Need a Cheap Used Car? Consider These 5 Picks Under $10K From Rachel Cruze
Are you shopping around for a reliable used car but have a tight budget? You're in luck. On a previous episode of The Rachel Cruze Show titled "10 Great Cars Under $10K", the money expert revealed a handful of high-quality used cars can be purchased for under $10,000.
Before revealing her recommendations, Cruze emphasized one of her core money principles, which is to buy used cars with cash whenever possible. In other words, financing a used car often means paying thousands of dollars in interest for a depreciating asset, making it a costly mistake for budget-conscious buyers. Even if saving up takes more time, Cruze argued paying cash is the smarter long-term financial move.
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So which vehicles made the cut? Here are five used cars Rachel Cruze recommended for under $10,000, which are affordable options known for reliability, practicality and value worth considering if you're shopping on a budget in 2026.
1. 2013 Honda Civic
According to Cruze, Honda Civics stand out because they get great gas mileage. She added the EX and LX models come with Bluetooth features, backup cameras and more for under $9,000 per used car.
Shoppers seeking a sportier used car are recommended by Cruze to check out the 2010 Honda Civic Si. This used car comes complete with a 197-horsepower engine.
2. 2013 Mazda 3
Shoppers seeking this used car can choose between the sedan and hatchback models. According to Cruze, this car gets up to 33 miles per gallon. As a pro tip, KBB recommends browsing the loaded grand touring models for extra luxury.
3. 2013 Subaru Outback
If you find some of these used car options sound too small for your taste, Cruze recommended the reliable Subaru Outback as the perfect happy medium.
4. 2010 Toyota Venza
Another used car that falls between the sedan and SUV is the Toyota Venza. Cruze said these used models are very stylish and come complete with a roomy interior and all-wheel drive.
5. 2014 Subaru Impreza
Looking for a used car that can sustain any and every type of weather? You've found it in the Subaru Impreza. This car is designed to handle all weather conditions. Cruze said models for sale in the under $10,000 price range come with leather seat options and get up to 35 miles per gallon.
Caitlyn Moorhead contributed to the reporting for this article.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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