Some potential car buyers may swear off used vehicles all together, citing their desire to purchase a new vehicle. What they’re failing to recognize is the unneeded burden on the wallet that accompanies purchasing a new car. Used cars have obviously had more action than a new car, but that doesn’t mean they’re any less productive. Plus, they cost you significantly less money.
If you’ve established that you want to go used, you may find it difficult to limit your selection. Luckily, we’ve done that for you. Before you head down to a used car dealer us, check out our list of the most desirable used cars. It may make your selection significantly easier when it’s time to make a purchase…
Toyota FJ Cruiser
The FJ Cruiser was designed to appeal to a younger generation, as the 4Runner-like SUV was a small, inexpensive, off-roading-capable vehicle. It’s ruggedness and durability makes it a great option for those seeking a used SUV, and the reasonable price tag shouldn’t scare any potential buyer away.
Whether you purchase a 2007 model or a 2014 model, you’re essentially getting the same vehicle. There were obviously slight improvements as time went on, like the increase in horsepower (from 239 to 260). Still, the 4.0-liter V6 engine went mostly untouched through the years. This isn’t a bad thing, as you can expect a consistency from all FJ vehicles.
With a variety of four-wheel-drive systems, the FJ Cruiser has some serious power and off-roading abilities. As Edmunds.com explains, the vehicle was designed to have “considerable wheel travel, high ground clearance and a tough, fully boxed frame,” making it a great option if you’re looking for a vehicle to go adventuring in.
The SUV’s standard features (on it’s lone trim level) include 17-inch steel wheels, Bluetooth capabilities, and water-resistant cloth upholstery. Some optional features include a rearview camera, an upgraded audio system, and a handful of off-roading add-ons.
A used 2007 model can be found for cheaper than $12,000, and the price steadily increases from there. A used 2014 FJ Cruiser goes for about $22,500, which is about $5,000 less than buying it new.
Jeep Wrangler
Similar to the FJ Cruiser, it could be the Wrangler’s ruggedness that make the vehicle a great used option. The SUV is designed to endure a number of elements, conditions and scenarios… time certainly shouldn’t be a factor that leads to a Wrangler’s demise.
As Edmunds.com explains, the Wrangler has seen plenty of changes over the years, including a new four-door body style, upgraded interior design, more powerful engines, and better-quality safety features. However, the brand has done everything in their power to make sure the Wrangler possessed the same attributes that made it popular in the first place, all while remaining recognizable.
If you’re seeking a Wrangler that’s at least a couple of years old, you could opt for any of the Wrangler models released between 2007 and 2011. All of the Wranglers released in that timeframe essentially share the same engine and specs. This includes the standard 3.8L V6 engine, which is capable of producing 202 horsepower and providing around 15 miles per gallon city and 19 miles per gallon highway.
One of the attributes that has stayed consistent is the reasonable MSRP. For a 2015 model, expect to pay around $23,000, which is a very fair price for that vehicle. If you’re looking for a used 2015 Wrangler, the price drops to around $20,000.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Silverado has been praised over the years for it’s multiple functions. The truck can be used as a family vehicle, or it could be utilized as a typical commuter car. Some buyers may not even focus on the transportation aspect, instead purchasing the truck for it’s abundance of cargo room. Or, if neither of those options float your boat, a buyer could be eyeing the vehicle for it’s top-of-the-line power.
No matter the reason, all of these attributes make the Silverado an excellent buy, whether it’s used or new. Obviously, some model years are more desirable than others, and similar to other car companies, Chevy really started to find their footing with the Silverado after a couple of years on the market. For example, you’ll see a progressively upgraded interior as the years go on, culminating in a much-praised cabin for the 2015 model.
The second generation of Silverados were produced from 2007 through 2013, and they featured a new V8 engine that increased power and fuel management. Among the engine options during that timeframe was a 6.2-liter V8 (capable of producing 403 horsepower and 417 ft-lbs of torque), which topped the specs (332 horsepower and 367 lbs-ft of torque) that were offered with the standard V8 engine.
The company also upgraded the truck’s body with a high-strength steel frame (which reportedly improves stiffness by 92%), considerably bigger engine and transmission mounts, and a brand-new hydraulic body mount.
Used second-generation Silverados typically run from $8,500 (for a 2007 model) to $18,000 (for a 2013 model). Even if you’re looking for a used 2015 Silverado, you can expect a price drop of at least $2,000.
Honda CR-V
The CR-V’s longevity is enough to earn it a spot on this list. Debuting in 1997, the Honda has established itself as one of the most dependable sedans on the market. It doesn’t necessarily possess the power of some of it’s competitors, and it may lack the glitz and glam that some of the luxury sedans will offer. There’s no denying the vehicle’s simplicity or reliability, however, making it a great option if you’re seeking a used car for a new driver in your family.
If you are going to opt for a reasonably priced used CR-V, you should probably opt for a third-generation vehicle. A lower, wider, shorter vehicle than it’s predecessor, the third-generation CR-V may have been one of the most enjoyable rides in the crossover’s history. The new CR-Vs also took a note from the Honda Accord and Honda Element, including a new K-series 2.4L inline-four engine, maxing out at 166 horsepower and 161 ft-lbs of torque.
The second generation also saw Honda dropping their manual transmission from CR-Vs sold in the United States, replacing it with an impressive five-speed automatic transmission. This vicariously improved the fuel economy ratings, as the CR-V is estimated to deliver 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. Among the other changes were upgraded technology in the cabin, including voice activated control for the navigation unit, XM radio, and multiple CD players.
The third generation ran from 2007 through 2011, with the earlier models running for about $10,000 used and the later models running for $15,000. If you opt for a used 2015 CR-V, you can expect at least $1,000 savings from buying new.
Chevy Corvette
If you’re looking for a sports car but can’t afford a new vehicle, a used Chevrolet Corvette is the only route for you. Luckily, the sixth-generation model is considered one of the best in the company’s history. Chevy instituted a number of design changes, like the inclusion of exposed headlamps, an upgraded interior, and a power-operated convertible top.
The Corvette also went through a number of different engines during it’s sixth-generation run from 2005 through 2013. It started with a 6.0-liter V8 (which produced 400 horsepower), increased to a 7.0-liter (505 horsepower) and went back down to a 5.7-liter (345 horsepower), with many variations in between, of course. These cars could typically accelerate from 0-to-60 in less than five seconds, and as long as the previous owner kept care of their sports car, you could expect similar production from a used Corvette.
While you may be seeking a used Corvette, you’ll still have to pay a pretty penny. Used 2005 models run around $20,000, and the cheapest 2013 model will cost you at least $35,000.
The five vehicles mentioned above all have their own specific features and capabilities, making them all unique from each other. One consistent trait of these five vehicles, however, is their ability to stay on the road. Besides their impressive specs and features, these cars are often commended for their longevity, making them a perfect purchase of a used car buyer.
