Top 10 Best Tariff-free Used Cars in April 2025
Buying a used car can be a smart financial decision, but it also comes with challenges. Shoppers want reliability, safety, and efficiency - all at a reasonable price. To help navigate the pre-owned market, Consumer Reports has released its latest list of the best used cars available in April 2025. These models excel in reliability, performance, and value, giving buyers the confidence to make informed decisions.
Consumer Reports evaluated vehicles based on road test performance, reliability ratings, and safety features. The chosen models had to have electronic stability control (ESC) as standard equipment and maintain above-average reliability for multiple years. This selection ensures that buyers can find vehicles that balance affordability with quality, offering peace of mind when purchasing a pre-owned car.
The 2016 Mazda 6 offers a dynamic driving experience with its smooth four-cylinder engine and agile handling. Its overall fuel efficiency of 32 mpg makes it a cost-effective choice. The well-finished cabin provides a premium feel, though rear-seat space is somewhat tight. The 2016 refresh improved cabin noise levels, enhancing highway comfort. Safety features include available forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Redesigned in 2014, the Toyota Corolla remains a top choice for reliability and efficiency. The 2018 model offers a spacious interior, a smooth ride, and an efficient 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 32 mpg overall. Standard safety features include Toyota's TSS-P system, with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning. LED headlights and a user-friendly infotainment system further enhance its appeal.
The 2018 Mazda CX-5 balances sporty handling with a refined interior. Its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine provides a responsive drive, while a well-tuned suspension improves ride comfort. Standard low-speed automatic emergency braking, along with blind spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert, ensure safety. The infotainment system, controlled by a console-mounted knob, requires some learning but is functional once mastered.
For those prioritizing fuel economy, the 2019 Toyota Camry Hybrid is a top pick. The LE trim achieves an impressive 52 mpg overall and a 610-mile range. This generation of Camry features a comfortable ride, responsive handling, and a sleek design. Standard safety features include forward collision warning, automatic braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Apple CarPlay was introduced in 2019, making it a desirable tech upgrade.
The 2021 Kia Sportage balances practicality and style with a refined powertrain and sporty handling that make it enjoyable to drive. Interior comfort is a standout, though outward visibility is slightly compromised. Later model years offer an improved infotainment system and expanded safety features, including automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist.
The 2018 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offers excellent efficiency with added power over the standard model. Updates in 2016 improved ride quality and cabin noise. The hybrid system provides better acceleration while achieving higher fuel economy. Reliability ratings for this model are among the highest in its class, making it a great long-term investment.
For families needing extra space, the 2020 Mazda CX-9 offers a blend of style and performance. While it prioritizes a dynamic driving experience over sheer cabin volume, it remains a solid choice for those who enjoy driving. Standard features include pedestrian detection and a refined interior with available second-row captain's chairs. The 2020 model stands out for its reliability, making it a better pick than later versions.
For buyers seeking luxury on a budget, the 2017 Lexus NX provides a premium feel with reliable Toyota engineering. The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine delivers 24 mpg overall, while the hybrid version improves efficiency to 29 mpg. The cabin is snug but well-appointed with premium materials. Blind-spot detection is recommended for added safety. The 2018 model introduced standard forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking.
Known for its durability, the 2015 Toyota Tacoma remains a solid choice in the used truck market. It may not offer the most refined ride, but it excels in off-road capability and towing. The V6 engine provides strong performance, especially in the TRD Off-Road trim. A rust-proof composite bed adds to its practicality. The Tacoma was refreshed in 2012, making multiple years viable options for buyers.
For driving enthusiasts, the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata is a standout. This lightweight roadster features sharp handling, responsive steering, and impressive reliability. The 2019 update increased engine output to 181 horsepower, making it more thrilling to drive. Both the manual softtop and retractable hardtop (RF) versions offer an engaging experience. Older models can be upgraded with Apple CarPlay by a dealer, enhancing their technology appeal.
Navigating the used car market can be overwhelming, but Consumer Reports' rigorous evaluation and selection process helps to take some mystery out of the process. Each of these vehicles offers a blend of reliability, safety, and performance, ensuring that buyers get the best value for their money. Whether you're looking for an efficient hybrid, a capable SUV, or a fun-to-drive sports car, this list provides excellent options for every budget. By choosing one of these top-rated used cars, you can drive with confidence, knowing that your vehicle is built to last.
Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
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! Car journalist and YouTube personality Matt Farah owns a million-mile Lexus LS 400, and that car has not been babied. Farah bought it with 897,000 miles on the odometer, and says the last two owners before him didn't take care of it at all. Since he bought it, it's been passed around among his media friends and has become something of a celebrity in its own right. The Ford F-150 has been the best-selling vehicle in the US for decades, and with good reason. Sure, not all the F-150s were solid, but Ford seemingly got it right with the 12th generation, as Porterville Ford reports many owners put between 300,000 and 400,000 miles on theirs. YouTuber Jack Fletcher is one such owner. In fact, his F-150 has over one million miles on the odometer! I guess that's what they mean when they say "Built Ford Tough?!" Those looking for a reliable vehicle that can haul heavy loads should definitely check out this one! If we take a 25-year step back in time, nobody would've guessed that Korean cars would be reliable. However, they made reliability a priority in the early 2000s, and it really shows. CarEdge reports there's only a 5% chance that the Elantra will need major repairs during its first five years, and that's 18% better than other cars in the segment. One owner who took the 5th-gen Elantra's reliability to the extreme was delivery driver Farrah Haines. She drove her 2013 Elantra an incredible one million miles in just five years, and Hyundai joined in on the celebrations. Those in the market for a cheap and reliable compact SUV could do a lot worse than the 3rd-gen Honda CR-V. It offers a spacious and comfortable interior, decent equipment, and great fuel economy. However, the biggest selling point may be its excellent reliability track record. 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. Power-wise, there's nothing impressive about that, but one user on the Club Lexus Forum posted that their CT200h courier vehicle has covered 600,000 miles, and that's extraordinary! Since we mentioned the Lexus CT200h, we may as well cover the Toyota Prius, too. Plenty of gearheads don't like the Prius, largely because of its image, and the fact that it was the vehicle of choice for virtue-signalling Hollywood celebs. That said, there's no denying the fact that it's super-reliable and economical, especially the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th-gen models. In its 4th-gen guise, it's also packing all the modern safety features, making it a great choice for families. Reddit users are raving over it, with one claiming theirs has covered 350,000 miles, and CCV TV on YouTube has a video of a clean example with half a million miles on the odometer. There was absolutely no way we could leave the Camry off this list. For the last 4-5 years, people have reported that it's almost impossible to get their hands on a reasonably priced Camry, and when they do pop up, they sell immediately. Why is that? Because it's known to be one of the most reliable cars ever! Its comfortable ride and reasonably powerful engines also help. Toyota's 4th-gen Camry has a 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine with 134 hp as standard, but a 3.0-liter V6 with 194 workhorses is available. Either unit should be capable of covering half a million miles, like the one ABC Action News reported on, and Redditors claim to have smashed through the 400,000-mile mark with ease. In 2019, Toyota launched the 5th-gen RAV4 SUV, and it's still going strong today after a 2021 facelift. If you want a relatively new, used vehicle, it's hard to argue against this compact SUV, as it delivers all the modern amenities, plenty of space, and decent power. Not to mention reliability! The Toyota RAV4 has proven itself as one of the most reliable vehicles money can buy, and there are still plenty of old, high-mileage examples on the road. Redditor UnstoppableMileage posted a story when his 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XSE sailed past the 450,000-mile mark, proving these vehicles will keep going forever as long as they're properly serviced. Whether you're looking for a rugged off-roader, a fuel-sipping commuter, or a reliable family hauler, the used market has plenty of options that won't let you down. The cars on this list prove that with proper maintenance, a well-built vehicle can last for hundreds of thousands—or even a million—miles. Reliability isn't just about avoiding breakdowns; it's about getting the most out of your investment. These vehicles showcase the craftsmanship and engineering that make long-term ownership a reality. So, if you're in the market for a used car, don't just look at the odometer—look at the track record. With the right choice, your next car could be the one that goes the distance.
Fox Sports
16 hours ago
- Fox Sports
Rain Shuffles Schedule at WWTR; Cars On Track at 2 P.M. ET
INDYCAR Persistent showers have forced the schedule for the INDYCAR weekend at World Wide Technology Raceway to be shuffled, with the NTT INDYCAR SERIES expected on track at 2 p.m. ET with the first practice for the Bommarito Automotive Group 500 presented by Axalta and Valvoline. The updated schedule at the 1.25-mile oval near St. Louis (all times Eastern, subject to change): 2-3 p.m.: NTT INDYCAR SERIES Practice (FS1, FOX Sports app, INDYCAR Radio Network) 3:15-4 p.m.: INDY NXT by Firestone Practice (FS1, FOX Sports app, INDYCAR Radio Network) 5:30 p.m.: NTT INDYCAR SERIES NTT P1 Award Qualifying (FS2, FOX Sports app, INDYCAR Radio Network) 7 p.m..: INDY NXT Qualifying (FS2, FOX Sports app, INDYCAR Radio Network) 8:15-9:15 p.m.: NTT INDYCAR SERIES Final Practice (FS2, FOX Sports app, INDYCAR Radio Network) The high-line practice for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES has been canceled. Stay tuned here and at INDYCAR social accounts for updates.
Forbes
16 hours ago
- Forbes
Toyota Chairman Claims Hybrids Are Cleaner Than EVs
Toyota's chairman Akio Toyoda claims that one electric car causes as much emissions as three hybrids. Let's check this bold statement out. The question of whether electric cars are more environmentally friendly than cars with combustion engines has long been resolved by scientists, who have concluded that the answer is unquestionably yes. Studies show that air pollution has decreased in cities with high EV adoption rates. However, the same old 'hybrid vs EV' debate keeps coming up, sometimes even from the top executives of the world's biggest automaker. Akio Toyoda said that nine million electric cars have the same pollution impact as 27 million hybrids in an April interview with Automotive News that went viral recently. According to him, one EV pollutes as much as three hybrids. The chairman also stated Toyota's goal to lower emissions using what the company refers to as a "multi-pathway" approach, which includes a variety of vehicle powertrains, including hybrids and plug-in hybrids, hydrogen-powered fuel cells, more efficient petrol engines and of course, EVs. "We have sold some 27 million hybrids. Those hybrids had the same impact as 9 million BEVs [battery EVs] on the road," Toyoda commented. "But if we were to have made 9 million BEVs in Japan, it would have actually increased the carbon emissions, not reduced them. That is because Japan relies on the thermal power plants for electricity.' Given that fossil fuels have typically been used to generate energy in Japan, it appears that Toyoda was explicitly referring to the emissions produced during production and charging in the country. Nonetheless, the proportion of renewable energy sources in the nation's energy mix has also been increasing recently. However, Toyoda's remarks were seized upon by numerous media sites, who used them as a "damning admission" to disparage EVs in general. So do EVs actually produce more emissions than hybrids over the course of their lifetimes? To be sure, comparing EVs to hybrids and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) is more complex than comparing EVs to gas-powered vehicles. Battery consumption, driving habits, and the regional mix of electricity all play a part. But for clarity, let's dissect everything. Emissions produced during the extraction, refinement, and processing of the basic materials needed in high-voltage batteries are the main argument against EVs. Materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel, which are used to make EV batteries, must be mined using risky, expensive water-intensive procedures. Therefore, an EV is already said to be "dirtier" than the typical gasoline or hybrid car when it leaves the factory. 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. According to a 2023 study by Argonne National Laboratory, an electric car can take 19,500 miles to mitigate the emissions created during the manufacturing process. Meanwhile, says that this figure is less than two years of average American driving. According to another study in the journal Nature, carbon reductions start at about 28,000 miles. In any case, EVs eventually become the far cleaner choice over time given how long Americans retain their automobiles. It is possible however, to come up with scenarios where hybrids are cleaner than electric cars in certain conditions—but those cases are limited. The electric 6,800-pound Ford F-150 Lightning driving on the open road could be dirtier than a Toyota Prius that's driving at low speed for short distances, frequently recharging its battery, which gets juiced up by the engine and regenerative braking. But when you do a back-to-back comparison, EVs are cleaner than hybrids even when the source of electricity is fossil fuel. If we look at the Department of Energy's emissions calculator, which weighs up exhaust and grid emissions, a Tesla Model Y produces lower greenhouse gas emissions—149 grams of CO2 per mile—than a Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid—177 grams of CO2 per mile. Looking at another comparison in California, the Model Y, which only produces 80 grams of CO2 per mile is far cleaner than a Prius plug-in hybrid with around 130 grams per mile. Further reinforcing the EV vs hybrid case, an Institute of Physics (IOP) study also states that EVs break even with their hybrid counterparts in terms of lifecycle CO2 emissions within 2.2 to 2.4 years of operation. When Akio Toyoda stated that hybrids generate fewer emissions than EVs, he was arguably talking about a set of data in which all these above-mentioned factors were not fully taken into account—where grids are powered by emission-rich fossil fuels and hybrids are driven mostly in low-speed traffic where regenerative braking and the smaller batteries are under heavy load. Whatever his stance, the evidence appears to be there that, over time at least, EVs are cleaner than hybrids.
