As Used Car Prices Drop Again, Here Are the 15 Most Reliable Cars To Buy in 2024

Used cars may be a good option for those who want to save a little money so they can get ahead financially. Now might also be the best time to buy, as prices have dropped for seven straight months!

Luckily, there are plenty of cars available on the used car market right now that are not only affordable but also reliable. Check out these options for a new-to-you car.

Why you should buy it: Good hybrid for those on a budget

You can get a Toyota Rav4 hybrid that will trim your gas costs, and you won’t have to pay a fortune. The 2016 model comes in under $20,000, according to Kelley Blue Book.

Whether you buy a Rav4 or any other car on this list, one way to lower your vehicle costs even more is to shop around and find the best deal on auto insurance.

Why you should buy it: Space for both people and cargo

One of the great things about the Honda Pilot is that it has plenty of space for everything and everyone. The Pilot can seat eight and has plenty of room for cargo. It also has a reputation for being reliable.

Why you should buy it: Reliability

If you want a luxury car, purchasing one on the used car market can save you money without compromising on the luxury.

For example, the 2019 BMW 2 Series includes plenty of high-end finishes, performance, and reliability without the extra cost of buying a new one off your local dealer’s lot.

Why you should buy it: Practical and reliable

Older models may not be as flashy as newer cars, but they can help you keep costs down if you’re on a tight budget. That’s why you might want to check out a 2012 version of the Honda Civic.

Kelley Blue Book estimates that the car will cost less than $10,000 on the used car market. Compare models to see if you can get one that’s been cared for and has lower mileage.

Why you should buy it: Sporty features

The Mustang is a well-known sporty car from an American carmaker with a solid reputation.

Just remember that, like other vehicles in its segment, the Mustang has rear-wheel drive, which can be an issue if you plan to drive it in snow or other nasty winter weather.

Why you should buy it: Plenty of features

Another budget-friendly option is the 2009 Toyota Highlander mid-size SUV.

This vehicle also comes in at less than $10,000, according to Kelley Blue Book. That could make this Highlander an enticing option if you're on a tight budget.

Why you should buy it: Good ride and handling

Check out the Audi A4 if you’re in the market for a luxury used car.

The 2020 version of this car has great ride and handling features and a turbocharged engine that can get up to 27 miles per gallon in the city and 35 miles per gallon on the highway.

Why you should buy it: Electric vehicle

You don’t have to settle for a gas-powered car: Check out the 2017 Nissan Leaf with its eye-catching design and electric engine.

It also gets higher marks for reliability than similar and better-known sedans such as the Toyota Prius.

Why you should buy it: Comfort and space

The Avalon can be a good option if you want plenty of space from a large, four-door sedan that's also among the most reliable in its class.

It shares a platform with the Lexus ES.

Why you should buy it: Reliability

The Lincoln MKZ may not be as flashy as other luxury vehicles, but it can hold its own against others in its class when it comes to reliability.

The car comes in either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, so find the model that best suits your climate.

Why you should buy it: Hybrid engine

The Toyota Prius has a hybrid engine that can give you extra mileage compared to a typical gas-powered vehicle.

The 2011 version of this car is also reliable and practical.

Why you should buy it: Off-road ability

The Subaru Forester allows you to take it off-roading and provides durability on rough roads.

The SUV also offers great gas mileage at an affordable price, according to Kelley Blue Book, at under $15,000 for this used model.

Why you should buy it: Sporty luxury

Consider picking up a used Porsche Boxster if your budget has some extra room. The Boxster offers sporty fun while also providing plenty of luxury inside with its eye-catching exterior.

This version of the Porsche is estimated to cost less than $40,000 on the used market, according to Kelley Blue Book, but offers the looks of a more expensive car.

Why you should buy it: Plug-in hybrid

Try out a plug-in sedan without having to splurge. The 2011 Chevrolet Volt gets about 35 miles of range on its electric engine, with more than 300 additional miles on the gas-powered engine for longer trips.

Buying this car is a good way to try out an EV-related option for less than $10,000, according to Kelley Blue Book.

Why you should buy it: Great gas mileage

The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a good get-up-and-go option if you want something sporty without paying extra dollars to fill the gas tank.

The interior space and trunk, however, are a little tight. So, this might be a better car for fun drives than a trip to Costco.

A used car is a good option if you’re trying to keep more money in the bank. Just make sure to choose something reliable.

The cars on this list can be great candidates for a new-to-you car that won’t disappoint you. Make sure you test drive every car and get it checked out before buying, though, as every individual car's condition can vary quite a bit.