If you’re looking for a great deal on a used compact car and your budget is around $10,000, you might think it’s an impossible dream. The reality is that many used compact cars are available for less than you’d think. You’ll recognize every name on this list, and there’s a little bit of something for just about everyone, including those who need all-wheel drive (AWD), those who’d like a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and those who want to add a little frisky driving to their daily business (FUN).
Here are 10 of the best used compact cars you’ll find for less than $10,000.
1. 2014 Honda Civic
The 2014 Honda Civic was the first year of the ninth generation of the Honda that has won and kept one of the industry’s most loyal fan bases since its introduction in the 1970s. The Civic is an excellent example of a practical, reliable, efficient, and well-equipped car for the money. Look for lower-mileage EX models to maximize our $10,000 budget.
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2. 2014 Toyota Corolla
As legendary as the Civic, though with a somewhat less passionate fanbase, the 2014 Toyota Corolla‘s combination of efficient value and available extras means you can likely find a Corolla LE Premium fitted with the optional power moonroof and upgraded audio package on our budget. Since the Toyota Corolla is the best-selling car of all time, searching one out is never a struggle.
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3. 2014 Toyota Prius
The 2014 Toyota Prius is the most fuel-efficient vehicle on this list without a plug. The Prius is almost as plentiful in the used market as the first two models on this list because it combines practicality and reliability. The Prius also established the hybrid as a terrific mainstream option built to last. Look for all but the top-spec Five trim on our budget.
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4. 2015 Mazda3
The 2015 Mazda3 is perhaps the most fun-to-drive car on this list, but despite its excellent dynamic bona fides, it doesn’t give up anything regarding comfort, efficiency, or value. For our money, the sky is the limit, with even the top-spec Grand Touring hatchback model available for around $10,000.
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5. 2016 Subaru Impreza
For those who battle snowy or low-traction weather or surfaces, the 2016 Subaru Impreza is an easy choice, as it’s the only model on this list that comes standard with all-wheel drive. Savvy shoppers should find the top-spec 2.0i Limited trim within our budget.
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6. 2018 Kia Soul
The 2018 Kia Soul‘s fun, funky styling creates plenty of interior space in this compact hatch. It’s fun to drive and fuel-efficient, too. In this price range, you should be able to find the top-of-the-line Soul ! (Exclaim) trim well within reach, with a punchy turbo engine and standard smartphone integration.
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7. 2015 Chevrolet Volt
Wish you could afford a long-range EV and need to travel long distances from time to time? The 2015 Chevrolet Volt might be a good fit for you. With about 38 miles of all-electric range, the Volt can function like an electric car if you have a shorter commute, but it can also travel another 340-plus miles on gasoline.
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8. 2018 Chevrolet Cruze
The 2018 Chevrolet Cruze is a comfy, quiet, efficient car that’s even available with a diesel engine rated for up to 52 mpg on the highway. Available in both sedan and hatchback forms, the Cruze is a practical offering even amongst a list of eminently practical cars.
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9. 2018 Hyundai Elantra
The 2018 Hyundai Elantra adds style to the mix of practicality, value, and efficiency you’ll find elsewhere on this list. It’s also nicely equipped for the money, especially in the Limited trim, which should fit our budget, adding a welcome touch of luxury. Opt for the Sport trim to get a 7-speed dual clutch transmission and a more engaging driving experience.
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10. 2019 Nissan Sentra
For those seeking a bit more tech in their lightly used compact car, the 2019 Nissan Sentra may be a good fit, as it was a tech leader in the segment when new, with features like Bluetooth, automatic headlights, cruise control, and power accessories all standard. The Sentra SL that hits the sweet spot of our budget also lies at the top of the range, although for 2019, all Sentras except the base got standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
See 2019 Nissan Sentra models for sale near you
10 Best Used Compact Cars Under $10,000
- 2014 Honda Civic
- 2014 Toyota Corolla
- 2014 Toyota Prius
- 2015 Mazda3
- 2016 Subaru Impreza
- 2019 Kia Soul
- 2015 Chevrolet Volt
- 2018 Chevrolet Cruze
- 2018 Hyundai Elantra
- 2019 Nissan Sentra
