Used cars are always a popular choice: They cost less than a new car, cost less to insure and they may come with a limited warranty or the original manufacturer’s warranty. There are caveats, of course, and buyers should use caution and this guidance when buying a used car, but often, the best used cars can be a great deal.
Especially when a particular car offers nearly all that it’s brand new counterpart offers: Technology, design, interior finishes and engine specs. The newer the car, the more likely it is to be similar to the brand new model, of course. Most car makers redesign their models every five to 7 years, though some go longer between makeovers or offer a “refresh” to extend the design lifecycle. For all these reasons, here are our favorite cars to buy used right now.
The Timeless Design of the Volvo XC90 Makes this Among the Best Used Cars
This one is timeless: The Volvo XC90 has refined its look in the decade since the current design was introduced. Technology, interior features and safety standards hold up both to time and to small enhancements that Volvo has made. You probably won’t miss them, nor will you see another newer XC90 in traffic and suddenly feel like your new to you car is dated and showing it. Used prices range from $30,000-$50,000.
Volvo XC90 Review: The Luxury SUV That Makes the Carpool Less Painful
The Subaru Outback Could Be Your Forever Car – Even Used
When Subaru rolled out much of its new technology, the Outback was the first to get it: A large multimedia system with a modern look and function, a new design for the dash and front seat console, more features and comforts. Over the last few years Subaru has added these tech and comfort features to its other models while adding trim options to the Outback lineup, all while leaving the core Outback alone. Because of the timing, we expect Outback will see a redesign in the next couple of years, but we have to wonder: How much will this outdoor stalwart really change? One can be yours, priced from $25,000-$35,000.
The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness Will Leave You Feeling Rugged, Wild and Free
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Toyota Highlander — and Hybrid Are Among the Best Used Cars
This car speaks to my heart. The first SUV to successfully float a hybrid engine (Ford Escape sported a hybrid for a few years before Ford retooled the technology), and one that was able to inch up MPG from 28 in the original model to 35 MPG in the current model, the Toyota Highlander has been a linchpin in the SUV world. It has a 3rd row that’s great for occasional use, lots of conveniences for all passengers and a wide range of options, from basic to luxury. Last redesigned in 2020, it will no doubt get a makeover in the next few years, but for now it’s bright and shiny, and a great car to have in your driveway. Generally priced from $28,000-$35,000.
2023 Toyota Highlander AWD 3 Row SUV: The Goldilocks of SUVs?
The Jeep That Ages Backwards? Jeep Grand Cherokee
Every redesign of the Jeep Grand Cherokee strives to keep its heritage look while maintaining its core principles: Top off-road capabilities, a comfortable cabin and conveniences that keep everyone powered for the long haul. It’s design for extreme conditions but just as capable in the car pool lane. Redesigns are always true to the “Sarge Grille” face as well as the size and shape of this SUV, and with the popularity of this SUV, you can probably find a relatively new one, perhaps even a 4xe plug-in hybrid for sale and on budget. Priced from $28,000-$40,000.
Luxury On the Inside, Rugged on the Outside: 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Genesis GV70 Will Delight You Every Day
This may be the best car that Genesis builds, and not for the reason you might suspect. it’s not the most luxurious, or the largest, or the smallest. But it is the most thoughtful and makes its owners very happy. The Genesis GV70 carries all the Genesis design cues—the diamond grille, wrap-around headlights and tail lights, luscious interior options including cream leather—at a very approachable price. And, there are multiple engine options: A 4-cylinder turbo, a 6-cylinder or an EV, all with the same beautiful look and feel. Nicely priced from $35,000-$45,000.
2022 Genesis GV70 Review: This Small Luxury SUV Is A Modern Classic
The Toyota Sienna Is a Family Workhorse
We were surprised to find out last year that this minivan is actually hard to buy—and it still is. Toyota underestimated the popularity that this car would take on when they added standard all wheel drive and hybrid fuel economy. So if it’s on your list, look for both new and used models. Even if it’s been loved by another family for a while, it’ll serve yours faithfully, too. We found a wide range priced from $35,000-$50,000.
Your Dream Ford Bronco Is Now More Accessible
You’ve been dreaming about this SUV since it was introduced in 2021. Me too. And now that it’s reached maturity, i.e. there are enough models, and model years, to float some to the resale market, you can lower your price target a bit and get the one you want. They are still in high demand, new and used, so you may need to stalk your Bronco, but she’s out there waiting for you. There are lots of options priced from $35,000-$45,000.
12 Reasons Why the Ford Bronco Sport Is So Cool
The Chevrolet Tahoe Never Gets Old, or Out of Shape
Chevrolet will roll out a refreshed Tahoe (and its fraternal twin, the Suburban) later this year. The changes are good, but not earth-shattering. If you need a full-size SUV, the Tahoe has the space, power and conveniences, and can still tow, haul and accommodate 7 or 8 passengers. Priced from $40,000-$60,000 with many right at the $50,000 mark.
The Chevy Tahoe RST 3 Row SUV Powers Your On-Road Adventures
What’s Not to Love In the Chrysler Pacifica?
This minivan has become a mainstay, especially for families who value style and design as much as space and conveniences. Introduced in 2017, and a plug-in hybrid version shortly after, the Chrysler Pacifica has an enduring look, inside and out. The company has a redesign planned but rumors say it’s more about interior features and technology, which is already pretty good in recent models. And how can they significantly improve on those stow-n-go seats? Recent models priced from $27,000-$35,000.
The Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid Electric Minivan: This Ain’t Your Mama’s Minivan
This Ground-breaking EV is Now an OG: Hyundai Ioniq 5
If you’re in the market for a used EV, the award-winning Hyundai Ioniq 5 is the one to look at. Quick charging, long-ranging, one-pedal driving and an interior that was ahead of its time, the Ioniq 5 is finally making its way into the used car market. And the good news is, since it’s only two years old, the original warranty still applies. Expect to pay $20,000-$30,000 and benefit from the $4,000 tax credit for used EVs.
Hyundai IONIQ 5 First Drive: A Pivotal Moment for Hyundai—and for Electric Cars
There’s a Reason the Honda Odyssey is In So Many Driveways
When Honda redesigned the Odyssey in 2018 they included so many great features that it has proven hard to overcome. The main one: a removable center row seat that allows the other seats to slide side to side—a brilliant feature for configuring kids car seats. From there, the tech is still top notch, and features for kids and parents are so good that Honda has added them to its other 3-row SUVs. We saw nice ones priced from $25,000-$35,000.
Honda Odyssey Minivan: A Family-Friendly Bubble of Comfort, Convenience and Safety
When Only a Classic Will Do: Mini Cooper
Mini Cooper models are updated regularly with new technology both under the hood and in the user experience. But the overall feel remains the same: the classic look of a John Cooper Works car. Built by BMW and designed to feel like a go-kart on a rail with tight steering and great performance, these are also among the most fun cars to drive. A used Mini Cooper can be a great deal, and it gets you invited into the club of Mini owners. Expect to pay $18,000-$25,000.
Why I Said Yes to a Mini Cooper Countryman
Used cars can be a great deal, but be sure to vet both the model and the specific car you’re looking at. Keep your options, your mind and your eyes open. And then, enjoy your new car and how much you saved on it!
