Updated 9/10/19
Whether it’s a sedan or a truck, finding a used vehicle with strong resale value is key. We looked at 2015-18 models and found 10 vehicles to consider.
Sedan/Hatchback
The Mazda3 has competitive value retention, which helped it earn the #1 spot for the compact sedan/hatchback category in the 2019 CarGurus Best Used Car Awards. In fact, our reviewers gave the 2015 and 2017 models high marks for Cost-Effectiveness. And another benefit: 2014-18 Mazda3s have few recalls, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The Toyota Corolla is another great option if you’re looking for a sedan that can hold its value. It took the top spot for used compact sedans for the 2018 Best Used Car Awards. The 2012-18 models were able to hold their value nearly 29% better than competitors. Our reviewers were big fans of the 2016 model, giving it a 9/10 for Cost-Effectiveness, noting that it’s one of the most affordable cars in its class. The 2016 model, along with the 2015, has zero recalls, according to NHTSA.
Compact/Midsize SUV
If you’re looking for a midsize crossover that offers a manual option, can go off-road, and can also stand out in the sea of competitors, the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited has you covered. The 2007-17 Wrangler Unlimited rose from second place to first for the 2018 Best Used Car Awards, and it maintained its status for the 2019 awards. NHTSA has issued only two recalls for the 2015 model.
Need something that feels more at home on the highway? Look to the compact Honda CR-V. When the redesigned 2017 model came out, our reviewer wrote, “This is a vehicle of substance and unconventional beauty, and you should buy one. Case closed.” Not only did the CR-V score well for our reviewer on Cost-Effectiveness, but it also scored a 9/10 for Form & Function, thanks in part to having plenty of cargo space. The 2017 CR-V has three recalls, including one for the steering.
Full-Size SUV
The fourth-generation Ford Expedition, a full-size SUV, introduced a few new changes, including an updated interior and sleek updated look. According to CarGurus’ user rankings, the 2018 model earned the #1 spot for value, rising from the #4 spot the previous year. Our reviewer also gave it a 10/10 for both Performance and Form & Function. While NHTSA gave the 2018 Expedition a 5-star overall rating, it did find a handful of recalls related to the powertrain and fuel system.
The Chevrolet Traverse is another great choice. It can hold up to eight passengers and still have plenty of room for cargo, making it a car that can grow with your family. It was one of the top 3 choices for the 2018 Best Used Car Awards and took the #1 spot for value for 2017 models, according to CarGurus’ user rankings, earning a 9.4/10. The 2017 model has no outstanding recalls, according to NHTSA.
Midsize Truck
Our data shows that the Toyota Tacoma, a midsize truck, can retain up to 66% of its original value 12 years after purchase. Since the 2015 model was the last before a major redesign, it’s no surprise that our reviewer gave the 2015 Tacoma an 8/10 rating for Cost-Effectiveness, a boost from the 2013 model. The Tacoma also took first place for midsize trucks for the 2019 Best Used Car Awards. NHTSA reports just four recalls on the 2015 Tacoma.
The Nissan Titan is another option. After its 2016 redesign, the Titan became the #1 choice for CarGurus’ users for 2016-2018, giving it a 9.5/10 for Value all three years. NHTSA has issued just two recalls for the 2018 Titan.
Wagon
It’s no secret why so many shoppers love Subaru, particularly the Outback. It maintains high resale value, making it the winner for the wagon category for the 2019 Best Used Car Awards. The 2016 model gets a 9/10 for Cost-Effectiveness and an 8/10 for Performance. Want a slightly newer Outback? The 2018 maintains its 9/10 score for Cost-Effectiveness. NHTSA issued three recalls for the 2016 Outback.
For a sportier option, turn your sights toward the Volkswagen Golf SportWagen. The 2015-18 SportWagen takes the #2 slot for the 2019 Best Used Car Awards, and our reviewer noted that “no better blend of practicality, cargo space, and road-going manners exists on the market today” than the 2016 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen. The 2016 model has the fewest recalls of the used SportWagens, with just one.
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