Want to buy a used car? Check out the Used Car Buying Guide linked below.
Examples of cars for $10k so you can have a general idea of what you get. Keep in mind every market is different.
As long as it follows the format, please feel free to add another vehicle.
Subcompact: 2016 Honda Fit
Details:
Engine choice(s): 1.5 Earthdreams I4
Transmission choice(s): 6 speed manual, Continuously Variable Automatic
"The Honda Fit has always been an appealing urban runabout, with its tidy size, voluminous interior, amazing versatility, and good fuel economy. Fortunately, the redesigned third-generation Fit carries on these qualities, while adding a lot more creature comforts, better crash-test performance, and a new engine and transmission to improve fuel economy" - Consumer Reports
Compact: 2016 Toyota Corolla
Details:
Engine choice(s): 1.8 2ZR-FE I4, 1.8 Valvematic 2ZR-FAE I4
Transmission choice(s): 6 speed manual, 4 speed automatic, Continuously Variable Automatic
"Redesigned for 2014, the Corolla has landed right on target, and it now ranks among the top models in its class. It combines the practicality and frugal fuel economy that compact-sedan buyers want with more interior room, upgraded amenities, and a sorely needed shot of style. Overall, it's a reasonable alternative to a larger, midsized sedan." - Consumer Reports
Luxury Midsize: 2012 Lexus ES
Details:
Engine choice(s): 3.5 2GR-FE V6
Transmission choice(s): 6 speed automatic
"Thanks to its relaxed ride and plush interior, the 2011 Lexus ES is one of the best 2011 midsize cars for commuting, highway cruising or taking a family trip." - US News and World Reports
Safety:
Crashworthiness (P-Poor, M-Marginal, A-Acceptable, G-Good)
| Small overlap front: driver-side | |
|---|---|
| Moderate overlap front | |
| Side | |
| Roof strength | |
| Head restraints & seats |
NHTSA Crash Testing
Overall Front Star Rating: 4/5
Overall Side Star Rating: 2/5
Rollover Risk: %10.9 Rating: 4/5
Similar Vehicles: Toyota Camry 3.5, Toyota Avalon
Compact CUV: 2012 Toyota RAV4
Details:
Engine choice(s): 2.5 2AR-FE I4, 3.5 2GR-FE V6, Electric motor
Transmission choice(s): 4 speed automatic, 5 speed automatic, 1 speed automatic
"The highly-ranked [2009-2012] Toyota RAV4 offers a spacious cabin and a comfortable ride, as well as one of the few third-row seats in the class, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a practical family vehicle.
The 2012 Toyota RAV4 ranks near the top of the compact SUV class, thanks to its pleasant ride and handling, roomy interior, solid reliability rating, and a refined powertrain." - US News and World Reports
Third generation Toyota Avalon.
| Engine | 3.5-liter, 24-valve DOHC with Dual VVT-i V6 |
| Bore and Stroke | 3.70 x 3.27 inches |
| Displacement | 3,456 cc |
| Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Valve Train | 4-valve DOHC roller rocker |
| Horsepower (SAE)* | 268 hp @ 6,200 rpm |
| Torque* | 248 lb-ft @ 4,700 rpm |
| Ignition System | Toyota Direct Ignition (TDI) |
| Fuel System | EFI |
| Recommended Fuel | 87-octane unleaded |
| Emission Control | ULEV |
| Transmission | 5-speed Transaxle/Front-wheel drive |
| Gear Ratios | 1st 4.235 2nd 2.360 3rd 1.517 4th 1.047 5th 0.756 Reverse 3.378 Differential Ratio 3.080 |
| Suspension and Brakes | |
| Front Suspension | MacPherson strut suspension with stabilizer bar |
| Rear Suspension | Dual link MacPherson strut suspension with stabilizer bar |
| Front Brakes | Ventilated disc |
| Front Diameter | 11.7 inches |
| Front Swept Area | 248.6 square inches |
| Rear Brakes | Solid disc |
| Rear Diameter | 10.9 inches |
| Rear Swept Area | 160.0 square inches |
| Parking Brakes | Foot applied pedal |
| Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) | Standard |
| Steering Type | Power-assisted rack-and-pinion |
| Steering Ratio | 16.1:1 |
| Turns (lock to lock) | 3.22 turns |
| Turning circle | 36.9 feet |
| Engine Oil | 6.5 quarts |
| Fuel Tank | 18.5 gallons |
|
EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS (inches) |
|
| Wheelbase | 111.0 |
| Overall Length | 197.2 |
| Overall Width | 72.8 |
| Overall Height | 58.5 |
| Tread (front/rear) | 62.2/61.6 |
| Minimum Ground Clearance | 5.3 |
| Coefficient of Drag | 0.291 |
|
INTERIOR DIMENSIONS (inches) |
|
| Headroom (front/rear) | 38.8/37.5 |
| Legroom (front/rear) | 41.3/40.9 |
| Shoulder Room (front/rear) | 59.4/58.2 |
| Hip Room (front/rear) | 55.8/56.2 |
| EPA Passenger Volume | 106.9 cubic feet |
| EPA Cargo Volume | 14.4 cubic feet |
| EPA Class | Large |
|
GAS MILEAGE |
22 City/31 Highway (2007 EPA) |
| Curb Weight | XL: 3,495 lbs. Touring: 3,545 lbs. XLS: 3,560 lbs. Limited: 3,595 lbs. |
| Maximum Trailer Weight | 1,000 lbs. |
Compact: Honda Civic
Details:
Engine choice(s): 1.8 R18Z1 I4, 2.4 K24Z7 I4 (SI only), 1.5 Integrated Motor Assist I4 (Hybrid only)
Transmission choice(s): 5 speed manual, 6 speed manual, 5 speed automatic (gasoline only), Continuously Variable Automatic (hybrid only)
"The 2013 Honda Civic has a nicer interior and a higher reliability rating than many of its rivals. It’s also fun to drive, with unruffled handling and peppy engine performance. With so many positive traits, it’s no wonder the 2013 Civic ranks among the best in our compact car rankings." - US News and World Reports
Midsize: 2017 Toyota Camry
Details:
Engine choice(s): 2.5 2AR-FE I4, 2.5 Atkinson-cycle 2AR-FXE I4 (hybrid only), 3.5 2GR-FE V6
Transmission choice(s): 6 speed automatic, E-CVT (hybrid only)
"The 2017 Toyota Camry sits near the top of our midsize car rankings. It has plenty of rear passenger space, a good-looking cabin, a perfect predicted reliability rating, and strong safety scores." - US News and World Reports
"Despite all these benefits, you don’t want just any three-year-old vehicle. You’ll want to be sure you’re purchasing something you can depend on – a vehicle that offers reliability as well as affordability. For this year, none is more reliable than the 2017 Toyota Camry...
In fact, Consumer Reports isn’t the only one raving about this vehicle: U.S. News ranks it as No. 1 in 2017 Affordable Midsize Cars, stating that “not only is the 2017 Toyota Camry one of the best midsize cars you can buy, it’s also one of the best-selling vehicles in the world.”
It’s easy to see why this sedan is so popular. The 2017 Toyota Camry, along with its hybrid sibling, is the only car in this class to receive a five-out-of-five predicted reliability rating.
The 2017 Toyota Camry also boasts improved crash-test performance, adding to its reliability. And although it’s an older model, Consumer Reports states that its touchscreen infotainment system is straightforward and easy to use." - Motor Biscuit
2017 Toyota Camry prices start around $15,000 and will fluctuate depending on region, condition, miles, and trim level.
2017 Toyota Camry ('Sporty' Tier SE/XSE)
10 grand for a 17 Camry? Let me know where you're seeing this!
@7-3punchina3-4
"2017 Toyota Camry prices start around $15,000 and will fluctuate depending on region, condition, miles, and trim level."
10 grand is like +- 50% I wanted to add some variety $5-15k ish I put the general market price in the post though.
@Kerem fair enough. Thanks for taking time to make this list btw. Gonna help some people out.
Luxury Midsize Crossover SUV: 2012 Lexus RX350
Price range: $10,000-$15,000
Details:
Engine choice(s): 3.5 2GR-FE V6, 3.5 2GR-FXE V6 (hybrid only)
Transmission choice(s): 6 speed automatic (gasoline only), Continously Variable Automatic (hybrid only)
Fuel Economy (EPA): 18/25 (FWD Gasoline), 18/24 (AWD Gasoline), 31/28 (FWD Hybrid), 29/27 (AWD Hybrid)
2012 Lexus RX specs:
https://www.edmunds.com/lexus/rx-350/2012/suv/features-specs/
https://www.motortrend.com/cars/lexus/rx350/2012/
https://www.thecarconnection.com/specifications/lexus_rx_2012
Offical 2012 Lexus RX Brochure
Consumer Reports Overview -
The Lexus RX is a relaxed cruiser and has proven to deliver a near-headache-free ownership experience. It also offers a quiet and plush cabin, with a proven track record of terrific customer service. The standard V6 powertrain offers punchy performance with ample power and an effortless delivery, further adding to the relaxed and luxurious demeanor. The smooth transmission is unobtrusive as well.
US News and World Reports Overview -
Though other SUVs may be more athletic, reviewers liked the 2012 Lexus RX 350's tranquil ride, premium cabin materials and exceptionally comfortable seats.
KBB Overview-
If luxury, utility, reliability and resale value are top considerations for your next car, the RX is definitely worth your consideration.
If you like a little sportiness in your luxury crossover, the RX’s soft road manners may not be your cup of tea...
Highest rated KBB categories: Reliability, Quality, Comfort, Styling
Safety Details, Safety Overview
(Budget Minded) Midsize Sedan: 2006 Toyota Camry
Details:
Engine choices: 2.4 I4, 3.0 V6, 3.3 V6
Transmission choices: 5 speed automatic, 5 speed manual
Price range: $3000-$6000
Scotty's videos:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5DMF8Zl5rk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gs6q9SC06Xk
Images:
Camry Solara Convertible:
View Used Car Buying Guide for information on how to buy a used car the correct way.
IF you are fairly mechanically competent; Police Auctions have some good deals.
I also like to make friends with all the local bank Repo man.
I have found really good buys; and the Bank might finance, or you can just pick up the payments. [I live in a Military town; where troops will just abandon the car when they get transferred!]
