The 8 Best Used Cars Under $25,000 (2024)
Photo by Stephen Kidd on Unsplash
With prices climbing for new car purchases, most customers look at the used car market for their next vehicle. Fortunately, the used car market offers a healthy selection of vehicles, even for the most budget-conscious consumer. Used cars can save you thousands of dollars, and with a good buy, you won’t feel like you just bought a penalty box.
What if you have $25,000 for a used car? Can you get a decent car or SUV at this price point? Sure, you can! A $25,000 budget marks the sweet spot for you to purchase a used car or compact SUV without opting for a decade-old model.
For this buyer’s guide, we rounded up some of the best used cars under $25,000. While making the list, we considered each vehicle’s performance, fuel economy, and value proposition. Let’s get to it!
1. 2022 Hyundai Kona
Hyundai has been making strides in the market for years, and the Kona is one of its best offerings for the budget conscious. The subcompact Kona offers a crisp driving experience with car-like road manners, a stylish exterior, and tons of practicality. Its balanced driving dynamics complement a nice cabin with upscale materials and excellent fuel economy. As one of the best used cars under $25,000, the 2022 Hyundai Kona is ideal for beginners and teens.
The base price of the 2022 Hyundai Kona is already below $25,000, so you won’t have a hard time finding a low-mileage unit.
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2. 2018 Genesis G80
Don’t be surprised to find a luxury sedan on this list because the Genesis G80 is known for its affordable pricing despite the luxury designation. The 2018 Genesis G80 is well-equipped, composed, and highly comfortable. While the interior of the 2018 G80 isn’t as luxurious as its rivals, the G80’s cabin is a tech heaven with plenty of standard features. In terms of value, the 2018 G80 offers a relaxed ride quality unless you opt for the higher trims that offer more oomph with its twin-turbocharged V-6.
A used 2018 Genesis G80 should cost about $17,000-$24,495 for a model with decent mileage.
3. 2021 Jeep Renegade Jeepster
Having a specific budget doesn’t mean you have to settle with a boring econobox. Fortunately, a Jeep is never dull, and that’s true for the 2021 Jeep Renegade. If you want the Jeep styling and top-notch off-road capabilities but can’t afford the Wrangler, the 2021 Jeep Renegade is more than a solid alternative. Of course, the main selling point of the Renegade is its excellent off-roading chops. Plus, it offers comfortable ride quality and ample interior space.
A used 2021 Jeep Renegade should fit well with your under $25,000 budget, with some wiggle room to opt for higher trims.
4. 2020 Honda CR-V
One of the most popular crossover SUVs of all time, it’s hard to argue with what the Honda CR-V has to offer – it’s a classic for a reason. The 2020 Honda CR-V provides a refined ride quality, tons of practicality, and fuel-efficient powertrains. Due to its large and innovative cargo hold, the 2020 Honda CR-V is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. On top of that, this popular SUV stands out with its gentle ride and spirited handling. Furthermore, it boasts excellent reliability ratings, so you’ll drive the CR-V for a while.
Shopping for a used 2020 Honda CR-V with AWD with a $25,000 budget should be a breeze.
5. 2020 MINI Hardtop
Here’s one of the best used cars under $25,000 if you’re looking for something different and exciting. The 2020 MINI Hardtop is a solid pick because it’s fun to drive, easy to handle, and offers a good deal of British panache. Although it doesn’t have the largest interior space nor the softest ride, it’s a very likable and charming car with a decent collection of standard tech features. Overall, the 2020 MINI Hardtop offers good value for money, provided you stay away from its pricey upgrades.
Starting at $19,900, you can get a used 2020 MINI Hardtop with 35k-40k miles.
6. 2021 Dodge Charger
If the rear-wheel drive (AWD available) and rumbly V8 engines are your things, the 2021 Dodge Charger is an excellent option under the $25,000 budget. The classic American muscle car stays alive with the beastly Dodge Charger, especially with the V8 version. However, you’ll have to stick with a V6 Charger and a probable AWD if you shop around for this budget. It does have a mediocre interior and less-than-desirable ride quality compared to its rivals.
You can find a used 2021 Dodge Charger SXT for under $25,000 and a potential AWD for this budget.
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7. 2020 Mazda CX-30
The 2020 Mazda CX-30 checks a lot of the right boxes when it comes to compact SUVs. It offers fun driving dynamics, a near-luxurious cabin, and plenty of standard tech features. The main draw of the CX-30 is its excellent cornering and top-notch fuel economy. Who says daily drivers should be plain and boring? Inside its upscale interior, the CX-30 also boasts ample passenger and cargo space. The 2020 Mazda CX-30 is a value-oriented package that’s worth your budget.
A brand-new 2020 Mazda CX-30 is already below our $25,000, so you should find numerous great deals for this used compact crossover.
8. 2019 Audi Q5
The 2019 Audi Q5 shines for offering a premium driving experience without breaking the bank. The 2019 Q5 is quick, comfortable, and has reasonably modern tech. It’s powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that cranks out a modest 252 horsepower, which should be suitable enough for your daily commute and occasional road trips. As expected, the 2019 Audi Q5 features an upscale interior with no shortage of luxury appointments. Techwise, this luxury sedan offers many tech features like an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto support.
A used 2019 Audi Q5 may push our budget close to the limits, and we expect around 60-100k miles on them.
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