Are you ready to move to a reliable, affordable and relatively new fuel-efficient used car? These 14 fuel-efficient used cars that cost from $8000-$10000 represent the best of what manufacturers offer. A wide variety are represented that should meet the needs of almost any driver. All will comfortably carry 4 adults. Pricing info courtesy of KBB.com. Reliability info comes from ConsumerReports.org and fuel economy stats come from FuelEconomy.gov.
Here are the abbreviations used:
CR = Consumer Reports
EPA = Environmental Protection Agency
22/29 = city mpg/highway mpg
AFC = Annual Fuel Costs
11. 2001 Toyota Camry $8865
Photo © Toyota
This was the last year of the fifth generation Camry. It’s a good mid-size sedan that’s going to rarely let you down. CR rated the 2001 model as having excellent reliability. Fuel economy is good for its size at 21/30 AFC-$2327.
12. 2002 Toyota Corolla $8025
Photo © Toyota
Look up “bullet proof” in an automotive dictionary and you’re going to see a picture of a Toyota Corolla. This compact does its job without a lot of flash, but that’s never a bad thing when it comes to your daily commute. CR rated the 2002 model as having excellent reliability. You’ll love the fuel costs of 28/37 AFC-$1802
13. 2005 Toyota Echo $9270
Photo © Toyota
Get beyond its quirky looks and you have a little compact that will zip you to and fro. Best suited for two adults and two kids with a decent size trunk. CR rated 2005 model excellent reliability. The Echo wins the fuel-sipper award in this category with 30/38 and a very low AFC of $1691 (which is still $32.51 a week).
14. 2000 Volvo V40 $8925
Photo © Volvo
Luxury wagons like the 2000 Volvo V40 are a good alternative to the now-demonic SUVs. Volvo maintenance can be expensive so it’s good that CR rated the 2000 model at average reliability. Fuel economy is fair, but this is a midsize station wagon so that helps explain its 19/26 and AFC-$2813.
