15 Best Used Cars to Buy Under $25,000 in Canada

With the inflation and rising costs of new vehicles across the country, many Canadians are turning to the used car market to find great value. Finding reliable, feature-rich, and on-a-budget best used cars to buy might be challenging, but there are plenty of excellent used car options worth considering for less than $25,000.

If you are looking for reliable and affordable best used cars to buy in Canada? You’ve come to the right place. We’ve compiled a list of some best used cars to buy in this price range, focusing on models from recent years that offer a great blend of value, reliability, and desirable features. Read on to discover the best used cars to buy in Canada for your needs and budget in 2024.

For a hassle-free experience, consider YST Auto Sales, your trusted used car dealer. Selling or buying with YST Auto Sales is quick and easy. Simply visit our Sell Your Car page and enter your car’s details to get an instant cash offer within minutes.

Unlike selling privately through online marketplaces, YST Auto Sales eliminates listing fees and time-wasting negotiations and skips the hassle of meeting buyers. You will receive a transparent cash offer upfront. YST Auto Sales offers pick-up right at your door or a convenient drop-off location.

If you’re looking to upgrade, use your old car as a trade-in for a new one from our extensive selection. YST Auto Sales will even handle the simultaneous pick-up and drop-off for both vehicles. This also saves your valuable time and saves more on your new car—a win-win!

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15 Best Used Cars to Buy Under $25,000 in Canada

Acura TLX

Starting price for used models: From $24,500

Fuel Economy: 11.3 L/100km (city), 8.1 L/100km (highway)

Pros:

Premium interior materials and build quality

Smooth, comfortable ride

Available Super Handling

All-Wheel Drive system

Many standard tech and driver-assist features

Cons:

Not as sporty as some rivals

Dual-screen infotainment system can be clunky

2020 was the final year before a full redesign

The 2020 Acura TLX strikes an appealing balance between luxury comfort and sporty handling. As a used option under $25,000, it delivers a lot of value. The TLX provides a nice blend of premium comforts and engaging performance. While it may not be the sportiest option, it delivers a smooth driving experience with plenty of technology and comfort features.

Ford Mustang

Starting price for used models: From $23,000

Fuel Economy: 13.6 L/100km (city), 8.4 L/100km (highway)

Pros:

Powerful engine options available in base trim

Stylish appearance and massive presence

Interior is quite spacious.

Cons:

Large car to manoeuvre

Awkward seat posture for back seat passengers

For enthusiasts on a budget, a used 2020 Ford Mustang offers classic pony car style and performance at a great price point. While V8-powered GT models will likely exceed the $25k budget, EcoBoost Mustangs still deliver impressive acceleration and that iconic Mustang look and feel. The 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder provides a nice balance of power and efficiency.

Toyota Corolla

Starting price for used models: From $20,000

Fuel Economy: 7.5 L/100km (city), 5.8 L/100km (highway)

Pros:

Powerful engine options, even in base trim

Available manual transmission

Strong reliability

Generously equipped

Cons:

Slightly cramped in the rear seats

Too small for a family car

Another stalwart in the compact sedan segment, the Corolla is known for its longevity and low maintenance costs. The 2017 redesign brought improved styling and better fuel efficiency. The Toyota Corolla offers exceptional reliability and low operating costs. It’s an ideal choice for those prioritizing longevity and minimal maintenance.

Toyota Camry

Starting price for used models: From $20,000

Fuel Economy: 8.5 L/100km (city), 6.1 L/100km (highway)

Pros:

Renowned reliability

Comfortable ride quality

Thoroughly equipped

Fuel-efficient engine

Plenty of used options are available

Cons:

Generic design and lack of style

Driving experience is unlikely to excite

A used Toyota Camry is a practical choice for those seeking a reliable, fuel-efficient, and comfortable vehicle. While the Camry offers a smooth ride, it may not be as exciting to drive as some sportier alternatives. The focus is more on comfort and reliability than performance.

Toyota Camry Hybrid

Starting price for used models: From $25,000

Fuel Economy: 5.3 L/100km (city), 5.0 L/100km (highway)

Pros:

Exceptional fuel efficiency

Spacious and comfy interior

Numerous standard safety features

Excellent predicted reliability

Cons:

Uninspiring driving dynamics

Over-styled exterior may not appeal to all

Ride quality not as smooth as some rivals

For buyers prioritizing fuel economy and dependability, the 2020-2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid is difficult to beat in the used market for around $25,000. While it may not turn heads or get your pulse racing, the Camry Hybrid excels at its primary mission of efficient, comfortable transportation. Toyota’s hybrid system is well-proven, and the Camry delivers midsize sedan practicality with compact car fuel economy.

Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

Starting price for used models: From $20,000

Fuel Economy: 5.0 L/100km (city), 4.6 L/100km (highway)

Pros:

Distinctive exterior styling

Large, user-friendly infotainment system

Comfortable, quiet ride

Excellent fuel economy

Cons:

Some hard plastics in the interior

Less spacious than some midsize rivals

Regenerative brakes can feel grabby

The 2020-2023 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid offers a striking design and impressive technology alongside its efficient hybrid powertrain. The Sonata Hybrid stands out from the crowd with its coupe-like profile and LED accent lighting. It matches the Toyota Camry Hybrid for efficiency while offering a more stylish package inside and out. Tech-savvy buyers will appreciate the available 10.25-inch touchscreen.

Subaru Impreza

Starting price for used models: From $21,000

Fuel Economy: 8.4 L/100km (city), 6.5 L/100km (highway)

Pros:

Standard all-wheel drive

Available hatchback body style

Comfortable ride quality

Spacious interior for its class

User-friendly infotainment system

Both sedan and hatchback variants are available within budget

Cons:

Underpowered engine

Mediocre fuel economy

Basic infotainment system

Need all-weather capability on a budget? A used Subaru Impreza hatchback delivers Subaru’s renowned all-wheel drive system in an affordable, practical package. While it won’t win any drag races, the Impreza provides sure-footed traction and hatchback utility at a very attractive price point. It’s a solid choice for buyers in snowy climates or those who frequently venture off the beaten path.

Honda Accord

Starting price for used models: From $24,000

Fuel Economy: 10.4 L/100km (city), 7.4 L/100km (highway)

Pros:

Spacious and comfortable interior

Responsive handling and smooth ride

Advanced safety features

Plenty of used models available (look for well-maintained LX or Sport trims to stay within budget)

Cons:

Weak Infotainment center

Non-Sporty Look

The Honda Accord remains one of the best midsize sedans on the market, even a few years after its release. However, for those living in regions with harsh winter weather, the absence of an AWD option in the Accord lineup can be a drawback. While the front-wheel-drive configuration is sufficient for many, all-wheel drive can provide added stability and traction in challenging road conditions.

Honda Civic

Starting price for used models: From $23,000

Fuel Economy: 7.0 L/100km (city), 5.6 L/100km (highway)

Pros:

Sporty handling

Spacious interior for a compact car

Modern tech features

Both sedan and hatchback models are available within budget.

Cons:

Underpowered engine

Noticeable road noise on the highway

The Honda Civic has long been a favorite among Canadian drivers, and for good reason. Known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and strong resale value, the Civic is an excellent used car choice for those seeking a dependable compact car.

Mazda3

Starting price for used models: From $23,000

Fuel Economy: 8.4 L/100km (city), 6.6 L/100km (highway)

Pros:

Upscale interior design

Engaging driving dynamics

Available all-wheel drive

Both sedan and hatchback variants offer great value

Cons:

Limited colour options

Limited used options

For those seeking a bit more driving excitement without sacrificing practicality, the Mazda3 is an excellent choice. It offers sporty handling, an upscale interior, and good fuel economy.

Hyundai Elantra

Starting price for used models: From $20,000

Fuel Economy: 8.3 L/100km (city), 6.4 L/100km (highway)

Pros:

Very affordable

Bold exterior styling

Comfortable and well-built cabin

User-friendly infotainment system

The SE and SEL trims offer the best features for the price

Cons:

Limited rear headroom

Not as sporty as some rivals

The Hyundai Elantra provides excellent value, with a spacious interior, good fuel economy, and a comprehensive warranty that is often transferable to second owners.

Hyundai Ioniq

Starting price for used models: From $21,000

Fuel Economy: 4.0 L/100km (city), 3.9 L/100km (highway)

Pros:

Affordable

Spacious interior

Innovative Features

User-friendly infotainment system

Cons:

Missing features in base models

Availability may be limited

Available in hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and all-electric versions, the Ioniq offers versatility and efficiency. The 2017-2020 models provide good value in the used market.

Kia Soul

Starting price for used models: From $21,500

Fuel Economy: 8.5 L/100km (city), 7.0 L/100km (highway)

Pros:

Abundant cargo space

User-friendly tech features

Comfortable ride quality

Remote keyless entry

Look for the S or GT-Line trims for a good balance of features.

Cons:

Road and wind noise

Safety tech is not on all trims

No AWD available

A used Kia Soul is a great option for those seeking a distinctive, affordable, and versatile vehicle. Its spacious interior, user-friendly technology, and good fuel efficiency make it appealing for city driving and daily commutes.

Volkswagen Jetta

Starting price for used models: From $18,000

Fuel Economy: 7.0 L/100km (city), 6.8 L/100km (highway)

Pros:

Refined interior design

Smooth and efficient turbocharged engine

Spacious rear seat

The SE trim provides the best value in this price range.

Cons:

Subtle style

Lacks of driving excitement

A used Volkswagen Jetta is a solid choice for those seeking a well-engineered, comfortable, and stylish sedan. Its advanced technology, good fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride make it a practical option for daily driving.

Nissan Altima

Starting price for used models: From $19,000

Fuel Economy: 9.3 L/100km (city), 6.5 L/100km (highway)

Pros:

Comfortable and quiet ride

Spacious interior

Available all-wheel drive

Fuel-efficient engines (up to 28 mpg city/39 mpg highway)

The S and SV trims provide the best value for under $20,000.

Cons:

Underpowered engine

Mediocre fuel economy

A used car like the Nissan Altima is a reliable, comfortable, and affordable option for those seeking a mid-size sedan. Its fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and advanced safety features make it a practical choice for daily driving.

The used car market in 2024 offers many excellent options for buyers with a $25,000 budget. From fuel-efficient hybrids to large family sedans and flexible hatchbacks, there’s a car to meet almost any need or preference. Focusing on recent model years from reputable automakers will help you locate a car that is reliable, has updated features, and is good value for money.

Remember to thoroughly inspect any used car and have a qualified technician complete a pre-purchase inspection before making a decision. With careful research and consideration, you can find best used cars to buy in Canada that will last you for years.

For a hassle-free experience, consider YST Auto Sales, your trusted used car dealer. Selling and buying with YST Auto Sales is quick and easy. Simply visit our Sell Your Car page and enter your car’s details to get an instant cash offer within minutes.