In 2023 most buyers of new cars and trucks are finding themselves priced out of the new car market as average transaction prices seem to be breaking records every month. Fortunately, if you’re ready to consider a used car that’s still in good condition and should last for many years, you can find financial relief in the form of a “new-to-you” vehicle from LA City Cars.
The list of the top used cars for 2023 is divided first by price, then by car category. In each category, we will provide a few well-thought-out recommendations as well as, when applicable, one or two strong alternatives for individuals who don’t mind going against the grain. Be mindful that the used car market is dynamic and that the availability of specific models and the price you pay may vary depending on month and date. You should be able to discover the ideal car for your family that still fits neatly within your budget if you’re willing to put in a little time and research. LA City Cars, however, has made this process very easy.
The top used cars for less than $10,000
Top choices: Any Toyota Camry, Kia Soul, 2017–2019, and Hyundai Sonata
In the used car market, there aren’t many good cars under $20,000 these days. The Hyundai Sonata, model years 2021, is our choice.
2021 Hyundai Sonata SEL
Despite its modest size, the automobile can accommodate a small family very comfortably. In addition to having a strong track record of dependability, the relatively new Hyundai has more safety technology than an older vehicle. Desirable changes were made and an entirely new model was introduced to the American market.
The Kia Soul is a good option if you need something with a little bit more space for cargo. Its unique styling makes it stand out from the competition, and its selection of four-cylinder engine options should be quite economical even if they aren’t quite as efficient as the Elantra’s.
2022 Kia Soul LX
2021 Kia Soul LX
2020 Kia Soul LX
2022 Kia Soul LX
It’s difficult to go wrong with the best Toyota Camry you can find. For many years, Toyota’s midsize sedan has been a best-seller for a reason. Its track record for dependability is nearly unrivaled; consumers may customize their selection with the four- and six-cylinder engine options; and its spacious interior accommodates families.
2020 Toyota Camry LE
2021 Toyota Camry SE
2021 Toyota Camry XSE
2022 Toyota Camry
Interesting substitute: Nissan Leaf, 2011–2017
The first mass-market EV in America was the Nissan Leaf, which debuted for the 2011 model year. Although the early Leaf hatchback’s 73–84-mile range is sufficient for a significant portion of the population, it didn’t come with a very large battery if you go more than 70 miles in a day.
2011 Nissan Leaf SL
Used SUVs: Nissan Rogue, 2014-2017, and Dodge Journey, 2011-2020
You might realize that it will be difficult to locate an SUV in the price range that you like. Not if you visit LA City Cars.
The Dodge Journey did not garner any desirability awards when it was first introduced. However, it has three rows of seats, all-wheel drive as an option, and is reasonably priced—all of which are significant selling points for many consumers.
2015 Dodge Journey SXT
2019 Dodge Journey SE
2019 Dodge Journey SE
2019 Dodge Journey SE
The Nissan Rogue’s greatest feature is its exceptional sales performance over an extended period of time. It implies that the used market has a large number of them. Because it is less expensive than competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, the Rogue is more affordable for those with tight budgets.
2020 Nissan Rogue S
2017 Nissan Rogue SV
2020 Nissan Rogue SV
2021 Nissan Rogue SV
2019 Nissan Rogue SL
Used pickup trucks: Nissan Titan (2008–2012) and Dodge Dakota (2005–2011).
Outsized compared to competitors such as the Ford Ranger and Chevy Colorado, the Dodge Dakota is a good pickup truck. The last Dakota was manufactured from 2005 to 2011, and subsequent models are really identified as Rams rather than Dodges. It’s the same truck in either case.
Top choices: Honda Civic (2016–2018) and Chevrolet Malibu
In our opinion, one of the best used cars available in America is the Chevy Malibu. Chevy Malibu comes loaded with a range of safety technologies, from lane-keeping assist to forward collision warning, all aimed at accident prevention and passenger protection. In summary, the Malibu proves to be a dependable option for individuals in search of a midsize sedan.
2020 Chevrolet Malibu Premier
2021 Chevrolet Malibu LT
2020 Chevrolet Malibu LT
The Honda Civic is our top choice if you want a strong, sturdy, dependable everyday driver and don’t want to worry about plugging anything in. Compared to a comparable Toyota Corolla, which should also prove to be a very dependable alternative, it’s more enjoyable to drive, and the 10th generation model, which made its debut for the 2016 model year, is surprisingly capacious and comfy.
2020 Honda Civic LX
2017 Honda Civic LX-P
2020 Honda Civic Sport
2019 Honda Civic LX
2020 Honda Civic LX
2020 Honda Civic EX
2019 Honda Civic Si
2021 Honda Civic Sport
2015 Honda Civic SE
2018 Honda Civic LX
Interesting substitutes: Mini Cooper, 2014–2017
One of America’s least trustworthy car models in the past was the Mini Cooper. The 2014–2017 model has shown to be fairly durable, with the majority of those reliability concerns having been ironed out over time. Although the Cooper isn’t fast, driving it about town is a ton of fun. In addition, the Mini is a hatchback car with a small rear seat.
2020 MINI Cooper S Countryman Signature
2017 MINI Cooper Clubman
Used SUVs: Chevrolet Equinox, Mazda CX-5, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4
SUVs used to be associated with tough four-wheel drive and body-on-frame construction. The sport utility sector today includes anything from beasts with Hummer emblems to barely raised hatchbacks. The Mazda CX-5 is our best choice if you’re searching for a crossover that is reliable, economical, and enjoyable to drive. For the money, a Honda CR-V is also a good option if you find one in a comparable price range. Though it’s definitely not as enjoyable to drive as the other options, the Toyota RAV4 should also be dependable.
2020 Chevrolet Equinox LS
2021 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring
2018 Honda CR-V Touring
2022 Honda HR-V EX
2022 Honda HR-V Sport
2021 Toyota RAV4 XLE
Used pickup trucks: Ram 1500
Listings for the $15,000 Ram 1500 would be a nice place to start if you need a bigger vehicle. On the used market, Ford and GM vehicles have better resale values; nevertheless, the Ram is equally capable and possibly even more fashionable and comfortable. Although the V8 may seem more desirable, our testing as well as that of other sources indicates that the V6 is a more reliable powertrain with good longevity, and the eight-speed transmission is a far better option than the less dependable six-speed.
2022 Ram 1500 Classic SLT
2020 Ram 1500 Laramie
2019 Ram 1500 Classic Big Horn
A fascinating substitute is the 2017–2018 BMW i3.
The BMW i3 is a very fascinating vehicle. Although the BMW EV’s 2017 improved 94AH battery won’t provide enough capacity to totally eliminate range anxiety, its Lego-block appearance may appeal to some. If your daily commute is 100 miles or fewer, the i3 could be a viable option. The interior of the boxy hatchback is surprisingly spacious and has a design that is almost exclusively Scandinavian. For an urban runabout like the i3, a large portion of the car’s structure is composed of lightweight carbon fiber, which is very unique. Prospective purchasers should be advised that compared to a comparable American or Japanese vehicle, the German BMW is probably going to cost more in repairs and upkeep.
2019 BMW i3 120Ah
Used SUVs: Honda CR-V
When a Honda CR-V has been well-maintained by its former owner, it’s difficult to go wrong. For the 2017 model year, Honda unveiled the fifth version of its small crossover, which offers more space, comfort, efficiency, and—most importantly—safety features than previous iterations. The most economical option is a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine; 2.0-liter engines are less frequently found. Although the automatic transmission is a CVT, it performs better than most rivals and isn’t too problematic.
2018 Honda CR-V Touring
2022 Honda HR-V EX
2022 Honda HR-V Sport
Used pickup trucks: Nissan Pathfinder and Chevrolet Silverado (2016–2018)
Customers will find great value in almost any American pickup truck from the late 20th century, but GM’s standard truck is marginally less expensive than Ford’s rival, which switched to an aluminum body for the 2015 model year. Although fewer Toyota Tundras are sold annually and their prices tend to be higher than those of the common Detroit trucks, they would still be a good option. We’re pointing our digital finger at the Chevy Silverado because of this. Since they are the second-best-selling vehicle and are widely available, potential customers should have several options. All of their V8 engine options are highly reliable and have a well-deserved reputation for being durable.
2017 Nissan Pathfinder SV
2017 Nissan Pathfinder SV
2018 Nissan Pathfinder S
2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT LT1
2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT LT1
2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT
If reducing gas costs is your top priority, we strongly advise giving the Toyota Corolla a close examination. For many years the little Corolla offers all of the greatest performance in a more conventionally styled and felt vehicle. For the majority of Corolla Hybrid vehicles, anticipate a fuel economy.
2022 Toyota Corolla Hybrid LE
2021 Toyota Corolla LE
2017 Toyota Corolla LE
2021 Toyota Corolla LE
2018 Toyota Corolla SE
2020 Toyota Corolla SE
2021 Toyota Corolla LE
If you’re searching for a great car under $25,000, the Subaru Impreza is also a good option. Impreza is just as roomy and reliable in all weather conditions as the more expensive Outback, plus it uses less fuel because it is lower to the ground.
2019 Subaru Impreza 2.0i Premium
Now is a fantastic time to check out the Dodge lineup if you have slightly more muscular tastes. Buyers can get a gorgeous Challenger R/T (yep, it has a Hemi) for $25,000, or a Charger if they require two extra doors and a larger rear seat. It is important to note that these Dodge twins are not fuel-efficient and are powered by extremely outdated machinery. However, that’s sort of the idea. For those who would like to lay rubber than cut fuel costs, the Challenger and Charger are suitable options.
The Dodge Challenger is incredibly popular because of its iconic design, strong performance, and timeless appeal.
2016 Dodge Challenger SXT
2022 Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker Plu
2022 Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker Plus
Used SUVs: Toyota 4Runner, 2018-2020 Toyota RAV4
An SUV is really what you’d want to have over a sedan.The promise of all-weather capability and the extra practicality of a crossover make them tempting. One of the greatest options available if you’re looking for a true conventional sport utility vehicle is the Toyota 4Runner. Underneath, it is incredibly tough and is propelled by powerful 4.0-liter V6 engines. There is ample room for five people, and certain models also feature a third row that is largely useful. Note that the 4Runner is an actual SUV, not merely one that looks like one. It therefore consumes gasoline and rides like an SUV. The Toyota RAV4 offers a more conventional experience for a compact crossover, and the 2018–2020 model is a far better package overall than the previous iteration. fair handling, a smooth ride, and powertrains that strike a fair balance between efficiency and performance are all features. These RAV4s have a lot going for them. The RAV4 Hybrid is likewise within our budget if you want to save money on gasoline.
2021 Toyota RAV4 XLE
