10 American Cars You Should Buy Used

If you’re on the hunt for a used American car, we’ve done the legwork and have handpicked 10 vehicles that offer a balance of reliability, performance, and value. From efficient hybrids to powerful pickups and luxury SUVs, these 10 models stand out for their quality and versatility.

Whether you’re after an efficient daily driver, a family-friendly SUV, or a high-performance sports car, the models featured represent some of the best options available. Each vehicle offers a unique combination of features, from modern technology to impressive performance capabilities, making it a stand-out choice for used car buyers.

We’ve included something for every type of driver. From new models to proven favorites, these cars not only provide excellent value, but also the reliability that American automakers are known for.

In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including Consumer Reports, Edmunds, J.D. Power, and Kelley Blue Book. This list has been ranked based on average used price from lowest to highest.

10

2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer

Average Used Price: $18,951–$23,329

The Chevy Trailblazer is a compact, budget-friendly SUV that offers a blend of modern technology, good fuel efficiency, and a spacious interior. Available with all-wheel drive, it’s well-suited to varying driving conditions, while its advanced safety features and infotainment system enhance convenience.

Trailblazer LS Performance Specifications

The Trailblazer’s affordable price point and solid reliability make it an attractive, used vehicle option. Its compact size also provides easy maneuverability, making it an excellent choice for urban living or those seeking a versatile daily driver.

Pros

• Interior room
• Fuel economy
• Mid-range torque

Cons

• Front-seat comfort
• Rear and side visibility
• Agility

9

2024 Buick Envista

Average Used Price: $21,970–$28,100

The Buick Envista is a stylish and compact crossover that combines sleek design with modern technology and a comfortable interior. It offers efficient performance with a turbocharged engine and features advanced safety systems, making it an excellent option for daily driving.

Envista Preferred Performance Specifications

With a well-appointed cabin and user-friendly infotainment, it provides a premium feel at an affordable price. Its smooth ride and compact size make it ideal for city driving and longer trips.

Pros

• Secure handling
• Hatchback versatility
• Lots of features for the price

Cons

• Noisy cabin
• Uneven power delivery
• No all-wheel drive option

8

2023 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid

Average Used Price: $23,312

The Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid offers an eco-friendly driving experience with an impressive electric-only range and excellent fuel efficiency. It combines a spacious interior with advanced technology and safety features, including a user-friendly infotainment system.

Escape Plug-In Hybrid Performance Specifications

The Escape’s plug-in hybrid variant provides the flexibility of electric driving for short trips and a gas engine for longer journeys, making it a versatile choice. With a smooth ride and ample cargo space, it’s a practical and sustainable option for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

Pros

• Very fuel-efficient
• Decent electric-only range
• Smooth transmission

Cons

• Lackluster handling
• Limited front seat adjustments
• No available all-wheel drive

7

2023 Ford Maverick

Average Used Price: $23,710–$29,054

The Ford Maverick is a compact pickup offering excellent value and a standard hybrid powertrain that delivers outstanding fuel efficiency. It combines a practical, spacious interior, a user-friendly infotainment system, and modern safety features.

Maverick Hybrid Performance Specifications

With its small size and versatile truck bed, the Maverick is perfect for those who need utility without the bulk of a full-size pickup. Its affordability, combined with the option for all-wheel drive, makes it a practical and efficient choice for daily use and light hauling.

Pros

• Hybrid fuel economy
• Competent ride and handling
• Visibility

Cons

• No hybrid/all-wheel drive combo
• Cabin quality
• Bumpy ride

6

2021 Chrysler Pacifica

Average Used Price: $23,878–$34,770

The Chrysler Pacifica is a versatile, family-friendly minivan with spacious, comfortable interior seating for up to eight passengers. It features a smooth ride, advanced safety features, and a user-friendly infotainment system.

Pacifica Performance Specifications

The hybrid variant provides excellent fuel efficiency, making it an eco-conscious choice for families. With ample cargo space and many tech options, the Pacifica is ideal for long road trips or daily family needs.

Pros

• Seating for seven or eight
• Stow ‘n’ Go seats make carrying cargo easy
• Hybrid variant gets impressive fuel economy

Cons

• Hybrid variant loses Stow ‘n Go seating/cargo flexibility
• Engine isn’t as refined as some competition
• Some cheap plastic interior bits

5

2023 Tesla Model Y

Average Used Price: $32,107–$34,688

The Tesla Model Y is an electric compact SUV with impressive range, fast acceleration, and advanced tech features, including Tesla’s Autopilot system. Its minimalist interior and spacious cabin provide ample room for passengers and cargo.​​​​​​​

Model Y Long Range AWD Performance Specifications

Its efficient electric powertrain delivers a smooth, quiet ride while over-the-air software updates keep it current. The Model Y’s fast charging capabilities and extensive Supercharger network access make it a practical and sustainable choice for those seeking to embrace electric driving.

Pros

• Handling
• Acceleration
• Seat comfort

Cons

• Controls
• No Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
• Patchy build quality

4

2024 Ford F-150

Average Used Price: $37,626–$108,040

The Ford F-150 is a rugged, versatile, full-size pickup truck with a range of powerful engine options, including a hybrid variant for improved fuel efficiency. It features a high-tech, comfortable interior with advanced safety and infotainment features, making it both practical and modern.

F-150 Raptor R Performance Specifications

With impressive towing and payload capacities, the F-150 is ideal for work or recreation. Its capability, comfort, and technology make it a top choice for those needing a dependable, all-around truck.​​​​​​​

Pros

• Cabin room
• Quietness
• Acceleration

Cons

• Ride
• Agility
• High step-in

3

2023 Ford Explorer

Average Used Price: $32,866–$39,898

The Ford Explorer is a spacious, powerful midsize SUV with a range of engine options, including a hybrid variant for improved efficiency. Its comfortable, well-equipped interior boasts advanced tech and safety features, making it an excellent choice for families.​​​​​​​

Performance Specifications

With an impressive towing capacity and ample cargo space, the Explorer is perfect for road trips and outdoor adventures. Its smooth ride and versatile design make it an appealing option for those seeking a practical, all-around SUV.

Pros

• Great engines
• Excellent towing abilities
• Spacious interior

Cons

• Ride
• Low-speed transmission shifts
• Third-row seat uncomfortable for adults

2

2024 Cadillac XT6

Average Used Price: $47,354–$57,951

The Cadillac XT6 is a luxurious three-row SUV that offers a refined interior with high-quality materials and advanced technology features. It provides a smooth and comfortable ride, with a choice of powerful engine options for optimal performance.

XT6 Premium Luxury FWD Performance Specifications

With spacious seating for up to seven passengers and ample cargo room, the XT6 is perfect for families or those needing extra versatility. Its premium design and sophisticated safety features make it a standout in the midsize luxury SUV segment.

Pros

• Roomy three-row interior
• Easy-to-use infotainment system
• Available Super Cruise hands-free driving system

Cons

• Lacks some luxury features
• Limited seat adjustments
• V6 doesn’t have the best fuel economy

1

2021 Chevrolet Corvette

Average Used Price: $64,575–$65,502

The only high-performance sports car on this list, the Chevrolet Corvette boasts a mid-engine design for improved handling and balance. With a powerful V8 engine and exceptional acceleration, it offers thrilling performance on the road and the track.​​​​​​​

Corvette Performance Specifications

Its interior combines driver-focused technology with a luxurious feel, while advanced safety features provide peace of mind. The Corvette’s striking design and world-class performance make it a standout in the sports car market.​​​​​​​

Pros

• First-ever mid-engine Corvette
• Coupe and convertible body styles
• Exotic design

Cons

• No manual transmission
• Driver-focused cabin can isolate passenger
• Rear and side visibility