The 4 Best Used Cars for Families Under $15,000, According to Kelley Blue Book
Budgeting is a key part of life for many families, and that includes saving money on the vehicles they drive. Buying a used car can help families save money, but some people may hesitate to purchase used cars. They may believe that used cars aren’t reliable. Others may think that buying an affordable used car means being stuck with a clunker that will cost more in repairs than the vehicle is worth.
While there are plenty of cars out there that make owners regret ever purchasing them, not all used cars are bad. Kelley Blue Book recently created a list of used cars that are reliable and can be purchased for under $15,000 that are perfect for families.
2014 Subaru Outback
For families who like to hit the back roads or maybe even do some off-road camping, the Subaru Outback is perfect. It’s roomy, easy to get in and out of, and has plenty of cargo room. It also performs well in bad weather. Families who live in areas where the weather is unpredictable can drive more confidently knowing they’ll get to their destination safely.
According to Kelley Blue Book, “If Subarus are known for anything, it’s their well-deserved reputation for dealing with just about any weather condition Mother Nature can toss their way. Other vehicles might offer most of what the Outback delivers, and may be more engaging to drive or present more stylish faces, but the Subaru’s all-around proficiency on good days and bad gives it a unique spot among its competition.”
2013 Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is a great pick for families because it has a good fuel economy. While there are other vehicles that get more than 23 City/ 31 Highway, those can often be more pricey and there isn’t enough room for multiple passengers.
According to Motor Trend the CR-V has a “Smooth ride, generous interior space, and car-like handling.” For families who are always on the move, it’s a good dependable car. Just be aware it only sits five passengers, so it might not be big enough for everyone.
2011 Toyota Highlander
Some families need a vehicle with third-row seating. Between wrestling teenagers and toddlers in car seats, a five-passenger vehicle may not be big enough. In 2011, Toyota made third-row seating standard in all Highlanders, so it’s perfect for growing families.
U.S. News reports, “The 2011 Highlander is a very good used midsize SUV, especially with its available V6 engine. While the base four-cylinder engine is underpowered, it boasts great fuel economy for the class. The Highlander offers a smooth ride, but its handling isn’t very lively. This SUV’s maximum cargo capacity is good, but there’s not much room for cargo when all of the seats are in use.”
2014 Chevy Traverse
Chevy made some great changes on the Traverse that make it better than ever for families. According to Motor Trend, “On the 2014 Chevrolet Traverse, the 1LZ and 2LT trim packages now get forward collision alert and lane departure warning as standard equipment, while the entire lineup gets dual charge-only USB ports for the second row.”
For parents with kids who have cell phones and tablets that need to be charged, the extra USB ports will keep electronics charged. This would be great on long road trips with kids who like to be entertained.
The forward collision alert and lane departure warning are also great for parents whose kids can be a little distracting. With room for eight passengers and a smart slide system that allows for easy access to the third row, this is a dream SUV for many families.