If you have ever been stuck in traffic, then you know just how excruciating it can be. Heavily populated cities can be especially congested, which is why when you look at online car sales, you should consider one of the vehicles on this list. If you know that heavy traffic is going to be a consistent part of your everyday life, then you need to make sure you choose a vehicle that is going to get excellent city gas mileage, has comfortable seats, and has a good entertainment system. Taking into consideration comfort, safety, efficiency, and entertainment, here is a round-up of the seven pre-owned vehicles that will improve your commute.
#1: 2017- 2021 Honda CR-V Touring
First up on the list is the Honda CR-V Touring––a compact SUV designed to make your daily drive one to enjoy. A turbocharged engine paired with a superb continuously variable automatic transmission helps the CR-V get impressive mileage. Getting 28 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway means less time at the pump and more time cruising in your cozy CR-V.
The CR-V was redesigned in 2017 and managed to hit all the right notes. A spacious cabin and luxury materials will be just enough to get you through the traffic in comfort. Many of the models come with amenities like heated seats with lumbar support, a self-dimming rearview mirror, and infotainment screens. Plus, with safety features like Distance Pacing, you have support in stop/go traffic.
#2: 2019 and 2020 Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is a fantastic all-around car, which is one reason it is so great for busy city streets and stopped highway traffic. Smaller than an SUV, the Civic is zippy and easy to maneuver. You can choose from a sedan, a hatchback, or a coupe version, providing plenty of options based on your needs.
Gas mileage coming in at the mid-30 MPG range is another highlight of this Honda. Optional navigation makes it easy to get from point A to point B, and the infotainment screen makes reading directions easy. Plus, with voice recognition, going hands-free is easy and safe. Compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, you can stay connected during your drive without added risk.
Both 2019 and 2020 Honda Civics have received an overall five-star rating in safety from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, proving Honda knows how to keep you safe. Safety isn’t the only thing Honda is good at, with higher trims sporting leather appointments, heated power seats, and voice-activated climate control. The Honda Civic is a fun, stylish, and comfortable car that is perfect for everyday driving.
#3: 2018 Kia Soul
The commuter with personality, the Kia Soul stands out in a crowd. Inexpensive without sacrificing style, comfort, or safety, the Soul definitely has spirit. Even the trim names are fun and funky, like the Soul Exclaim. The Kia Soul is a boxy-style SUV that seats five. Solid fuel efficiency and a suite of safety features make this a great entry-level vehicle.
Comfortable seats can be trimmed with leather on higher trim options. An included infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility will keep you entertained during your drive. A rear camera is added for safety, as well as voice recognition to keep you driving hands-free.
#4: 2020 Mazda CX-30
The Mazda CX-30 is a perfect combination of car and SUV, offering a little of everything for everybody. There are several trims to choose from, with varying features. Heated seats are one such feature. With memory settings, you can set your seat to the position you would like, including lumbar positioning, and have the vehicle recall it whenever you are set to drive.
There are many features to appreciate in the Mazda CX-30, designed to make your drive comfortable. However, it is the Mazda Connect feature that takes it over the top. Use voice commands to hear and respond to text messages, listen to music, connect to Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, and even stream Pandora. Information is displayed on a large 8.8-inch infotainment screen that is easy to see and use.
Another NHTSA five-star achiever, the CX-30 is riddled with safety features. Adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and an optional head-up display are just a few features that keep you safe wherever you go. To think, a little over sixty years ago, cars didn’t even have to have seatbelts.
#5: 2017 Chevy Bolt EV
The Chevy Bolt EV is an all-electric car, saving you money at the pump. The Bolt is young and fresh, with fun styling. A large color touch screen is front and center, offering compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. OnStar Wi-Fi hotspot capabilities and Bluetooth with voice recognition make it easy to listen to your favorite songs, read texts, and make calls.
Charging the Bolt is made easy with a programmable feature. Plus, as a plug-in electric vehicle, charging can be done in several ways. Charge via a standard 110-volt outlet as found at home, charge via DC quick charge stations, or charge via a 240-volt Level 2 charger. The 2017 Chevy Bolt EV doesn’t come with a bunch of added luxuries like some of the other vehicles on this list, but when gas prices are unpredictable and traffic is guaranteed, it’s nice to have a fuel-free option.
#6: 2018 Toyota Camry
It’s difficult to go wrong with any Camry, but the 2018 Camry saw a few major upgrades that will add comfort and convenience to a dull drive. To start with, three engine options are available, including a hybrid model. Whichever engine choice you make, you’ll end up with enough power and fuel efficiency to make you happy you went with a Camry.
The interior is warm and inviting, not just because it features heated front seats. Leather appointments are available on select trims if you like to ride in style. Power adjustable seats add to the joy of the drive. With guidance from the included High-Definition Real-Time Traffic Display and a slew of safety features earning it five stars from the NHTSA, the Camry is a great choice.
#7: 2019 Toyota RAV4
The 2019 RAV4 is a beefy-looking SUV that comes with plenty of amenities to have you grinning. Features vary with each trim, giving you the option to only pay for what you want. Plus, choose between all-wheel drive and front-wheel drive.
Wi-Fi hotspot capabilities, combined with advanced voice recognition, mean the sky’s the limit when connecting to your favorite songs, podcasts, or people. The RAV4 is also Bluetooth-compatible and offers features such as SiriusXM, Safety Connect, and Service Connect. The eight-inch touchscreen makes it easy to navigate features and connect to what matters most.
A power liftgate makes accessing the cargo area easy, but it’s the heated side mirrors that will really please the daily commuter. A power-adjustable driver’s seat includes lumbar to elevate comfort, along with a special Toyota fabric called SofTex. The addition of Distance Pacing and Traffic Stop/Go takes some of the strain off long drives.
Don’t Get the Traffic Blues
This list contains some of the top picks for commuting in comfort, style, and safety. From the roomy Honda CR-V to the quirky Kia Soul, there is an option that is sure to make everyone happy. Plus, with hybrid and fuel-efficient options, like the Bolt EV, you can choose an option that is right for your lifestyle.