Getting a Good Deal Doesn’t Have to Mean Sacrificing Quality
Shopping for used cars can be stressful, especially on a budget. To maximize the chances of getting a good deal, choose one of these five used cars you can buy for under $20k.
Prices for used cars are still higher than some buyers would like, but there’s some good news. While the market still hasn’t quite recovered from pandemic-era price increases, there are now plenty of options for under $20,000. Here are five of the best of them.
1. Best Electric Vehicle: 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EV
The 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EV is a four-door, all-electric compact hatchback with 259 miles of range on a full charge. We recommend a 2022 Bolt because it was the first year Chevy included an optional DC fast-charging system. Buyers who plan to use public fast-charging stations should look for models with this feature.
A good battery-pack warranty is the biggest thing to look for in any EV. To sweeten the deal, the 2020-2022 Chevrolet Bolt had a battery module recall, so most of these used cars have close to brand-new batteries.
2. Best Compact Car: 2020 Acura ILX
The 2020 Acura ILX is a four-door compact sedan based on the same platform as the better-known Honda Civic, which also makes good used cars. The difference is that this premium sedan features upgraded steering, suspension, and interior.
The ILX has a 2.4L 4-cyl engine that offers a solid mix of power and fuel efficiency. Buyers who can find an ILX with the A-Spec Package will also get a sportier style and further interior upgrades. The 2020 is the best model year since previously optional active safety features come standard.
3. Best Mid-Size Sedan: 2018 Toyota Camry
Mid-size sedans generally cost more than compact cars, but it’s still possible to find used cars for less than $20,000 in this class. The 2018 Toyota Camry is a good example. Since it received a substantial redesign for the 2018 model year, buyers will get a greater range of features than they would with an older model.
Most 2018 Camry models have the base 2.5L 4-cyl engine, but it was also available with a hybrid powertrain that gets up to 52 mpg. The trade-off is that buyers can expect to pay more for a Camry Hybrid than a gas-only model.
4. Best Full-Size Sedan: 2017 Lincoln Continental
Buyers looking for a high-quality used Lincoln Continental for under $20k may need to wait for a good deal, but they should be able to find it. The 2017 Continental was manufactured with three different engine options, but even the base-level 3.7L V-6 puts out 305 hp for some serious power.
The Lincoln Continental is a luxury sedan, so buyers will have to look for models from 2017 or earlier to get a good deal. Since many common safety features were optional for 2017, finding a well-optioned model is essential.
5. Best Subcompact Car: 2020 Honda Fit
The heyday of the subcompact may be over, but there are still some good used cars around that offer good value for the money. The 2020 Honda Fit is an excellent example. It’s efficient, fun to drive, and provides the full Honda Sensing suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control.
Honda also offered a manual transmission in the Fit, which is part of the reason it remains one of the best-loved small cars in recent history. The hatchback is also surprisingly spacious for the 2020 model year.
Final Verdict: These Used Cars Offer Great Value
Not all used cars are equally reliable, but the five on this list will all serve buyers on a budget well. Some hover around the $20,000 mark, so drivers may need to wait for a good deal. It’s worth the wait.
Of course, it’s also essential to keep in mind that there will be differences between individual used cars. Be sure to buy from a reputable dealership to avoid unforeseen problems.
This post may contain affiliate links. Meaning a commission is given should you decide to make a purchase through these links, at no cost to you. All products shown are researched and tested to give an accurate review for you.
