We’ve put together a thorough list of the top 25 used cars under $30k to buy in 2024 for those for whom it might be difficult to find their way around the used car market in a constantly shifting world of automotive options. This list is for cost-conscious shoppers looking for dependability without going over budget. So relax and find the ideal balance between cost and quality.

Importance Of Finding A Reliable And Affordable Used Car

For financial responsibility and peace of mind, finding a reliable and reasonably priced used car is essential. It minimizes the possibility of unplanned maintenance while guaranteeing an affordable transportation solution. A reliable second-hand car also adds to overall financial stability by offering a trustworthy means of transportation in addition to economic value.

Basis Of Selection For Used Cars Under $30k

A used car must be carefully selected, taking into account aspects like resale value, mileage, and maintenance history. Vehicles that strike a balance between affordability and long-term worth are given priority by budget-conscious buyers. They examine overall dependability, possible repair costs, and fuel efficiency closely. Among the standards is determining how well an automobile fits within short-term budgetary limitations as well as the long-term cost-effectiveness of a prudent investment.

List Of The 25 Best Used Cars Under 30k To Buy In 2024

2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz
Hyundai Elantra
2023 Toyota GR86
2024 Hyundai Sonata
2024 Nissan Sentra
2024 Nissan Versa
2024 Buick Encore GX
2023 Toyota RAV4
2024 Toyota Camry
2024 Toyota Corolla
Subaru BRZ
Chevrolet Bolt EV
2023 Volkswagen Taos
Subaru Legacy
2024 Honda Civic
Kia Forte
2024 Mazda Mazda 3
2024 Kia K5
2024 Honda HR-V
2024 Ford Maverick
2024 Toyota Prius
Subaru Impreza
Subaru Outback
Chevrolet Colorado
Nissan Rogue

25 Best Used Cars Under 30k To Buy In 2024

1. 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz

With its car-like ride, outstanding fuel efficiency, and welcoming, comfy interior that is stocked with contemporary technology, the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz is one of the best used cars under $30k to buy for people who lead active, modern lives.

A Santa Cruz SE or SEL model with a front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive system, an eight-speed automatic gearbox, and a 191-horsepower four-cylinder engine can be purchased with that budget. The 2023 and 2024 models differ from one another slightly. The most significant is the introduction of the XRT trim, which takes the place of the SEL Premium trim. The cost of this trim is just over $30,000.

Also, the top rankings for compact pickup trucks go to Santa Cruz. Apart from its adaptable cargo capacity, it comes with an extensive array of standard modern safety and driver-aid systems. Models priced under $30,000 feature an 8-inch touch-screen infotainment system that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

Average Market Price: $26,650

2. Hyundai Elantra

A leader in compact sedans, the 2024 Hyundai Elantra boasts a long list of safety features, a big and comfortable interior, and a strong guarantee. Additionally, it comes in a variety of trim levels, ranging from high-performance to hybrid, so there’s a version to fit the needs of most drivers. The Hyundai Elantra has six trim options and seats five people. With a 2.0L I4 engine that comes with front-wheel drive, the most popular model is the SEL IVT.

It is predicted that this Elantra will get 31 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the interstate because of its features and affordability. The Hyundai Elantra was already a star in the small sedan market. This makes it one of the best used cars under $30k to buy.

Additionally, the 2024 Elantra receives improvements in appearance, safety, and entertainment this year, which increases its desirability. The Elantra, which sits beneath the larger Sonata sedan in the Hyundai lineup, is the entry-level gas-powered sedan after Hyundai discontinued the little Accent in 2022.

Average Market Price: $22,631

3. 2023 Toyota GR86

The Toyota GR86 is a reasonably priced, fun-to-drive sports coupe that is small, nimble, and speedy. Its value equation is greater than ever thanks to a comprehensive overhaul that included more power, a finer cabin, and even sharper handling last year. The rear-wheel drive of the GR86 is available with either an automatic or manual gearbox.

Its powerful four-cylinder engine can propel it from 0 to 60 miles per hour in around 5.5 seconds. With that kind of power combined with deft handling and accurate steering, it’s easy to understand why the GR86 is a true driver’s vehicle.

The design and material quality were enhanced by last year’s interior upgrades. With dials for the climate controls and an accessible touchscreen, it’s functional and useful. The rear seats are the GR86’s weak point if there is one. They should be regarded as additional storage because they are hardly useful for travelers. The GR86 isn’t much of a road trip vehicle because of its small trunk.

Average Market Price: $30,354

4. 2024 Hyundai Sonata

The 2024 Hyundai Sonata has a completely new appearance, much like a clockwork machine (the most recent update was in 2020). This time, the focus is on a four-door coupe design with a distinctive tapering top, a slightly raised rear bumper, and a variety of geometric sheet metal folds and creases.

That being said, it is found appealing. Its slim, smooth front headlights and light strip are perfectly in line with contemporary electric vehicles, but overall, it’s a bit overdone and unlikely to develop into a timeless classic. The center console and dash have been redesigned to look cleaner and offer more room and storage.

The widescreen gauges and infotainment display that cover the dash are the main talking points of the interior. With a striking appearance that borrows from a BMW design, the Sonata outperforms its competitors in terms of technology.

Average Market Price: $29,280

5. 2024 Nissan Sentra

Since the 1980s, the Sentra has been a mainstay of the Nissan portfolio. The five-seat econobox, which sits between the midsize Altima and the tiny Versa, has traditionally been of great value. However, a revamp in 2020 added a much-needed dash of style. The eighth-generation Sentra has a sleek sheet metal body and is getting a minor makeover for 2024, which features sharper headlights and a grille.

The Sentra shines brightest inside the cabin. Its stylish and intuitive design puts it on par with more expensive versions, like the Mazda 3. Along with a host of driving assistance features, it also has an unexpectedly extensive list of standard features, like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.

Additionally, the Sentra has options for features like quilted leather upholstery and a high-end Bose sound system that are usually only found on luxury vehicles.

Average Market Price: $21,578

6. 2024 Nissan Versa

Despite its low price, the 2024 Nissan Versa feels luxurious thanks to its cozy interior and an extensive list of standard equipment. It’s unquestionably the best choice in its class, despite a few drawbacks, including a tight rear seat and sluggish acceleration. There are three trim options available for the five-seater Nissan Versa.

The most popular model is the SV CVT, which has a front-wheel drive system and a 1.6L I4 engine. It starts at $20,695. It is predicted that this Versa will get 32 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the interstate.

The 2024 Nissa Versa also boasts class-leading sophisticated safety technologies, such as standard automated emergency braking and lane departure warning, as well as optional blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. Its large trunk (14.7 cubic feet) is another advantage.

Average Market Price: $17,352

7. 2024 Buick Encore GX

Among the best used cars to buy under 30k is the 2024 Buick Encore GX which is new to Buick’s all-SUV portfolio. It’s a subcompact SUV with outstanding passenger capacity for its class, a good expected reliability score, and a surprising load room.

The Encore GX is available from Buick with two energetic but not very powerful three-cylinder engines; nevertheless, the optional engine raises the vehicle’s price slightly above $30,000. Both offer above-average fuel efficiency.

An 8-inch digital instrument panel, an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot, an 11-inch touch-screen infotainment system, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard equipment on all Encore GX versions. Climate control that operates automatically is also standard. Unusually for the class, the Encore GX has a following distance indicator in addition to Buick’s Teen Driver technology.

Average Market Price: $25,600

8. 2023 Toyota RAV4

The RAV4 achieves exceptional fuel efficiency ratings for a non-hybrid SUV, with up to 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. Its four-cylinder, 203-horsepower engine offers enough thrust, but acceleration makes it somewhat noisy. All-wheel drive is an option; however, front-wheel drive is the default.

All RAV4s come equipped with Toyota Safety Sense. The driver assistance and safety technology package includes automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beam headlights, and lane-centering assist. The 2023 Toyota RAV4 was one of the best-selling cars in the United States in 2023, and it ranked in the top half of many lists of small SUVs.

Average Market Price: $27,275

9. 2024 Toyota Camry

For many years, this well-rounded and sensible midsize sedan has been a best-seller in its class. The 2024 Toyota Camry boasts a comfortable ride, two strong engine options, a well-built cabin, and a tonne of standard amenities.

Buyers who have a budget of $30,000 can choose between the SE trim, which adds sharper style and a synthetic leather interior, and the standard LE trim. A 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower, front-wheel drive, and an eight-speed automatic transmission are features shared by both variants.

The Toyota Safety Sense suite of cutting-edge safety and driver-assistance technology is standard on all Camry models. Lane-centering assistance, adaptive cruise control, and automated emergency braking with pedestrian recognition are all included in the package.

Average Market Price: $26,420

10. 2024 Toyota Corolla

With good reason, the 2024 Toyota Corolla is a favorite. Modern models outperform their price thanks to the newest technology and safety features, and hybrid models are incredibly fuel-efficient. The Corolla makes up for its lack of excitement with value. The Toyota Corolla has five seats and eight different trim levels.

The most popular model is the LE CVT, which has a 2.0L I4 engine and front-wheel drive and starts at $23,145. The estimated city and highway mileage for this Corolla is 32 and 41 mpg, respectively.

However, driving the Corolla isn’t really enjoyable. It’s not fast, it’s not really energetic, and it won’t make your pulse rate spike. In terms of trunk space, the Corolla lags behind competitors like the Civic and Hyundai Elantra. However, this is less of a problem with the Corolla hatchback option.

Average Market Price: $22,633

11. Subaru BRZ

Nothing compares to the Subaru BRZ for performance at an inexpensive price. The BRZ is an engaging, yet comfortable enough to drive every day, back-to-basics coupe that is light, fast, and easy to control. There are two trim levels for the four-seater Subaru BRZ. With a 2.4L H4 engine and rear-wheel drive, the most popular model is the Premium Manual, which starts at $29,615 and has all-wheel drive.

This BRZ is expected to earn 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The Toyota GR86, the twin of the BRZ, and a few more conventional muscle coupes, including the Chevrolet Camaro and Ford Mustang—the latter of which has more power but less agility than the BRZ—are competitors.

Average Market Price: $29,917

12. Chevrolet Bolt EV

Although the Chevrolet Bolt EV has always been a compelling car, new modifications and a reduced price for 2023 make it even more alluring. It is one of the smallest cars available in the United States. It measures 163 inches in length. That is less than the Nissan Leaf by one foot. On the contrary, the Bolt EV boasts a spacious interior.

When the rear seats are folded down, the cargo area behind them increases to 57 cubic feet from 17 cubic feet.

The Bolt’s 6.7-second 0-60 mph time reflects how much pleasure it is to drive, thanks to its low length, tight turning circle, and electric acceleration. Road trips are also made possible by a driving range of more than 250 miles on a single charge.

Average Market Price: $27,401

13. 2023 Volkswagen Taos

The smallest SUV from the brand is the 2023 Volkswagen Taos. It has five comfortable seats and lots of cargo space. For the 2023 model year, it will have more advanced safety and driver-assistance technology as standard.

Taos starts at $24,155 for a front-wheel-drive Taos S with a four-cylinder turbocharged engine that produces 158 horsepower. A base model with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, or a midrange Taos SE with front-wheel drive, may be purchased for about $30,000.

Whichever model you select, an 8- or 6.5-inch touch-screen infotainment system with support for Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot will be included. In evaluations, it is somewhat ranked below the top subcompact SUVs.

Average Market Price: $24.155

14. Subaru Legacy

This is one of the best used cars under $30k to buy. A sophisticated entertainment system with a huge touchscreen available on higher trim levels, an appealing cabin, and remarkable standard safety features characterize the comfortable midsize Subaru Legacy. It is an excellent option for those on a tight budget who desire the extra assurance of all-wheel drive because it is also less expensive than many of its competitors.

There are five trim options available for the five-seater Subaru Legacy. With an all-wheel-drive system and a 2.5L H4 engine starting at $28,315, the most popular model is the Premium. It is predicted that this Legacy will provide 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the interstate.

Average Market Price: $25,048

15. 2024 Honda Civic

As it continues to lead the compact car market, the 2024 Honda Civic offers outstanding value and a more pleasurable driving experience than just basic, low-cost transportation. There are eight trim variants available for the five-seater Honda Civic. The Sport Sedan CVT, which has a 2.0L I4 engine and front-wheel drive and starts at $26,645 is the most popular model. It is estimated that this Civic will get 37 mpg on the highway and 30 mpg in the city.

The ultimate Civic is the powerful Type R, which has developed a devoted fan base among drivers who consider it to be the pinnacle of the hot hatchback class. Its track-tuned suspension and 315 horsepower provide performance levels that are unrivaled by competitors, such as the Volkswagen Jetta and Hyundai Elantra performance variants.

Average Market Price: $25,149

16. Kia Forte

The 2024 Forte’s strong point is value. For a reasonable price, the little Kia has a fantastic guarantee and a tonne of standard equipment. Its athletic appearance belies its lackluster performance, though. The Kia Forte also features five seats with four different trim options. The LXS IVT, which has a 2.0L I4 engine and front-wheel drive and starts at $21,645, is the most popular model. It is predicted that this Forte will achieve 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the interstate.

However, it lacks the zip of the Mazda 3 and the smoothness of the Honda Civic’s ride due to having one of the weaker base engines in its class. Thankfully, one of these problems is resolved by the 201-horsepower turbo engine found in the top-tier GT version of the Forte. However, the cost is significantly higher.

Average Market Price: $20,491

17. 2024 Mazda Mazda 3

You can have something a little bit more motivating than ordinary even if you’re on a tight budget. The 2024 Mazda3’s elegant exterior, plush interior, and exuberant performance set it apart from other little cars. Its features and driving qualities make it one of the better options even though it isn’t quite as practical or as inexpensive as its competitors. There are seven trim levels available for the Mazda3, a car with five seats. The Preferred Hatchback Automatic FWD, which has a 2.5L I4 engine and Front Wheel Drive and starts at $28,555, is the most popular model. It is predicted that this Mazda 3 will get 27 city and 35 highway miles per gallon.

For drivers looking for inexpensive pleasure, it’s a wonderful option because of its dynamic handling and optional turbocharged engine. It has its drawbacks, though, but given its general goodness, the Mazda’s price and fuel efficiency are deemed reasonable trade-offs.

Average Market Price: $25,342

18. 2024 Kia K5

Without compromising its essential features, the 2024 Kia K5 steals the show with its class because of its sleek design and optional all-wheel drive. It would probably be unbeatable if Kia launched a hybrid version. There are four trim options available for the five-seater Kia K5. The GT-Line FWD, which has a 1.6L I4 Turbo engine and Front Wheel Drive and starts at $28,245, is the most popular model. In the city, this K5 is predicted to get 27 mpg, and on the highway, 37 mpg.

Apart from its enticing price and sporty design, the 2024 K5 stands out in this class due to its unique feature of all-wheel drive. When you combine its roomy seating and roomy trunk, you have a winning combination. The main drawback is that there isn’t a hybrid powertrain to compete with the Toyota Camry, Hyundai Sonata, and Accord, which are all more fuel-efficient.

Average Market Price: $26,425

19. 2024 Honda HR-V

A well-rated subcompact SUV, the 2024 Honda HR-V boasts an elegant interior, two rows of comfortable seats, and a respectable amount of cargo space. The price of all HR-V models is less than $30,000. Throughout the lineup, the same 158-horsepower four-cylinder engine and continuously variable automatic gearbox (CVT) are used.

A comprehensive range of safety technologies, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, forward collision warning, front automatic emergency braking, and automatic high-beam headlamps are standard on the base LX which makes it earn a spot among the best used car under $30k to buy. The automobile also feels current thanks to its two 7-inch digital displays.

Average Market Price: $24,100

20. 2024 Ford Maverick

If you’re looking for a reasonably priced, adaptable, and simple-to-drive small pickup with excellent fuel economy and some creative load management options, the 2024 Ford Maverick is a fantastic option. Ford updated its engine selection for 2024. The 250-horsepower turbo-four engine that was formerly an optional feature is now standard. The 2023 model’s basic 191-horsepower hybrid powertrain is now a $1,500 option.

The 8-inch touch-screen infotainment system and the standard engine are included in the base trim. More tie-down studs, an in-bed power supply and lighting system, and increased comfort options are added to the mid-level XLT.

The Maverick is a midpack among tiny pickup trucks, and it has a 4-foot-6-inch bed with several cargo tie-down points and a crew cab with five seats. Apple Car Play and Android Auto are included by default.

Average Market Price: $23,400

21. 2024 Toyota Prius

The 2024 Toyota Prius has a lot to offer for a car worth sub $30,000. Though it still looks like a cool Star Wars prop rather than a moving piece of stray Tupperware, the redesigned Toyota Prius is still the best vehicle for getting the most mileage out of your fuel economy. However, it lacks additional cargo and rear seat room. The Toyota Prius is a five-seater car with three different trim levels. The LE FWD is the most popular model with a starting price of $29,045 and a hybrid 2.0L I4 engine with front-wheel drive. In the city, this Prius is expected to get 57 mpg, and on the highway, 56 mpg.

Average Market Price: $29,410

22. Subaru Impreza

With its all-wheel drive system, cutting-edge driver assistance technologies, roomy cargo area, and excellent safety ratings, the Subaru Impreza is a sensible and useful option. However, other competitors have higher performance and fuel economy. There are three trim levels available for the five-seater Subaru Impreza. The most popular model is the Sport, which has an all-wheel-drive system and a 2.0L H4 engine starting at $26,115. This Impreza is expected to achieve 34 mpg on the road and 27 mpg in downtown.

This model also features an eyeSight driver safety system with a wider-view camera and a new function that can automatically steer away from a collision at speeds less than 50 mph.

Average Market Price: $23,572

23. Subaru Outback

For a budget-friendly car, the 2024 Subaru Outback has a lot of super cool features. All-wheel drive, a lengthy list of safety features, and enough room for passengers and goods are standard on hatchbacks.

Subaru’s extensive EyeSight suite of cutting-edge safety and driver-assistance systems is also standard on all Outbacks. Lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a rear-seat reminder, and automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection are among the features on the list. The almost same 2023 model was awarded a 2023 Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick+ thanks to its adaptive headlights.

An 182-horsepower Boxer engine, two 7-inch touchscreen screens, and support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard features of the base Outback. The Outback’s all-wheel-drive system provides it more capability than many competitors, even though its standard engine doesn’t provide much thrill.

Average Market Price: $28,895

24. Chevrolet Colorado

This ranks among the best used cars under $30k to buy. There is only one crew cab and one 5-foot-2-inch bed model available for the new 2023 Chevrolet Colorado.

Rear-wheel drive, an eight-speed automatic gearbox, and a 237-horsepower four-cylinder turbocharger power the base model. Although more expensive Colorado versions have a higher towing capability, the WT has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds when outfitted correctly.

Despite having an 11.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system that enables wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, the Colorado WT trim is a fairly basic model. Automatic high-beam headlights, lane-keep assistance, and automated emergency braking with detection of bicyclists and pedestrians are all standard.

Average Market Price: $29,200

25. Nissan Rogue

The brand’s well-liked debut in the small SUV market is the 2023 Nissan Rogue. It’s a two-row vehicle with a spacious cabin and Nissan’s incredibly cozy Zero-Gravity seats, which were inspired by NASA. In the ranking of small SUVs, the Rogue comes in near the top. You can purchase a well-equipped Rogue SV with front-wheel drive or a base Rogue vehicle with front- or all-wheel drive for around $30,000.

The Rogue is powered by a three-cylinder turbocharged engine. Even though its 201 horsepower may not seem like much for an SUV, it’s more than enough to move the Rogue. A constantly variable automatic gearbox is mated to it. According to EPA ratings, the Rogue can earn up to 30 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the interstate. These are quite good figures for an SUV that isn’t a hybrid.

Average Market Price: $29,200

Conclusion

As we draw to the end of our investigation of the 25 best used cars under $30k, it has revealed a spectrum of dependable choices and provided evidence that finding a car that combines performance and price is feasible. This selection includes a variety of vehicles, from adaptable SUVs to fuel-efficient tiny cars. Although each vehicle listed above has its own setbacks, they still feature dependability and affordability. Make an informed decision and head out on the road with assurance that you’ve selected good quality products.