The best used cars to buy right now, according to Consumer Reports
As the average new-car price hovers around $50,000, here are some affordable used vehicles to check out

Car prices have been soaring for years — add tariffs into the mix, and many Americans simply can’t afford to buy a vehicle new.
But there are plenty of good used vehicles to buy. And luckily for us, Consumer Reports created a list of its top picks for used cars in February 2026.
Continue reading to see which vehicles made the cut:
2 / 11
Mazda6 (2014–2021)

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With used prices ranging from $7,275 to $10,050 and owner-reported fuel economy of 29 mpg, the Mazda6 stands out for its smooth four-cylinder powertrain, agile handling, and a well-finished cabin with supportive seats. Later updates improved ride comfort and reduced cabin noise, and available safety features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross traffic alert.
3 / 11
Toyota Corolla (2014–2019)

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Priced between $12,100 and $15,225 with 32 mpg owner-reported fuel economy, the Corolla won praise for its roomy back seat, comfortable ride, simple controls, and strong reliability record. It offers easy-to-use infotainment, available automatic climate control on higher trims, and widespread availability of safety features like forward collision warning and automatic braking.
4 / 11
Chevrolet Equinox (2018–2024)

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At $10,325 to $14,750 and 26 mpg owner-reported fuel economy, the Equinox delivers generous interior space, comfortable seats, composed road manners, and a user-friendly infotainment system with Apple $AAPL CarPlay and Android Auto. Consumer Reports highlights its tech features and practicality, even if performance from the base engine is modest.
5 / 11
Toyota Corolla Hybrid (2020–present)

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With a price range of $15,125 to $18,375 and an impressive 51 mpg owner-reported fuel economy, the Corolla Hybrid is recognized for excellent efficiency, straightforward controls, standard smartphone integration, and strong safety equipment including forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking.
6 / 11
Subaru Crosstrek (2018–2023)

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Selling for $13,325 to $18,850 and returning 28 mpg owner-reported fuel economy, the Crosstrek won praise for its comfortable ride, capable handling, easy-to-use infotainment system, and good fuel efficiency. It also offers a roomy rear seat and widely available safety systems such as forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking.
7 / 11
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (2016–2018)

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Used RAV4 Hybrid's run from $14,400 to $19,350 with 32 mpg owner-reported fuel economy. The hybrid version has a smoother ride, quieter cabin, added power compared with the regular version, and strong reliability in later model years.
8 / 11
Toyota Highlander (2014–2019)

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Priced from $14,175 to $20,950 and averaging 22 mpg by owner reports, the Highlander earns praise for family-friendly space, simple controls, solid road manners, and dependable reliability. Later models added standard forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking.
9 / 11
Lexus NX (2015–2021)

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Priced between $17,725 and $20,850 with 25 mpg owner-reported fuel economy, the NX blends small-SUV practicality with upscale touches like premium interior trim and a quiet, refined feel. It offers strong performance from its turbo engine and, in newer models, standard forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking.
10 / 11
Honda Ridgeline (2017–present)

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With used prices of $19,500 to $24,350 and 22 mpg owner-reported fuel economy, the Ridgeline is favored for its nice ride, composed handling, quiet cabin, and versatile features such as a swing-out tailgate. Updates added standard forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and smartphone connectivity.
11 / 11
Mazda MX-5 Miata (2016–2024)

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Running $14,025 to $21,300 on the used market and delivering 33 mpg owner-reported fuel economy, the Miata won praise for precise steering, nimble handling, strong reliability, and an engaging driving experience. Later versions gained a notable power boost, and features like an easy manual top and available smartphone integration make it even better.