Consumer Reports: Best & Worst Used Cars
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Value-minded consumers know that buying a reliable used car is often the best choice but that finding one takes research. Here we identify the proven Best of the Best in nine categories. They're vehicles with multiple years of above-average reliability, covering 1999 through 2008, that scored well in our tests when new.
Toyota and Honda vehicles dominated the majority of the nine categories, demonstrating consistent reliability and performance. But some recent domestic models are also worthy choices, including the Buick Lucerne (V8), Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan.
Reliability data are derived from our Annual Auto Survey, which generated responses about more than 1.4 million new and used vehicles. The best of the best and worst of the worst are based on our larger lists of reliable used cars and used cars to avoid (both available to subscribers). These comprehensive lists give you a rundown of all the models that were found, from our data, to be above or below average in reliability. Owners reported on any serious problems they had had with their cars, minivans, SUVs, and pickup trucks in the previous year. For advice on shopping for a used car, see our used car buying guide.
To minimize the risks, look for vehicles that have proved to be reliable. The following lists of models from 1999 through 2008 will steer you to the gems (and away from the duds) among the thousands of used vehicles on the market.
Best of the Best
Small cars: Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is reliable, economical, and fun to drive. It grew with the 2001 redesign, and 2003 saw the introduction of the Hybrid model. The 2006 redesign included standard antilock brakes (ABS), curtain air bags, and a better ride. An alternative with more cargo room is the Scion xB, which also has standard electronic stability control.
Other good choices:
* Toyota Echo
* Scion xB
* Toyota Corolla
* Toyota Matrix
* Pontiac Vibe
* Mazda3
* Mazda Protege
* Subaru Impreza
Family cars: Honda Accord
The Accord has been a very reliable used-car choice. The 2003 redesign made it quieter and more agile, and it received standard ABS. Standard ESC arrived on V6 models in 2006 and on all models with the 2008 redesign. The Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan have very good reliability, tested well, and are very affordable.
Other good choices:
* Toyota Prius
* Ford Fusion
* Mercury Milan
* Toyota Camry (except '08 V6)
* Subaru Outback (6-cyl.)
* Nissan Altima
Upscale cars: Lexus ES
The ES has been very reliable through its many generations. This quiet and comfortable sedan was redesigned in 1997 and 2002 but got a stronger, more fuel-efficient engine in 2004. ESC became standard in 2007. The Acura TL and TSX are sportier alternatives.
Other good choices:
* Lexus IS
* Toyota Avalon
* Acura TSX
* Lincoln MKZ, Zephyr (FWD)
* Infiniti G20
* Acura TL
* Infiniti I30, I35
* Infiniti G35 (sedan)
* Volvo S60
* Buick Lucerne (V8)
* Nissan Maxima
Luxury cars: Infiniti M35
Since 2003 the M has been a reliable model, but the 2006 redesign made it comfortable when cruising the highway and on twisty roads. The V6 is strong, and the interior is well finished. The Lexus LS is a more luxurious choice.
Other good choices:
* Lexus LS
* Lexus GS (6-cyl., RWD)
* Acura RL
Sports and sporty cars: Mazda Miata
The slick shifter, nimble handling, and good performance make the affordable and reliable Miata fun to drive. ABS became standard with the 2006 redesign; look for the optional ABS on older models. A practical alternative is the Subaru WRX, which gives great performance along with standard AWD and four doors.
Other good choices:
* Lexus SC
* Honda S2000
* Toyota Camry Solara
* Acura RSX
* Toyota Celica
* Scion tC
* BMW Z3, Z4
* Acura Integra
* Porsche Boxster
* BMW M3
* Subaru Impreza WRX/STi
* Ford Mustang (V6)
* Nissan 350Z
