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Best Used Car Bargains: Hidden Gems on a Budget

Shopping for your next vehicle and want the most bang for your buck? Of course you are! Used cars are the choice for you, typically available at a lower price, yet offering excellent reliability and performance. Buying a used car doesn’t mean you’ll have limited options; instead, you’ll be met with a wide array catering to all your different needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a reliable everyday commuter like the Nissan Kicks Play or a weekend warrior like the Toyota 4Runner, the options are endless. In this blog, I’m gonna take you on an unconventional route, uncovering some hidden gems that may be perfect for you! These options are reliable, performance-focused, efficient and practical, but are often overlooked gems that pack serious value for your money. Take a look!

Explore the Best Choices for First-Time Car Buyers

Top Affordable Pre-Owned Vehicles

Volvo V60

The Volvo V60 is truly a hidden gem, and here’s why—it’s one of those unappreciated cars that quietly checks so many boxes, especially for drivers who want luxury, practicality, and a little driving soul without calling for much attention on the road.

Kia Soul

The Kia Soul makes for a great used car, as it is quirky on the outside, but highly practical on the inside. In it, you’ll get all the headroom and cargo space you demand out of an SUV, but alongside all the versatility and affordability of a sedan. 2012 and newer models of the Kia Soul offer solid reliability and efficiency, making it the perfect everyday vehicle.

Lexus GS-350

The Lexus GS-350 is an affordable luxury sedan for drivers, whereas a BMW or Mercedes-Benz may just be out of your budget. You’ll always enjoy a smooth ride elevated by some excellent premium features, all at a used car price..

Hyundai Sonata

You can’t create a ‘best used car’ list without mentioning the Hyundai Sonata. It’s worth every penny, especially when you’re looking for a sedan that’s comfortable, reliable, and stylish. And, hey, did we mention how easily it’s sure to fit in your budget as well?

Chevrolet Impala

The Chevrolet Impala promises great comfort, thanks to its superior and refined interior. It features a spacious back seat and generous cargo capacity, making it a perfect pick for road trips and ride-sharing.

5 Things to Remember When Buying a Used Car

Buying a used car doesn’t have to be stressful, which is why I’ve listed below the five things you must keep in mind to make an informed decision and ensure you get a premium vehicle that meets your requirements, without breaking the bank:

  1. Do not skip thorough research, and understand the different makes and models available in the market that actually meet your needs in a vehicle.
  2. Always ask for a detailed vehicle report and review the vehicle’s history, including service records, ownership details and any accidents to learn about its condition.
  3. Take the vehicle for a test drive to get hands-on experience, from performance to interior comfort level to tech features.
  4. While taking a test drive, don’t forget to inspect it properly–inside out—looking for signs of wear and tear and beyond to the more serious. Pay attention to the paint and body condition and make note of any dents, dings and discoloration.
  5. Evaluate all the available financing, trade-in offers and options for buying the particular model you’re eyeing, which can greatly help you save.

Get Great Deals on Used Cars at Cars.ca

Find great deals on both pre-owned and new vehicles at Cars.ca, an ad-free Canadian marketplace. We bring you vehicle listings from dealerships across the country, ensuring you always have a wide variety of options to choose from. Our listings feature three unique badges—Comparable Price, Competitive Price, and Can’t Miss Price—indicating their competitive pricing compared to the market, helping you make an informed buying decision.

Explore Our Can’t Miss Deals
Shruti Mehra is a writing enthusiast who hopped into the automotive world in 2022 and has been learning so much ever since. At EDealer, she works as an SEO and Content Strategist, working closely with dealership clients to optimize their digital presence and driving success with SEO strategy. When she's not working in the fast-paced world of automotive and content marketing, you'll find her experimenting in the kitchen or binge-watching the latest movies and web series.