Need an affordable used car? They’re easier to find than you think

Some items you should always buy new: bike helmets, child car seats, toothbrushes. But that philosophy doesn’t apply to vehicles. In fact, purchasing a previously owned car can actually be better all around. You could save thousands of dollars, see slower depreciation and pay less for insurance. Check out our list of affordable used cars recognized for reliability and value.

Affordable cars for teens

When it comes to buying a first car — as a high school or college student, perhaps — the budget is usually pretty tight. And with vehicle prices jumping significantly in recent years, you may feel doomed to settling for a clunker.

Tight budget? No problem. There are plenty of options under $5K.

But if you use the price filter on KSL Cars to narrow your search to vehicles under $5,000, you may be surprised at some respectable options. Consider these reliable, affordable cars for college students and teens.

• Kia Forte: It may not be flashy, but the spacious cabin is roomy — even for teens with long legs. It has good ratings in safety crash tests, so parents can feel comfortable too.

• Nissan Murano: Generally considered safe and reliable, this all-wheel drive V6 is a smart choice for teens. Insurance is generally cheaper for crossovers too.

• Volkswagen Golf/Rabbit: High safety ratings and spunky looks. And because it’s a hatchback, there’ll be plenty of room to pack up all their gear when they head off to college.

• Honda Civic: This popular sedan has a long-standing reputation for reliability, and repairs are relatively inexpensive when needed.

• Audi A4: A reliable sedan with a better-than-average cost of ownership. Some models are even available in all-wheel drive.

Browse all vehicles under $5,000

Cool affordable cars

Sporty cars don’t have to be super expensive to give you a thrill on the road. Really? An affordable sports car, you ask? Yep, there are several to consider for less than $20,000 — and you might even pick one up for less than $15,000.

• BMW Roadster Z4: Aerodynamic but still built to handle higher speeds for a zippy driving experience.

• Chevy Corvette: Car enthusiasts suggest this is the one to get you started down the supercar path. It’s historically cool, but still affordable.

• Ford Mustang: Hard to get more American than this classic, with its powerful engine and responsive ride.

• Mazda MX-5 Miata: Feel the rubber hit the road in this little but mighty roadster.

• Subaru WRX: Tight steering and handling matched with a powerful engine make this a hoot to scoot down the highway.

Fill up at home instead of the gas station with a hybrid vehicle.

Most affordable hybrid cars

Whether it’s the chance for a cheaper commute or just a way to dip a toe into the electric vehicle market, hybrid cars are growing in popularity. Check KSL Cars for the most affordable hybrid cars — $15,000 or less. 

• Ford Fusion: Modern and maybe a bit sportier than many hybrids, this is a lively option for commuters.

• Toyota Prius: Excellent reliability ratings make this a good option among hybrid compacts.

• Hyundai Sonata: This larger sedan can fit the whole family, including plenty of room for luggage if you’re headed on a road trip.

• Chevy Bolt: A quick, affordable car that boasts a spacious second row, perfect for carpooling school kids or co-workers.

• Honda Accord: Drivers will enjoy the agile handling, passengers will appreciate the ample legroom.

Shop all hybrids under $15,000

Start your search

Ready to start shopping? Head to KSL Cars to browse thousands of listings for affordable used cars. With our multiple filters, you can narrow your search by parameters such as:

• Make, model and trim

• Year

• Price range

• Mileage

• Title type

• Engine/motor specs

Find your best deal on an affordable used car on KSL.

*The makes and models mentioned in this article are not placed in any particular order, nor intended to be viewed as a ranked list. KSL Cars does not endorse any vehicles. The views or opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer and do not reflect the views or opinions of KSL.com or its employees.