George Kamel: 5 Reliable Used Cars To Buy This Year
Written by
Ashley Donohoe
Edited by
Rebekah Evans
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If you’re shopping for a car, high auto loan rates and new vehicle prices might scare you off. Cox Automotive reported that the average new car buyer with a loan was paying $739 per month in March 2025. Plus, tariffs raise more questions about affordable car purchases.
While you won’t get the flashiest new features, a decent used car is a good alternative that better fits your budget. You also won’t have to sacrifice reliability or safety if you do your research and pick the right model.
In a YouTube video, money expert George Kamel discussed his top picks for reliable used cars that cost under $10,000.
Volkswagen Jetta (2017 to 2021)
Kamel recommended the 2017 to 2021 Volkswagen Jetta models, all of which have five-star safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). He said that these vehicles feature spacious trunks and a touchscreen dashboard, with some trims offering extras like a Beats sound system or moonroof.
One of Kamel’s AutoTrader finds was a 2019 Jetta SE with around 145,000 miles at $7,890, which was much more affordable than Volkswagen’s $22,495 starting price for the 2025 Jetta. He recommended not letting the high mileage scare you off since these cars can still last you a while.
Nissan Altima (2017 to 2018)
The 2017 to 2018 Nissan Altima models stand out with five-star NHTSA safety ratings and convenient features like a remote starter, backup camera and touchscreen. Kamel said that some versions have advanced safety features, heated seats and premium audio. Plus, he highlighted the Altima’s unique zero-gravity seats.
When checking AutoTrader, Kamel found a 2017 Altima 2.5 SV with around 124,000 miles for just $7,999 and a 2018 version of that vehicle with around 73,000 miles for $8,995.
“Those prices look even better when you consider that a brand-new 2025 Altima has a starting sticker price of over $28,000,” he added.
Chevy Sonic (2015 to 2017)
While the Chevy Sonic was discontinued, the 2015 to 2017 models of this compact car are still a good choice. They have five-star NHTSA safety ratings and come in trims with convenient features like remote start and heated seats. Kamel also said you can get a turbocharged engine if you’d like more power.
Chevy Sonics are even more budget-friendly than the other picks on this list. Kamel found a 2016 Sonic LTZ with around 152,000 miles for $5,193 and a 2016 Sonic LS with around 120,000 miles for $5,993.
Kia Rio (2015 to 2018)
The Kia Rio is a discontinued car that offers basic features and value at a reasonable price for the 2015 to 2018 models. Kamel highlighted these compact cars’ roomy interiors and good reliability ratings, despite common misconceptions. Plus, the 2015 to 2017 models have four-star NHTSA safety ratings.
Kamel found a 2016 Rio LX with around 64,000 miles for $7,900 and a 2017 Rio LX with around 75,000 miles for $9,995. He also said that a used Kia Rio can save you some money on maintenance and repair costs.
Honda Fit (2015 to 2017)
Kamel’s favorite pick is the 2015 to 2017 Honda Fit. These cars are a good choice for features like foldable seats, a manual transmission option, a long lifespan and five-star NHTSA safety ratings. Plus, they come with other nice perks.
“They get up to 40 miles per gallon on the highway, make up to 130 horsies and come with Honda’s LaneWatch driver assist technology to keep you extra safe,” Kamel explained.
His AutoTrader search led to fewer results than for the other cars. However, he came across a 2015 Honda Fit EX with around 120,000 miles for $9,998 and a 2016 Honda Fit LX with around 147,000 miles for a cheaper $7,950. New Honda Fits aren’t sold in the U.S.
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Sources
- YouTube, “Reliable Used Cars to Buy in 2025.”
