Aug 13, 2021
A white 2019 Chevy Cruze is shown parked on a beach at sunset.

The growing demand for used cars is proof that more buyers are discovering the benefits of buying a pre-owned model. In addition to the immediate relief your wallet will feel from the thousands of dollars you’ll save on the sticker price, you’ll also find that your money goes further on the used lot, and you can afford a better-equipped vehicle than what your budget would allow when shopping for the latest or newest model. Lower insurance rates and slower depreciation are icing on the cake. To enjoy all these benefits and more, what models should you look for at your Parkway Chevrolet, your used car dealer?

1 Chevy Cruze

Introduced amid the global financial crisis in 2009, the Cruze was a notable addition to the automotive industry at a time when consumers prioritized affordability and efficiency. These characteristics, along with its innovative technology, made the Cruze a popular model in its early years. Even with its discontinuation in 2019, it’s still a great used car to purchase today. As with any used vehicle, older models are priced lower, but they lack many modern touches like the 7-inch touchscreen display and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration that comes standard on every 2019 model. Newer models also boast updated exterior styling and the choice between a diesel engine or the standard four-cylinder turbo.

2 Hyundai Sonata

The longest-running nameplate in the Hyundai lineup, the Sonata was first introduced in 1986 and continues to lead the pack as one of the most capable and luxurious mid-size sedans in its class. Hyundai’s continuous improvements to the Sonata make the sedan a great option to buy off the used lot, and an incredible value since the Sonata is packed with features and intuitive technology year after year. If your focus is on the latest tech, you can certainly shop for a used model from 2019, but you’ll find just as many features on an older model, like one that rolled off the assembly line in 2017. Some of these features include hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, a standard rearview camera, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability, multiple powertrains, and enhanced tools like automatic emergency braking.

3 Toyota Corolla

The Corolla made its way to American roads in 1968 and has continued Toyota’s reputation for reliability and dependability, two qualities that have earned the Corolla the highest honor as the best-selling sedan in the world. The Corolla’s affordability started with its debut and has continued over the last five decades as Toyota gives drivers an affordable base model that can be customized with as many bells and whistles as their budget and needs allow. This makes the Corolla a great option to purchase used because you can find the sedan outfitted with a variety of technology and safety tools as well as standard features like a touchscreen display, LED headlights, smartphone integration, and more.

A white 2020 Toyota Corolla is shown from the rear driving down an open road.

4 Nissan Sentra

Introduced in 1982, the Nissan Sentra has been one of the Japanese automaker’s top-sellers for nearly four decades. The Sentra gets better with each new redesign as Nissan adds more technology, power, and safety features to the sedan. If you’re looking for great value, be sure to look for a Sentra built between 2015 and 2019. Nissan gave the Sentra a significant facelift in 2016 that made it more sophisticated with LED headlights and accent lighting, as well as a modern front fascia and grille. These models also boast newer connectivity tools like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in addition to advanced safety and driver-assist tools like blind spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and forward collision alert.

5 Honda Civic

You’ll notice a common theme on our list, and that’s sedans that have been around for decades. That theme continues with the Honda Civic, which debuted in 1972 and continues to be a best-seller for the automaker. The Civic embodies reliability, practicality, and affordability. It’s the sedan of choice for many, and it’s a solid purchase on the used lot because Hondas are notorious for logging hundreds of thousands of miles with ease. This means that you can easily shop for an older model, such as those built between 2016 and 2018, and get even more car for your money since these models boast a sporty design, a sophisticated interior, and plenty of intuitive technology to keep you connected, entertained, and safe while you’re on the road.

6 Toyota Camry

Did you know that the Toyota Camry has been the best-selling sedan in America for nearly two consecutive decades? First introduced in 1983, the Camry has a rich history in America that extends from its sedan-like design to coupes, convertibles, off-road rigs, and even a place in the NASCAR circuit. This versatility is just part of what makes the Camry a great purchase and is why we recommend shopping for a Camry built between 2017 and 2020. These models are based on Toyota’s larger TNGA platform and offer an all-wheel drive system that enhances the sedan’s capability. Other notable features you’ll find in the eighth-generation Camry include wireless smartphone charging, advanced safety features, a hybrid option, and the TRD off-road performance trim.

A black 2020 Chevy Malibu is shown driving through a city after leaving a used car dealer.

7 Chevy Malibu

The Chevy Malibu made its debut in 1964 and proved that a family sedan didn’t have to be boring or cumbersome to drive. Equipped with a 300-horsepower V8 engine, the first-generation Malibu was incredibly fun to drive and attracted drivers of all ages. The trend continues with each new generation of Malibu and is why you’ll want to keep an eye out for the Malibu on the used lot. Look for models from 2015 or newer as these feature several design updates that give the sedan a sportier and more aerodynamic aesthetic. For a more unique model, keep an eye out for special edition models like the Redline Edition that was introduced in 2018 and gives the Malibu a distinct exterior and interior.

8 Ford Fusion

One of the newest models you’ll find on our list, the Ford Fusion, was introduced in 2005. The Fusion was an instant hit among American drivers who wanted an alternative to popular models like the Honda Accord and the Toyota Camry. With the Fusion fitting the bill, Ford saw sales skyrocket and made continuous improvements to the sedan over the next several decades. These improvements include the addition of a hybrid to the lineup, intuitive technology like the Ford Co-Pilot 360 suite of safety and driver-assist features, and Ford’s exclusive SYNC infotainment system. If you’re looking for the latest iterations of these features, be sure to shop for a 2017 or newer model.

What Will You Choose?

Automakers like Chevrolet, Toyota, Ford, Hyundai, and Nissan make shopping for a used sedan incredibly easy. These automakers are committed to delivering intuitive and cutting-edge technology as well as reliable and efficient vehicles that can stand the test of time. Because of this, you can confidently shop for any of these sedans and have peace of mind when you get behind the wheel.

What sedan will you choose? As you start shopping for a used car, consider your priorities and what you want most in a vehicle. Do you value affordability and safety over the latest technology or vice versa? Whatever the case, you’ll find plenty of options on the lot right here at your used car dealer.