Best used cars 2014

Fresh off a redesign for 2015, it’s easy to write off the old Honda Fit as dated and obsolete — but don’t. It’s still one of the most solid compact cars around, and Edmunds.com lauded its “nimble driving demeanor, high fuel economy, and incredibly space-efficient design.” It also has one of the most versatile interiors in its class, and is in every way still a fantastic car that will ride Honda’s reputation for longevity several hundreds of thousands of miles.

Source: Hyundai

Compact Sedan: 2007-2012 Hyundai Elantra

Prior to 2001, the Hyundai Elantra left a lot to be desired. After its redesign, it was still largely a bland car that did what you needed but little more. Since then, the Elantra has gone from taking steps with each passing year to making massive leaps, and more recent models are comparable with any compact you choose for a comparison. Evenly matched against Corolla or Focus, Elantra remains cheap to maintain and easy to live with, making it a solid buy as a used car. Edmunds.com suggests the 2011 model or later for a more upscale cabin and improved fuel economy.

Source: Ford via Facebook

Midsize Sedan: 2007-2012 Ford Fusion

It may not have the sharp looks of the new model, but Ford’s older Fusion sedans are still solid cars. Edmunds.com noted that the 2007-2012 models — which bridge two different generations –offer a spacious cabin, responsive driving dynamics, and solid build quality. You’re likely to find a pretty good deal on one, too, and on the later model, the engines became more powerful and more safety options were included as standard. Hybrid models are available beginning in the 2010 model year.

Source: Toyota

Large Sedan: 2007-2012 Toyota Avalon

For a large, stately sedan that’s not too harsh on the wallet, the Toyota Avalon is a solid pick on the used car market. It offers luxury car-like accommodations in its interior volume and satisfying V6, with a slew of standard features normally reserved for the likes of Lexus. Since it’s a Toyota, repair costs will be cheap, few, and far between, and Edmunds.com notes that the differences from generation to generation are minimal at most. Stability control (available from the 2009 model year on) would offer the top safety features.

Source: Honda

Coupe: 2007-2012 Honda Accord

The Honda Accord is known for its refined, smooth ride quality, longevity, and impeccable build quality, and the Coupe is no different. It offers a roomy, two-door format as an alternative to the best-selling sedan, and buyers can choose from a menu of engines spanning from a 160 horsepower four-cylinder to a 240 horsepower V6 for the earlier generations; 190 horsepower on four-cylinder Accord coupes; and 271 horsepower on the more recent (2008-2012) V6 versions.

Source: Volvo

Convertible: 2007-2012 Volvo C70

If you seeking a comfortable and mild-mannered convertible for less, a used Volvo C70 is a solid bet. “Thanks to its retractable hardtop, the Volvo C70 is essentially two cars in one, ” Edmunds.com says. “Top up, it’s a luxury coupe with the quietness, weather isolation, and security of a solid roof. Lower and stow away the roof with the press of a button, and you have a stylish convertible in which you can share al fresco motoring with three other adults.”

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Wagon: 2007-’12 Subaru Outback

Two generations of Subaru’s popular crossover/wagon are covered under Edmunds.com‘s recommendation, and honestly, it’s hard to go wrong. The earlier generation — prior to 2010 — was much more a high-riding wagon, and the later models are closer to the SUV-ish model we know today. Either way, both vehicles excel at what they were meant to do: Offer a no-frills, no nonsense, capable vehicle with plenty of interior space and off-road utility when you need it. “These Subaru Outbacks were also known for their solid build quality, well-balanced ride, and handling qualities, ” Edmunds.com noted.

Compact SUV/Crossover: 2007-2012 Honda CR-V

To this day, Honda’s CR-V is one of the best-selling vehicles on the market, and certainly one of the best-selling crossover SUVs. Like most Hondas, the CR-V has a strong record of lasting for years (i.e., for hundreds of thousands of miles) and with low maintenance costs, they make for a wallet-friendly used option that will often last for many more years. “A smooth ride, an excellent reliability record, and strong crash-test scores underscore why the Honda CR-V is a top pick among our staff and consumers alike, ” Edmunds.com lauded.