11 Best Used Cars to Buy in Canada Under $20,000
11 Best Used Cars to Buy in Canada Under $20,000
Posted on June 15, 2024
Finding the best used cars to buy in Canada under $20,000 can be challenging, especially when you're aiming for reliability and value. Fortunately, the Canadian market offers a variety of excellent used vehicles that provide performance, durability, and affordability. This guide explores the top used cars available within this budget, ranging from compact sedans to sporty roadsters and versatile SUVs. Each of these vehicles has been carefully selected based on their features, safety, and overall value, ensuring that you get the most out of your investment.
| Model | Engine | Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | Approx. Price (CAD) |
| Mazda3 | 2.0L 4-cylinder, 155 horsepower | 8.5 L/100 km / 6.2 L/100 km | $17,000 - $20,000 |
| Nissan Versa | 1.6L 4-cylinder, 122 horsepower | 7.4 L/100 km / 5.9 L/100 km | $18,000 - $21,000 |
| Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2.0L 4-cylinder, 155 horsepower | 9.0 L/100 km / 6.6 L/100 km | $19,000 - $24,000 |
| Kia Forte | 2.0L 4-cylinder, 147 horsepower | 7.9 L/100 km / 5.9 L/100 km | $18,000 - $21,000 |
| Hyundai Elantra | 2.0L 4-cylinder, 147 horsepower | 8.3 L/100 km / 6.4 L/100 km | $16,000 - $19,000 |
| Subaru Impreza | 2.0L 4-cylinder, 152 horsepower | 8.3 L/100 km / 6.4 L/100 km | $18,000 - $22,000 |
| Ford Escape XLT V6 4WD | 3.0L V6, 240 horsepower | 12.0 L/100 km / 8.6 L/100 km | $15,000 - $19,000 |
| Hyundai Veloster | 2.0L 4-cylinder, 147 horsepower | 8.5 L/100 km / 6.4 L/100 km | $17,000 - $20,000 |
| Honda Civic | 2.0L 4-cylinder, 158 horsepower | 8.0 L/100 km / 6.0 L/100 km | $18,000 - $22,000 |
| Toyota Camry | 2.5L 4-cylinder, 203 horsepower | 8.5 L/100 km / 6.1 L/100 km | $19,000 - $23,000 |
| Chevrolet Spark | 1.4L 4-cylinder, 98 horsepower | 7.9 L/100 km / 6.2 L/100 km | $14,000 - $17,000 |
11 Best Used Cars to Buy in Canada Under $20,000
1. 2021 Mazda3
The Mazda3 has been a popular choice among Canadian drivers for its combination of stylish design, engaging driving dynamics, and premium interior. The 2021 model continues this tradition with a refined driving experience that rivals more expensive vehicles in its class.
Key Features:
- Engine: Powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, the Mazda3 delivers 155 horsepower, providing a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency.
- Fuel Economy: With an impressive 8.5 L/100 km in the city and 6.2 L/100 km on the highway, the Mazda3 is economical to run.
- Interior: The interior features high-quality materials, including soft-touch surfaces and an ergonomic design. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with an 8.8-inch display that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Safety: The Mazda3 is equipped with advanced safety features such as lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. The vehicle's overall build quality and safety technology make it a strong contender for anyone looking for a reliable and safe car.
The 2021 Mazda3 stands out for its upscale feel, making it an excellent choice for those who want a premium driving experience without breaking the bank.
2. 2024 Nissan Versa
The Nissan Versa is known for being one of the most affordable cars in its segment, and the 2024 model continues to deliver excellent value with its combination of modern features and practicality. Despite its low price, the Versa doesn’t skimp on comfort or technology.
Key Features:
- Engine: The Versa is powered by a 1.6L 4-cylinder engine producing 122 horsepower. While not the most powerful, it’s sufficient for city driving and highway cruising.
- Fuel Economy: It offers excellent fuel efficiency, with ratings of 7.4 L/100 km in the city and 5.9 L/100 km on the highway, making it a cost-effective option for daily commuters.
- Interior: The cabin is surprisingly spacious for a subcompact car, offering comfortable seating for five. It includes a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and the added convenience of remote keyless entry.
- Safety: Nissan's Safety Shield 360 comes standard, including features like automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot monitoring.
The 2024 Nissan Versa is perfect for budget-conscious buyers who don’t want to compromise on essential features and safety.
3. 2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata
The Mazda MX-5 Miata has long been the go-to roadster for driving enthusiasts. The 2018 model continues to impress with its lightweight design, nimble handling, and a truly engaging driving experience that few cars in this price range can match.
Key Features:
- Engine: The Miata is powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine producing 155 horsepower, which might seem modest but is more than enough given the car’s lightweight.
- Fuel Economy: It offers respectable fuel efficiency at 9.0 L/100 km in the city and 6.6 L/100 km on the highway, which is great for a sports car.
- Interior: The Miata's interior is minimalist yet functional, with comfortable sports seats and straightforward controls. The infotainment system is easy to use, though it's basic compared to more modern systems.
- Safety: Standard safety features include stability control, traction control, and side airbags, which help provide peace of mind despite the car's small size.
The 2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata is ideal for those who prioritize driving pleasure and don’t mind sacrificing a bit of practicality for the sake of fun.
Also Read: 12 Best Cheapest Used Cars in Canada
4. 2022 Kia Forte
The 2022 Kia Forte offers a well-rounded package that includes a comfortable ride, modern technology, and solid build quality. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a compact sedan that delivers more than its price tag suggests.
Key Features:
- Engine: The Forte is powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower, offering a smooth and efficient driving experience.
- Fuel Economy: It boasts a fuel efficiency of 7.9 L/100 km in the city and 5.9 L/100 km on the highway, making it an economical choice for both city and highway driving.
- Interior: The interior is spacious and well-appointed, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a comfortable seating arrangement.
- Safety: Safety is a strong point for the Forte, with features like forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and driver attention monitoring coming standard.
The 2022 Kia Forte is a practical and stylish choice for drivers who want a reliable vehicle with modern amenities.
5. 2020 Hyundai Elantra
The Hyundai Elantra has been a staple in the compact sedan market for years, known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and value. The 2020 model builds on this reputation with a modern design and a well-equipped interior.
Key Features:
- Engine: The Elantra comes with a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine that produces 147 horsepower, providing a good balance of power and efficiency.
- Fuel Economy: It offers a fuel economy of 8.3 L/100 km in the city and 6.4 L/100 km on the highway, making it a cost-effective vehicle for daily use.
- Interior: The cabin is well-designed, with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The seating is comfortable, and the overall construction is sturdy.
- Safety: The Elantra is equipped with several advanced safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist, enhancing driver confidence.
The 2020 Hyundai Elantra is a strong contender for anyone looking for a reliable and economical sedan with modern features.
6. Subaru Impreza
The Subaru Impreza is unique in the compact car segment for offering standard all-wheel drive, making it an excellent choice for Canadian drivers who face harsh winter conditions. It’s also known for its safety and practicality.
Key Features:
- Engine: The Impreza is powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine that produces 152 horsepower. While not the most powerful, it’s adequate for everyday driving and performs well in all weather conditions.
- Fuel Economy: The Impreza achieves 8.3 L/100 km in city driving and 6.4 L/100 km on the highway, a strong performance for an all-wheel-drive model.
- Interior: The interior is durable and comfortable, with a Starlink infotainment system that includes a touchscreen, smartphone integration, and a straightforward layout.
- Safety: Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist technology includes adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane departure warning, making it one of the safest vehicles in its class.
The Subaru Impreza is perfect for drivers who need a reliable and capable vehicle that can handle Canada’s diverse climate.
7. Ford Escape XLT V6 4WD
The Ford Escape XLT V6 4WD is an excellent option for those who need a versatile SUV with strong performance and off-road capability. It’s particularly well-suited for families and individuals who enjoy outdoor activities.
Key Features:
- Engine: This model is powered by a robust 3.0L V6 engine that produces 240 horsepower, offering plenty of power for highway driving and off-road adventures.
- Fuel Economy: It offers a fuel economy of 12.0 L/100 km in the city and 8.6 L/100 km on the highway, which is typical for a V6-powered SUV.
- Interior: The interior boasts spaciousness, leather seating, an easy-to-use infotainment system, and plenty of cargo room. Folding down the rear seats provides extra space for bigger loads.
- Safety: The Escape comes with four-wheel drive, stability control, and multiple airbags, providing confidence in a variety of driving conditions.
The Ford Escape XLT V6 4WD is ideal for those who need an SUV that can handle a wide range of tasks, from daily commuting to weekend getaways in the great outdoors.
8. 2020 Hyundai Veloster
The Hyundai Veloster is a unique offering in the compact car segment, with its distinctive three-door design and sporty handling. The 2020 model is fun to drive and offers a good mix of performance and practicality.
Key Features:
- Engine: The Veloster is powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine that produces 147 horsepower, providing a lively driving experience.
- Fuel Economy: It offers a fuel economy of 8.5 L/100 km in the city and 6.4 L/100 km on the highway, making it both fun and economical to drive.
- Interior: The interior features a 7-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth connectivity, comfortable seats, and a stylish design that sets it apart from more conventional compact cars.
- Safety: The Veloster includes safety features such as forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and driver attention alert, ensuring a secure driving experience.
The 2020 Hyundai Veloster is perfect for those who want a car that’s a little different and offers a sporty driving experience without sacrificing practicality.
Also Read: Best Time to Buy a Used Car in Canada
9. Honda Civic
The Honda Civic has been one of Canada’s best-selling cars for decades, and for good reason. It’s reliable, fuel-efficient, and holds its value well, making it an excellent choice for a used car under $20,000.
Key Features:
- Engine: The Civic is powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine that delivers 158 horsepower, providing a balanced mix of performance and efficiency.
- Fuel Economy: It offers a fuel economy of 8.0 L/100 km in the city and 6.0 L/100 km on the highway, making it one of the most economical options in its class.
- Interior: The Civic’s interior is spacious and well-designed, featuring a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The seats provide comfort, and the interior is spacious enough for passengers and cargo alike.
- Safety: Honda’s Sensing safety suite includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and collision mitigation braking, making the Civic one of the safest choices in the compact sedan segment.
The Honda Civic is a no-brainer for anyone looking for a reliable, fuel-efficient, and well-equipped compact car.
10. Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry is a trusted sedan that delivers a smooth driving experience, ample interior space, and impressive long-term dependability. It’s a great option for those who want a mid-sized sedan with low maintenance costs.
Key Features:
- Engine: The Camry is powered by a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine that produces 203 horsepower, providing ample power for most driving situations.
- Fuel Economy: It offers a fuel economy of 8.5 L/100 km in the city and 6.1 L/100 km on the highway, making it an economical choice for a mid-sized sedan.
- Interior: The interior is upscale, with high-quality materials, a 7-inch infotainment screen, and dual-zone climate control. The seats are comfortable and supportive, with generous legroom for passengers in both the front and back.
- Safety: Toyota Safety Sense is standard, including a pre-collision system, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control, making the Camry one of the safest cars in its class.
The Toyota Camry is perfect for those who want a reliable, comfortable, and safe sedan that’s built to last.
11. Chevrolet Spark
The Chevrolet Spark is a compact car that’s perfect for city driving, offering excellent maneuverability, fuel efficiency, and an affordable price tag. It’s a reliable and cost-effective choice for buyers in search of a practical used vehicle.
Key Features:
- Engine: The Spark is powered by a 1.4L 4-cylinder engine that produces 98 horsepower. While it’s not the most powerful, it’s more than adequate for city driving.
- Fuel Economy: It offers an impressive fuel economy of 7.9 L/100 km in the city and 6.2 L/100 km on the highway, making it one of the most economical cars on the market.
- Interior: Despite its small size, the Spark’s interior is surprisingly spacious, with a 7-inch touchscreen that includes smartphone integration and a rearview camera. The seats are comfortable, and there’s a surprising amount of cargo space with the rear seats folded down.
- Safety: The Spark includes 10 airbags, rear park assist, and stability control, making it a safe choice for urban driving.
The Chevrolet Spark is an excellent choice for those who need an affordable and fuel-efficient car for navigating city streets.
Summary
Choosing the right used car under $20,000 in Canada involves balancing several factors, including reliability, performance, safety, and features. The 11 vehicles listed above provide a variety of options to suit different driving needs, from compact and fuel-efficient sedans to sporty roadsters and versatile SUVs. Whether you prioritize safety, tech features, or driving enjoyment, these cars offer great value for your money and will serve you well for years to come.
Each of these vehicles has been selected based on their proven track records, making them excellent choices for any buyer looking for a reliable and affordable used car. By choosing one of these models, you can ensure that you’re making a wise investment that aligns with your personal preferences and lifestyle.
We are the top rated used cars dealer in Mississauga, Ontario. Visit our dealership to get affordable used cars.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What's the best car to buy for under 20k?
It depends on your needs. For sportiness, choose the Mazda MX-5 Miata. For reliability, go with the Honda Civic or Toyota Camry. For a unique design, the Hyundai Veloster is great.
2. What used car has the least problems?
The Toyota Camry and Honda Civic are known for exceptional reliability and low maintenance issues.
3. What is the best mileage for a second-hand car?
Ideally, look for a car with under 100,000 kilometers, but well-maintained higher-mileage cars can also be good options.
4. What is the best used Honda CR-V to buy?
The 2016-2018 Honda CR-V models offer a great balance of reliability, safety, and modern features.