Is it still possible to buy a quality car for under $15,000? Believe it or now, reliable models from Toyota, Honda, Subaru, and even Chevrolet are all available for under $15K. From sedans to crossovers, and even an affordable EV, here are the top five budget-friendly used cars that deliver value without breaking the bank.

1. 2015 Toyota Camry

Average Selling Price: $14,851

Crash Test Safety Rating: Top Safety Pick Plus

Fuel Economy: 25 MPG city, 34 MPG highway (28 MPG combined)

Why Drivers Love It: The Toyota Camry has long been a staple in the mid-size sedan market, known for its reliability and comfort. The 2015 features what drivers have come to expect from the Camry: a spacious interior, smooth ride, and excellent fuel economy. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a dependable car under $15,000.

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2. 2016 Subaru Forester

Average Selling Price: $14,910

Crash Test Safety Rating: Top Safety Pick Plus

Fuel Economy: 24 MPG city, 31 MPG highway (27 MPG combined)

Why Drivers Love It: The 2016 Subaru Forester stands out for its all-wheel-drive capability and spacious interior. It’s perfect for families and individuals who need a versatile vehicle for all-weather driving. The Forester’s high safety ratings and robust design make it a great investment for those seeking a durable and affordable SUV.

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3. 2015 Honda Civic

Average Selling Price: $13,700

Crash Test Safety Rating: Top Safety Pick Plus

Fuel Economy: 29 MPG city, 37 MPG highway (32 MPG combined)

Why Drivers Love It: The Honda Civic is a compact car that checks all the boxes for a commuter car. The Civic’s reputation for longevity stretches back decades. The 2015 model may be nearly ten years old, but is still known for its comfortable ride, no-fuss tech, and decent fuel economy. It’s an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers looking for a car under $15k.

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4. 2014 Honda CR-V

Average Selling Price: $14,416

Crash Test Safety Rating: See IIHS safety ratings

Fuel Economy: 23 MPG city, 30 MPG highway (26 MPG combined)

Why Drivers Love It: Theres a reason why CR-Vs seem to be everywhere you look. Like other model years, the 2014 Honda CR-V is known for reliability and practicality. It offers a spacious albeit compact interior, ample cargo space, and a smooth ride. Simply put, you know what you’re getting with the CR-V, even one that’s a decade old.

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5. 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV

Average Selling Price: $14,370

Crash Test Safety Rating: Top Safety Pick

Fuel Economy: 238 miles of driving range per full charge

Why Drivers Love It: For those who primarily drive around town and want to avoid fuel costs, the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV is an excellent option. Charging at home is A LOT cheaper than paying for gas. This all-electric vehicle offers impressive range and zippy acceleration. Charging speeds are slow even at a DC fast charger, taking a full hour to add 200 miles of range. But for commuting to work or sticking around town, the gas savings could really make a used Bolt pay for itself over time. 

A few years back, a serious recall required that all Bolt EVs get a new battery, free of charge. Therefore, it’s essential to verify that the battery replacement recall has been addressed before you buy. The good news is that Bolt drivers have reported nothing but satisfaction ever since the recall debacle was settled. 

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There’s a Better Way to Buy

Finding a budget-friendly used car is possible in 2024; all it takes is familiarity with today’s car market and negotiation know-how. From the Camry to the all-wheel drive Forester and more, car buyers have a surprising number of options when shopping for a used car under $15k in 2024. Each of these models offers robust features, solid safety ratings, and a pleasant driving experience.

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