5 Best Used Midsize Cars Under $15K In 2023 Prioritize Reliability
Since used cars are generally more expensive nowadays, drivers want to hold onto their vehicles for longer periods of time. Good reliability ratings are a must if you want to maintain an older car without spending a hefty annual fee on repairs. Based on the findings of one study, these used sedans are some of the most dependable (and economical) choices.
2014 Toyota Camry
This Toyota Camry has a near-perfect dependability score and usually only costs an average of $14,442. Studies show that it’s 20% more likely to last over 250,000 miles compared to the average midsize sedan. This Camry also received a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS, getting Great scores in almost every crashworthiness test.
Some 2014 Camry models feature blind-spot monitors with rear-cross traffic alert to give drivers more peace of mind. Higher trims also feature a 268-hp V6, but the standard 178-hp four-cylinder still shuttles drivers around with adequate speed. The base engine promises the highest fuel economy rating of 28 mpg combined city/highway.
2015 Mazda Mazda6
The 2015 Mazda6 is a Top Safety Pick+ recipient, earning high scores in crash tests and examinations of its advanced driver assistance systems. Grand Touring models could be optioned with lane-departure warning and forward-collision avoidance, both of which were coveted features at the time. Almost every 2015 Mazda6 also has a rearview camera and some form of cruise control.
Each trim sources its power from a 184-hp four-cylinder with fuel economy ratings up to 32 mpg combined. However, because the Mazda6 is sportier than the Camry, its ride quality might be on the stiffer side. Passengers still have a lot of room to move around and the 60/40 split-folding rear seat makes the truck area more versatile. The average 2015 Mazda6 currently costs $14,573.
2015 Subaru Legacy
The 2015 Subaru Legacy will probably be $100 more expensive than that model year’s Mazda6 On average, a Legacy is 16% more likely to stay in working condition for over 250,000 miles. It received perfect ratings in every IIHS examination, including the one for the optional EyeSight safety suite. Unlike most of its rivals at the time, all-wheel drive was standard for each trim level.
Used 2015 models will have either a 175-hp boxer four-cylinder engine or a 256-hp turbo-four. Every model has a center touchscreen with an iPod interface and standard Bluetooth. The 2015 Subaru Legacy Limited has leather seats with standard heating for each one.
2016 Kia Optima
While this Kia Optima isn’t as reliable as some of its rivals, it does maintain a better value retention score compared to the 2016 Ford Fusion. This model was the first entry of the Optima’s fourth generation and received a new turbo-four to commemorate the redesign.
It makes 178-hp and gets 32 mpg combined, making it the most efficient engine of the three. Kia also made the Optima comfier this year with more thigh padding in the seats, which have thicker frames. You can probably find a 2016 Kia Optima for as low as $14,669.
2016 Ford Fusion
According to iSeeCars, this Ford Fusion’s asking price is closer to $14,000. It has a lineup of three peppy engines, two of which are available with optional turbo power. You can find some 2016 Fusions for sale with AWD and a touchscreen infotainment system. Some of the most well-equipped models even have an automatic parallel parking function.
The 2016 Fusion also had plenty of other available safety features, including forward-collision warning. However, the IIHS wasn’t very impressed with that system or either of the Fusion’s headlight options. This car can still hold its own in an accident, so it remains a good option for anyone interested in a reliable midsize car.