The recent drop in used car prices is a positive development. However, despite this decline, interest rates have stayed high.
The Federal Reserve is scheduled to meet in mid-September, and while there is a possibility of an interest rate cut, it will take some time before auto loan borrowing rates decrease.
Given the current economic uncertainty, many car buyers are prioritizing value for their money. As a result, a significant number of drivers either prefer not to or simply cannot afford to purchase a new vehicle.
For those looking to purchase a reliable pre-owned vehicle, there’s good news.
A recent analysis identified the best used cars available today, focusing on models that offer the longest remaining lifespan at the most affordable price per 10,000 miles.
Here are the top 10 best used cars:
1. Chevy Trax
The Chevy Trax stands out as the top five-year-old used car for the money. It is available at an average price of $17,274, with a cost per 10,000 miles of $1,442. First introduced to the U.S. market in 2015, the Trax has since gained popularity.
If you can find a 2019 model, you can expect to get approximately 120,000 more miles out of it, which accounts for about 65% of its total lifespan. The Trax also ranked as the best five-year-old SUV for the money.
2. Honda Fit
The Honda Fit is an excellent choice for a used car, particularly for buyers prioritizing affordability. A five-year-old model has an average price of $19,049, with a cost per 10,000 miles of $1,473, making it a fantastic value.
If you opt for this model year, you can expect approximately 129,000 more miles of use, which accounts for about 68% of its total lifespan.
It’s important to note that Honda discontinued the Fit in 2020 due to declining demand. However, for those looking for a compact, fuel-efficient vehicle, it remains a solid option that delivers a smooth and reliable driving experience.
Also Read: 10 Best Plug-In Hybrid SUVs for Maximum Efficiency and Long-Distance Driving in 2025
3. Honda Insight
The dependable Honda Insight, built on the foundation of the Honda Civic, offers exceptional value.
A five-year-old model comes with a cost of $1,485 per 10,000 miles, making it a smart investment for used car buyers.
With this model, you can expect to drive over 148,885 miles, which accounts for approximately 68.8% of its total lifespan.
However, you won’t find the Honda Insight on new car lots anymore. Originally introduced in 1999, production of the model ceased in 2022, with Honda replacing it with the Honda Civic Hybrid.
4. Buick Encore
The Buick Encore, a subcompact SUV, earns a spot on the best five-year-old and 10-year-old vehicles. A five-year-old model comes with a cost of $1,492 per 10,000 miles, and you can expect to get nearly 125,000 miles of use from it.
If you opt for a 10-year-old model, you can still expect to drive more than 82,471 miles. Considering its average price of $12,784, that’s a solid deal for a reliable SUV.
5. Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, a compact SUV, is one of only two vehicles on this list with an average price under $18,000 for a five-year-old model.
It comes with a cost of $1,498 per 10,000 miles, making it a budget-friendly choice.
With a total expected lifespan of nearly 115,000 miles, this SUV has plenty of road trips ahead. It could even be the vehicle that helps your tween move into their college dorm someday.
6. Honda Accord
The Honda Accord is a consistently strong choice for those seeking a reliable mid-size sedan. Opting for an older model can lead to significant savings, making it a smart investment.
Both the five-year-old and 10-year-old versions of the Accord have been recognized as best values for used cars, further reinforcing its reputation for longevity and affordability.
The Honda Accord is a popular midsize sedan known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and comfortable driving experience.
First introduced in 1976, the Accord has evolved through multiple generations, consistently offering a balance of performance, safety, and modern technology. It is available in various trims, including hybrid options, catering to different consumer preferences.
The latest models feature sleek designs, advanced driver-assistance systems, and high-quality interiors with user-friendly infotainment setups. Equipped with efficient engines, including turbocharged and hybrid powertrains, the Accord delivers a smooth ride with responsive handling.
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7. Honda CR-V
Whether you opt for a five-year-old or 10-year-old model, a used Honda CR-V still has plenty of miles left to offer.
A 10-year-old model comes with an average price of just over $15,726 and is expected to provide an additional 110,976 miles of driving.
Meanwhile, a five-year-old model presents an even greater value. With an average price of $25,434, it delivers impressive longevity, offering approximately 160,207 more miles on the road.
8. Honda Ridgeline
Marketed as Honda’s midsize adventure pickup truck, the Honda Ridgeline ranks as the best five-year-old and ten-year-old used truck for the money.
It also secures a spot on the list of best five-year-old and ten-year-old cars, highlighting its strong value and reliability.
A five-year-old Ridgeline comes with an average price of approximately $30,000 and offers an expected lifespan of 182,288 miles.
Meanwhile, a 10-year-old model averages $20,257 and is estimated to last around 127,038 miles, making both options excellent choices for used truck buyers.
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9. Toyota Avalon
The Toyota Avalon is another mid-size family sedan that earns a spot on the lists of best five-year-old and best 10-year-old vehicles.
A five-year-old model comes with a cost of $1,694 per 10,000 miles and is expected to provide more than 171,000 miles of driving.
For those considering an older option, the 10-year-old Avalon ranks as the best 10-year-old used car for the money.
With an average price of $16,986, it still offers an impressive 124,000 miles of remaining lifespan, making it a solid investment for used car buyers.
10. Jeep Renegade
The Jeep Renegade, a mini SUV, stands out as one of the most spacious options in its class. It is also recognized as one of the best values among five-year-old cars and SUVs.
A five-year-old Renegade comes with a cost of $1,716 per 10,000 miles and offers an expected lifespan of over 116,000 miles equivalent to 65.6% of its total longevity.
With an average price of $20,026, it remains a strong choice for those seeking a compact yet roomy SUV.