Recently, the automotive research outlet revealed that the average transaction price for a new vehicle reached an all-time high in December 2024. In addition to this, we also observed a modest increase in the prices of used vehicles.
The trusted automotive guide further indicated that the reelection of Donald Trump has introduced a level of political uncertainty (along with ongoing economic ambiguities), making the future of the auto industry difficult to predict.
As a result, prospective car buyers might consider acting swiftly and securing a vehicle purchase while conditions are still favorable.
Cars That Are Good Used Bargains
Given these factors particularly the historic highs in new car prices this could be the most opportune moment for shoppers to save money by opting for affordable used cars instead of costly new ones.
If you’re currently searching for a fresh (to you) ride, take a look at the used vehicles listed below, which stand out as some of the best bargain buys in the first quarter of 2025.
2016 Toyota Camry
The 2016 Toyota Camry, with a starting MSRP of $14,851, stands out as a solid option for used car buyers. While Kelley Blue Book suggested considering any Toyota Camry released between 2019 and 2025, Car Edge took a more focused approach by specifically recommending the 2016 model year.
Why? The 2016 Camry is both very comfortable and reliable the ride is smooth, the interior is spacious, and the fuel economy is fantastic.
Competent and generally unremarkable, the Toyota Camry served as the go-to daily driver for 429,355 buyers in 2015, once again earning the title of best-selling car in the United States.
While its road manners are more appliance-like than engaging—which is part of why it landed at the bottom of our latest family sedan comparison—it remains a practical vehicle offering generous space for passengers and cargo, respectable road behavior, a suite of available tech features, and an optional hybrid drivetrain that appeals to environmentally conscious drivers.
The 2015 model year brought a substantial refresh, featuring more assertive styling and various adjustments intended to improve its driving dynamics. Most trims now wear a bold front fascia dominated by a large grille with chrome slats, while the sportier SE and XSE versions emphasize their stiffer chassis setups with a black mesh grille.
Nonhybrid Camrys are equipped with six-speed automatic transmissions. The mainstay powertrain is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 178 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque.
Pricing for the entry-level LE, which the EPA estimates at 25 mpg city and 35 mpg highway, starts at $23,905. The Camry Hybrid, on the other hand, uses a 1.6-kWh nickel-metal-hydride battery that’s too small for meaningful electric-only driving.
Paired with a droning continuously variable automatic transmission, it loses even more of its entertainment factor. Still, thanks to its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, the hybrid achieves a combined 200 horsepower and delivers better acceleration than the standard model, hitting 60 mph in 7.2 seconds.
It’s also more efficient, boasting city/highway ratings of up to 43/39 mpg on low-rolling-resistance tires (we averaged 31 mpg during our 2015 test). However, low gas prices and a base price of $27,625 make it a long-haul investment to break even on fuel savings.
For those craving more performance from their otherwise beige ride, Toyota offers a 3.5-liter V-6, found in the Camry XLE we tested for this review. This engine delivers a solid 268 horsepower, propelling the car to 60 mph in just 5.8 seconds and completing the quarter-mile in 14.3 seconds at 100 mph.
The V-6 is available only on the XLE and XSE trims, with pricing beginning at $32,205 and EPA estimates of 21 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. Real-world mileage, however, can defy expectations. One XSE V-6 model previously returned a better fuel economy than the base four-cylinder—24 mpg compared to 23—while our XLE V-6 managed an impressive 35 mpg in our 75-mph highway fuel economy test.
After the comprehensive overhaul in 2015—which included a reinforced chassis, interior updates, and styling revisions—the 2016 Camry sees minimal changes. Minor trim updates are joined by the standard addition of Toyota’s Connected Navigation Scout link, which allows navigation from a paired device to display through the Camry’s Entune audio system.
Toyota also introduces a new SE Special Edition, priced at $26,550, featuring a power sunroof, unique 18-inch black-accented wheels, blue stitching and seat inserts, blue-highlighted gauges and interior trim, and special floor mats. This model is only offered in Blue Crush Metallic or Blizzard Pearl white.
The XLE V-6 we reviewed came loaded with features, tallying a $35,170 sticker that included the $805 Entune-JBL premium audio system with navigation, a $750 Advanced Technology package (with adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beams, forward-collision mitigation, and lane-departure warning), and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert for $500—plus a few smaller add-ons.
Looking ahead, Toyota is expected to unveil an all-new 2018 Camry late next year, which will likely shed weight, add more advanced technology, and swap the V-6 for a turbocharged four-cylinder option.
Also Read: Top 10 Vehicles With Storage Bins That Are Great for First Aid Kits
2017 Subaru Forester
The 2017 Subaru Forester, with a starting MSRP of $14,910, is highlighted by Car Edge as a dependable vehicle that can reliably take you from point A to point B.
It features all-wheel-drive, strong safety ratings, a spacious interior, and a level of versatility built to endure harsh conditions and perform well in any type of weather. All of which makes it a perfect vehicle for family travel.
The 2017 Subaru Forester continues to hold its own as one of the top compact SUVs, remaining available in model years from 2020 through 2025.
It’s consistently praised for its smooth ride, excellent safety ratings, spacious interior, and outstanding visibility. With one of the best CVTs on the market and a turbocharged engine that adds a punch of performance, the Forester stands out in a crowded field.
However, there are some trade-offs—paddle shifters and the turbo engine are only available together, and manual transmission lovers will have to stick with the base 2.5i model, which starts just over $23,000. Higher trims offer more features but don’t always justify the steep price increase.
Two engines are offered: a 170-hp 2.5-liter flat-4 in base models and a more spirited 250-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter flat-4 in the 2.0XT versions. While the 2.5i can be paired with a 6-speed manual or CVT, the 2.0XT is CVT-only but benefits from Subaru’s SI-Drive, which simulates gear changes and allows for paddle shifting.
Styling remains functional and modern, with a clean design that prioritizes visibility—something many competitors sacrifice. The 2017 refresh brought subtle updates, though the 2.0XT’s exterior styling may be too aggressive for some tastes.
Inside, the cabin features improved materials, intuitive controls, and enhanced sound insulation for a quieter ride. Taller drivers may find the seat cushions a bit short, but rear passengers enjoy ample legroom, and the rear seats fold flat for solid cargo space.
Safety is one of the Forester’s biggest strengths. It earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star overall NHTSA rating. Subaru’s EyeSight safety suite, featuring stereo cameras and updated color sensors, is a key highlight. Other available tech includes adaptive headlights, auto high beams, and reverse automatic braking.
Even base models come equipped with essentials like Bluetooth, a rearview camera, and a 6.2-inch touchscreen, while higher trims offer perks like leather, a power liftgate, a 7.0-inch infotainment system, and a premium sound system.
In terms of fuel economy, the 2.5i CVT delivers an excellent 26 mpg city, 32 highway, and 28 combined. The manual drops to 25 mpg combined, as does the turbocharged 2.0XT. Overall, the 2017 Subaru Forester remains a smart, versatile choice in the compact SUV segment—especially for those who value safety, usability, and all-weather capability.
2016 Honda Civic
The 2016 Honda Civic, with a starting MSRP of $13,700, might be light on extra features, but it is widely recognized for its dependable fuel efficiency, comfortable driving experience, and highly affordable price.
The previous generation of the Honda Civic, spanning from 2011 to 2015, experienced a rare wave of criticism uncharacteristic of the brand. Early reviews were lackluster, forcing Honda to implement an unusual mid-cycle refresh just one year into production.
While that revamp helped the Civic regain some competitive edge, it still failed to reclaim its former status as the segment leader. As competitors evolved rapidly, the Civic was no longer the obvious top choice it once had been.
The 2016 model year introduced a complete redesign. One of the most noticeable changes is the new styling, including slimmer headlights and more pronounced fenders, marking a clear departure from its predecessor.
For loyal Honda enthusiasts, the fully reengineered 2016 Civic comes as a welcome change. With bold, upscale aesthetics and a refined, mature cabin—thankfully shedding the controversial two-tiered dashboard—it’s evident that Honda has reembraced its spirit of innovation. This innovation continues under the hood with the introduction of a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, the first ever for a Civic.
Available only on the higher trims, this engine generates a robust 174 horsepower while delivering an estimated 42 mpg on the highway. Even the entry-level models benefit from a new powerplant: a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 158 horsepower and is both more powerful and more fuel-efficient than the 1.8-liter it replaces.
Driving the new Civic recalls the athleticism of earlier models, especially when navigating curvy back roads. It now offers a quieter cabin and a more compliant ride than any Civic before it.
While Honda’s marketing claim of “best-in-class interior volume” might seem exaggerated, in this case, it holds true—the rear-seat space is generous enough to make potential Accord buyers think twice. Interior quality in the Touring trim, in particular, flirts with luxury-brand refinement, nearly reaching Acura levels.
In today’s crowded compact segment, strong alternatives abound. The Mazda 3 still shines with its fuel economy, high-end interior, and sporty demeanor, although its tight rear seat limits appeal.
The Ford Focus, while no longer the freshest design, holds its own thanks to nimble handling and updated tech. Budget-conscious buyers might gravitate toward the Kia Forte, which remains a smartly packaged value. And the all-new Chevrolet Cruze is clearly aimed at the Civic, borrowing styling cues Honda may find a bit too familiar.
Deciding on a compact car this year won’t be easy. Still, for those who’ve been waiting for Honda to revitalize the Civic’s legacy, the 2016 model makes it clear: the wait has been worth it.
The front-wheel-drive 2016 Honda Civic is equipped exclusively with four-cylinder engines, with the specific unit depending on the trim level. The LX and EX trims come standard with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque. The LX trim offers a choice between a six-speed manual transmission and a CVT, while the EX comes only with the CVT.
According to EPA estimates, the LX with the manual transmission achieves 31 mpg combined (27 city/38 highway). With the CVT, both the LX and EX trims deliver an impressive 34 mpg combined (30 city/40 highway).
The higher-end EX-T, EX-L, and Touring trims come standard with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder rated at 174 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, mated exclusively to a CVT. A Civic equipped with this turbo engine is capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.7 seconds—performance that rivals the previous generation’s sport-tuned Civic Si. Among compact cars, this is a standout performance.
Interestingly, fuel economy is even better for turbo-equipped models, with all three trims achieving 35 mpg combined (31 city/42 highway).
The 2016 Civic comes well-equipped with safety features, including standard stability control, antilock disc brakes (a step up from the previous generation’s rear drum brakes), front side airbags, side curtain airbags, and a rearview camera.
On the sedan, starting from the EX trim, Honda’s LaneWatch blind-spot camera and HondaLink system (which includes emergency crash notification) become standard. For the Civic coupe, these features are only standard on the Touring trim.
2015 Honda CR-V
The 2015 Honda CR-V, with a starting MSRP of $14,416, is an ideal choice if you’re looking for a compact vehicle that still offers a spacious interior along with ample cargo room.
If you need a dependable car that will reliably take you where you need to go, and one that’s also known for its smooth ride, then this model delivers. Car Edge suggests the ’16 CR-V.
The 2015 Honda CR-V is a five-passenger crossover positioned below the five-passenger Crosstour and the eight-passenger Pilot in Honda’s lineup. It is offered in four trims and is available with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive.
The 2015 CR-V remains a versatile and family-friendly crossover with solid ergonomics and a spacious interior. Both passenger and cargo areas are accommodating, with up to 70.9 cubic feet of cargo space available when the rear seats are folded flat. Practical details such as bag hooks and tie-downs enhance the vehicle’s day-to-day usability for families.
However, refinement falls slightly short, as there’s “a lot of wind noise on the freeway.” While tech features are improved over the pre-facelift version, the infotainment system is still behind other Honda models in terms of ease of use.
The introduction of Honda’s new 2.4-liter inline-four engine and CVT contributes to improved performance in the 2015 CR-V. The revised chassis and steering provide better handling and acceleration. Fuel efficiency is another strong point for the CR-V, with front-wheel-drive models achieving an excellent 27/34 mpg city/highway. Opting for all-wheel drive results in only a minor reduction in efficiency, coming in at 26/33 mpg.
The 2015 CR-V received a four-star rollover safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), out of a possible five stars.
Higher trim levels are equipped with additional safety technologies including Honda’s LaneWatch system, which uses a camera to show if there’s someone on your right blind spot, Forward Collision Warning, Collision Mitigation Braking System, Lane Keeping Assist, and Lane Departure Warning.
The 2015 CR-V has earned recognition as a Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), scoring “Good” in all five crash categories (with “Good” being the highest possible rating) and achieving a “Superior” rating for frontal crash prevention (front crash prevention is rated as Basic, Advanced, or Superior).
Also Read: 10 Ford’s Best V8 Engines Ranked by Real-World Longevity and Proven Reliability
2018 Chevrolet Bolt EV
The 2018 Chevrolet Bolt EV, with a starting MSRP of $14,370, is an all-electric vehicle (EV) that lets you significantly cut down on fuel expenses.
It offers an impressive mileage range and surprisingly quick acceleration, making it a standout in its class. Car Edge notes it’s a perfect car for in-town driving.
Just last year, the Chevrolet Bolt hit the scene and crushed the electric vehicle competition with its huge range, spacious interior, and enjoyable driving characteristics. But this year, the competition is striking back.
The Tesla Model 3 is finally trickling into customers’ driveways, the Nissan Leaf is new with 151 miles of range, and the BMW i3 is sportier. Plus, Kia is promising a long-range Niro EV.
With more than 200 miles of range, plenty of space for people and cargo, a surprisingly fun driving experience, and a friendly price tag, the Bolt is a mainstream electric car that makes ditching gasoline seem possible. It can certainly fill the needs of most commuters, though its bargain-bin interior quality still disappoints.
The primary alternative you’ll want to consider is the new Model 3. It boasts all the Tesla mystique and drivability, along with a futuristic, minimalist interior and access to Tesla’s Supercharger network.
However, supply is still short as of the review’s publication time, and it’s worth keeping in mind that Chevrolet has a nationwide dealer network that can quickly and easily provide service should anything go wrong.
The electric car segment is only going to get more competitive, especially with the promise of new battery technologies just around the corner. Chevy got a good head start, and the 2018 Bolt remains a compelling example of what the electric car can be.
Cars That Are Used Traps
For most individuals, purchasing a car for the first time marks their initial significant investment, whether the vehicle is new or used.
While owning a first car brings a sense of freedom that walking or public transportation can’t offer, it also introduces a variety of responsibilities.
Because of these factors, choosing the wrong first car can lead to major issues.
Seasoned drivers who have purchased several cars over the years generally understand what best meets their needs and are familiar with which models to avoid due to reliability concerns or poor driving experiences.
On the other hand, first-time drivers may be influenced by how cars are portrayed in media or by brief experiences driving vehicles owned by friends or family.
Yet, taking a car out for a few short drives may not reveal underlying issues with a particular model.
Moreover, new drivers who haven’t had to deal with unreliable cars or unexpectedly high repair costs may be shocked when their “dream car” quickly becomes a costly nightmare.
Having spent decades on the road, I’ve personally bought and sold a wide variety of cars.
I’m also a professionally trained mechanic, which gives me valuable insight into common issues with certain vehicles knowledge that’s helped me avoid falling into expensive traps.
Drawing on both my professional experience and thorough research, I can say with confidence that new drivers should steer clear of these specific cars.
Ford Mustang
While many people don’t purchase their first car until later in life, I’m assuming here that we’re talking about teenage first-time car buyers.
When I first began driving, one of my friends had a Mustang. However, that particular model was reasonably suitable for a teenager.
He drove a 1988 Mustang LX, which came with a four-cylinder engine that produced a modest 90 horsepower and had a 0-60 mph time that could best be described as “eventual.”
It certainly looked cool, but it lacked the performance aspect expected of a true sports car.
For teens fortunate enough to receive a newer car at age 16, any Mustang should be approached with caution.
Back in 1988, the V8 Mustang GT only managed 225 horsepower, but in contrast, even a relatively recent 2020 four-cylinder Mustang delivers 332 horsepower along with an impressive 350 lb-ft of torque.
No matter how you look at it, that’s a powerful machine.
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), data from the 2016-17 National Household Travel Survey indicates that crash rates for drivers aged 16 to 19 in any type of vehicle are significantly higher than those of older drivers.
Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that speeding contributes to one-third of all fatal accidents.
In Italy, a 2011 policy reform limited new drivers to cars with no more than 95 horsepower, with gradual increases permitted over time.
A follow-up study revealed that this change led to a 20% reduction in the likelihood of those drivers causing an accident.
The takeaway here is clear: fast cars pose serious risks for inexperienced drivers. Modern high-powered vehicles like the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, and Dodge Challenger are better suited to older, more experienced drivers.
On top of that, insuring one of these cars can cost more than $1,000 a month potentially more than the monthly car payment itself.
Jeep Wrangler
Originally created out of wartime necessity during World War II, the Jeep quickly evolved into an all-terrain workhorse.
Eventually, someone decided to market it as an adventure vehicle for leisure rather than labor, a shift that permanently shaped the Jeep’s identity and appeal.
There’s no denying that Jeeps are a blast when it comes to off-road adventures, trail driving, and mudding.
They offer real-world capabilities and can be modified in countless ways to handle increasingly demanding terrain.
However, when it comes time to transition from the wilderness back to regular roads, the Jeep starts to show its shortcomings in everyday driving situations.
While the newest Jeep models have benefited from various modern upgrades and electronic controls that make them more manageable on pavement, certain fundamental issues persist.
Their short wheelbase and off-road suspension result in a bumpy ride, and body roll through corners is considerable.
Fuel efficiency is generally poor and worsens further with oversized all-terrain tires.
Those same tires are also notably noisy, which makes for loud highway driving especially if the Jeep has a soft top.
Storage space is limited, making it impractical for carrying much cargo. Perhaps most importantly, Jeeps don’t have a reputation for reliability.
Although I’ve had a lot of fun behind the wheel of Jeeps, I honestly can’t imagine enjoying one as my only vehicle over the long haul.
When it comes to your first and possibly only car, comfort and reliability should carry more weight and it’s probably better to wait until you can afford to keep a Jeep as a fun but pricey toy.
Mercedes-Benz ML 350 4MATIC
Anyone who has ever driven a Mercedes-Benz knows that the brand is synonymous with comfort and luxury.
Packed with advanced features and powerful performance options, driving a Benz is truly a delightful experience.
Years ago, my wife purchased a Mercedes-Benz, and although the Mercedes 190E was considered the entry-level “Baby Benz,” I constantly found reasons to drive it because I enjoyed it so much.
However, the first time we brought it in for service, the bill was around $900 $700 of which was for just one part and that was in 1998 dollars.
With Mercedes-Benz vehicles, pricey parts and high labor costs from specialized mechanics are simply part of the ownership experience.
That 190E was from a time when Mercedes focused on building vehicles with exceptional quality.
While they were known to be temperamental and finicky, they were also built like tanks. But sometime in the 1990s, the company’s priorities shifted, emphasizing flashy features and overly complex electronics.
Today, this evolution makes owning and repairing a Mercedes a potentially wallet-draining experience. That’s exactly why your first car should not be a Mercedes-Benz ML 350 4MATIC.
According to RepairPal, the ML 350 earns a reliability rating of “3” and comes with an average annual repair cost of $1,020. Need an oxygen sensor?
That’ll run you $1,323. A window motor? $1,094. Even a brake caliper costs $633, which seems like a bargain by comparison. And if your transmission fails, be prepared to spend over $5,000 to replace it.
Always keep in mind the saying: there is nothing more expensive than a cheap luxury car. That’s why a Mercedes-Benz especially the ML 350 4MATIC should be avoided as your first vehicle.
Ford F250 Super Duty Powerstroke
The choice of a first car often depends greatly on geography. The needs of students vary widely across the country except in Texas, where driving a pickup truck seems almost mandatory.
However, these pickups don’t always have to be massive. For those who require a tough and durable pickup that can haul heavy loads reliably over long distances, the Ford F250 with the Powerstroke diesel V8 is an excellent option.
In many rural parts of America, high school parking lots are filled with pickups, and that’s perfectly fine.
The real problem arises with lifted trucks sporting 37-inch tires and massive exhausts designed for “rolling coal,” and F250 diesels are frequent targets for such modifications.
According to Consumer Reports, pickups have become more popular in recent years, but modifications can negatively affect their safety and performance in unexpected ways.
Changes like oversized tires and lifts can reduce braking efficiency, increase the risk of rollovers, and make it harder to control the vehicle during sudden maneuvers.
Additionally, diesel repairs tend to be expensive because heavy-duty parts cost more and these complex engines often require specialized mechanics.
These trucks also consume a lot of fuel, which can quickly eat into a typical high schooler’s budget.
If you want a pickup, go for it but consider starting with a half-ton gasoline model equipped with stock tires, and save the upgrades for when your contracting business grows in a few years.
BMW M3
Founded in 1972, BMW’s M division was created to boost the brand’s presence in motorsports and make high-performance driving accessible to more people.
The division released its first production model, the remarkable BMW M1, in 1978, followed by a steady stream of M-powered BMWs across its lineup. Today, BMW M represents the pinnacle of luxury performance cars.
Introduced in 1986, the BMW M3 brought extra power and excitement to the classy but compact 3-series.It quickly became a favorite and earned a permanent place in the BMW lineup.
While the original four-cylinder models were quick, modern M3s pack a serious punch, boasting up to 503 horsepower power that can be dangerous in the hands of an inexperienced driver.
A brand-new M3 is incredibly fast, but its $77,175 price tag puts it well out of reach for most teenagers. That leaves only older, more affordable models available to them.
On AutoTrader, only a handful of M3s are listed for under $10,000, and these are usually close to 30 years old with over 100,000 miles on the odometer.
Maintaining a luxury sports car of that age affordably is a challenge, especially given the kind of wear and tear teenagers often put on their vehicles.
Anecdotal evidence like the Mike’s Steering Column blog tells a cautionary tale, detailing $43,706 in maintenance costs for a 2011 M3 bought in 2013. While the M3 certainly looks cool, having deep pockets is far more important.
