The top 10 best value used cars in 2025
Buying a used car can be a great way to save money while still getting a dependable ride. But not all used cars are created equal — some hold up better over time, offering great reliability, safety and fuel economy. To help shoppers navigate the market, Consumer Reports recently announced its picks for the 10 best used cars available right now, covering a range of budgets and vehicle types.
Each pick is based on strong road test performance, above-average reliability, and essential safety features like electronic stability control. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly sedan or a fuel-efficient hybrid, there's something here for everyone.A stylish and fun-to-drive midsize sedan, the 2016 Mazda6 stands out with its responsive four-cylinder engine, sharp handling, and excellent fuel economy (32 mpg overall). The well-crafted interior offers a premium feel, though the rear seat is a bit tight. This year's models feature an improved infotainment system and reduced cabin noise.
Optional safety features include forward collision warning and blind spot monitoring. The Mazda6 also boasts strong reliability ratings, with many owners reporting minimal maintenance issues even after years of ownership.
A spacious and ultra-reliable compact car, the 2018 Toyota Corolla delivers a comfortable ride and strong fuel economy (32 mpg overall). With a roomy back seat and simple, user-friendly controls, it's a practical choice. The SE and XSE trims add a bit of sportiness too.
Toyota's TSS-P safety suite — featuring forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning — became standard in 2017, making this model year a great value. The Corolla's reputation for longevity means that well-maintained models can easily surpass 200,000 miles with routine servicing.The 2016 Honda CR-V combines practicality, efficiency, and reliability. A 2.4-liter engine paired with a CVT provides solid power and 24 mpg overall. A 2015 refresh improved crash protection, handling, and styling. While higher trims include advanced safety features, they're mostly limited to the top Touring trim. The CR-V also offers a spacious cargo area, making it a strong choice for families or those needing extra room for gear.
Offering an outstanding 52 mpg overall in the LE trim, the 2019 Toyota Camry Hybrid is an excellent fuel-efficient option. It features a smooth ride, spacious interior, and standard advanced safety features like forward collision warning and adaptive cruise control.
Later models include Apple CarPlay for added convenience. The Camry Hybrid's battery pack also has proven to be durable, with many owners reporting minimal degradation even after significant mileage.A refined and sporty compact SUV, the 2021 Kia Sportage offers comfortable seating and solid handling. Updates in 2020 added a larger infotainment screen and safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. The base model's fuel economy is average, but it remains a great value. Its strong warranty coverage also makes it a good pick for buyers looking for added peace of mind.
Toyota introduced the hybrid version of the RAV4 in 2016, bringing improved performance and efficiency (8 mpg better than the non-hybrid). With a refreshed interior, smoother ride, and added safety tech, the 2018 model is a standout pick for those seeking a fuel-efficient SUV with Toyota's legendary reliability. Owners frequently praise the RAV4 Hybrid for its low maintenance costs and strong resale value.The 2020 Mazda CX-9 delivers a more engaging drive than most family SUVs, with sharp handling and a turbocharged engine. While it prioritizes performance over maximum cargo space, it offers a well-appointed interior. The 2020 refresh added second-row captain's chairs and improved safety tech. The CX-9 is a favorite among drivers who want a family-friendly vehicle without sacrificing driving enjoyment.
Blending practicality with upscale features, the Lexus NX shares its platform with the Toyota RAV4 but adds premium materials and a sportier 235-hp turbocharged engine. It returns 24 mpg overall, with hybrid versions achieving 29 mpg. Opt for the 2018 model for standard forward collision warning and automatic braking. The NX's quiet cabin and smooth ride make it a solid option for those looking for a touch of luxury without breaking the bank.
Durable and capable, the 2015 Toyota Tacoma is a go-to choice for used truck buyers. While the driving position is a bit awkward, its off-road prowess and reliability are top-notch. A variety of configurations are available, with the TRD Off-Road trim being especially desirable. The Tacoma's high resale value is a testament to its durability, and models with regular maintenance often last well beyond 300,000 miles.For those who love driving, the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata is a dream. This lightweight roadster delivers precise steering, lively acceleration (boosted to 181 hp in 2019), and fantastic fuel economy. A simple manual soft top and engaging handling make it one of the best affordable sports cars available. The Miata's reputation for reliability, combined with low running costs, makes it a favorite among enthusiasts looking for a fun, worry-free driving experience.
Consumer Reports' top used car picks offer a mix of affordability, reliability, and safety. Whether you're looking for a fuel-efficient hybrid, a practical SUV, or a fun-to-drive sports car, these choices represent the best values on the pre-owned market.
When shopping for a used car, it's crucial to check for a well-maintained history and consider getting a pre-purchase inspection to ensure you're getting a quality vehicle. Be sure to research common issues with specific models and look for one with a clean title and no significant accident history. By taking these steps, buyers can maximize their investment and enjoy a dependable vehicle for years to come.
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Yahoo
6 hours ago
- Yahoo
12 Used Cars That'll Outlast Brand New Ones
Buying new means peace of mind, and warranties take the worry out of reliability. However, not everyone wants the price tag that comes with a showroom-fresh ride. If you're shopping used, yes, condition matters. Not every old car is a winner; some have rust, some were neglected, and some are just plain tired. But the models we've highlighted here? When properly maintained, they've built a reputation for going the distance. These are the vehicles that can still deliver hundreds of thousands of miles, without draining your wallet or your patience We've scoured websites such as CarSurvey, RepairPal, YouTube, and Reddit to find some used vehicles that can keep running for decades with just regular maintenance. The cars on this list range from classics to nearly new, but all are capable of lasting half a million miles, with some even smashing through the million-mile barrier. Toyota introduced the 4Runner in 1984, and since then, this midsize SUV has earned a reputation as one of the toughest vehicles ever made. It's made to conquer practically any terrain, making it a fan-favorite among 4x4 and overland enthusiasts. Provided you can find one in good condition, it'll keep chugging along with nothing more than basic servicing. If it's not well-maintained, prepare to change some wear and tear parts to keep it running, but that's standard for any vehicle. Toyota offered it with a variety of engines, ranging from 2.0 to 2.2, 2.4, and 3.0-liter gasoline units, and a couple of 2.4-liter diesel mills, but the 2.2 is the best. One owner on CarSurvey claims his 1st-gen 4Runner had 1,442,300 miles on it, and several others report hundreds of thousands of miles on the odometer. Like Toyota, Honda has a reputation for building near-bulletproof cars that'll run for decades. The Accord is one of their top sellers, and there's a reason for that — it's practically unkillable! Well, at least if it doesn't start to rust. Multiple owners on CarSurvey report that their fourth-gen Accord has rolled over 200,000 miles, with some even making it past the 300,000-mile mark. TFLclassics on YouTube got their hands on one that's covered a whopping 1,003,440 miles. Toyota's longest-lasting nameplate might also be its toughest. The 80- and 100-series Land Cruisers were overbuilt to tackle the world's harshest environments, and they're still going strong decades later. With full-time four-wheel drive, solid axles (in the 80s), and legendary straight-six and V8 engines, these rigs are nearly unkillable. It's not unusual to see one with over 400,000 miles—and that's before a rebuild. Whether you're rock crawling or road-tripping, an old Land Cruiser will get you there—and back—without drama. Just budget for gas. The Nissan Frontier has always had a reputation for being rugged and reliable, but 2005 marked a turning point. That's when the little Frontier finally grew up—morphing from a compact workhorse into a proper midsize truck with a roomier cabin, updated styling, and enough interior space to haul the family comfortably. It still flew under the radar, running on the same basic platform and trusty 4.0-liter V6 (VQ40DE) for years. But here's the thing: that old-school simplicity paid off. Paired with a 5-speed automatic, many Frontiers from this era easily surpass 250,000 miles. Just watch for early-model radiator issues, and you'll have a midsize pickup that's as dependable as underrated. In 1989, Lexus, Toyota's luxury division, launched the LS 400, a flagship sedan built to compete with Europe's finest. The LS 400 didn't just compete with them, it outperformed them in practically every way that counts, especially in terms of reliability! 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Several Reddit users report that their CR-Vs have rolled past the 400,000-mile mark, and the owner of a 2007 CR-V posted a picture of his car nearing one million miles, having covered 998,275 miles, to be exact. Not bad for a car that costs an estimated $407 in annual maintenance, according to RepairPal. Lexus is always ranked in one of the two top spots in Consumer Reports' reliability rankings. In 2011, the Japanese luxury brand introduced the CT 200h hybrid hatchback, and it's a real jack of all trades, offering great handling, excellent fuel economy, practicality, and unrivaled build quality. In fact, Redditors claim it may just be the most reliable Lexus ever, which speaks volumes. Its powertrain comes straight out of the Toyota Prius and consists of a 1.8-liter gasoline engine and two electric motors, generating a combined 134 hp. 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It has a larger "carbon debt," which is a term used by researchers to quantify the emissions that cars accumulate before they are even driven. Depending on the vehicle category, the production of gasoline and hybrid automobiles emits 6 to 9 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide, according to a study published in the scientific journal IOP Science. In contrast, EVs emit between 11 and 14 metric tonnes of CO2 before they are delivered to consumers. However, that is just a portion of the story. Once EVs are on the road, their total "emissions" start to drop quickly and they begin to pay off that carbon debt. Conversely, gasoline and hybrid cars go in the other way, increasing their carbon emissions with time. An EV may be able to pay off the loan completely after a specific amount of miles, where as a gasoline car will not. Who you ask will determine how long that takes. 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17 hours ago
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