Best Used Cars of the Year: 10 Top Picks

2017 Chevrolet Cruze
The second-generation Cruze was introduced for the 2016 model year, packaging virtues from the Malibu and Impala into a small, fuel-efficient sedan. In our tests, the Cruze shined for its comfortable ride, relatively roomy interior, and effortless power from a turbocharged four-cylinder. All told, it’s a competitive domestic entry in a class dominated by cars from import brands. Among the available conveniences at this price are Android Auto and Apple Carplay compatibility, heated seats, and keyless start. Our data shows that reliability improved in its second year, making the 2017 model year more attractive than the 2016 model year. The more recent 2018 and 2019s are also appealing, but being newer, they’ll probably cost a bit more, bumping their median price over $10,000.

2019 Hyundai Elantra
With this generation, the Elantra became quite desirable due to its user-friendly controls, roomy interior with a spacious back seat, and impressive fuel efficiency. Plus, it improved over time, gaining features that make the newer versions more attractive. The 2019 was treated to midlife freshening that updated the exterior and cabin. By 2019 all trims, except the base SE, came equipped with forward collision warning (FCW), automatic emergency braking (AEB), lane departure warning (LDW), lane keeping assist (LKA), blind spot warning (BSW), and rear cross traffic warning (RCTW)—a large roster of safety features for the class. With a potentially higher price in today’s market, the 2020 benefits from improvements to engine noise, ride comfort, and transmission smoothness. 

2018 Honda HR-V
Available in front- or all-wheel drive, this practical, urban-friendly model is the crossover compliment to the Fit hatchback. That lineage translates to a relatively roomy cabin with a rear seat that can flip and fold like magic and great fuel economy courtesy of a four-cylinder engine mated to a continuously variable transmission. Handling is responsive and secure, while the ride is admittedly a touch rough. If you look at the 2016-2018 HR-V, note that the base LX has a simpler and easier-to-use stereo, making it our choice. In 2019 the HR-V gained a midlevel Sport (fitting between the LX and EX) and fancier Touring trim. Plus, a new audio system brought Android Auto and Apple Carplay compatibility, along with more safety features. For these later years, we favor the EX for the added standard safety systems, like automatic emergency braking (AEB), lane keeping assist (LKA), and LaneWatch blind-spot cameras.

2021 Toyota Corolla Hybrid
The Corolla sedan has a well-deserved reputation for its combination of frugal pricing, impressive fuel efficiency, solid reliability, and generous standard safety features. The value quotient is heightened with the hybrid; in our tests, it returned a stunning 48 mpg overall. The second year of this generation brought several enhancements that add appeal to the 2021 model year and the more recent ones. Android Auto was added to the existing Apple Carplay and Amazon Alexa compatibility, bringing a welcomed convenience for using a phone for calls, music, and navigation. Plus, it gained rear side airbags, bringing the airbag total to 10. Rear cross traffic warning (RCTW) and blind spot warning (BSW) were standard only on top trims and optional on lower trims.

2021 Kia Sportage
The uniquely styled Sportage is a competitive small SUV with a refined powertrain and handling that skews sporty for the class. Entry is easy, and once seated, you’ll find the cabin to be roomy and comfortable. But the design does limit outward visibility and fuel economy is just fair from the base four-cylinder. The last three years for this generation are the most desirable due to a significant update for 2020 and rising reliability. Beyond many freshened exterior details, those later years are worth targeting for the larger base infotainment screen and expanded roster of safety features that includes AEB and LKA. Even the base LX is a good choice; just look for ones equipped with powered front seats.

2018 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
Technically, the third-generation RAV4 started with the 2013 model year, but it was only with the midlife update in 2016 that the desirable hybrid was introduced. The entire RAV4 range was updated for 2016, with freshened styling, a quieter cabin, a smoother ride, added safety features, and the new hybrid version. That hybrid powertrain brought almost 20 more horsepower, resulting in punchier low-speed acceleration than the regular four-cylinder engine while delivering 8 more mpg in our tests. The 2017 and 2018 model years saw added features and trim levels, and reliability climbed from above average to well above average based on our member surveys. Any version from this half-generation is a smart choice, but those last two years are the ones to prioritize in your used-car hunting. 

2020 Mazda CX-9
The second-generation CX-9 was distinguished among its midsized SUV competitors by favoring the driving experience over a cavernous cabin. The handling, in particular, makes it relatively entertaining to command. There’s an uncommon precision to the steering aided by limited body roll that separates the CX-9’s performance from the family-hauler crowd. On paper, the CX-9 concedes horsepower bragging rights to its rivals, but from behind the wheel, the engine feels responsive on regular fuel. (Premium is recommended but not required.) Another advantage is that this Mazda offers a lot of vehicle for the money when bought used. Minor updates for 2020 brought the availability of second-row captain’s chairs and standard pedestrian detection. The infotainment system was updated for the 2021 model year, but we found its interface more difficult to use, making the 2020 model year our clear choice. Resist the temptation to buy a 2023 because, counter to trends, its reliability is well below average. If the CX-90 you’re considering has no Apple Carplay compatibility, it can be retrofitted by a Mazda dealer. 

2020 Buick Envision
The Envision is like using a cheat code to reveal a hidden luxury gem. This generation, frankly, was disappointing when it launched. But a significant overhaul for 2019 transformed this China-sourced SUV into an attractive alternative to pricier models from other premium brands. Beyond styling tweaks, myriad upgraded elements and added standard equipment made the Envision more livable, with improvements to the transmission, brakes, and seat heater, among many others. Our testers applauded its livability, with easy access, simple controls, and a good infotainment system. Slight concessions in driving dynamics are more than compensated by the value this small model delivers as a used vehicle, especially when you factor in that CR members rank the Buick brand as having some of the lowest maintenance and repair costs. A Teen Driver feature adds unique appeal for parents who would like to monitor their young driver’s activity behind the wheel. 

2015 Toyota Tacoma
The 2015 Tacoma marked the end of the second-generation run. Yes, this iconic truck has some compromises, like clumsy handling and an odd driving position better suited for shorter drivers, but as a used vehicle, its capabilities and dependability shine. It’s especially competent off-road or towing when equipped with the trail-ready four-wheel drive and the punchy V6 engine. There are a few configurations available, including a four-cylinder engine, standard cab, and extended cab. Plus, there are several trims that layer in equipment and elevate skills, such as the TRD Off-Road configuration with its fortified suspension. All benefit from the practical, rustproof composite bed. The Tacoma was freshened in 2012, providing buyers with several similar model years to consider without looking to the more recent and more costly third generation.

2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata
The fourth-generation Miata brings a delightful combination of precise steering, sublime back-road handling, impressive reliability, and admirable fuel economy that makes this small sports car uniquely rewarding. Commemorating the roadster’s 30th anniversary, it became even more desirable for 2019 with a significant performance boost, as the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine was thoroughly updated, increasing output from 155 to 181 horsepower. The manual cloth top is a cinch to raise and lower from within the cabin; a retractable hardtop, known as the RF, is also available. For 2020 the sport suspension was fitted to the Grand Touring with a manual transmission, and Android Auto/Apple Carplay became available. Older models could be retrofitted for Apple CarPlay by a Mazda dealer. Any year among this generation is desirable, but those later years with the power increase are the ones to covet.

Safety Term Glossary
AEB: automatic emergency braking. BSW: blind spot warning. LDW: lane departure warning. LKA: lane keeping assistance. RCTW: rear cross traffic warning.