In today’s world, owning a car is almost a necessity for many people. However, with the increasing prices of new cars, buying a used car has become an attractive option for many budget-conscious individuals. The challenge with buying a used car is finding a reliable one that fits your budget.
To help you in your search, Kelley Blue Book has evaluated various used car models and has come up with a list of the best used cars under $5,000. In this article, we will take a closer look at the 7 best used cars according to Kelley Blue Book. We will provide you with an overview of each model, its key features and specifications, as well as its pros and cons.
We will also provide you with pricing information and potential buying options. It’s important to note that while Kelley Blue Book is a reputable source of information, it’s always best to do your own research and inspection before making a purchase. With that said, let’s dive into the 7 best used cars under $5,000 according to Kelley Blue Book.
Honda Civic (2006-2011)
The Honda Civic has been a popular car model for decades, and for good reason. It’s reliable, fuel-efficient, and practical. The 2006-2011 models are no exception. These models come in both sedan and coupe versions and have a range of engine options, including a hybrid version.
Key features and specs of the 2006-2011 Honda Civic models include:
- Available engines: 1.8L 4-cylinder, 2.0L 4-cylinder, and a hybrid version
- Transmission options: 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, 5-speed automatic, or continuously variable transmission (CVT) for hybrid models
- Fuel efficiency: 25-40 mpg, depending on the engine and transmission type
- Safety features: front, side, and curtain airbags, stability control, and antilock brakes
- Technology features: available Bluetooth connectivity, navigation system, and satellite radio
Pros of the Honda Civic as a used car include its reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. It’s also a popular car, which means it’s easy to find replacement parts and get repairs done. Cons of the Honda Civic as a used car include its road noise and limited interior space, especially in the coupe version.
Pricing for the 2006-2011 Honda Civic models ranges from around $3,000 to $5,000, depending on the condition, mileage, and location. Potential buying options include private sellers, dealerships, and online marketplaces such as Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. As always, it’s important to inspect the car thoroughly and take it for a test drive before making a purchase.
Toyota Corolla (2003-2008)
The Toyota Corolla has been a reliable and practical car for decades. The 2003-2008 models are no exception. These models come in both sedan and hatchback versions and have a range of engine options, including a fuel-efficient 1.8L 4-cylinder engine.
Key features and specs of the 2003-2008 Toyota Corolla models include:
- Available engines: 1.8L 4-cylinder
- Transmission options: 4-speed automatic, 5-speed manual, or 6-speed manual for the XRS trim
- Fuel efficiency: 26-32 mpg, depending on the engine and transmission type
- Safety features: front, side, and curtain airbags, antilock brakes, and stability control in later models
- Technology features: available CD player, power windows and locks, and keyless entry
Pros of the Toyota Corolla as a used car include its reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. It’s also a popular car, which means it’s easy to find replacement parts and get repairs done. Cons of the Toyota Corolla as a used car include its lack of excitement and limited interior space.
Pricing for the 2003-2008 Toyota Corolla models ranges from around $2,500 to $5,000, depending on the condition, mileage, and location. Potential buying options include private sellers, dealerships, and online marketplaces such as Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. As always, it’s important to inspect the car thoroughly and take it for a test drive before making a purchase.
Mazda3 (2004-2009)
The Mazda3 is a sporty and fun-to-drive compact car that has been a popular choice for many years. The 2004-2009 models offer great value as used cars, with their sharp handling, good fuel economy, and stylish design.
Key features and specs of the 2004-2009 Mazda3 models include:
- Available engines: 2.0L 4-cylinder or 2.3L 4-cylinder
- Transmission options: 4-speed automatic, 5-speed manual, or 6-speed manual for higher trim levels
- Fuel efficiency: 23-28 mpg, depending on the engine and transmission type
- Safety features: front, side, and curtain airbags, antilock brakes, and stability control in later models
- Technology features: available CD player, power windows and locks, and keyless entry
Pros of the Mazda3 as a used car include its sporty handling, attractive design, and fun-to-drive nature. It also has a comfortable interior and good fuel economy. Cons of the Mazda3 as a used car include its lack of rear-seat space and road noise.
Pricing for the 2004-2009 Mazda3 models ranges from around $3,000 to $5,000, depending on the condition, mileage, and location. Potential buying options include private sellers, dealerships, and online marketplaces such as Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. As always, it’s important to inspect the car thoroughly and take it for a test drive before making a purchase.
Ford Focus (2005-2007)
The Ford Focus is a compact car that has been around since the late 1990s. The 2005-2007 models offer great value as used cars, with their solid build quality, good fuel economy, and comfortable ride.
Key features and specs of the 2005-2007 Ford Focus models include:
- Available engines: 2.0L 4-cylinder or 2.3L 4-cylinder
- Transmission options: 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual
- Fuel efficiency: 25-27 mpg, depending on the engine and transmission type
- Safety features: front airbags, antilock brakes, and stability control in later models
- Technology features: available CD player, power windows and locks, and keyless entry
Pros of the Ford Focus as a used car include its solid build quality, comfortable ride, and good fuel economy. It also has a spacious interior and a variety of available features. Cons of the Ford Focus as a used car include its bland styling and lack of excitement.
Pricing for the 2005-2007 Ford Focus models ranges from around $2,500 to $5,000, depending on the condition, mileage, and location. Potential buying options include private sellers, dealerships, and online marketplaces such as Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. As always, it’s important to inspect the car thoroughly and take it for a test drive before making a purchase.
Hyundai Elantra (2006-2011)
The Hyundai Elantra is a compact car that offers great value as a used car. The 2006-2011 models are known for their reliability, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior.
Key features and specs of the 2006-2011 Hyundai Elantra models include:
- Available engines: 2.0L 4-cylinder or 2.0L 4-cylinder with variable valve timing
- Transmission options: 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual
- Fuel efficiency: 25-28 mpg, depending on the engine and transmission type
- Safety features: front, side, and curtain airbags, antilock brakes, and stability control in later models
- Technology features: available CD player, power windows and locks, and keyless entry
Pros of the Hyundai Elantra as a used car include its reliability, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior. It also has a good amount of available features for its price range. Cons of the Hyundai Elantra as a used car include its uninspired driving experience and lack of performance.
Pricing for the 2006-2011 Hyundai Elantra models ranges from around $2,500 to $5,000, depending on the condition, mileage, and location. Potential buying options include private sellers, dealerships, and online marketplaces such as Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. As always, it’s important to inspect the car thoroughly and take it for a test drive before making a purchase.
Nissan Sentra (2007-2012)
The Nissan Sentra is a compact car that has been around since the early 1980s. The 2007-2012 models offer great value as used cars, with their comfortable ride, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior.
Key features and specs of the 2007-2012 Nissan Sentra models include:
- Available engines: 2.0L 4-cylinder or 2.5L 4-cylinder
- Transmission options: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic, or continuously variable transmission (CVT)
- Fuel efficiency: 25-30 mpg, depending on the engine and transmission type
- Safety features: front, side, and curtain airbags, antilock brakes, and stability control in later models
- Technology features: available CD player, power windows and locks, and keyless entry
Pros of the Nissan Sentra as a used car include its comfortable ride, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior. It also has a good amount of available features for its price range. Cons of the Nissan Sentra as a used car include its uninspired driving experience and lack of performance.
Pricing for the 2007-2012 Nissan Sentra models ranges from around $3,000 to $5,000, depending on the condition, mileage, and location. Potential buying options include private sellers, dealerships, and online marketplaces such as Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. As always, it’s important to inspect the car thoroughly and take it for a test drive before making a purchase.
The Nissan Sentra is a compact car that has been around since the early 1980s. The 2007-2012 models offer great value as used cars, with their comfortable ride, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior.
Key features and specs of the 2007-2012 Nissan Sentra models include:
- Available engines: 2.0L 4-cylinder or 2.5L 4-cylinder
- Transmission options: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic, or continuously variable transmission (CVT)
- Fuel efficiency: 25-30 mpg, depending on the engine and transmission type
- Safety features: front, side, and curtain airbags, antilock brakes, and stability control in later models
- Technology features: available CD player, power windows and locks, and keyless entry
Pros of the Nissan Sentra as a used car include its comfortable ride, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior. It also has a good amount of available features for its price range. Cons of the Nissan Sentra as a used car include its uninspired driving experience and lack of performance.
Pricing for the 2007-2012 Nissan Sentra models ranges from around $3,000 to $5,000, depending on the condition, mileage, and location. Potential buying options include private sellers, dealerships, and online marketplaces such as Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. As always, it’s important to inspect the car thoroughly and take it for a test drive before making a purchase.
Subaru Impreza (2004-2007)
The Subaru Impreza is a compact car that is known for its all-wheel drive system and sporty handling. The 2004-2007 models offer great value as used cars, with their reliable performance and safety features.
Key features and specs of the 2004-2007 Subaru Impreza models include:
- Available engines: 2.5L 4-cylinder or 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder (WRX)
- Transmission options: 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic
- Fuel efficiency: 23-26 mpg, depending on the engine and transmission type
- Safety features: front, side, and curtain airbags, antilock brakes, and stability control in later models
- Technology features: available CD player, power windows and locks, and keyless entry
Pros of the Subaru Impreza as a used car include its all-wheel drive system, sporty handling, and reliability. It also has a good amount of available features for its price range. Cons of the Subaru Impreza as a used car include its fuel efficiency, which is lower than some other cars in its class.
Pricing for the 2004-2007 Subaru Impreza models ranges from around $3,000 to $5,000, depending on the condition, mileage, and location. Potential buying options include private sellers, dealerships, and online marketplaces such as Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. As always, it’s important to inspect the car thoroughly and take it for a test drive before making a purchase.
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Conclusion
Buying a used car can be a great way to save money while still getting a reliable and functional vehicle. Kelley Blue Book is a trusted source for determining the value and quality of used cars. The seven models discussed in this article – the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Ford Focus, Hyundai Elantra, Nissan Sentra, and Subaru Impreza – all offer great value for under $5,000.
Each of these cars has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to do your research and determine which one best fits your needs and preferences. With careful consideration and inspection, you can find a high-quality used car that will serve you well for years to come.