New car and pickup trucks sales in the United States of America have slipped by 1.8 percent in 2017 compared to the previous year, bringing the total to 17.2 million units. But on the upside, used cars and pickup trucks are gaining traction in the U.S.
The question is, what sort of second-hand means of personal transportation could you buy if your budget is limited to $20,000? Consumer Reports has some answers on that, depending on the class, body style, and purpose of the vehicle in question. In the subcompact segment, for example, you can’t go wrong with the Honda Fit hatchback (from the 2008 to 2013 model years), but stay away from the Fit EV.
Moving up to the compact car category, the 2015 to 2017 Mazda3 ticks all the right boxes. Be it the sedan or hatchback, it’s a nice-handling machine that's also reliable and efficient thanks to SkyActiv technology. Oh, and it also looks great!
Upper still, Consumer Reports recommends the 2008 to 2015 Toyota Camry and the 2008 to 2013 Infiniti G series. Needless to say, the Camry and G appeal to different buyers with different needs, but do their respective jobs perfectly fine.
In the market for a sports car? Despite the fact the MX-5 Miata is the best slow-car-fast… sports car, the publication believes that the Subaru BRZ and Scion FR-S are more appropriate in this budget. The ones produced for the 2014 and 2015 MYs.
In the wagon and minivan category, the 2012 to 2014 Toyota Prius V combines the practicality of a multi-purpose vehicle with the efficiency of a hybrid. SUVs, you ask? The compact-sized Mazda CX-5 (2013 - 2015) is a no-brainer in this budget, as is the mid-sized, seven-seater Toyota Highlander from MY 2008 through 2010.
Last, but certainly not least, what sort of under-$20,000 used pickup truck is worthy of your consideration? Consumer Reports makes a case for the first-generation Honda Ridgeline from the 2008 to 2010 model years. On the other hand, those looking for a full-size, light-duty workhorse can easily find a Ford F-150, but makes sure it comes with complete service history.
After a 1:43 scale model of a Ferrari 250 GTO sparked Mircea's interest for cars when he was a kid, an early internship at Top Gear sealed his career path. He's most interested in muscle cars and American trucks, but he takes a passing interest in quirky kei cars as well. Full profile
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