20 Best Used Cars in 2024

Looking for the most reliable used cars can be a daunting task. With so many options on the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry—Lemonade has got you covered! We’ve compiled a list of the best used cars in 2024 to help you make an informed decision.

When it comes to used cars, it’s all about reliability, durability, and picking a brand that holds its value like a gem. We’re talking about legends like Honda, Toyota, and Subaru—known for keeping you on the road without draining your wallet on constant repairs. Used cars from these trusted brands give you that new car feeling without the new car price range. 

Pro tip: When you’re on the hunt for a used car, don’t be shy about asking questions like “Has this car been in any accidents?” A little curiosity goes a long way in making sure your new-to-you car is just as reliable as you hoped!

Here’s your guide to discovering the most reliable used cars on the market! Let’s jump in!

1. Honda Civic

Starting MSRP: $24,250

• Reliability: Consistently reliable with a reputation for longevity.
• Fuel Efficiency: Offers great fuel economy, keeping running costs low.
• Ease of Maintenance: Simple design and common parts make maintenance affordable.

The Honda Civic is a perennial favorite for its reliability and fuel efficiency. This compact car has consistently high safety ratings and offers a comfortable ride. The Honda Civic retains its value well, making it one of the most dependable used cars you can buy.

Check out Honda Civic insurance costs to see how much coverage might be.

2. Toyota Camry

Starting MSRP: $28,400

• Reliability: Known for its durability, the Camry consistently ranks high in reliability surveys.
• Low Maintenance: Parts are affordable, and repairs are straightforward.
• Value Retention: Holds its resale value well, even as a used car.

The Toyota Camry is a staple in the midsize sedan market. Its reputation for durability and fuel economy makes it a smart choice for a used car. With Toyota’s stellar safety features and roomy interior, the Camry is perfect for families or anyone needing a dependable daily driver.

Explore Toyota Camry insurance costs to understand what you might pay for coverage.

3. Subaru Outback

Starting MSRP: $28,895

• All-Wheel Drive (AWD): Standard AWD makes it ideal for varied weather conditions.
• Longevity: Known for long-lasting performance with proper maintenance.
• High Safety Ratings: Strong safety features ensure peace of mind for used car buyers.

The Subaru Outback is known for its rugged reliability and excellent performance in various weather conditions. With its standard AWD and advanced safety features, this SUV is perfect for those who love adventure and need a reliable vehicle for any terrain.

Learn more about Subaru Outback insurance costs to ensure you’re fully prepared.

5. Ford Escape

Starting MSRP: $29,495

• Versatility: Offers various engine options, making it adaptable for different needs.
• Affordable Parts: Easy-to-find parts and numerous service centers make maintenance cost-effective.
• Good Safety Features: Equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360, providing excellent safety even in older models.

The Ford Escape is a compact SUV known for its excellent balance between performance and practicality. With turbocharged engine options and the advanced Ford Co-Pilot360 safety suite, it offers a reliable and enjoyable driving experience. Its roomy interior and flexible seating make it a great option for families or those needing extra cargo space.

Make sure to review Ford Escape insurance costs before making your final decision.

6. Hyundai Sonata

Starting MSRP: $27,500

• Warranty: Often sold with an extended warranty, even as a used car.
• Great Value: Affordable but loaded with features, offering more for your money.
• Low Ownership Costs: Reliable performance with low maintenance needs.

The Hyundai Sonata is a midsize sedan that stands out for its stylish design and advanced safety features. Known for its reliability and fuel efficiency, the Sonata is a fantastic option for a used family car that still feels modern.

Learn more about Hyundai Sonata insurance costs to ensure you’re fully prepared.

7. Chevrolet Equinox

Starting MSRP: $28,600

• Dependability: Known for long-term reliability, making it a great used buy.
• Low Maintenance: Simple design ensures low repair costs.
• Spacious: Offers plenty of room for families and road trips.

The Chevrolet Equinox is a compact SUV that offers a comfortable ride and excellent safety features. Its spacious interior and dependable performance make it a great used vehicle, ideal for families and road trips.

Check out Chevrolet Equinox insurance costs to see how much coverage might be.

8. Kia Sorento

Starting MSRP: $31,990

• Low Maintenance: The Sorento has a reputation for being low-cost to maintain.
• Features: Often comes with modern safety tech even in older models.
• Family-Friendly: Comfortable and spacious enough for long drives with family.

The Kia Sorento offers a blend of comfort, safety, and reliability. This midsize SUV is perfect for families needing a spacious car with advanced safety features. The Sorento’s reputation for low maintenance makes it a wise investment as a used vehicle.

Explore Kia Sorento insurance costs to understand what you might pay for coverage.

9. Toyota RAV4

Starting MSRP: $28,675

• Reliability: High ratings for reliability, even with high mileage.
• Affordable Ownership: Low long-term maintenance costs.
• Good Resale Value: The RAV4 holds its value well, making it a wise investment.

The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV known for its reliability and versatility. With ample cargo space and advanced safety features, the RAV4 is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Its high reliability ratings ensure that it remains a solid choice as a used vehicle.

Find out Toyota RAV4 insurance costs before making your final decision.

10. Honda CR-V

Starting MSRP: $30,100

• Longevity: Known to last hundreds of thousands of miles with proper care.
• Family-Friendly: Spacious and safe, perfect for growing families.
• Fuel-Efficient: Offers solid fuel economy, keeping ownership costs low.

The Honda CR-V is a compact SUV known for its reliability and ample interior space. With advanced safety features and efficient climate control, the CR-V ensures a comfortable and safe driving experience. Its high resale value makes it an excellent used car option.

Make sure to review Honda CR-V insurance costs before making your final decision.

11. Mazda 3

Starting MSRP: $23,950

• Stylish Design: Retains a modern and sporty look, even as a used model.
• Driving Experience: Fun to drive with agile handling, making it ideal for daily commutes.
• Affordable Maintenance: Low-cost parts and repairs make it easy on the wallet.

The Mazda 3 is a compact car that offers sporty handling and a stylish interior. Known for its reliability and safety features, the Mazda 3 is an excellent choice for those looking for a dependable and fun-to-drive used vehicle.

Look into Mazda 3 insurance costs to fully understand what you might pay.

12. Subaru Forester

Starting MSRP: $29,695

• Standard AWD: Provides excellent performance in all weather conditions.
• High Safety Ratings: Known for its safety, a key feature in a used car.
• Roomy Interior: Offers plenty of space, making it practical for families and adventurers alike.

The Subaru Forester is a compact SUV known for its reliability and safety. With standard AWD and advanced safety features, the Forester is perfect for families and outdoor adventurers alike. Its high safety ratings make it a top choice for a used car.

Check out Subaru Forester insurance costs to see how much coverage might be.

13. Hyundai Kona

Starting MSRP: $24,350

• Reliability: Known for dependable performance even after years of use.
• Affordable to Own: Offers excellent value with modern safety features.
• Fuel-Efficient: Great for city driving and daily commutes.

The Hyundai Kona is a subcompact SUV that offers excellent value for money. With modern safety features and a comfortable interior, the Kona is perfect for city driving and weekend getaways. Its reliability and fuel efficiency make it a great used car option.

Explore Hyundai Kona insurance costs to understand what you might pay for coverage.

14. Toyota Prius

Starting MSRP: $27,950

• Fuel Efficiency: Outstanding gas mileage, even as a used hybrid.
• Low Emissions: Eco-friendly and ideal for those seeking to lower their carbon footprint.
• Long Lifespan: Known for longevity, making it a smart choice for used buyers.

The Toyota Prius is a hybrid car known for its outstanding fuel efficiency and reliability. With advanced safety features and a comfortable interior, the Prius is perfect for long commutes and city driving. Its excellent fuel economy ensures it remains a top choice for a used vehicle.

Find out Toyota Prius insurance costs to help plan your budget.

15. Nissan Rogue

Starting MSRP: $29,230

• Reliable Performance: Known for its consistent and dependable driving experience.
• Good Safety Features: Equipped with modern safety technology, even in older models.
• Comfortable Ride: Offers a smooth, quiet ride, ideal for daily commutes or road trips.

The Nissan Rogue is a compact SUV that offers a comfortable and secure ride. With advanced safety features and a user-friendly infotainment system, the Rogue ensures a pleasant driving experience. Its reliability and high safety scores make it a top choice for a used vehicle.

Make sure to review Nissan Rogue insurance costs before making your final decision.

16. Honda Accord

Starting MSRP: $27,895

• Reliability: Known for its outstanding reliability, making it a top choice for used car buyers.
• Resale Value: Holds its value well, offering long-term benefits if you decide to sell it later.
• Comfortable Ride: Spacious, with high-end features even in older models.

The Honda Accord is a standout in the used car market due to its reputation for reliability and excellent fuel economy. Known for retaining its value over time, the Accord offers a comfortable, roomy cabin filled with modern tech, even in older models. Whether you’re commuting or taking long road trips, the Honda Accord remains a solid, dependable choice for years to come.

Learn more about Honda Accord insurance costs to ensure you’re fully prepared.

17. Volkswagen Jetta

Starting MSRP: $21,345

• Fuel Efficiency: Delivers excellent gas mileage, ideal for those looking to save on fuel costs.
• Affordable Maintenance: Lower long-term maintenance costs compared to many rivals.
• Stylish Interior: Even older models offer a sleek and modern cabin.

The Volkswagen Jetta is a compact sedan perfect for those looking for a balance of performance and economy. Its turbocharged engines provide a fun driving experience, while its low fuel consumption makes it easy on the wallet. Known for its stylish design and tech-savvy interior, the Jetta offers a lot of value as a used car, especially for city dwellers or first-time buyers.

Check out Volkswagen Jetta insurance costs to see how much coverage might be.

18. Toyota Corolla

Starting MSRP: $22,050

• Legendary Reliability: Known for being a virtually indestructible car.
• Low Ownership Costs: Affordable to maintain, with widely available parts.
• Fuel Efficiency: Offers solid gas mileage, making it perfect for daily commutes.

The Toyota Corolla is a trusted favorite in the used car market, thanks to its reputation for being practically indestructible. Known for its simplicity, fuel efficiency, and low-cost maintenance, the Corolla is a smart choice for anyone looking for a reliable car that holds its value over time. It’s perfect for daily commuting and ideal for those wanting a car that’s easy to maintain.

Explore Toyota Corolla insurance costs to understand what you might pay for coverage.

19. Chevrolet Trax

Starting MSRP: $20,400

• Compact Size: Easy to navigate in tight city streets and parking spaces.
• SUV Versatility: Offers SUV capabilities in a small, affordable package.
• Available AWD: Provides added stability and control in various weather conditions.

The Chevrolet Trax is a subcompact SUV that offers the versatility of an SUV with the maneuverability of a smaller car. With available AWD and a comfortable interior, the Chevy Trax provides a smooth and secure driving experience. Its compact size is perfect for city driving, while still offering enough cargo space for weekend getaways. As a used car, it’s an affordable, practical option for those looking for an entry-level SUV.

Find out Chevrolet Trax insurance costs to help plan your budget.

20. Lexus ES

Starting MSRP: $43,215

• Luxury Features: High-end finishes and tech features even in older models.
• Low Maintenance Costs: Despite its luxury status, the ES is known for being affordable to maintain.
• Exceptional Resale Value: Holds its value well over time, offering great long-term investment.

The Lexus ES is a luxury sedan that’s known for its smooth ride and plush interior, making it a standout choice in the used luxury car market. Even as a pre-owned vehicle, the ES delivers high-end features, excellent build quality, and remarkable reliability. Its strong resale value and low maintenance costs make it a smart investment if you’re looking for luxury without breaking the bank.

Make sure to review Lexus ES insurance costs before making your final decision.

Before we go…

When shopping for a used car, it’s essential to prioritize reliability, safety, and comfort to ensure you’re getting the best value. 

And don’t forget—having the right car insurance is just as important as picking the perfect vehicle. With Lemonade Car Insurance, you can drive with peace of mind knowing you’re fully protected. Get a free quote today and keep your used car safeguarded against life’s unexpected moments!

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A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of policies issued by Lemonade, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage and discounts may not be available in all states.