Best Used Cars Under $20,000 in Toronto

If you’re looking for cheap used cars and want to buy from a trusted car dealership in Toronto or Ontario, this guide is for you.
Compared with SUVs, sedans offer better driving dynamics and often come at lower prices, meaning you can get higher trims or better features for the same budget.

At YST Auto Sales, we’ve handpicked the best used cars under $20,000 from model years 2021–2023 — focusing on vehicles that combine reliability, safety, and value.

How YST Auto Sales Chooses the Best Used Cars

Includes only vehicles under $20,000 with less than 80,000 miles
Prioritizes models rated Average or above in J.D. Power reliability
Considers IIHS and NHTSA safety ratings
Cross-checked with Ultimate Car Rankings data to ensure lasting value

YST Auto Sales proudly serves Toronto, Mississauga, Scarborough, and Oakville, offering customers honest pricing, professional inspection, and fast financing options for both buying and selling used cars.

Toyota Corolla (2021–2023)

Compact Sedan / Hatchback

Pros:
When it comes to used cars in Toronto, the Toyota Corolla is one of the most popular choices.
It’s known for reliability, fuel efficiency, and low maintenance costs.
Every model includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the Hybrid version delivers exceptional mileage.

Cons:
Base engines are underpowered and less refined. Handling isn’t as sharp as the Mazda 3 or Honda Civic, and rear-seat space is limited.

Key Specs:

Price: From ~$13,000
Safety: NHTSA 5-Star, IIHS Top Safety Pick (2021–2023)
Fuel Economy: 28–53 / 36–52 mpg
Range: 409–593 miles
0–60 mph: 7.3–10.3 seconds

Why Buy: One of the most affordable and reliable used cars in Ontario, ideal for commuters and first-time buyers.

Nissan Altima (2021–2023)

Midsize Sedan

Pros:
The Altima offers strong fuel economy, precise steering, and a solid build.
Its available AWD system makes it a practical choice for Canadian winters while maintaining good efficiency.

Cons:
Interior materials lack premium feel, and CVT tuning could be smoother. AWD versions show some understeer in corners.

Key Specs:

Price: From ~$12,000
Safety: NHTSA 5-Star; IIHS Top Safety Pick+ (2021–2022)
Fuel Economy: 25–28 / 34–39 mpg
Range: 470–518 miles
0–60 mph: 5.8–8.0 seconds

Why Buy: Great option for drivers wanting a reliable midsize sedan with all-wheel drive — perfect for Ontario’s snowy roads.

Hyundai Elantra (2021–2023)

Compact Sedan

Pros:
The Hyundai Elantra is a standout among cheap used cars in Ontario for its high-tech features and stylish design.
It offers a comfortable, composed ride and comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Cons:
Interior materials feel cheap in lower trims, and the base engine isn’t particularly powerful.

Key Specs:

Price: From ~$13,000
Safety: NHTSA 5-Star; IIHS Top Safety Pick (2021–2022)
Fuel Economy: 25–33 / 34–43 mpg
Range: 347–459 miles
0–60 mph: 8.4–8.6 seconds

Why Buy: A budget-friendly, fuel-efficient, and stylish used car perfect for young professionals and city driving.

Nissan Sentra (2021–2023)

Compact Sedan

Pros:
The latest generation of the Sentra looks sharp and feels upscale inside.
It’s comfortable to drive and offers great fuel economy. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across all trims.

Cons:
The powertrain lacks punch, and the CVT can feel clunky at low speeds.

Key Specs:

Price: From ~$12,000
Fuel Economy: 29–39 mpg
Range: ~480 miles

Why Buy: One of the most practical cheap used cars available at any car dealership in Toronto, offering excellent value for everyday use.

Find Your Next Used Car at YST Auto Sales

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Let YST Auto Sales make your car buying or selling journey easy, transparent, and stress-free.

article source: motortrend