I’ve been a car enthusiast for years, and every time someone asks me what vehicle to get on a budget, I always point them in the same direction: the best used cars to buy. New cars lose value the moment you drive them off the lot, but a well-chosen used car can give you years of dependable service without the depreciation hit. Over the years, I’ve helped friends, family, and even strangers on forums pick out pre-owned vehicles that truly last. In this guide, I’ll share my top 5 picks for the best used cars to buy in 2025, all under $20,000. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or just looking for a reliable daily driver, these choices will save you money and headaches.
Why Buying Used Makes Sense
Let’s face it: new cars are expensive. The average new car price in 2024 was over $48,000, according to Kelley Blue Book. A used car that’s two to three years old can cost 30-40% less than its original sticker price, and it’s still packed with modern features. Plus, depreciation slows down significantly after the first few years. That’s why searching for the best used cars to buy is a smart financial move. You get more car for your money, and you avoid the steepest depreciation curve. With proper maintenance, many today’s models easily surpass 150,000 miles, so even a car with 40,000 miles has plenty of life left.
Top 5 Best Used Cars to Buy in 2025
After years of test-driving and researching reliability reports, here are my five picks for the best used cars to buy this year.
1. Honda Civic (2016-2021)
The Honda Civic is a perennial favorite for a reason. It’s fun to drive, fuel-efficient, and incredibly reliable. A 2018 Civic LX with about 40,000 miles can be found for around $16,000-$18,000. I’ve owned a Civic myself, and it never let me down. The 1.5-liter turbo engine is peppy, and the cabin is surprisingly roomy for a compact car. Look for models with Honda Sensing safety suite—it adds adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
2. Toyota Camry (2018-2022)
If you need a midsize sedan that feels almost brand-new, the Toyota Camry is hard to beat. The 2018 redesign brought a sportier look and a comfortable interior. A 2019 Camry LE with 35,000 miles typically sells for about $19,000. Toyota’s reputation for longevity is legendary; many Camrys easily surpass 200,000 miles with regular oil changes. It’s one of the best used cars to buy if you prioritize reliability and a smooth ride.
3. Mazda3 (2019-2023)
Mazda has been quietly making some of the best-driving cars on the market. The 2019 Mazda3 offers a premium feel with its upscale interior and sharp handling. A 2020 Mazda3 Preferred with 30,000 miles goes for around $18,000. The Skyactiv engines are robust, and the car actually feels fun on twisty roads. If you want something that doesn’t drive like a typical economy car, this is one of the best used cars to buy for the enthusiast on a budget.
4. Subaru Outback (2017-2020)
For those who need all-wheel drive and cargo space, the Subaru Outback is a no-brainer. The 2017 Outback 2.5i Premium with 50,000 miles runs about $17,000. It has 8.7 inches of ground clearance, a cavernous rear cargo area, and Subaru’s excellent AWD system. I’ve taken one on a snowy mountain trip, and it handled everything. The Outback retains its value well, making it a wise choice when you’re searching for the best used cars to buy.
5. Lexus ES (2016-2020)
Want luxury without the luxury price tag? The Lexus ES is essentially a dressed-up Toyota Camry, so it’s bulletproof. A 2017 Lexus ES 350 with 45,000 miles can be found for around $19,000. It has a plush ride, a whisper-quiet cabin, and premium materials. The 3.5-liter V6 is smooth and powerful. You get the Lexus dealer experience and incredible resale value. If you want to feel like you’re driving a $50,000 car for half the price, this is one of the best used cars to buy.
What to Look for When Shopping
Finding the best used cars to buy is only half the battle—you also need to inspect them properly. Here’s my checklist:
- **Vehicle history report**: Use Carfax or AutoCheck to check for accidents, title issues, and service records.
- **Pre-purchase inspection**: Pay a mechanic $100-$150 for a thorough check. It could save you thousands.
- **Test drive**: Drive on highways, city streets, and even rough pavement. Listen for strange noises and feel for vibrations.
- **Check for recalls**: Visit the NHTSA website with the VIN to see if all recalls were repaired.
- **Negotiate**: Use comparable listings from CarMax and Carvana as leverage. Don’t be afraid to walk away if the deal isn’t right.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve seen people make costly errors when buying used. Here are the top three:
- **Skipping the title check**: I once almost bought a car with a salvage title that looked perfect. A quick Carfax check revealed flood damage.
- **Focusing only on price**: The cheapest car isn’t always the best value. A $15,000 car with 100,000 miles might cost more in repairs than a $18,000 car with 50,000 miles.
- **Not considering insurance costs**: Some used cars, like the Hyundai Elantra, have higher theft rates, which can raise your premium. Ask your insurer for a quote before buying.
Final Thoughts
In my opinion, the best used cars to buy are those that balance reliability, fuel economy, and overall cost of ownership. Honda, Toyota, Mazda, Subaru, and Lexus consistently top my list. The models I’ve highlighted—Civic, Camry, Mazda3, Outback, and ES—have proven themselves over years of real-world driving. Before you make a purchase, do your due diligence. A little extra time spent on research can mean years of trouble-free ownership. If you’re still unsure, ask a trusted mechanic or a friend who knows cars. And remember, the best used cars to buy don’t have to be boring—there’s a reliable, fun option for every budget.
