Looking for a used car? Here are the 14 best cars to buy used

Hyundai Elantras produced starting in 2019 are an excellent choice on the used car market thanks to their outstanding value for the money. They feature a modern design, a well-equipped interior, and particularly impressive fuel economy. The progress Hyundai has made in terms of quality and reliability is reflected in these models, which now inspire much more confidence than they used to.

Safety features are plentiful, even on many entry-level trims, which makes them particularly appealing to families and young drivers. Easy to drive, economical to maintain, and often available at competitive prices, recent Elantras are a particularly smart purchase.

The Ford F-150 has been the best-selling pickup truck in North America for several decades, and many used models make for excellent buys. Its success stems from its versatility, towing capacity, and variety of engine options. Models equipped with V8 engines or a well-maintained EcoBoost V6 generally offer excellent durability.

Its spacious interior—particularly in the SuperCrew versions—allows you to comfortably transport a family while retaining the qualities of a true workhorse. Parts are widely available, and repairs remain relatively affordable. For those looking for a rugged pickup capable of working hard for many years, the F-150 remains a safe bet.

The Toyota Prius revolutionized the hybrid car market and remains one of the best used-car buys today for drivers looking to reduce their gas consumption. Its hybrid system is recognized worldwide for its exceptional reliability and impressive longevity. Many models have far exceeded 300,000 kilometers while maintaining remarkable performance.

Maintenance remains relatively affordable, and running costs are among the lowest in the automotive industry. Its practical interior offers ample space for passengers as well as a generous trunk. For commuters or families who drive many kilometers each year, the Prius is an economical, sustainable, and reliable solution.

The Lexus ES is a luxury sedan that combines elegance, comfort, and reliability like few of its competitors. Unlike many European models, it is known for its low maintenance costs and remarkable durability. Its quiet interior, comfortable seats, and high-quality materials create a premium driving experience. The powertrains, derived from Toyota, inspire confidence and often allow the car to rack up very high mileage without major issues.

The hybrid versions also offer excellent fuel economy. Even after several years, the Lexus ES retains its refined appearance and strong resale value. It is therefore an excellent choice for luxury driving without any unpleasant surprises.

For several years now, the Honda CR-V has been one of the most sought-after compact SUVs on the used-car market. Its reputation is built on its reliability, spacious interior, and reasonable maintenance costs. It’s ideal for families thanks to its roomy trunk and excellent visibility. Honda engines are known for their durability, and fuel economy remains very competitive for a vehicle in this class.

Newer models offer several driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control and a collision-prevention system. Easy to resell and popular throughout North America, the CR-V is a smart purchase that will serve you well for many years to come.

The Subaru Outback is an ideal car for drivers who regularly face challenging road conditions. Its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, which comes standard, provides excellent traction on snow, in the rain, and on rough terrain. Its spacious interior easily accommodates a family, while its large trunk allows you to carry luggage or outdoor gear.

Adventure seekers also appreciate its ground clearance, which is greater than that of many traditional station wagons. Subaru engines are durable when maintained according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Thanks to its versatility, comfort, and well-established reputation, the Outback remains a solid choice in the used-car market.

The Mazda CX-5 is often considered one of the best used compact SUVs thanks to its balance of comfort, reliability, and driving pleasure. Its precise steering and dynamic handling set it apart from many competitors that are more focused on utility. Its interior features a high-quality finish with premium materials that sometimes rival those of more luxurious vehicles.

Skyactiv engines are prized for their fuel efficiency and durability when properly maintained. Recent models come equipped with numerous safety features, providing owners with added peace of mind. The CX-5 is an excellent choice for those looking for a versatile and stylish vehicle.

The Toyota RAV4 has become a benchmark in the compact SUV segment thanks to its proven reliability and versatility. On the used-car market, it appeals to buyers looking for a vehicle capable of handling both daily commutes and weekend getaways. Its engine is known for its durability, while its all-wheel drive—available on several trim levels—inspires confidence in winter.

The spacious interior comfortably seats five passengers and offers ample cargo space. Newer models feature several safety technologies, including automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. The RAV4 also retains excellent resale value, a testament to its enviable reputation.

The Lexus RX is one of the most highly recommended used luxury SUVs thanks to its exceptional reliability and remarkable comfort. Developed by Toyota’s premium division, it features a powertrain renowned for its durability and low maintenance costs compared to other luxury vehicles. Its interior is quiet, refined, and crafted from high-quality materials that stand the test of time.

The comfortable seats and smooth suspension make long drives particularly enjoyable. The hybrid models also offer excellent fuel economy. Despite its prestigious status, the RX remains a solid choice on the used car market for discerning drivers who want to enjoy many years of worry-free driving.

The Honda Accord is recognized as one of the best used sedans thanks to its combination of reliability, comfort, and performance. More spacious than a compact car, it easily accommodates a family while offering a smooth and enjoyable ride. Its engines—whether naturally aspirated or turbocharged, depending on the model year—are generally durable when maintained regularly.

The interior stands out for its ergonomic design, high-quality materials, and generous space for passengers. Recent models also feature excellent safety technologies and a user-friendly multimedia system. Its reputation helps maintain a high resale value. The Accord remains an excellent choice for buyers seeking comfort, reliability, and versatility.

The Toyota Camry remains a safe bet for anyone looking to buy a used midsize sedan. Its reputation is based primarily on its remarkable reliability, ride comfort, and ability to cover several hundred thousand kilometers. The engines are known for their durability, while maintenance costs generally remain reasonable compared to those of many rivals.

The interior offers generous space for passengers and a practical trunk for long trips. Recent models also feature a wide range of safety systems and modern technologies. Thanks to its solid reputation, the Camry retains excellent resale value. It’s a reassuring choice for drivers seeking peace of mind and longevity.

The Mazda3 has established itself as one of the best used compact cars thanks to its successful blend of reliability, comfort, and driving pleasure. Unlike many of its competitors, it focuses on dynamic handling, precise steering, and a well-tuned suspension that deliver a superior driving experience. Its interior also impresses with high-quality materials and a refined design worthy of more expensive models.

Skyactiv engines are known for their fuel efficiency and durability when properly maintained. Newer models offer a wide range of safety and driver-assistance features. For buyers looking for a reliable car with a sporty edge, the Mazda3 is an excellent investment.

The Honda Civic is one of the most popular used cars because of its balance of reliability, driving pleasure, and reasonable running costs. For several decades, it has appealed to both young drivers and families alike thanks to its fuel-efficient engine, precise steering, and excellent build quality. Parts are easy to find, and maintenance is generally inexpensive, which contributes to its enviable reputation.

Recent models feature a modern interior, comprehensive connectivity, and several advanced safety technologies. Even after several years, the Civic retains strong resale value. For those looking for a durable, versatile, and fun-to-drive compact car, it’s a choice that’s hard to beat on the market.

The Toyota Corolla has long been considered one of the best used cars to buy thanks to its exceptional reliability. Regardless of the generation, it is known for its durable engine, low fuel consumption, and very affordable maintenance costs. Many owners easily exceed 300,000 kilometers without major repairs, provided they follow the recommended maintenance schedule.

Its interior is simple but well-designed, while recent models offer numerous safety and driver-assistance technologies. Its strong resale value also attests to its enviable reputation. For a student, a family, or an everyday driver, the Corolla remains a smart, reassuring, and long-lasting investment in the used-car market.