Boston's Leading Mobile Mechanics

Best Cars For Every Budget ( 2004 - 2013 Car Models )

 

This list shows the best small cars, sedans, and SUVs - in four price ranges. These are the used cars we would recommend both to our family and friends.

 

 

Price Range: Less Than $10,000

 

1.  Small Cars –

 

Toyota Prius (2004-2007) ; Scion xB (2004-2006) ; Pontiac Vibe (2005-08) ; Toyota Matrix (2005-2007)

 

The Toyota Prius is the most efficient non-plug-in car you can buy, plus it has plenty of room and a nice ride.   Reliability is first-rate.   The Scion xB is a great city car. The Pontiac Vibe and Toyota Matrix are both versatile cars.

 

2. Sedans -

 

Hyundai Sonata (2007-2008) ; and Acura TSX (2004)

 

The efficient, and comfortable Hyundai Sonata has a nice ride, secure handling, and a four-cylinder engine that returned 23 mpg overall. The Acura TSX is responsive, quiet, well-finished, and enjoyable to drive.

 

3. SUVs -

 

Toyota Highlander V6 (2004) ; and Mitsubishi Outlander (2007)

 

The Toyota Highlander has a nicely finished, quiet, and comfortable interior, along with a strong V6 engine.   Handling is secure, and it leans towards sportiness.   The smaller Mitsubishi Outlander has sportier handling and can be found with a third-row seat.

 

 

Price Range: $10,000-$15,000

 

1.  Small cars -

 

Honda Fit (2011-2013) and Kia Soul (2010-2011)

 

The Honda Fit’s forte is its cargo-carrying versatility.   It is fun to drive, has great fuel economy and excellent reliability.  For more passenger room and comfort, you can also check out the Kia Soul.

 

2.  Sedans -

 

Mazda3 (2009-2012) ; Infiniti G35 (2006-2007)

 

The Mazda3 has precise and responsive handling; refined engine; and a comfortable ride. The Skyactiv 2.0-liter engine, which arrived for 2012, provides an impressive 32 mpg overall.   For something luxurious, the Infiniti G35 is a favorite sports sedan, with its super handling, potent V6, and easy controls.

 

3.  SUVs -

 

Acura MDX (2004-2006) ; Toyota RAV4 (2006, 2008) ; Honda CR-V (2005-08)

 

The upscale Acura MDX offers a refined powertrain, a pleasant ride, and agile handling. The smaller Toyota RAV4 has both the four- and six-cylinder engines with impressive fuel economy. For an alternative to the Toyota, the Honda CR-V has a strong four-cylinder and a nice interior.

 

 

Price Range: $15,000-$20,000

 

1.  Small Cars -

 

Hyundai Elantra (2012-2013) ; Subaru Impreza (2011-2013)

 

The Hyundai Elantra combines secure handling with a comfortable ride. The Subaru Impreza sedan and hatchback both offer standard all-wheel drive, along with sporty handling and a great ride.

 

2.  Sedans -

 

Toyota Camry (2011-2012) ; Toyota Camry Hybrid (2010-2011) ;  and the Acura TL (2008)

 

Both the four- and six-cylinder Toyota Camry deliver impressive fuel economy (26 and 27 mpg, respectively) along with a comfortable ride, a roomy cabin, and superb reliability.   For better gas mileage, the Toyota Camry Hybrid gets 34 mpg overall and 41 on the highway.   An alternative to the Camry is the Acura TL, which is a favorite sporty sedan to drive.

 

3.  SUVs -

 

Lexus RX (2006-2007) ; Subaru Forester (2009-2010, non-turbo)

 

The Lexus RX is comfortable, nicely finished, and extremely reliable. The hybrid version gets good fuel economy. The Subaru Forester is utilitarian but it handles well and has an excellent ride. Access is easy, and the view out is the best among SUVs.

 

 

Price Range: $20,000-$25,000

 

1.  Sedans -

 

Toyota Avalon (2011) ; Lexus LS (2006) ; Lincoln MKZ (2011-2012) ; and

Ford Fusion Hybrid (2012)

 

The Toyota Avalon is a favorite car for a long trip; it has a quiet interior with limo-like rear leg room. The Lexus LS is posh, with a superb ride and top-notch reliability. For driving excitement, the Lincoln MKZ handles responsively, rides well, and has generous power. It’s based on the Ford Fusion, which in hybrid form returns an impressive 34 mpg overall.

 

2.  SUVs -

 

Toyota Highlander Hybrid (2008-2009) ; Honda Pilot (2009-2010)

 

For a mid-sized SUV with the best fuel economy possible, look no further than the Toyota Highlander Hybrid.   At 24 mpg overall, it matches the fuel economy of many smaller SUVs and mid-sized sedans.   It has a great interior and a smooth ride.   The Honda Pilot delivers sharp handling, and its comfortable third-row brings the seating to eight.