2026’s Best Bargain Used Cars, Picked by Auto Experts
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Josephine Nesbit
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Cory Dudak
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The average used vehicle listing price decreased to $25,393 in September, according to Cox Automotive. Some car shoppers may find more room to negotiate, but price drops are likely to be sharper in specific models and categories.
“When you are looking for a bargain used car, the focus needs to be on the price, age and miles,” Chris Pyle, auto expert with JustAnswer, wrote in an email. “There is not really a way to pick a certain make and model because there are too many factors. You can have two identical vehicles, but each was treated differently by the prior owner.”
According to experts, here are the used car bargains to look out for in 2026.
Fleet Vehicle
Used rental cars, which are vehicles that have spent their early years in fleet service with companies like Hertz or Enterprise, come in all shapes and sizes. “Look for sedans, SUVs and vans,” Pyle recommended. “Stay away from sports cars and trucks. Often, they are abused by the drivers.”
Because rental companies rotate their fleets frequently, many of these vehicles are only a few years old and come with detailed service records. When possible, look for models sold through certified pre-owned rental programs that include warranties.
Company cars are another solid option. “Company cars can be sedans, SUVs or trucks. If it is a truck, though, make sure it is a light-duty model. Heavy-duty trucks are likely used hard,” Pyle noted.
Off-Lease Vehicle
“Lease vehicles can be any model,” Pyle stated. “Many people lease cars to make them more affordable instead of taking out a bank loan for 5 to 10 years.”
Off-lease cars typically only show normal wear and tear; they could still have some factory warranty left and they’re likely safer and have more tech features, according to Cars.com. Make sure you look closely through the vehicle inspection report first, but be aware it won’t show all accidents — only those reported to the police or insurance company will be listed.
Electric Vehicles
According to Melanie Musson, auto industry expert with AutoInsurance.org, car shoppers will find a lot of bargains in the EV market.
“EVs depreciate quickly because they have a lifespan primarily dictated by the battery. Still, a three-year-old Tesla is in its prime and will offer years of reliability,” Musson wrote in an email. “Look for deals on the Tesla Model X. Since it’s a luxury car in addition to being an EV, you’re likely to be able to find one for a great deal.”
Luxury Cars
A used luxury car can also be a great deal, as they tend to fall in price the second they’re driven off the lot.
“Luxury cars are expensive new, but they tend to depreciate quickly. It makes sense because the people who can afford luxury cars tend to want to be the only owner. Then, when they sell, the market for used cars is comprised mostly of average-income earners,” Musson stated. “If you want luxury, just wait until a vehicle is five years old and buy it used at a steep discount.”
For the best used luxury car deal in 2026, Musson recommended the BMW 5-Series, an upscale and modern sedan with high-tech features, as well as turbo-four and turbo-six powertrains, according to Car and Driver.
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