As we get ready to count down to the new year, it's time for us to reflect on the one that has just passed. As we contemplate our successes and failures, it's also a great opportunity to reflect on how the year has been for used cars.
Whether you're interested in a top-of-the-line quality ride for yourself or are more swayed by the budget-friendly vehicles, there are plenty of options if you're shopping for a used car. But you don't want to make any rash decisions without having as much information as possible. Here are some of the standout used cars from 2015 so you can end your holiday shopping with a new gift for yourself.
"You can drive away with a dependable car that you can count on for years to come."
The most cost-effective
The biggest draw of used cars for many motorists is the potential for savings, and with good reason – if you know where to look, you can drive away with a dependable car that you can count on for years to come, often for less than what you would pay for a comparable new model. While used cars generally tend to be more wallet-friendly, here are some of the most frugal rides from this year.
2005 Volvo S60
You wouldn't normally think of a luxury car when you're considering low-cost options, but that's just one of the ways that the '05 S60 surprises you. This is a great model for those penny pinchers who nevertheless want to add a touch of class to their daily commute. Kelley Blue Book reported that the Volvo S60 boasts fairly average gas mileage, with 19/27 m.p.g. city/highway, but the real prize here is the low cost. At a suggested retail value of $4,100, savvy car buyers could drive away in one of these for as little as $2,700 and still pay a fair retail price.
2004 Toyota Prius
With gas prices being as high as they are, you likely want to do everything you can to reduce the amount you pay at the pump. Older cars tend to be somewhat less fuel efficient than their more recent cousins, but in the instance of the 2004 Prius, this isn't the case. The Prius was a pioneer of the hybrid car trend, and with good reason. Kelley Blue Book noted that the car is capable of 45 m.p.g. on the highway, and a whopping 48 m.p.g. in the city. You may pay a bit more up front, with fair market price ranging from $4,800 to $6,700, but you'll be saving much more on gas in the long term.
"Your budget is important, but you can't put a price on safety."
The safest
Your budget is important, but you can't put a price on safety. Fortunately, with the cars on this list, you won't really have to. Here are some used cars you can purchase that can give you extra peace of mind. This is especially important for parents who are looking for a used vehicle for their teen drivers.
2009-2011 Ford Focus
The Focus has a reputation as something of a hip car for cool younger drivers, which will make it appeal to first-timers and teenagers. Fortunately, this cool factor doesn't come at the cost of safety. Consumer Reports noted that the Fusion is an excellent choice for new drivers, as its seats are high enough to provide a clear view of the road well in front of you. It also comes with the ability to sync Bluetooth devices for hands-free driving, which is a must in the age of text messaging. Consumer Reports indicated that the Fusion starts at $6,050.
2009-2010 Volkswagen Jetta
The Jetta is the first car of many a driver. That's because it balances performance, reliability and safety, for a price that isn't prohibitive to teens and parents. While the base model Jetta features a 5-cylinder engine, Consumer Reports recommended opting for the 4-cylinder variety. The car will still have plenty of pickup without the added noise. As a bonus, the Jetta also comes in an optional diesel model, which can pay dividends when it comes time to fill up at the pump, since you'll be netting an average 34 m.p.g. The Jetta is a bit pricier at a starting price of $7,250, but it's a good investment.