Auto Now Olathe: 5 of the Best Used Cars for Those on a Budget

Auto Now of Olathe is home to hundreds of cars, and we put our money behind all of them in terms of their ability to get you from here to there. However, one of the things that we are consistently asked about is whether we have anything on the lot that is good for those with a budget. The answer — yes, but with stipulations.

Remembering the Big Picture

It is crucial for those on a budget to remember that there are other costs associated with getting a car that extend beyond just the purchase itself. A brand new car with low miles on it will likely have fewer up-front fixes, but insurance, taxes, and registration fees also play a factor in the overall cost of a car. Buying a brand new car will result in high insurance rates, high sales tax, and a massive registration fee. Additionally, unless you are purchasing a fuel-efficient vehicle, this will not factor gas into the equation.

Opting for a quality used car is one of the best ways that a person on a budget can help themselves save money over the long run. Below are our picks for the top five best cars for those on a budget. They are chosen with the big picture in mind, as well as reliability and overall cost. Additionally, they are cars that are so popular that there is likely always to be at least one of them in stock. So, take a look at these five cars and then consider heading over to our Olathe location to learn more.

Ford Focus

It’s hard to mistake a ford focus on the road. Although they are just like any other sedan — with a five-person capacity, large trunk, and reasonably conservative looks, they have their own distinct style to them.

Ford Focuses make our list because they are relatively easy to fix if they do break down, but they generally do not! Additionally, they provide plenty of room for children and other passengers without compromising on the gas mileage. For a first sedan, or for someone who wants a wholly reliable and affordable car, a Focus is a great way to go.

Toyota Camry

Toyotas are well-renowned for their reliability, and the king of security among their cars is easily the Camry. Fifteen years after the release of the 1995 Camry, a whopping 95% of the vehicles were still in driveable condition. There aren’t many cars which can boast the same standards, which is why we would be remiss if we forgot to mention it.

Consumer Reports repeatedly list Camrys as having “predictable handling” as well as being roomy and quick. Older models — where bargain hunters are likely to find the best deals — are not the prettiest looking cars, but they offer comfort and a fun drive for a fraction of the cost of bigger or zippier cars. Coupled with their tendency to age well with proper maintenance, this car can be a long-term driver without having to worry about constant repairs due to age.

Honda Civic

Almost as popular as the Camry, older versions of the Honda Civic come in as one of our other popular choices for the savvy car buyer. Honda originally started as a motorcycle manufacturer but began to try its hand at car manufacturing in the early 1960s. The Honda Civic was one of the first cars to make it from factory to market, and its dependability has been touted ever since.

Also, like the Camry, the Honda Civic has fewer of the upgrades that many of the cars of that time offered. What was almost a misstep for Honda back in the early 2010s has now become one of its most popular features. Providing safety, a smooth ride, and a particular zip that some have compared to sports cars, the focus is instead on the handling of the vehicle than on all of its features. True car lovers see the beauty in the simple Civic, whereas those looking for a car on the budget can find what they need from a mid-2000’s civic at a comparable price.

Pontiac Vibe

One of the lesser-known reliable vehicles, the Pontiac Vibe is an excellent sedan for those looking for the reliability of a Toyota in the price range of a Pontiac. Pontiac Vibes were commissioned by Pontiac from Toyota, and Toyota essentially gave them their version of the Matrix. Although the Vibe was a short-lived car, you still see many of them on the road today because they are robust and dependable little cars. The 2009 variety are one of the highest-rated sedans for safety, making them a must-have on our list.

Many versions come with all-wheel drive, cruise control, and more. One of the reasons that the Vibe was so popular was because it didn’t come with all the bells and whistles that other sedans of the time started to unleash. Equipped with the basics, but providing tons of cargo and passenger room, the Vibe is also suitable for those hoping to save gas money. If you can’t find this at your buy here pay here dealership, you can also try asking about a Toyota Matrix for something with an almost identical build and similar price.

Toyota Yaris

Toyota makes the list yet again with this little creature. The Yaris has been popular since its release in 2005. With an emphasis on compact size and city driving, the Yaris has been a champion of excellent gas mileage. Newer models have made attempts to keep up with industry advances in design and features, but really the plain interior has made room for an upgrade to the Toyota Yaris’s looks over the years.

If you’re looking for a dependable Toyota in a size that makes sense for city driving, this gas and space saver still lets you have fun while helping you save time trying to find parking and money on gas. A merge between cute and sporty, we firmly believe that anyone can rock a Yaris and be happy about it.

Do one of these makes and models strike your fancy? Are you not sure that you can afford one, regardless of your interest? Auto Now helps Kansas residents make their car ownership dreams come true (especially those on a budget) by offering to finance regardless of credit. Fill out one of our online applications, and a representative will discuss further options with you in-store. We look forward to helping you find a car on your budget!