Looking for a reliable, affordable used car in 2025? You’re not alone. With new car prices still near record highs, the used car market remains the best place to find a budget-friendly vehicle. The challenge? Finding a reliable used car that won’t break the bank on repairs.
That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best used cars under $10,000, featuring vehicles with strong reliability ratings, reasonable maintenance costs, and great overall value. While the national average selling price for these cars is often higher than $10,000, we’ve included realistic target prices based on the latest market trends—meaning with some patience and negotiation, you can land one of these for under $10,000 in 2025.
The Best Used Cars Under $10,000 in 2025
2016 Mazda 3
Consumer Reports Reliability Score: 78/100
Average Selling Price: $11,978
Target Price: $9,500 for a 2016 Mazda 3 with 100,000 – 130,000 miles and a clean history.
Why It’s Great:
The 2016 Mazda 3 is an all-around winner, offering a fun driving experience, excellent fuel economy, and strong reliability ratings. With 33 miles per gallon in mixed driving, it’s an ideal choice for commuters who need something cheap and efficient. The Mazda 3 also earns an A+ CarEdge Value Rating, making it one of the best used cars under $10,000.
🔍 Browse Mazda 3 listings near you
2018 Chevrolet Bolt EV
Consumer Reports Reliability Score: 88/100
Average Selling Price: $12,793
Target Price: $9,800 for a 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV with under 120,000 miles and a clean history.
Why It’s Great:
The Chevy Bolt is best used EV under $10,000—but with a few caveats. If you can confirm that the Bolt has received its battery replacement under the 2021 recall, it’s a fantastic value. With over 200 miles of range, the Bolt is great for commuting and around-town driving. However, it’s not ideal for road trips due to slow charging speeds.
🔍 Browse Chevrolet Bolt EV listings near you
2018 Chevrolet Cruze
Consumer Reports Reliability Score: 74/100
Average Selling Price: $10,153
Target Price: $7,500 for a 2018 Chevrolet Cruze with 100,000 – 120,000 miles and a clean history.
Why It’s Great:
The Chevy Cruze is fuel-efficient, affordable, and packed with value. With newer styling, a smooth ride, and good reliability ratings, it’s a great alternative to pricier compact sedans like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla.
🔍 Browse Chevrolet Cruze listings near you
2016 Buick LaCrosse
Consumer Reports Reliability Score: 62/100
Average Selling Price: $13,177
Target Price: $9,800 for a 2016 Buick LaCrosse with 100,000 – 130,000 miles and a clean history.
Why It’s Great:
The Buick LaCrosse is an underrated luxury sedan, offering a smooth ride, spacious interior, and solid reliability. While new models were expensive, depreciation has made it one of the most affordable used sedans on the market. If you negotiate well, you can land a clean LaCrosse for under $10,000.
🔍 Browse Buick LaCrosse listings near you
2016 Chevrolet Malibu
Consumer Reports Reliability Score: 61/100
Average Selling Price: $11,985
Target Price: $9,500 for a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu with 100,000 – 120,000 miles and a clean history.
Why It’s Great:
The Chevy Malibu is a sleeper pick for one of the best budget-friendly sedans. It’s comfortable, spacious, and relatively inexpensive to maintain. Now that Chevrolet has discontinued the Malibu, used prices have softened, making it an even better value in 2025.
🔍 Browse Chevrolet Malibu listings near you
2016 Subaru Legacy
Consumer Reports Reliability Score: 56/100
Average Selling Price: $11,999
Target Price: $9,800 for a 2016 Subaru Legacy with 120,000 – 140,000 miles and a clean history.
Why It’s Great:
If you’re looking for an affordable all-wheel-drive sedan, the Subaru Legacy is your best bet. Subaru’s AWD system makes this an excellent choice for drivers in snowy or rainy climates. While the reliability score isn’t the highest on this list, Subarus are known for their longevity—as long as the previous owner kept up with regular maintenance.
🔍 Browse Subaru Legacy listings near you
2015 Subaru Outback
Consumer Reports Reliability Score: 53/100
Average Selling Price: $13,408
Target Price: $9,800 for a 2015 Subaru Outback with 110,000 – 150,000 miles and a clean history.
Why It’s Great:
With all-wheel drive, high ground clearance, and a spacious interior, the Subaru Outback is a fantastic option for outdoor enthusiasts or families who need versatility. It’s one of the most capable vehicles under $10,000, especially in winter climates.
🔍 Browse Subaru Outback listings near you
The Best Used Cars Under $10,000 in 2025: Final Thoughts
Finding a reliable, budget-friendly used car is tough in today’s market, but these ten models offer the best value under $10,000 in 2025. Whether you need a fuel-efficient commuter, all-wheel-drive sedan, or affordable EV, these options check all the right boxes. However, with plenty of miles on the odometer, it would be smart to protect your wallet with an affordable Vehicle Service Contract to avoid unexpected repair costs.
💡 Want to make sure you’re getting the best deal? Use CarEdge’s free tools to check fair market value and negotiate the best price on a used car.
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