Best used cars under $30,000
Cars under $30,000
We've compiled a list of the 10 most popular used cars under $30,000 with CarMax customers. Learn more about how our lists work.
1. Toyota Camry
CarMax owner rating
4.6
Pros
Good fuel economy Easy to drive Lots of driver aids come standard
Cons
So-so cargo space Road and engine noise can be irritating
2. Toyota Corolla
CarMax owner rating
4.5
Pros
Great trim and feature options Plenty of standard driver aids Pleasant ride experience User-friendly infotainment interface
Cons
Intrusive exterior noise Underwhelming acceleration
3. Honda Civic
CarMax owner rating
4.5
Pros
Above-average fuel economy Better storage capacity than rivals Tech features are easy to use
Cons
Lots of road noise on the highway Seats can be uncomfortable on long drives
4. Honda Accord
CarMax owner rating
4.6
Pros
Fuel economy with hybrid engine Steering agility Cabin space
Cons
Higher base price than many competitors Hybrid variants are even more expensive No available all-wheel drive
5. Nissan Sentra
CarMax owner rating
4.2
Pros
Comfortable ride Appealing interior design Plenty of space for cargo
Cons
Sluggish acceleration Poor emergency braking performance Dated infotainment system
6. Nissan Altima
CarMax owner rating
4.5
Pros
Easy to drive Impressive driver-assist tech Appealing sedan design
Cons
Steering often feels slow to respond Disappointing interior feel No hybrid powertrain option
7. Hyundai Elantra
CarMax owner rating
4.4
Pros
User-friendly tech features Performance with Elantra N Eye-catching design
Cons
Modest performance with base engine A few cheap-looking interior trim pieces Limited second-row headroom
8. Hyundai Sonata
CarMax owner rating
4.5
Pros
Roomy interior Many standard features Available all-wheel drive
Cons
Uncomfortable driving position Stiff ride on sports trim Lackluster handling
9. Kia Forte
CarMax owner rating
4.4
Pros
Available turbocharged engine Standard smartphone integration High fuel economy
Cons
Limited rear legroom Firm ride Vague steering
10. Volkswagen Jetta
CarMax owner rating
4.4
Pros
Smooth, pleasant ride Plenty of interior storage Many driver aids come standard
Cons
Cabin materials feel chintzy Touch-sensitive steering wheel controls can be frustrating Lackluster exterior styling
How we ranked this list
To create our "Best Of" lists, our analysts look at CarMax vehicle and sales data over a recent 6-month period, from December 2023 through May 2024. Looking back over a 6-month period allows for the highest sample size possible while also providing up-to-date pricing information. Some articles may include data points with lower sample sizes.
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RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2006-2020 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy.
Fuel economy figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new. Fuel economy may vary for reasons like driving conditions and vehicle history. Unless specified, figures are for vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission. See fueleconomy.gov.
Range figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new and assume a full battery charge. Range will vary based on things like battery age, vehicle condition and history, driving and charging habits, accessory use, and driving conditions. Battery capacity may decrease with time and use. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
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We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
Unless otherwise noted, information related to featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities. By clicking on any video links, you will be taken to a third-party site maintained by YouTube, Inc.
We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.