Buying a car is a significant financial decision. While it may be tempting to go all-in on a brand-new vehicle, a used car is often the wiser option. With tariffs threatening to raise the cost of new models, choosing a pre-owned vehicle can be a smart way to drive the car you want without overextending your budget.
When looking at used cars, checking the mileage is a must. High mileage can seem like a dealbreaker, but it doesn’t always spell trouble. In fact, many vehicles are built to last well beyond 200,000 miles with regular maintenance. This means you could get a dependable and more affordable car that stays with you for the long haul.
Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry (2007–2017) has long held the title of America’s best-selling sedan, and with good reason. It’s inexpensive to maintain, with easy access to affordable parts and no major recurring mechanical issues.
The Camry also delivers great fuel efficiency, especially in its four-cylinder variants, which typically get 22–25 mpg in the city and 31–35 mpg on the highway. Many models from this range routinely exceed 200,000 miles with nothing more than basic upkeep.
The Toyota Camry delivers a compelling blend of features that make it a consistently strong contender in the midsize sedan segment. It offers generous rear-seat legroom, a decent-sized trunk, three available powertrains, and a wide range of trim levels designed to cater to various tastes.
These trims range from bare-bones versions to ones that verge on luxury. For those prioritizing fuel efficiency, a hybrid powertrain is available. One of the Camry’s standout qualities is its legendary reliability, which contributes to high resale values and strong owner satisfaction.
While the Camry has long been seen as a safe and unexciting choice, that reputation isn’t necessarily a drawback. Its practicality and consistency have helped make it one of the best-selling cars in the United States.
For 2017, the Camry sees no changes. The last major update came in 2015, when it received a comprehensive redesign that included a nearly all-new exterior—only the roof was carried over—a more rigid chassis, and updated infotainment features.
That same year, Toyota introduced the XSE trim, which brought upscale interior materials to the sportiest version of the Camry. Looking ahead, a full redesign is planned for the following year.
Under the hood, the Camry offers two engine options: a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 178 horsepower and an optional 3.5-liter V-6 delivering 268 horsepower.
Both engines are paired with front-wheel drive and a smooth six-speed automatic transmission. The four-cylinder isn’t built for speed and provides only average fuel economy, but its steady and dependable performance is appreciated.
The V-6, on the other hand, gives the Camry an unexpected boost in power, though it can feel like too much engine for a family-oriented vehicle. In terms of driving dynamics, the Camry is generally comfortable in both city and highway conditions, but the ride quality can be firmer than one might expect in a family sedan.
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Honda Accord
Another reliable option is the Honda Accord (2008–2017), a practical yet enjoyable car to drive. It comes with two popular engine choices: the 2.4L four-cylinder (K24), known for solid fuel economy, and the 3.5L V6 (J35), which offers smooth and strong performance. The V6 version does require a timing belt replacement about every 100,000 miles, but overall, the Accord holds its value, offers plenty of legroom, and is a consistently efficient ride.
Following last year’s complete redesign, which resulted in a sleeker, more fuel-efficient Honda Accord with a higher-end cabin feel, you might assume that the car line, which sells around 1,000 units a day, would remain unchanged. However, something was still missing from the lineup: a hybrid Accord.
So, for the 2014 model year, the Honda Accord family grows even stronger with the addition of not just one, but two hybrids. One of these is a plug-in hybrid (discussed in a separate review), while the other is a standard hybrid, which will offer a 47 mpg combined EPA rating when it arrives later in the 2014 model year.
The Honda Accord has always been a well-rounded vehicle, a characteristic that, alongside its strong reputation for reliability, has contributed significantly to its massive popularity.
The latest Honda Accord continues this tradition. Even the more common models equipped with a four-cylinder engine and an automatic transmission (technically, a continuously variable transmission, or CVT) deliver a nearly unbeatable combination of performance and fuel efficiency.
For evidence of this, consider its quick 7.8-second 0-60 mph time, along with an EPA combined fuel economy estimate of 30 mpg. These are impressive numbers for a compact car, let alone for a spacious and comfortable midsize sedan.
Comfort and value are also key to the Accord’s success. Honda’s midsize sedan offers a spacious cabin with comfortable seating, particularly in the backseat, and a quiet ride.
Even the base LX trim comes with a generous array of features, including dual-zone automatic climate control, iPod/USB integration, and a rearview camera—amenities that are often optional, even on more expensive cars.
With its strong performance, excellent fuel economy, precise handling, roomy cabin, and solid overall reputation, the 2014 Honda Accord remains one of our top picks in the competitive midsize sedan segment.
However, it’s not the only excellent choice. The 2014 Nissan Altima is another favorite in this class, offering sportier handling, even better mileage from its base four-cylinder engine, and impressively high-quality interior materials.
Other noteworthy contenders include the Mazda 6, which stands out as the most athletic car in the family sedan category, as well as the 2014 Toyota Camry and 2014 Volkswagen Passat, both of which provide comparable interior space but deliver a softer ride.
There’s also the value-oriented Kia Optima and the stylish Ford Fusion. Narrowing down your options in this competitive group won’t be easy, but if you’re looking for a midsize sedan that excels in nearly every area, the Honda Accord should be on your list.
Toyota Prius
Then there’s the Toyota Prius (2010–2015), a vehicle that has built its reputation on fuel economy and reliability. This model pairs a 1.8-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor, achieving strong performance for daily driving. Its original hybrid batteries generally last between 150,000 and 250,000 miles, and replacing them is now much more affordable than it used to be.
The Toyota Prius has been the gold standard of hybrids since the iconic hatchback version debuted in 2004. The Prius has always focused on efficiency first, a formula that made it king of the hybrids. It also didn’t have much competition for that title until recently. The 2017 Prius is the most efficient yet, but polarizing styling and a cost-conscious interior dull its charm.
The Prius is unchanged for 2017 after a comprehensive overhaul for the 2016 model year. Those changes included switching the nickel-metal-hydride battery pack for lighter, industry-standard lithium-ion cells in most models, a multilink rear suspension for an improved ride, and, of course, that eyebrow-raising exterior redesign.
An Eco model incorporates minor tweaks to earn a 58-mpg EPA rating in the city compared to the standard car’s still-impressive 54. A Prius Prime plug-in hybrid, reviewed separately, was a new addition to the lineup in 2017.
The Prius could be trimmed in sumptuous leather and we’d still take issue with the awkward center-mounted information gauges. The inscrutable shifter sprouting horizontally from the center stack, with its non-standard shift pattern and separate park button, will take some time for owners to grow accustomed to.
The Prius’s hatchback body style means there’s plenty of room for cargo behind the second row, though it’s not the most spacious vehicle in this competitive set. The standard infotainment system in the Prius is adequate, its operation and available features (such as a Qi wireless charging pad) help boost its appeal.
Toyota’s Entune audio system is standard and includes a single USB port, CD player, auxiliary jack, and Bluetooth compatibility. Models ordered at the trim level of Three and above all come with the premium version of Entune, which adds navigation, Toyota’s app suite, and wireless charging pad.
Subaru Outback
If you’re in the market for something tougher, the Subaru Outback (2013–2019) is a dependable all-wheel-drive vehicle that performs equally well on rugged trails and long-distance drives.
With proper maintenance, it’s not uncommon for these models to reach between 200,000 and 300,000 miles. Owners typically don’t face major repairs until around 150,000 miles. Just remember that fluid changes are recommended every 60,000 miles, and suspension parts often need refreshing once you pass the 150,000-mile mark.
Outbacks are well-regarded not only for their ample cargo space and capability on rugged terrain but also for their smooth and composed behavior on paved roads. The 2014 Subaru Outback, significantly larger than the original model, now directly competes with midsize crossovers targeted at families.
While it might not resonate with the traditional “granola crowd” as strongly as its smaller predecessors did, it remains an excellent option for those who have a thirst for adventure. Every 2014 Subaru Outback comes standard with all-wheel drive and offers an impressive 8.7 inches of ground clearance, making it one of the more capable off-road crossovers available.
Although it won’t match a convoy of Jeeps on the Rubicon Trail, it handles dirt tracks, snow-covered mountain routes, and muddy back roads with ease. Adding to its versatility, the Outback boasts 71 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity, enough for camping gear and sports equipment.
The four-cylinder engine option allows it to achieve up to 30 mpg on the highway, and for drivers needing to tow, the available six-cylinder engine enables a towing capacity of up to 3,000 pounds. Convenience features such as a roof rack with built-in cross rails that fold away when not in use come standard, enhancing its practicality.
In a segment where choices are limited for midsize wagons or crossovers with off-road capability, the Outback stands out. The Toyota Venza, for example, feels more carlike and has a quieter cabin with higher-quality interior materials, but it lacks the off-road capabilities of the Subaru.
On the premium end, the Audi Allroad and Volvo XC70 share the Outback’s rugged looks and some of its all-terrain strengths, but both come with a significantly higher price tag. True SUVs like the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee offer even greater off-road capability but also tend to be more expensive.
Other mainstream crossovers such as the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5 provide similar interior space but fall short in terms of ruggedness. For drivers with an adventurous lifestyle, the 2014 Subaru Outback remains a unique and highly recommended option.
Performance-wise, the all-wheel-drive Outback is available with two engine choices. The 2.5i models feature a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed (boxer) four-cylinder engine that generates 173 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque. Buyers can choose between a six-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which functions similarly to a traditional automatic.
According to EPA estimates, the four-cylinder paired with the CVT achieves 24 mpg in the city, 30 mpg on the highway, and 26 mpg combined. The manual version delivers 22 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined. Both options perform well for an all-wheel-drive crossover with a four-cylinder engine.
For those seeking more power, the 3.6R Limited trim includes a 3.6-liter six-cylinder boxer engine, producing 256 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque, mated to a five-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.
In terms of safety, every 2014 Outback is equipped with four-wheel antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, front seat side airbags, and side curtain airbags for both rows. A rearview camera is standard on CVT-equipped Premium and Limited models. Subaru also offers its EyeSight system, which includes adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane departure warning. This system can even alert drivers who begin to drift within their lane.
Using two cameras mounted inside the upper windshield, rather than radar units on the front bumper, EyeSight reduces potential damage in minor collisions. It can also detect pedestrians and is capable of braking the vehicle automatically if no evasive action is taken.
While the most recent redesign gave the Outback more interior room, it came at the expense of the more agile handling seen in prior versions. However, the trade-off is a very comfortable ride, making it an ideal candidate for long road trips.
Also Read: 6 Reliable City Cars and 6 That Aren’t Made for Stop-and-Go
Lexus RX 350
For those leaning toward something more luxurious, the Lexus RX 350 (2007–2015) is one of the most durable luxury SUVs ever made. Many of these vehicles reach well beyond 200,000 miles, with some even pushing past 300,000 when taken care of.
Thanks to a timing chain rather than a belt, there’s no need for replacement in that area, which adds to its long-term appeal. With routine maintenance, the RX 350 offers lasting performance, comfort, and reliability.
The Lexus RX, recognized as the original luxury crossover, continues to be one of the best-selling models in its class. It appeals to many crossover buyers with its relaxed driving dynamics, smooth ride quality, luxurious interior, and bold styling.
However, the RX faces stiff competition from a growing list of stylish and capable rivals—some of which surpass it in driving performance—making it a more challenging sell as it ages.
Despite this, the RX remains a strong contender, especially with its optional hybrid powertrain that delivers fuel efficiency comparable to a compact car. For buyers who place comfort and distinctive looks above cutting-edge technology and sharp handling, the RX still fits the bill, though updates to other aspects of the vehicle would help broaden its overall appeal.
For the 2017 model year, the most significant update is the inclusion of the Lexus Safety System+ as standard equipment. This comprehensive suite of features adds automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and lane-keeping assist.
Additionally, three more features are now standard: rain-sensing wipers, a rear-seat seatbelt reminder, and Scout GPS Link, an app that enables smartphone-based navigation through the vehicle’s infotainment display. The F Sport package is now offered on front-wheel-drive models, and all RX trims equipped with F Sport now come with a heated steering wheel.
The RX350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 engine delivering 295 horsepower, with power directed to either the front wheels or optionally all four via an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The RX450h, one of the segment’s few hybrid options, combines the same V-6 with two electric motors and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), generating a combined output of 308 horsepower. All RX450h models come with standard all-wheel drive.
Despite the F Sport trim’s appearance, the RX is not built for sporty driving. Acceleration is modest, handling is somewhat sluggish, and braking is average.
However, the RX truly excels in providing a quiet, cushioned ride that effortlessly isolates passengers from the road, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a serene driving experience. For many luxury SUV buyers, that level of comfort and refinement is more than enough to justify the RX’s enduring popularity.
5 Cars That Break at 80,000 Miles
When shopping for a dependable vehicle, the old adage “forewarned is forearmed” takes on a fresh level of importance—especially in today’s climate, where car prices continue to climb amid significant inflation. These economic pressures make it even more crucial to approach the purchase of a new car with extra caution and thoughtful consideration.
Nissan Altima
The Nissan Altima, with a starting MSRP of $24,300, is a midsize sedan known for offering a smooth ride, a well-appointed interior, and advanced safety technology.
However, many models are equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that, according to Carter, is prone to early failure. These issues tend to surface shortly after surpassing 100,000 miles and often come with steep repair costs.
The 2013 Nissan Altima sedan has undergone a complete redesign, bringing significant updates to both its exterior and interior, with an emphasis on a more upscale appearance and feel.
Key engineering improvements have notably enhanced fuel economy, especially for the four-cylinder models, while revised suspension and steering systems help maintain the Altima’s reputation for being one of the best-handling family sedans. The coupe remains largely unchanged mechanically but no longer offers the optional V6 engine, now available only in a single 2.5 S trim level.
Now entering its fifth generation, the 2013 Nissan Altima is the most refined, fuel-efficient, and luxurious version yet. The sedan delivers sharp handling, a well-built interior, and lively engines, giving it more personality than your typical family sedan.
The redesigned 2013 Nissan Altima is available for sale nationwide, with numerous listings to choose from. These listings emphasize features such as Bluetooth, power driver seats, and back-up cameras, providing ample options for interested buyers.
Nissan has been deliberate with the 2013 redesign of the Altima sedan. While the overall look of the car is not drastically different from its predecessor, the interior and exterior restyling reflects a more upscale direction for Nissan’s top-selling model.
Many of the Altima’s major mechanical components remain unchanged, but there has been a noticeable improvement in fuel economy. With the four-cylinder engine, the 2013 Altima sedan ranks as one of the most fuel-efficient midsize cars in its price range.
The previous generation of the Altima was praised for its responsive handling, composed ride, and user-friendly technology, and these qualities have been retained in the 2013 model.
However, the redesigned sedan also features a higher-quality interior that remains quiet at highway speeds. The cabin includes a more visually appealing design, soft-touch materials, and comfortable front seats. Additionally, the fit and finish of the 2013 Altima are excellent, though the rear headroom can feel a bit tight.
BMW 3 Series
The BMW 3 Series, which starts at $41,250, is a luxury compact sedan appreciated for its engaging handling, refined interior, and cutting-edge tech features. That said, Carter notes that maintenance can be costly. In his experience, a considerable number of these vehicles require engine or electrical repairs either around or just after they reach 100,000 miles.
The BMW 3-series has long had a reputation that precedes it. In previous generations, it was a consistent winner of our 10Best Cars award, and the nameplate holds a special place in the hearts of many car enthusiasts.
The 3-series earned this acclaim by being, for many years, one of the finest all-around sedans on the market. Its responsive steering, satisfying powertrains, and exceptional ride-and-handling balance were key characteristics that made BMW’s sports sedan the benchmark for other brands to aspire to.
However, as time passes, even the best can show signs of aging, and the 3-series has lost some of its earlier sharpness. While it remains a very good car, offering a full range of rewarding powertrains, a practical cargo hold, and, of course, the iconic blue-and-white roundel on its hood, it no longer stands as the pinnacle of its class.
The steering now lacks the useful feedback it once provided, the adaptive suspension available on some models feels imprecisely tuned, and the overall design shows its age. While we wouldn’t hesitate to accept a 3-series if one showed up in our driveway, it’s no longer the sports sedan that other manufacturers target.
For 2018, BMW has made several minor changes to the 3-series lineup. One of the most notable updates is the inclusion of the new iDrive 6.0 infotainment system, which is now standard across all models.
This new system introduces touchscreen capability, replacing the previous rotary knob interface. Additionally, LED headlights have been made standard, and LED fog lights make their debut in the entry-level 320i’s standard equipment list.
Land Rover Discovery
With a starting MSRP of $55,250, the Land Rover Discovery is a visually appealing SUV with plenty of curb appeal. However, Carter points out that it’s no stranger to serious issues—including failures with the air suspension system, recurring electrical glitches, and premature transmission problems.
The Discovery 5 stands as the largest, most luxurious, and most off-road-capable Land Rover available. It’s a genuine automotive Swiss Army knife, able to transport seven full-grown passengers up a mountain, across a river, or straight to The Savoy, outmatching nearly everything else in its class.
The current generation made its debut in 2017, and it’s safe to say that the Disco’s featureless sides and uneven rear end (which still feels awkward today) have transformed what was once a design classic into a polarizing vehicle.
A mild facelift a couple of years later brought some improvements, including new headlights, new bumpers, a refreshed range of engines, and a much-needed update to the infotainment system inside. However, there weren’t many other changes. Despite the mixed reception of its design, Land Rover remains confident that the way this car looks won’t discourage potential buyers from experiencing its remarkable capabilities once they get inside.
Fiat 500
The Fiat 500, which has a starting MSRP of $16,495, is a compact urban car that boasts European flair and agile maneuverability. Despite its charm, Carter warns that the vehicle frequently suffers from engine troubles, particularly oil leaks. Moreover, its tightly packed engine bay often makes repair work more expensive than buyers might expect.
Fiat introduced a new, retro-styled 500 in 2007, marking fifty years since the original rear-engine, two-cylinder model. This modern version of the 500 made its way to North America for the 2012 model year, reintroducing the Fiat brand to the U.S. three years after Fiat’s merger with Chrysler.
The new front-wheel-drive 500 is powered by a four-cylinder engine and serves as the modern equivalent of the original, much like how the latest Volkswagen Beetle and Mini Cooper are to their predecessors from the 1950s and 1960s. The 2017 Fiat 500 is compact, measuring about half a foot shorter than the Mini, and is available exclusively as a two-door hatchback or a sunroof-convertible.
With its charming design, the 500 has an oversized personality, featuring a distinctive exterior that draws on styling elements from the original model, along with a playful, retro-themed interior.
For 2017, Fiat has simplified the 500’s model lineup, now offering the Pop, Lounge, and Abarth trims. The “Collection” packages have been eliminated in favor of standalone options. Pricing has also been reduced, and the base Pop now comes with 15-inch alloy wheels as standard.
The Lounge trim features a new 15-inch wheel design, while the Abarth trim gains standard parking sensors and a new black 16-inch wheel design. Additionally, three new appearance packages are available: the Black Trim Appearance package, the Two-Tone Appearance package, and the 500 Abarth package.
Jeep Wrangler
Finally, the Jeep Wrangler, beginning at $29,995, is a rugged and iconic off-roader that delivers solid performance across diverse terrains. Still, Carter emphasizes that ownership comes with its own set of challenges. The Wrangler is known for being prone to rust as well as steering and suspension issues that eventually require attention.
The 2012 Jeep Wrangler comes equipped with a V6 engine and a six-speed manual transmission as standard, while a five-speed automatic transmission is available as an option.
Reviewers noted that the engine in the 2012 model is significantly more powerful and refined compared to the 2011 version, praising the Wrangler for its ample power and quick acceleration. A six-speed manual transmission remains standard, with the five-speed automatic newly available for the 2012 model year.
The base Wrangler achieves 17 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway with either transmission, which is relatively low for a compact SUV. Despite its off-road capabilities, reviewers were impressed by the Wrangler’s generally smooth ride on paved roads.
Many automotive writers considered the Jeep Wrangler to be one of the top off-road vehicles in its class, highlighting its ability to effortlessly tackle challenging terrains, including deep holes and rocky surfaces.
Critics were also pleased with the interior updates that the Wrangler received in 2011, which included a redesigned instrument panel and higher-quality materials.
Additionally, they appreciated that hardtop models of the Wrangler offer a reasonably quiet cabin. The base, two-door 2012 Jeep Wrangler can seat four passengers, while the four-door Wrangler Unlimited accommodates five.
Test drivers found the front seats to be generally comfortable, though the two-door model lacks much rear-seat passenger space. With the rear seat folded down, the Jeep Wrangler offers 56.5 cubic feet of cargo space, and completely removing the rear seat expands this to 61.2 cubic feet.
The Wrangler comes equipped with an AM/FM/CD stereo, an auxiliary input, a tilt steering column, and steering wheel controls for cruise and audio functions. Available features include air conditioning, power door locks and windows, satellite radio, Bluetooth, and a USB port. Test drivers were overall pleased with the Wrangler’s interior improvements compared to previous model years.
