Find an efficient car that is affordable.
Let’s be honest, everyone wants to have a nice car. Vehicles are a part of life that you really can’t avoid. And while catching a ride with someone can be an easy solution, it is sometimes nice to offer that ride to others as well. However, people can end up putting a great deal of money into a vehicle, sometimes more than intended when considering constant upkeep and maintenance. Sure, the sticker price is good, but then down the road you realize you have spent nearly double what you planned on originally, whether because of gas consumption or repairs. However, this doesn’t have to be the case. And frankly, it shouldn’t. There are many reliable four door cars that will serve you well and don’t have to break your bank to do so. Consider the following recommendations of reliable cars under $10,000.
Gas powered
In this day and age, it isn’t expected that every car is entirely gas-powered anymore. To address this, the list has been separated. And if you are thinking to yourself, “Well, gas-powered cars would be the only kind of car I could afford,” you might be surprised. But you’ll have to keep reading to see for yourself. For now, while gas is cheap, check out these fuel-powered beauties.
Toyota Yaris – KBB: $10,700
2010 Toyota Yaris
Toyota Corolla – KBB: $10,181
2010 Toyota Corolla
According to Testing Autos, the Toyota Yaris is reliable and costs little to maintain. This car gets great gas mileage, averaging 29 miles per gallon in the city and 36 miles per gallon on the highway. But the fuel efficiency and price tag are not the only benefits to this car. It has also consistently passed safety inspections. However, the Yaris isn’t the only Toyota to make the list. In fact, the Yaris and Corolla both earn top marks for gas mileage. The source noted these vehicles are also spacious, which is typically a contradiction when it comes to fuel efficiency. These cars are for people who want to drive an efficient vehicle but don’t care for a compact car. Additionally, they are popular and though they require little maintenance, it won’t be hard to find a place that services them.
Hyundai Sonata – KBB: $8,591
2010 Hyundai Sonata
Another gas-powered car that will get you around without requiring you to frequent gas stations is the Hyundai Sonata. Consumer Reports recommended this car as an efficient and safe vehicle. The source especially noted its secure handling, making it a reliable and sturdy ride for those behind the wheel.
Ford Escape – KBB: $7,341
2008 Ford Escape
Nissan Murano – KBB: $10,799
2009 Nissan Murano
If SUVs are your thing then these rides are worth looking into. Big on room, these vehicles will get you where you need to be, as well as everything you need to bring with you. Besides, sometimes it’s fun to ride just a bit higher off the ground. While SUVs tend to be more expensive, you can find models of these two that are around $10,000 and worth it. They have decent fuel economy and allow you to carry more than smaller sedans.
Hybrid
The future of vehicles seems to be getting nearer every day, which means gasoline is starting to be replaced by electricity. This doesn’t mean you are free from using gas (in fact far from it), but you are closer than you have been previously, just by having options. Additionally, electric or hybrid cars are becoming increasingly affordable. Check out these clean-fuel options for getting from A to B:
Toyota Prius – KBB: $9,276
2009 Toyota Prius
Yes, another Toyota for the list. This vehicle has an average 47 miles per gallon, reaching 48 in city driving and closer to 45 on the highway. In fact, this car is so popular that it is credited as the first widely accepted hybrid vehicle on the market. So think about it, by purchasing this car, you can be efficient, modern and revolutionary. But this car also has lots of cargo space, which is not common for a hybrid vehicle.
Honda Civic Hybrid – KBB: $8,711
2010 Honda Civic Hybrid
This vehicle is touted as the most efficient in terms of mileage and cost, as it gets an average of 43 miles per gallon and remains for sale under $10,000. It is a solid and safe ride and essentially the same design as the standard Honda Civic. However, when the car stops, the engine turns off and utilizes its hybrid battery. The engine starts again when you start driving and is praised for its seamlessness in doing so. You won’t believe how smooth it is.
Don’t think you have to choose between budgeting and driving. There are many affordable cars that are safe and efficient. And as more car models make use of hybrid technology, the less you will be paying on fuel in the long run.
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