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The best new cars continue to get more expensive. Because of this, many buyers are searching for the best cars to buy used. There are many options on the market, but not all offer the long-term reliability that most buyers seek. In particular, drivers looking for more recent options should consider the used Corolla, Civic, and Hyundai Sonata models from 2021. 

The 2021 Corolla is among the best cars to buy used

The Toyota Corolla is one of the best new cars and one of the best to buy used. This has been the case throughout its history, but the 2021 model is an excellent entry for those looking for something recent. This is because it will be cheaper than a new model and have some of the same features as the latest version. 

According to Edmunds, the 2021 Toyota Corolla has two powertrain options. The first is a 1.8-liter engine with a maximum output of 139 horsepower and a torque of 126 lb-ft. Its other engine is a 2.0-liter that makes 169 horsepower and a torque of 151 lb-ft. This is also one of the best cars to buy used because it has different options for the transmission. One is a CVT, and the other is a six-speed manual. 

The Civic is another of the best cars to buy used

The used Civic from 2021 is another of the best cars to buy. This compact sedan has been a popular option for a long time, and the trend continues as the 2024 model is also one of the best new cars. People like the Civic because despite being small, it’s spacious and the used model from 2021 has many modern features. 

This used Civic is also one of the best cars to buy because it has high ratings across the board. In particular, it excels in reliability and driver experience. Like the used Corolla, the 2021 Civic has two engine options. The base is a 158-HP 2.0-liter that has a torque of 138 lb-ft. The other is a turbocharged 1.5-liter that makes 174 horsepower. 

The used Hyundai Sonata

Hyundai gets mocked sometimes because it hasn’t always made the best new cars. However, the Hyundai Sonata from 2021 is among the best cars to buy used. Like the other vehicles on this list, it has high ratings, especially in the areas of resale value and reliability. However, it’s also no slouch when it comes to performance. 

This used Hyundai Sonata comes standard with a 2.5-liter engine that has a maximum output of 191 horsepower. However, there are more powerful versions, and some include a turbocharger. The most potent version of this used Hyundai Sonata is the N-Line, which makes 290 horsepower.