What’s the Best Second Car to Buy in 2025?

The best second car is the one that fits your budget, lifestyle, and running-cost expectations; for most households, a reliable compact hybrid or small SUV—think Toyota Corolla Hybrid, Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, or a used Chevy Bolt/Bolt EUV if you can charge at home—delivers the strongest blend of low costs, safety, and practicality. Below, we break down how to choose, top picks by use case, smart model-year “sweet spots,” and what to check before you buy.

How to Decide: Budget, Use Case, and Ownership Costs

Choosing a second car is about minimizing hassle while maximizing usefulness. Start by pinpointing what the car will do most—commuting, school runs, errands, weekend trips, or fun—and then balance reliability, fuel or electricity costs, insurance, and depreciation.

1. Define the primary job: short city trips, long commutes, family shuttle, or weekend adventure.
2. Set a total cost-of-ownership ceiling: include finance, fuel/electricity, insurance, maintenance, tires, parking, and registration.
3. Choose your powertrain: hybrid for mixed driving and low fuel costs; EV for cheap urban commuting if you can charge; efficient gas for lowest upfront price.
4. Prioritize safety: look for high crash-test scores and standard driver assists (automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring if highway driving).
5. Check availability locally: shortlist models with strong supply and reputable service networks in your area.

Sticking to these steps helps you find a second car that is inexpensive to run, easy to park, and dependable for everyday use.

Top Picks by Scenario (2025)

The following recommendations reflect current reliability trends, safety features, and real-world running costs. Choose the scenario that matches how you’ll use the car most of the time.

• City runabout, low running costs: Toyota Corolla Hybrid (2020–present), Honda Civic (2019–present), Kia Niro Hybrid (2019–present), Toyota Prius (2016–present). These are easy to park, sip fuel, and have strong reliability records.
• Small SUV for family utility: Honda CR-V (2017–present; 2023+ feels most modern), Mazda CX-5 (2017–present), Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (2019–present), Subaru Forester (2019–present). They balance cargo, comfort, and safety.
• Budget-friendly EV commuter (home charging ideal): Chevrolet Bolt/Bolt EUV (2019–2023; confirm battery recall completed), Nissan Leaf (2018–2022; best with 62 kWh pack), Hyundai Kona Electric (2019–2022), Kia Niro EV (2019–2022). Extremely low running costs, great for short hops.
• Weekend fun car: Mazda MX-5 Miata (2016–present), Subaru BRZ/Toyota 86/GR86 (2017–present), Volkswagen GTI (2018–2021). Light, engaging, and relatively affordable to maintain.
• Do-it-all on a budget: Toyota Camry (2018–present; hybrid preferred), Hyundai Elantra (2021–present), Kia Soul (2020–present), Toyota Corolla hatchback (2019–present). Simple, efficient, and roomy enough for errands.
• Teen driver or shared household car: Honda Fit (2015–2020), Subaru Impreza (2017–2023; AWD, good safety), Toyota Prius (2016–2022). Favor top safety ratings and easy visibility.
• Light truck utility without full-size costs: Ford Maverick Hybrid (2022–present) for home/DIY runs, impressive economy and versatility.
• People mover: Toyota Sienna Hybrid (2021–present) or Honda Odyssey (2018–2022) if your second car often handles carpools or weekend cargo.

Match the category to your real-world driving, then cross-shop two or three models in that lane to see which example in your market offers the best condition and service history.

Used vs. New: Where the Value Is

For a second car, used often delivers more value than new, but the right answer depends on incentives, availability, and how much you drive.

• Used advantages: lower purchase price, slower depreciation, broader selection. Great for hybrids and conventional gas cars with robust reliability histories.
• New or nearly new advantages: latest safety tech, warranty coverage, and for qualifying EVs/hybrids, potential federal/state incentives and lower financing rates.
• Certified pre-owned: a strong middle ground—factory inspection, extended warranty, and less risk than private sales, often at a modest premium.

If your second car will rack up limited miles, older-but-reliable models shine; if you want the newest safety tech or plan to keep the car long-term, CPO or nearly new can be worthwhile.

Incentives and Running Costs

In 2025, incentives and energy prices can swing the math. Factor in available credits and your charging situation to estimate total costs accurately.

• Federal EV incentives (U.S.): Many new EVs qualify for up to $7,500 with point-of-sale transfer (availability varies by model, assembly, and battery sourcing). A used EV purchased from a dealer can qualify for up to $4,000 if the sale price is under $25,000 and other conditions are met. Always verify current IRS eligibility and income limits.
• State/local rebates: Some regions offer additional EV/hybrid rebates, HOV lane access, or reduced registration fees; check your state or city program sites.
• Fuel vs. electricity: EVs typically deliver the lowest per-mile energy cost, especially with home charging off-peak; hybrids excel for mixed driving without charging needs.
• Insurance: Second cars may benefit from multi-vehicle discounts; performance models or newer EVs can carry higher premiums. Get quotes before committing.
• Maintenance: Hybrids and modern gas cars have modest maintenance; EVs skip oil changes but may have higher tire wear due to weight and torque.

Review incentives and quotes before you pick a powertrain; the right combination can shave thousands off lifetime costs.

Model-Year Sweet Spots Worth Hunting

These model-year ranges are known for a good balance of price, features, and reliability. Availability varies by market; focus on condition and service history first.

• Toyota Corolla Hybrid: 2020–2022 for value; 2023+ adds updated tech and better driver assists.
• Toyota Prius: 2016–2022 for affordability; 2023+ brings standout efficiency and performance with a price premium.
• Honda CR-V: 2020–2022 as a value play; 2023+ (new gen) for modern tech and refinement.
• Mazda CX-5: 2019–2021 for price-to-quality; 2022 refresh improves cabin and safety tech.
• Toyota RAV4 Hybrid: 2019–2021 for price; 2022–2024 for more features and safety refinements.
• Chevrolet Bolt/Bolt EUV: 2020–2023 with completed battery recall and warranty on replacement pack.
• Hyundai Kona Electric/Kia Niro EV: 2019–2022 as strong-value used EVs with solid range.
• Toyota Camry Hybrid: 2018–2022 solid all-rounder; 2023–2024 tech updates; 2025 Camry goes hybrid-only.
• Mazda MX-5 Miata: 2019–2022 for value and reliability; 2024+ adds incremental tech and safety.

Use these ranges as a starting point; a well-maintained example outside these years can still be an excellent buy.

What to Check Before You Buy

A thorough pre-purchase process prevents expensive surprises. Use this checklist for both private-party and dealer sales.

1. Service history and recalls: Ask for records; verify open recalls (especially EV battery recalls) are completed.
2. Independent inspection: Have a trusted mechanic or brand specialist inspect the car; for EVs, request a high-voltage battery health report if available.
3. Accident and title check: Pull a vehicle history report for accidents, flood, salvage, or odometer issues.
4. Test drive mix: City, highway, and a rougher surface; check for noises, alignment, brake feel, and transmission behavior.
5. ADAS features: Confirm the presence and proper operation of safety systems; ask about prior windshield or radar repairs and calibration receipts.
6. Tires and brakes: Uneven wear can signal suspension or alignment issues; price replacements into your budget.
7. Charging (EV): Confirm charging speeds, included cables, and compatibility with your home setup; test fast-charging if possible.
8. Total cost preview: Get insurance quotes and estimate energy costs before you negotiate.

Completing these steps increases confidence and strengthens your negotiating position.

Example Shortlists by Budget (USD)

Under $15,000

At this price, prioritize condition and maintenance history; mileage will be higher, but you can still find dependable, efficient cars.

• Toyota Prius (2013–2017), Toyota Corolla (2014–2018), Honda Fit (2015–2020).
• Mazda3 (2015–2018), Subaru Impreza (2017–2019), Kia Soul (2017–2019).
• Nissan Leaf (2018–2019, 40 kWh) if local range needs are modest and price is right.

Expect to budget for tires, brakes, and fluids soon after purchase; a clean history matters more than trim level here.

$15,000–$25,000

This is the sweet spot for a reliable second car with modern safety tech and lower miles.

• Toyota Corolla Hybrid (2020–2022), Honda Civic (2019–2022), Toyota Camry (2018–2021).
• Mazda CX-5 (2019–2021), Honda CR-V (2017–2020), Subaru Forester (2019–2021).
• Chevrolet Bolt (2020–2022) with completed battery recall, Hyundai Kona Electric (2019–2021).

Cross-shop two body styles (sedan vs. small SUV) to balance space needs with fuel economy and insurance costs.

$25,000–$35,000

In this range, you can target newer hybrids, CPO options, or well-equipped small SUVs.

• Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (2020–2023), Honda CR-V (2020–2023), Mazda CX-5 (2021–2023).
• Toyota Prius (2023–2024), Kia Niro Hybrid/EV (2020–2023), Hyundai Ioniq 5 (early used examples).
• Ford Maverick Hybrid (2022–2024) for mixed utility and stellar economy.

If incentives apply (especially on new/near-new EVs), your effective cost could drop into the next lower bracket.

$35,000 and up

This tier suits buyers seeking near-new tech and warranty coverage, or a second car that can substitute for the primary on long trips.

• New or nearly new hybrids (2024–2025 Toyota Camry Hybrid, 2024–2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid).
• Modern EVs where incentives apply (verify current eligibility): Hyundai Ioniq 5/6, Kia EV6, select trims of Tesla Model 3/Y or Chevrolet Equinox EV depending on qualification.

Confirm federal and state incentive eligibility, as rules and qualifying trims can change during the model year.

Regional Notes

Availability and pricing vary by country. In Europe, consider equivalents like Toyota Yaris Hybrid, Corolla Touring Sports, VW Golf/ID.3, Renault Clio Hybrid, and Skoda Octavia; in colder climates, prioritize models with reliable cold-start performance or heat pumps in EVs.

FAQ and Common Trade-offs

These quick answers address the most common dilemmas when picking a second car.

• Hybrid or EV for short trips? If you can charge at home and mostly drive locally, a used EV is cheapest to run. If charging is inconvenient, pick a hybrid.
• Small SUV or sedan? Sedans are cheaper to buy and insure; small SUVs add cargo flexibility and ride height, useful for family duty.
• Is high mileage a deal-breaker? Not necessarily. Condition, maintenance, and model reputation matter more than an odometer number alone.
• Is AWD necessary? Only if you regularly face snow, gravel, or steep unpaved roads. Good winter tires often matter more than AWD.

Balancing these trade-offs with your local conditions usually points clearly to one or two standout options.

Bottom Line

There isn’t a universal “best” second car, but there are consistently smart choices: compact hybrids (Corolla Hybrid, Prius, Camry Hybrid), small SUVs with reliability cred (CR-V, CX-5, RAV4 Hybrid), and value EVs for home chargers (Bolt/Bolt EUV, Kona Electric, Niro EV). Define the car’s main job, tally true ownership costs, verify incentives, and buy the best-maintained example you can find.

Summary

Pick your second car by use case and total cost rather than badge. For most households, a dependable hybrid or small SUV is the safest bet; if you can charge at home, a used EV can slash running costs. Focus on condition, safety features, and verified maintenance, and consider model-year sweet spots to stretch your budget further.

What is the best car to buy 2nd hand?

The most reliable used cars in South Africa: Brands & models to…

1. Toyota. There is a reason that Toyota is the global juggernaut that it is.
2. Suzuki. Suzuki followed a proven recipe and broke Volkswagen’s stranglehold on entry-level vehicles.
3. Volkswagen.
4. Isuzu.
5. Hyundai.
6. GWM.
7. Kia.
8. Ford.

What is the most reliable used car to buy?

The Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Toyota RAV4, and Honda CR-V are consistently recommended as some of the most reliable used cars, with Toyota and Honda being top-tier brands known for longevity and lower maintenance costs. Other strong choices include Lexus models, the Toyota 4Runner, and the Toyota Prius. Key factors in finding a reliable used car are selecting a reputable brand, choosing a model known for durability like the Camry or Accord, and ensuring proper maintenance and a solid vehicle history report. 
Top Brands & Models

• Toyota: Consistently ranks highest for reliability, known for long-lasting vehicles and low ownership costs. 
  • Camry: A midsize sedan praised for its dependability, smooth ride, and value. 
  • RAV4: A practical and efficient compact SUV that performs well even after many miles. 
  • 4Runner: A highly-rated SUV that has consistently achieved top reliability for over a decade. 
  • Prius: An eco-friendly and dependable option with excellent fuel economy and proven hybrid battery life. 
• Honda: A brand known for long-lasting vehicles with low maintenance costs. 
  • Accord: A reliable sedan that can easily surpass 300,000 miles, with specific 2013-2017 models being highly recommended. 
  • CR-V: An older model that is still highly reliable and easy to maintain. 
• Lexus: Often ranks at the top of reliability charts alongside Toyota, offering a combination of dependability and luxury. 

What to Look For

• Brand Reputation: Brands like Toyota, Lexus, Honda, and Acura have a consistent history of producing reliable cars. 
• Model History: Models with a long history of proven reliability, such as the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord, are safer bets. 
• Maintenance Records: Proper and consistent maintenance is crucial for any used car’s longevity. 
• Vehicle History Report: Always check the vehicle’s history to understand its past, especially for high-mileage cars. 
• Conservative Redesigns: Brands with a history of making conservative, incremental design changes tend to have more reliable vehicles. 

What car has the least problems?

Lexus and Toyota consistently rank as having the fewest problems, with Lexus topping J.D. Power’s latest vehicle dependability study and Consumer Reports naming them among the most reliable brands. Both brands are known for making conservative design choices that improve reliability, a factor that makes them dependable as new cars and as they age. 
Top Brands for Reliability

• Lexus: Opens in new tabThis luxury brand consistently leads in dependability studies, like the recent J.D. Power U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study where it ranked highest among all brands for two consecutive years. 
• Toyota: Opens in new tabOften praised for its reliable mass-market vehicles, Toyota is another top performer in reliability rankings. 

Why These Brands Are Reliable 

• Conservative Redesigns: Unlike some manufacturers who introduce many new features at once, Lexus and Toyota often adopt an incremental approach, gradually improving their entire product lines.
• Proven Durability: Their commitment to reliable engineering means their vehicles remain dependable both when new and as they get older.

Other Reliable Options

• Subaru: Opens in new tabThis brand also ranks very highly for reliability in recent studies by Consumer Reports. 
• Mazda: Opens in new tabMazda also shows strong reliability ratings, often placing high in the rankings behind Lexus and Toyota. 

How to Find a Reliable Car

• Consult Reliability Surveys: Check reputable sources like Consumer Reports and J.D. Power for detailed reliability data on specific makes and models. 
• Look at Brand History: Brands with a consistent history of reliability are a good indicator of future performance. 

What is the second best car brand?

2. Lexus. Although the luxury brand of Toyota has been toppled by Mini, it was at the top of our dependability chart for the previous seven years and still put in a good performance this year. The reasons for this are twofold: its cars rarely go wrong, and when they do, its dealers fix the problems for free.