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Best Midsize Cars Around $17,000

According to consumer guides, you can expect to pay between $23,000 to $35,000 for a new midsize car. For some, that might be too steep. If you’re looking to score a better deal on some of the latest features, we’ve gathered a few of the best used midsize sedans you can get for around $17,000. 2016 Toyota Camry  …

According to consumer guides, you can expect to pay between $23,000 to $35,000 for a new midsize car. For some, that might be too steep. If you’re looking to score a better deal on some of the latest features, we’ve gathered a few of the best used midsize sedans you can get for around $17,000.

2016 Toyota Camry 

A can dealership lot with Toyota Camrys for sale
A Toyota dealership | Yichuan Cao/NurPhoto via Getty Images

The Toyota Camry is the quintessential midsize sedan. As Consumer Reports highlights, about 400,000 Camrys hit the road each year. While some may find the Camry’s popularity to be a turnoff, it’s justifiable.

Critics recognized the 2016 Camry for its quiet, smooth ride quality as well as for its spacious cabin. This Camry comes standard with a 178-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. If you’re willing to pay more for additional power, there is a V6 engine that makes 268-hp available. Both engine options are linked to a six-speed automatic transmission. 

2016 Honda Accord 

A Honda Accord displayed at the Convention Exhibition during the Motor Show in Tangerang
The Honda Accord | Agung Fatma Putra/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

Honda’s Accord is another leader in the midsize car realm. Like the Camry, the Accord boasts an exceptionally roomy interior and impressive history of reliability. On the flip side, the Accord actually gets credit for being one of the class’s sportier options.

The 2016 Accord’s standard engine is a 185-hp, 2.4 four-cylinder linked to a continuously variable automatic. This Honda moves quickly, and it’s also a standout regarding fuel economy. You’ll also like the Accord for its handsome cabin that offers user-friendly tech. 

2016 Mazda6 

MAZDA6 SEDAN on display at Brussels Expo
The Mazda6 | Sjoerd van der Wal/Getty Images

You could say that the Accord’s sportiest rival is the Mazda6. So, if you’re longing for a car that’s remarkably satisfying to drive, the 2016 Mazda6 could be the perfect fit. The Mazda6 offers a single engine option, and that’s a 184-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. 

The Mazda6’s is available with either a six-speed automatic or a six-speed manual, much to car enthusiasts’ glee. It’s also among one of the more fuel-efficient options. The Mazda6 doesn’t have as roomy of a cabin as the Camry or Accord, but it’s accommodating nonetheless. 

2017 Nissan Altima 

Nissan shows off their Altima at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) at the Cobo Center
The Nissan Altima | Scott Olson/Getty Images

The 2017 Nissan Altima isn’t what we would call a beloved car. But on the bright side, it’s proved to be reliable. Furthermore, the Altima has earned excellent safety scores, and it’s among the most affordable models in the midsize car class.

Standard 2017 Altimas will have 179-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder. Since the Altima is one of the cheaper options, you may even want to treat yourself to more power by opting for the available 270-hp, six-cylinder. However, the main critiques of the Altima are that handling is dull, and it’s boring to drive. On the plus side, fuel economy is a bright spot for this Nissan. 

2016 Kia Optima 

The new Kia Optima is displayed at the New York International Auto Show at the Javits Center
The Kia Optima | Kevin Hagen/Getty Images

The 2016 Kia Optima is another model with exceptional safety scores. In addition to its practicality, the Optima offers style inside and out. Kia completely redesigned the Optima for 2016, which brought noticeable changes, including easy-to-use tech. Base models will have a 185-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder, and a six-speed automatic. But as Consumer Reports highlights, the Optima is as comfortable a ride as the Camry. 

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