Best Used Cars Under $20,000 in 2025
With $20,000, you can get an exceptional used car that combines reliability, modern features, and years of dependable service. We've analyzed reliability data, ownership costs, and market prices to bring you the 10 best options across sedans, SUVs, and trucks.
Our Selection Criteria
Every car on this list meets these standards:
- Above-average reliability (based on Consumer Reports & J.D. Power data)
- Low maintenance costs (average $400-800/year)
- Good safety ratings (IIHS Top Safety Pick or 5-star NHTSA)
- Strong resale value (minimal further depreciation)
- Available under $20k with reasonable mileage (<60k miles)
Best Sedans Under $20,000
1. Honda Civic (2019-2021)
Best Overall Sedan
The Honda Civic remains the gold standard for reliable, affordable transportation. Excellent fuel economy (32-42 mpg), proven reliability, and a comfortable ride make it perfect for daily commuting.
Typical Price
$16,000-$19,500
MPG
32-42 combined
Reliability
Excellent
Best For:
Commuters, first-time buyers, fuel-conscious drivers
2. Toyota Camry (2018-2020)
Most Reliable Midsize Sedan
Known for bulletproof reliability and low ownership costs. Spacious interior, smooth ride, and available hybrid models (40+ mpg). Perfect for families who want dependability.
Typical Price
$17,000-$19,900
MPG
29-40 combined
Reliability
Outstanding
Best For:
Families, long-term ownership, high-mileage drivers
3. Mazda3 (2019-2021)
Most Fun to Drive
Upscale interior that rivals luxury brands, engaging driving dynamics, and excellent build quality. Great choice if you want a premium feel without the premium price.
Typical Price
$15,500-$18,500
MPG
30-33 combined
Reliability
Very Good
Best For:
Driving enthusiasts, style-conscious buyers, empty nesters
Best SUVs Under $20,000
4. Honda CR-V (2017-2019)
Best Compact SUV
Spacious, practical, and incredibly reliable. Huge cargo space, excellent visibility, and Honda's legendary reliability make this the smart SUV choice for families.
Typical Price
$18,000-$20,000
MPG
28-30 combined
Reliability
Excellent
Best For:
Families, outdoor enthusiasts, cargo haulers
5. Toyota RAV4 (2016-2018)
Most Reliable SUV
America's best-selling SUV for good reason. Available AWD, hybrid models for 34+ mpg, and Toyota reliability means this will run for 200,000+ miles with basic maintenance.
Typical Price
$17,500-$19,900
MPG
25-34 combined
Reliability
Outstanding
Best For:
Long-term ownership, high reliability needs, winter driving
6. Mazda CX-5 (2017-2019)
Most Upscale SUV
Premium interior materials, sharp handling, and upscale feel that punches above its price class. Best choice if you want a compact SUV that feels like a luxury vehicle.
Typical Price
$16,500-$19,000
MPG
26-28 combined
Reliability
Very Good
Best For:
Style-focused buyers, luxury feel on a budget, couples
Best Trucks Under $20,000
7. Toyota Tacoma (2014-2017)
Best Midsize Truck
Legendary Toyota reliability in truck form. Known for holding value better than any other truck. Perfect for outdoor adventures, towing, and hauling with unmatched dependability.
Typical Price
$18,000-$20,000
MPG
19-21 combined
Reliability
Outstanding
Best For:
Off-roading, towing, adventure seekers, resale value
Honorable Mentions
- Hyundai Elantra (2019-2021):
Great warranty (still transferable), excellent value, loaded with features. $14,000-$17,500.
- Kia Forte (2019-2021):
Similar to Elantra with great warranty. Sporty GT trim available. $13,500-$16,500.
- Subaru Outback (2015-2017):
All-wheel drive standard, wagon versatility, great in snow. $16,000-$19,000.
- Chevrolet Equinox (2018-2020):
Spacious, comfortable, affordable. Good value if you need space. $15,000-$18,000.
Cars to Avoid
Steer clear of these common problem vehicles:
- • Nissan CVT models (Altima, Sentra, Rogue): Known for transmission failures around 60-80k miles
- • Ford Focus/Fiesta (2012-2018): Dual-clutch transmission issues, expensive repairs
- • Jeep Compass/Patriot: Poor reliability ratings, frequent electrical issues
- • Chrysler 200: Transmission problems, discontinued (parts availability concerns)
- • Dodge Journey: Outdated, poor reliability, low resale value
Final Tips
- Always get a pre-purchase inspection from an independent mechanic ($100-150)
- Check vehicle history report (Carfax/AutoCheck) for accidents and service records
- Test drive multiple examples of the same model to compare condition
- Budget for maintenance: Set aside $1,000-1,500/year for repairs on used cars
- Consider certified pre-owned (CPO) for warranty peace of mind
Find Your Perfect Car on IQ Auto Deals
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