If you’re looking for a reliable car, but you’re on a tight budget, you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Even in this economy, you can find a vehicle that will be safe, fuel-efficient, low-maintenance, and that will serve you well for years to come – without breaking the bank.
Of course, finding these cars will take a fair bit of scouring your local used car dealerships (and a dash of luck), but that’s why we’re here – to give you a head start. Let’s dive in and see what are the Top 5 used cars for sale in Baton Rouge under $5,000.
What’s the best car for $5000?
Realistically, there’s no one single “best” car – there’s only the one that will work best for you, depending on your specific needs. For instance, if you’re a frequent commuter, a compact and fuel-efficient ride will fit you perfectly.
On the other hand, if you’re buying a car for a first-time driver, safety should definitely be your top priority. With these and several other factors in mind, here’s our list of 5 used vehicles to buy, all under $5,000.
2007 Toyota Corolla
- Starting price (average): $3,500
- Fuel efficiency: 26 mpg city / 35 mpg highway
- Average maintenance cost: ~$350/yr
- Safety Rating*: 4/5 stars
One thing’s for certain: when the Japanese make it, they make it to last. Corolla’s top spot on our list is more than justified, not just for affordability, but also for excellent reliability and low-cost maintenance.
2007 Hyundai Elantra
- Starting price (average): $3,500
- Fuel efficiency: 24 mpg city / 32 mpg highway
- Average maintenance cost: ~$400/yr
- Safety Rating*: 4/5 stars
With its stylish design, excellent safety ratings (for its class), low annual maintenance costs, and great reliability, Elantra truly is the top choice for budget-conscious buyers.
2007 Honda Accord
- Starting price (average): $3,900
- Fuel efficiency: 21 mpg city / 31 mpg highway
- Average maintenance cost: ~$400/yr
- Safety Rating*: 5/5 stars
Not only did this versatile midsize sedan pass every crash test with flying colors, but it also boasts an upscale interior, great fuel economy, and excellent resale value. A prime example of comfort and reliability on a budget.
2007 Mazda3
- Starting price (average): $3,800
- Fuel efficiency: 22 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
- Average maintenance cost: ~$400/yr
- Safety Rating*: 4/5 stars
Pairing gorgeous design with dynamic driving has always been Mazda’s forte – and model 3 is an excellent example of that. For those who want to have fun while driving, Mazda3 may just be the perfect choice.
2008 Chevrolet Malibu
- Starting price (average): $3,800
- Fuel efficiency: 22 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
- Average maintenance cost: ~$470/yr
- Safety Rating*: 5/5 stars
Malibu is yet another example of “comfort on a budget”. This midsize sedan boasts top-tier safety ratings and a spacious interior, making it an ideal family car. Plus, it comes in a hybrid variant, for even more savings.
*Safety Ratings are based on National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) data.
Of course, there are many more vehicles deserving of the spot on this list. Cars such as the 2009 Nissan Sentra, 2010 Ford Focus, 2006 Subaru Outback, and 2007 Honda Civic are viable options within the $5,000 mark – and those are just the most notable examples.
Today’s used car market is brimming with quality rides that you can snag for just a few thousand dollars, and all that you’re required to do is roll up your sleeves, hop onto the internet, and find a reliable, well-supplied (local) dealership that has your dream car!
