Purchasing a used car can be tricky because there are so many different components that go in to choosing a car. Is the car safe? Is it reliable? Will it be effective used versus new? 

You might also think about safety, how reliable the car is, and how it will hold its value should you resell in the future. In many cases you may not even know where to begin, but the best place to look first is at the facts. 

Looking at the Facts

After analyzing over 24 million cars, this study combined data from Longest-Lasting Cars and Cars that Hold their Value, along with crash test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), it was determined what the best used cars for 2021 are. This data is from 2011-2020, and only includes vehicles that were in both studies and had at least one overall crash test rating.  

Another aspect was scoring based on reliability and value retention, as well as the average NHTSA average safety ratings. In each category one was awarded “best car” and another “runner-up”.

Best Used Cars

SUVs

It would make sense that due to the popularity of SUVs and crossovers, that there is a lot of competition in this category. The Best Compact SUV was the Honda CR-V. Not only did it rank number 1 as the Longest-Lasting Compact SUV, but it also retained 54.2% of its value over 5 years. Coupled with a 4.8 out of 5 NHTSA Safety Rating Average, this is incredible. 

In fact, the Honda CR-V is one of the best-selling vehicles in the country. You may have noticed this based on seeing old CR-Vs all over the country. It has shown not only longevity and efficiency, but also above-average passenger and cargo room. It also boasts safety scores and low ownership costs.

The Acura RDX is the luxury equivalent of the Honda CR-V. Although it is not as much of a value as the CR-V, the RDX did retain 41.1% of its value of five years. It also has an average NHTSA Safety rating of 5 out of 5. It is reliable, safe, and has a better price tag than others in the luxury division. Similarly, the Acura MDX came in as the best luxury midsize SUV. The main difference is that the MDX only retained 38.9% of its value over 5 years, and has a better fuel economy for its class.

When it came to the best Midsize SUV, the Toyota Highlander took this category. With a 52.5% retained value in five years, and a 5 out of 5 safety rating. This car is known for being long-lasting and safe, which makes it great for families. With the accessible third row of seating, it is no wonder why it takes its place as the best midsize SUV. 

Full Size and Luxury

The Best Full-Size SUV may come as no surprise, with the Chevrolet Tahoe. This SUV is extremely popular and was ranked the Best Full-Size SUV for Value Retention. It is also known as a long-lasting and safe SUV, but it also somewhat affordable compared to other vehicles in its class. It is perfect for families and large groups with a lot of luggage. This is somewhat comparable with the Best Full-Size Luxury SUV, the Lincoln Navigator. They are quite similar, but the Lincoln Navigator has a bit more of an upscale interior.

Larger Vehicles

For families or those who enjoy road trips having a three-row vehicle is essential. For the best Best Three-Row SUV the Toyota Highlander came in with a 52.5% retained value over five years, and a 5 out of 5 safety rating. This is a safe car and offers a lot of space compared to competitors. The Acura MDX came in as the Best Luxury Three-Row SUV. This car retained its value a bit less, at a 38.9% rate. This is typical for luxury cars. 

Pickup Trucks

Pickup trucks are often driven for pleasure, but also for work capabilities. Some drivers want a capable truck that can haul a lot, while others want it to look “cool”. Despite this, pickup trucks last a long time and are known to retain value. This can allow you to sell your truck and spend money after a few years on the next one. 

Midsize vs. Full Size

To start off with the classic, Best Midsize Pickup Truck, the Toyota Tacoma came in as the best pickup truck for retaining value, and second for the longest-lasting Compact Pickup Truck. It is known for being indestructible and proving its incredible performance. With a 66% value retention in five years, you can purchase this truck used and then sell it shortly thereafter still retaining a lot of value.

For those looking for a full-Size Pickup Truck, the Toyota Tundra is scored as the longest-Lasting Full-Size Pickup Truck. This Toyota also has a high retention value of 62%. Also similar to that of Tacoma, the Tundra is known to last for years and has incredible safety ratings.

Passenger Cars

Cars such as sedans, coupes, and hatchbacks are considered “passenger cars”. These cars are typically more efficient but do not offer the cargo space of an SUV.  

Compact

For example, the Best Compact Car is the Honda Civic. It was not only ranked the longest-lasting compact car, but is known as a steadfast vehicle for families, young people, and the average consumer alike. It is known to be reliable and lasts a long time. For example, this car is often handed down to children as a reliable car because it often is able to reach 200,000 miles. It has some of the best gas mileage in its class as well.

When it comes to a luxury compact car the Lexus IS 250 as well as the 350. The Lexus 250 has a value retention rate of 45%, while the 350 has a retention rate of 44.2%. This is similar to the Toyota Corolla but is a luxury version. The runner-up of this version is the BMW 3 Series which is known to hold its value very well. It is one of the most popular smaller luxury cars and has an incredible safety score. 

Standard Midsize vs Luxury

If you are looking for something a bit larger than a standard compact car, the Best Midsize Sedan is the Honda Accord. This car is also ranked the longest-lasting midsized car and has above average value retention. With a spacious interior and great fuel economy, its only rival is the Toyota Camry. When it comes to luxury, Lexus is at it again. The best Luxury Midsize Sedan being the Lexus ES 350. It holds 42.7% of its value within five years and is incredibly reliable. 

Large Sedan

The best large sedan is the Toyota Avalon. This car is known to reach 200,000 miles easily and is incredibly reliable. With a perfect score for safety and a nice interior, it makes it worth it to spend a bit more than a compact sedan. 

When it comes to a luxury large sedan the Buick LaCrosse has no comparison. Although this car only has a 36.4% retention value over 5 years, it does mean you may be able to snag it for a good deal. It has good fuel economy for a vehicle of its size and is a nice choice for a luxury large sedan.

Sports Cars

Sports cars are known as later-in-lifetime cars, or something special. Sometimes the best way to attain this earlier in life is to buy a used sports car. Out of all used Sports Cars, the Ford Mustang comes out on top. This car is known as an American classic and is one of the longest-lasting cars out of all others. The Ford Mustang is also known as a popular daily driving car because it has smooth handling. 

The Ford Mustang could be compared to the Chevrolet Camaro which comes in second for the best used sports car. The Chevy Camaro has four different options to choose from. Whether that is the 4-cylinder, 6 cylinders, or V8. This is a fun car that could be either a daily car or a performance car. With a five-star rating and above-average reliability, this is also a wonderful and dependable car.

Electric Vehicles

Drivers that are looking for a vehicle that is good for the environment tend to go for electric vehicles. You may have guessed, but the Best Used Electric Vehicle is the Tesla Model S. It has been ranked the top Longest-Lasting EV, and holds its value of 63% for up to three years.

This car truly began the sector of EVs. Originally introduced in 2012, it now has various innovative features such as autopilot driving, and software updates. With a perfect 5-Star NHTSA safety rating, this is the best electric car on the market.

Following the Model S is the Tesla Model 3. With many of the same features of the Model S, it is available at a much more affordable price. It has the best three-year resale value of all-electric vehicles, which is why it is the runner-up for the best electric vehicle.

Hybrids

Hybrid cars are a great option for those who are eco-minded, but cannot necessarily commit to an electric vehicle. The Best Used Hybrid is the classic Toyota Prius. This car has a 49.2% five-year retention rate. This is another car that paved the way for automakers to introduce new hybrid vehicles. The Prius is well known for having long-lasting cars and holding its value, but is also incredibly safe and has a lot of space for a small vehicle. It is quite a practical option for commuters or families.

Another option is the Toyota Camry Hybrid. This is pretty much the exact same car as the original Camry but is an extremely safe version in a hybrid model. This is a long lasting car and holds its value as well. Another Toyota Highlander Hybrid is known as being the best SUV hybrid and the Longest-Lasting Midsize SUV. It holds it value incredibly well, and has perfect safety scores.

Minivans

Known as the classic family car, minivans are loved by many. Whether you need a car that is wheelchair accessible, or simply big enough to fit a ton of extra passengers and cargo, this is a great option. Coming out on top is the Honda Odyssey known as the longest lasting minivan. With a 54% five year retention value, this car is known for its reliability and wonderful handling. Automatic doors top off this car as one of the best family friendly vehicles only rivaled by the Toyota Sienna.

The Toyota Sienna is another functional car known to reach up to 200,000 easily. This is perfect for long trips or hauling your children. 

Affordability

Finding a used car under $5,000 and $10,000 might seem impossible, but it is not. For example, the Mazda MAZDA3 is available under $5,000 because 10-year-old or older versions have an average price of $4,970. It is fun to drive and is extremely safe.

If you are looking to spend under $10,000 the Toyota Yaris is seen as the best choice with five-year-old versions costing an average of $9,431. Extremely reliable and with wonderful fuel economy, the Yaris is a great option.

Choosing a Used Car

When looking to purchase a used car it can be difficult, but it is certainly possible. At Cashforcars.com you can sell your used car for cash, and use that cash to get something new. When looking for a used car be sure to look for reliability, value, and above all else, safety. Contact us today to learn more, or to find out how much you can get for your car.