It’s not just new cars that people are after. The used car market is full of good cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans that are available at prices far lower than a brand new car.
iSeeCars, a car search engine, analyzed over 6.1 million cars from model years 2011 and newer to determine the used cars that demonstrated long-term reliability and have an average safety rating of at least 4 stars out of 5 from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Shoppers with a budget of $15,000 can purchase the following reliable cars that are less than 10 years old.
2015 Mazda Mazda6
Photo courtesy of Mazda North American Operations
Average Used Price: $12,969
The 2015 Mazda Mazda6 is basically the same car as the 2014 model. Both are good bets. Compared to other models of its time, the Mazda6 has a refined powertrain, sporty handling, and a premium interior in top-tier models.
2014 Nissan Maxima
Photo courtesy of Nissan North America
Average Used Price: $13,190
Nissan redesigned the Maxima in 2015. But the 2014 model is no slouch. The company added a standard rearview camera, USB port, and 7-inch display in SV models. It continued to be nicely appointed.
2015 Honda Civic Sedan & Coupe
Photo courtesy of American Honda Motor Co., Inc
Sedan Average Used Price: $13,432
Coupe Average Used Price: $13,759
The 2015 Civic is as good as the 2014, it’s just newer. In fact, they’re virtually the same model. The car delivers good fuel economy, accurate steering, and a high-quality interior. However, its trunk is small.
2014 Honda Accord
Photo courtesy of American Honda Motor Co., Inc
Average Used Price: $13,484
For the 2014 model year, Honda introduced hybrid models of the Accord. The model continued to be fuel efficient with agile handling and more room in the rear than the Honda Civic.
2014 Toyota Camry Hybrid
Photo courtesy of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., Inc.
Average Used Price: $13,849
Upgraded models of the 2014 Camry Hybrid got a new navigation system for the 2014 model year. Other than that, there weren’t many updates to the model. It continued to be fuel efficient, reliable, and deliver a comfortable drive and ride experience.
2016 Dodge Grand Caravan
Photo courtesy of FCA US LLC
Average Used Price: $13,859
The Dodge Grand Caravan is much the same for the 2016 model year as it is today. The 2017 model would have an infotainment touch screen standard but the 2016 has simpler technology. When it was new, buyers could opt for the Stow ‘n Go seating and storage option, which is convenient for families.
2017 Toyota Corolla
Photo courtesy of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., Inc.
Average Used Price: $14,186
The Toyota Corolla got a pretty good upgrade for the 2017 model year. It now had a long list of standard advanced safety features. Other highlights include its upscale cabin and high reliability.
2015 Toyota Camry
Photo courtesy of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., Inc.
Average Used Price: $14,221
The reliable and spacious Toyota Camry presented a good value when it was new in 2015. It still does today. Its electronics are easy to use and the materials in the cabin are of high quality.
2013 Toyota Avalon
Photo courtesy of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., Inc.
Average Used Price: $14,508
Toyota completely redesigned the Avalon for the 2013 model year. It remains fuel efficient, reliable, and spacious. Top-tier models are well-appointed with premium materials.
2016 Chevrolet Impala
Photo courtesy of Chevrolet
Average Used Price: $14,703
The spacious Chevrolet Impala is good competition for the Toyota Avalon. Both have upscale interiors in their top trim levels and ride smoothly. The Impala had available Apple CarPlay and wireless charging for the 2016 model year.
2015 Toyota Prius
Photo courtesy of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., Inc.
Average Used Price: $14,911
Toyota gave the Prius a standard rearview camera for the 2015 model year but kept the model pretty much the same otherwise. When it was new, the Prius was one of the most fuel-efficient cars that could be purchased.
