $9,759 | U.S. News Score: 8.0/10
The Nissan Leaf battery-electric hatchback has been on American roads for about a decade. One of the best used Leaf models you can buy is the 2014 Nissan Leaf, which has an average price of $9,759 as a used car.
Propelling the Leaf is an electric motor that provides livelier performance than its 107-horsepower leads you to expect. When new, it offered 84 miles of range on a single charge. You’ll want to look for a Leaf that features the available CHAdeMO DC fast-charge port, unless you want to be limited to much slower charging options.
The Leaf seats five in its roomy cabin. It comes equipped with a rearview camera, Bluetooth, a USB port, and satellite radio. Upper trim models feature a Bose audio system and navigation.
Buyers don’t get the federal electric car tax credit when they buy a used model. It’s critical when buying a used Leaf (or any electric car) that you evaluate the range that its battery pack allows on a charge. Some range degradation is common as electric cars age.
5) 2014 Kia Forte
Average Price: $8,688 | U.S. News Score: 8.0/10
The 2014 model year marked the first year for the second-generation Kia Forte. The fully redesigned model doesn’t have as high of predicted reliability score as some others in the class, but it comes well-equipped, with a comfortable interior and large trunk.
The 2014 Kia Forte earns a mid-pack spot in our ranking of 2014 compact cars. It was a finalist for our 2014 Best Compact Car for the Money award.
There are three engines available for the 2014 Forte. The base engine is a 143-horsepower four-cylinder that lacks the power you’ll want on the highway. Upgrading to either the 173-horsepower four-cylinder or 201-horsepower turbo-four creates a more pleasant driving experience.
Every Forte comes standard with Bluetooth, a USB port, and satellite radio capability. Upper trims feature navigation, push-button start, and a 4.2-inch touch-screen infotainment system.
4) 2014 Hyundai Elantra
Average Price: $9,403 | U.S. News Score: 8.2/10
The 2014 Hyundai Elantra checks off many of the boxes used car shoppers demand. Not only does it have above-average predicted reliability, but it also has a roomy five-seat cabin and plenty of trunk space for their stuff. Hyundai refreshed the Elantra inside and out for 2014.
Hyundai offered the 2014 Elantra in sedan, coupe, and four-door hatchback models. Standard cabin features include a tilt/telescoping steering wheel and a USB port. Stepping up one trim level gets you much more content, including a touch-screen infotainment system.
Though the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named the Elantra a 2014 Top Safety Pick, its individual crash test marks from both the IIHS and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) lag some class competitors. Its rearview camera is optional, though that’s not uncommon in 2014-era vehicles.
In our 2014 compact car ranking, the Elantra earns a spot in the upper half of the class.
3) 2014 Chevrolet Cruze
Average Price: $9,867 | U.S. News Score: 8.7/10
The 2014 Chevrolet Cruze features a cabin that’s well-appointed, a plush ride, an above-average predicted reliability score, and a good selection of standard and available cabin technologies, including a 7-inch touch-screen infotainment system. Compared to class rivals, the Cruze’s cabin is quieter.
In our ranking of 2014 compact cars, the Cruze earns a spot just below the class leaders. It is available with a rearview camera, rear cross traffic alert, blind spot monitoring, and rear parking sensors.
There are three engine choices, including a fuel-efficient diesel. Of the three, the 1.4-liter turbo offers an excellent balance of price, performance, and efficiency. When new, the price premium for the diesel engine was substantial, offsetting any savings you would receive. Six-speed automatic and manual transmissions are available.
Chevrolet no longer builds the Cruze.
2) 2015 Kia Rio
Average Price: $9,456 | U.S. News Score: 8.8/10
If a subcompact car is large enough for your needs, the 2015 Kia Rio should be on your shopping list. Not only does it have an unsurpassed predicted reliability score, its 138-horsepower four-cylinder engine provides plenty of go to put a smile on your face.
The 2015 Rio is the top-rated vehicle in our ranking of 2015 subcompact cars. It was a finalist for our 2015 Best Subcompact Car for the Money award.
Step up from the Rio's base trim, and you'll find a well-appointed, though Spartan, cabin that doesn't feel like it belongs in an economy car. It's available as a four-door sedan or hatchback. Both seat five, though their back seats are somewhat tight for adults. That's not uncommon in the class. Opt for the hatchback if you're looking for cargo space. There's 49.8 cubic feet available with the hatchback's rear seats folded.
The Rio’s option list includes a voice-activated touch-screen infotainment system, push-button start, a sunroof, and navigation. It’s one of few cars that still come standard with manual door locks and crank windows, though all but the base model feature power windows and locks.
1) 2014 Chevrolet Sonic
Average Price: $7,774 | U.S. News Score: 8.8/10
The 2014 Chevrolet Sonic has a great overall score, yet one of the lowest average prices of any car on this list. Available in sedan and hatchback body styles, the Sonic surprises drivers with agile handling and an available 138-horsepower four-cylinder turbo that’s peppy enough for urban adventures.
A five-speed manual transmission comes standard, with a six-speed automatic available. A six-speed manual is available with the turbocharged engine.
It’s best to skip the thinly equipped base models and opt for a model outfitted with a Chevy MyLink 7-inch touch-screen infotainment system and a USB port. All Sonics include Bluetooth connectivity and access to the OnStar subscription-based telematics system.
There’s seating for five, with ample room in the front and back seats of both the sedan and hatchback. It has an outstanding predicted reliability rating, which helps it to its spot atop our ranking of 2014 subcompact cars.
Best Used Cars Older than 2014
While you can get an excellent used car that’s five or six years old for less than $10,000, you’re pretty much limited to economy cars, small sedans, and hatchbacks. Getting something bigger, sportier, or more luxurious requires you to go back a couple of more years.
On the following pages, we’ll show you the best affordable used cars you can find in several other classes of cars, wagons, SUVs, and minivans.
If you are considering an older used car, it is critical that you ensure all recalls have been performed. Vehicles from many automakers included Takata-brand airbags, which can cause injury or death when they deploy. You can read more in our guide to the Takata airbag recall. You can determine what recalls apply to any car by going to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s recall page.
2012 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen
Average Price: $8,052 | U.S. News Score: 8.9/10
The 2012 Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen earns a spot atop our ranking of 2012 wagons with its well-appointed interior, above-average predicted reliability, and strong engine performance from both its gasoline and diesel engines.
It comes standard with upscale features for its time, such as heated seats, Bluetooth connectivity, and an eight-speaker audio system. You can find Jetta SportWagens outfitted with navigation, synthetic leather upholstery, a sunroof, and an upgraded 10-speaker audio system.
The 2012 Jetta SportWagen TDI features an exceptionally efficient turbo diesel engine, achieving EPA fuel economy estimates of 30 mpg in the city and 42 mpg on the highway. However, the Jetta TDI was part of Volkswagen’s diesel emissions scandal. It was subject to a generous buyback by the automaker, so it may be difficult to find on the used car market. If you do find one, it’s important to realize that it pollutes far more than is allowed by U.S. regulations.
2010 Chevrolet Camaro
Average Price: $9,167 | U.S. News Score: 8.9/10
Finding a good muscle car for less than $10,000 means going back as far as a 2010 Chevrolet Camaro. It was the year the Camaro returned to the market after a long hiatus. The 2010 Camaro features a mix of modern and retro design with V6 and V8 engine options.
In our ranking of 2010 affordable sports cars, the Camaro earns a midpack spot. Its predicted reliability is top-notch, while its interior score leaves something to be desired. That’s because the Camaro’s large exterior footprint doesn’t translate to the interior, where occupants will find seats that are cramped.
Buying a 10-year-plus-old sports car is a bit risky. You can reduce the risk by paying close attention to the vehicle history report and getting a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection. The mechanic you choose should pay particular attention to any collision damage and repairs, plus corrosion and rust damage.
2010 Ford Mustang
Average Price: $9,252 | U.S. News Score: 8.9/10
The 2010 Ford Mustang is another sports car with an average price in our used car listings below $10,000. For 2010, the Mustang’s exterior received an exterior redesign and upgraded interior materials. It’s available in both coupe and convertible models.
The 2010 Mustang has a 210-horsepower V6, a 315-horsepower V8, or a 540-horsepower V8 under its hood. However, you shouldn't expect to find the 540-horsepower Shelby GT500 available for less than $10,000 unless it has been wrecked.
Standard 2010 Mustang equipment includes power locks and windows, a CD player, air conditioning, and an audio system featuring a CD player with an auxiliary input. You can find 2010 Mustangs equipped with navigation, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a rearview camera, and a glass roof.
In our ranking of 2010 affordable sports cars, the Mustang earns a spot near the top of the list.
2011 Nissan Murano
Average Price: $9,350 | U.S. News Score: 8.9/10
The 2011 Nissan Murano might be a decade old, but it still has a lot going for it. The midsize two-row crossover is more agile and responsive than most rivals. At the same time, its cabin is upscale, well-appointed, and stylishly designed. It's the top-rated model in our 2011 affordable midsize SUV ranking.
Power comes from a 260-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 that’s matched to either front- or all-wheel-drive. It comes standard with dual-zone automatic climate control, push-button start, and a six-disc CD changer. Upper trims have a Bose audio system, leather seats, and a heated steering wheel.
It has an exceptional predicted reliability score.
2011 marked the arrival of the short-lived Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet, a four-seat soft-top convertible model of the crossover. Given its relative scarcity, it’s likely not one of the Murano models you’ll find for less than $10,000.
2010 Cadillac CTS
Average Price: $7,945 | U.S. News Score: 8.9/10
Cadillac set its sights to match the performance, refinement, and luxury of European sports sedans when creating the CTS. The 2010 Cadillac CTS displays excellent performance from either its 270-horsepower V6 or larger 304-horsepower V6. It’s available as either a sedan or CTS Sport Wagon, with rear- or all-wheel drive.
The 2010 CTS earns its spot in the upper tier of our 2010 luxury midsize car ranking with an above-average predicted reliability score, refined handling, and strong safety scores. Its cabin reflects the top-notch materials and design you would expect in a Cadillac. The CTS was available with a manual transmission, a rare commodity among today's luxury sports sedans.
2010 Hyundai Azera
Average Price: $7,776 | U.S. News Score: 8.9/10
Looking for an affordable sedan with plenty of room in the front and back seats for adults? The 2010 Hyundai Azera may be the answer. Not only does it have a well-crafted cabin with loads of space, but it also has a long standard feature list and an impeccable predicted reliability score.
The Azera holds a spot near the top of our 2010 affordable large car ranking.
It may not be the most exciting car to look at. Its safety scores aren't anything to write home about. Still, it offers plenty of power, a large trunk, and a feature list that includes a power-adjustable driver's seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a six-speaker audio system with a CD player. Top trims get a 10-speaker Infinity audio system, navigation, leather upholstery, and a sunroof.
2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid
Average Price: $8,114 | U.S. News Score: 8.9/10
The Toyota Prius is far from the only hybrid Toyota makes. The 2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid is an excellent midsize sedan, with decent fuel economy numbers, top-notch predicted reliability, and an average price below $10,000. It’s the top-rated model in our 2011 affordable midsize car ranking.
Because of the placement of this generation’s hybrid battery pack, the 2011 Camry Hybrid has a smaller trunk than its gas-only counterpart. The pass-thru from the trunk to the cabin is much smaller than in the conventional Camry.
The 2011 Camry Hybrid provides smooth, confident acceleration from its combination of four-cylinder engine and electric motor that drive the front wheels. Standard equipment includes dual-zone automatic climate control, cloth seats, a six-speaker audio system, and push-button start. You may find models in the used car marketplace with navigation, leather upholstery, and an upgraded audio system with a USB port.
2010 Toyota RAV4
Average Price: $8,967 | U.S. News Score: 8.9/10
The 2010 Toyota RAV4 compact SUV seats five in its two-row setup, and a couple more kids if you opt for the three-row version. Not many compact SUVs are available with three rows. It’s one of the highest-rated vehicles in our ranking of 2010 affordable compact SUVs.
You can find the 2010 RAV4 with either a four- or six-cylinder engine, plus front- or all-wheel drive. Its top-notch score is driven by fantastic predicted reliability, good safety scores, and plenty of room for both passengers and cargo. It’s the last generation of the RAV4 to feature a side-opening rear hatch. Later generations adopted an upward-opening liftgate.
According to cost of ownership data, the 2010 RAV4 is more affordable to own than most rivals. If you purchase this RAV4 (or any used car, for that matter), make sure all of its recalls have been performed. A couple of them addressed significant safety issues.
2013 Hyundai Sonata
Average Price: $9,543 | U.S. News Score: 9.0/10
A car has to excel across the board to rise to the top of the extremely competitive midsize car segment. The 2013 Hyundai Sonata is one of those models. Not only does it have great predicted reliability, but it also earns good fuel economy estimates and has a comfortable five-seat cabin.
There are two engines available for the 2013 Sonata. The base model receives a 198-horsepower four-cylinder that’s mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Move to an upper trim, and you’ll get a four-cylinder turbo that makes an ample 274-horsepower.
Cloth seats come on lower trims, while the Limited gets leather upholstery. Its standard feature list includes dual-zone automatic climate control, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port, and access to the subscription-based Hyundai Blue Link telematics system. A panoramic glass roof and an upgraded audio system are available.
The Hyundai Sonata earns the top spot in our ranking of 2013 affordable midsize cars.
2011 Toyota Prius
Average Price: $9,012 | U.S. News Score: 9.0/10
If fuel economy is at the top of your wish list, it’s hard to go wrong with the 2011 Toyota Prius. That’s not all the Prius has going for it, though. It’s also superbly reliable and offers good safety ratings, a roomy interior, and loads of cargo room under its hatch.
It’s EPA-rated to achieve 51 mpg in the city and 48 mpg on the highway. It’s not unusual for hybrids to get better city than highway mileage, as they’re able to reclaim energy when braking.
The Toyota Prius earns the top spot in our ranking of 2011 Compact Cars. It was the winner of both our 2011 Best Hybrid Car for the Money and 2011 Best Hybrid Car for Families awards.
2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Average Price: $7,578 | U.S. News Score: 9.1/10
Even new, the Mazda MX-5 Miata is considered to be an excellent sports car value. Used, it’s even a better deal. Of course, the older they get, the cheaper they are. The 2010 Miata makes this list with an average price tag that’s well-below $10,000.
The 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata was built in the middle of the car's third generation, known to fans as NC Miatas. It’s the largest of all the Miatas, as the later fourth-generation ND Miata slimmed down.
While Miata's don't have the engine power of some sports cars, they make the most of what they have. The two-seat roadsters are lightweight, with suspension tuning that's been set up to maximize fun. While a six-speed automatic transmission is available, the Miata has been called the best reason ever to learn how to drive a manual.
The 2010 Miata earns the top spot in our ranking of 2010 Affordable Sports Cars. It won our 2010 Best Sports Car for the Money trophy.
2010 Toyota Sienna
Average Price: $9,186 | U.S. News Score: 9.1/10
Minivans can be quite expensive. The best models hold their value exceptionally well. That's why you have to go all the way back to 2010 to find a great van with an average price less than $10,000. The 2010 Toyota Sienna is the top model in our 2010 minivan ranking.
Minivans are expected to have roomy, versatile interiors, and in these areas the 2010 Sienna does not disappoint. Depending on the layout you choose, the Sienna will seat either seven or eight. The Toyota minivan has an outstanding predicted reliability score and a potent 266-horsepower V6 engine. It comes standard with front-wheel drive and is the only minivan of the era available with all-wheel drive.
Lower trim models feature manual sliding side doors. Higher trims include power sliding doors and a power-operated rear hatch.
The 2010 Sienna was the last year of its generation. Toyota offered a redesigned model for 2011, though its average price in the used car market is substantially higher.
2010 Hyundai Genesis
Average Price: $7,266 | U.S. News Score: 9.1/10
Before Genesis was spun off as the name of Hyundai’s luxury brand, the Genesis was the most luxurious sedan in the company’s lineup. When it was new, the 2010 Hyundai Genesis was one of the best luxury sedans on the market.
Now 10 years on, it’s one of the best used luxury cars you can buy. It earns a spot near the top of our 2010 luxury midsize car ranking. We named it our 2010 Best Upscale Sedan for the Money.
The five-seat Genesis is quick, no matter if you choose the 290-horsepower V6 or the 378-horsepower V8. All models are well-equipped, with a standard feature list that includes heated seats, a USB port, Bluetooth connectivity, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Available options include a rearview camera, an upgraded audio system, navigation, and a sunroof.
2010 Honda CR-V
Average Price: $9,007 | U.S. News Score: 9.1/10
Honda's CR-V has a long track of quality, reliability, and capability. The 2010 Honda CR-V also comes with a price tag that’s below $10,000. The year marked a mid-cycle refresh for the CR-V, with it receiving updated styling and more power.
The Honda CR-V sits atop our 2010 Affordable Compact SUV ranking. It was named our 2010 Best Compact Crossover for the Money award winner.
In addition to a stellar predicted reliability rating, the CR-V has a massive cargo area that’s easy to access due to the crossover’s low load floor. Its safety ratings were good for the era, though it lacks the advanced safety tech you’ll find on today’s much more expensive model.
Honda only offered the 2010 CR-V with one engine. It's a 180-horsepower four-cylinder that's fine for commuting but a bit underwhelming when you load the SUV full of passengers and their stuff. A five-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive come standard. All-wheel drive is available.
2011 Buick LaCrosse
Average Price: $8,302 | U.S. News Score: 9.2/10
The 2011 Buick LaCrosse has everything you expect from a large Buick sedan, including a soft ride, an opulent interior that approaches luxury car levels, excellent reliability, and a powerful engine option. It grabs the top spot in our ranking of 2011 affordable large cars.
You have multiple powertrain options with the 2011 LaCrosse. You can choose either an efficient four-cylinder that produces 182-horsepower or a much stronger V6 that makes 280 horsepower. It’s available with either front- or all-wheel drive.
The LaCrosse seats five, with plenty of head and legroom in both rows. There’s cloth upholstery on lower trims and leather seating surfaces on upper trims. A seven-speaker audio system with support for satellite radio and an auxiliary jack is on the car’s standard feature list, while there’s a premium Harmon Kardon system on its options list.
One place the LaCrosse fails to shine is its trunk space. Large sedans typically have plenty of room for luggage, but the LaCrosse falls short. Its safety scores, however, are excellent.
2010 Toyota Avalon
Average Price: $8,013 | U.S. News Score: 9.3/10
The 2010 Toyota Avalon is another large sedan with a great overall score, stellar predicted reliability mark, and strong safety scores. It’s the top model in our 2010 affordable large car ranking. Though its exterior looks a bit sedate, its potent 268-horsepower V6 provides confident acceleration.
While the Avalon wears a Toyota badge, its interior looks like it’s out of a Lexus. Upscale materials are finely crafted to provide excellent quality. It was one of the earliest mainstream cars to offer rear seats that can recline – a feature still uncommon today. Unfortunately, the Avalon’s rear seats don’t fold forward like most sedans, so there’s no pass-thru from the trunk to the cabin.
2010 Ford Fusion
Average Price: $6,017 | U.S. News Score: 9.4/10
Midsize cars aren’t typically regarded for sporty handling. The 2010 Ford Fusion defies that rule – and that’s not the only reason it makes this list. It also earns a spot near the top of our 2010 affordable midsize car ranking. It offers stellar predicted reliability and safety ratings.
The 2010 Ford Fusion was Motor Trend's Car of the Year. Its cabin and trunk are spacious, and it offers Ford's excellent SYNC infotainment interface. You have a choice of the base four-cylinder engine or one of two available V6 motors. A six-speed manual transmission was offered, but most Fusions you’ll find will have a six-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is available.
It is one of the earliest mainstream sedans to have an optional blind-spot monitoring system.
More Shopping Tools From U.S. News & World Report
The prices of used cars vary considerably based on supply and demand. Explore our used car rankings and reviews and used car listings, where you may be surprised by what you can buy while staying within your budget.
Purchasing a used car can be more complicated than buying or leasing a new vehicle. Our step-by-step guide to buying a used car takes you through the entire process. It starts with getting a used car loan and discusses vehicle history reports, test drives, negotiating a price, and more.
Unsure whether to buy new or used? Our guide to new versus used cars can help you decide.
Finally, when you’re budgeting for your new-to-you ride, you need to think about its insurance coverage. Our car insurance hub is the place to learn about the coverage you need, the cheapest insurance companies in your state, and money-saving auto insurance discounts.
28 Best Used Cars Under $10,000 for 2020
- 2010 Ford Fusion: Average Price: $6,017 | U.S. News Score: 9.4/10
- 2010 Toyota Avalon: Average Price: $8,013 | U.S. News Score: 9.3/10
- 2011 Buick LaCrosse: Average Price: $8,302 | U.S. News Score: 9.2/10
- 2010 Honda CR-V: Average Price: $9,007 | U.S. News Score: 9.1/10
- 2010 Hyundai Genesis: Average Price: $7,266 | U.S. News Score: 9.1/10
- 2010 Toyota Sienna: Average Price: $9,186 | U.S. News Score: 9.1/10
- 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata: Average Price: $7,578 | U.S. News Score: 9.1/10
- 2011 Toyota Prius: Average Price: $9,012 | U.S. News Score: 9.0/10
- 2013 Hyundai Sonata: Average Price: $9,543 | U.S. News Score: 9.0/10
- 2010 Toyota RAV4: Average Price: $8,967 | U.S. News Score: 8.9/10
- 2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid: Average Price: $8,114 | U.S. News Score: 8.9/10
- 2010 Hyundai Azera: Average Price: $7,776 | U.S. News Score: 8.9/10
- 2010 Cadillac CTS: Average Price: $7,945 | U.S. News Score: 8.9/10
- 2011 Nissan Murano: Average Price: $9,350 | U.S. News Score: 8.9/10
- 2010 Ford Mustang: Average Price: $9,252 | U.S. News Score: 8.9/10
- 2010 Chevrolet Camaro: Average Price: $9,167 | U.S. News Score: 8.9/10
- 2012 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen: Average Price: $8,052 | U.S. News Score: 8.9/10
- 2014 Chevrolet Sonic: Average Price: $7,774 | U.S. News Score: 8.8/10
- 2015 Kia Rio: Average Price: $9,456 | U.S. News Score: 8.8/10
- 2014 Chevrolet Cruze: Average Price: $9,867 | U.S. News Score: 8.7/10
- 2014 Hyundai Elantra: Average Price: $9,403 | U.S. News Score: 8.2/10
- 2014 Kia Forte: Average Price: $8,688 | U.S. News Score: 8.0/10
- 2014 Nissan Leaf: Average Price: $9,759 | U.S. News Score: 8.0/10
- 2014 Ford Fiesta: Average Price: $8,868 | U.S. News Score: 7.9/10
- 2014 Hyundai Accent: Average Price: $7,948 | U.S. News Score: 7.8/10
- 2016 Chevrolet Spark: Average Price: $9,885 | U.S. News Score: 7.7/10
- 2014 Scion xD: Average Price: $8,862 | U.S. News Score: 7.5/10
- 2014 Toyota Yaris: Average Price: $8,913 | U.S. News Score: 7.5/10
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The Best Used Cars That Won’t Bust Your $10,000 Budget
Finding a used car is easy; there are nearly a million in our used car listings. When your budget is tighter, say $10,000, there are still plenty of pre-owned cars to find, but many of them will be so old, high-mileage, or dilapidated that they’re not worth buying.
If you have to spend as much on repairs each month as your car payment, your wallet’s not going to be very happy.
Finding a used vehicle with outstanding quality, a history of excellent reviews, low cost of ownership, good safety scores, and a price tag less than $10,000 is challenging. That’s where our used car rankings and reviews come in. They’ll help you find a used car that won’t break the bank, either when you buy it or as you own it.
In general, a newer car is a better choice than an older model. Not only will it likely have fewer miles on the odometer, but it may also have updated cabin and safety technologies. In the first section of this guide, we look at 11 of the best 2014 or newer pre-owned cars you can buy for $10,000 or less. They’re a mix of compact or subcompact cars.
If you need a bit more space or you’re looking for a sports car, you’ll have to go back a bit further in model years to find a great used vehicle for less than $10,000. In the second section of this story, we look at the best affordable used cars from our various used car classes.
Note that prices and scores can fluctuate over time. Those you see on the following pages may not match the costs and ratings you see on each vehicle’s individual review page.