Smart Money: 10Best Used Cars Under Five Years Old That Won't Break the Bank

Every year, our 10Best awards highlight new cars that nail the sweet spot of value, practicality, and driving fun. But let's face it—not everyone is shopping for a brand-new ride. That's why we dug into recent history to find some award-winning used cars that still feel fresh without the fresh-off-the-lot price tag.

We focused on models that are no more than five years old, with clean histories and fewer than 100,000 miles on the clock. The goal: three of the most affordable paths into a 10Best-winning used vehicle from 2021 or later. Think Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Lexus ES—all perennial winners that hold up remarkably well. The Accord delivers sharp handling and a spacious cabin. The Camry offers bulletproof reliability and a smooth ride. The Lexus ES brings luxury-level comfort for a fraction of its original cost.

These cars were chosen because they balance low ownership costs with genuine driving enjoyment. A 2021 Accord LX, for example, can often be found for under $22,000 with reasonable mileage. The Camry LE from the same year hovers around $20,000. Even a 2022 Lexus ES 350 can dip below $30,000 on the used market—a steal for a near-luxury sedan.

Before you buy, get a pre-purchase inspection from a trusted independent shop. A thorough check ensures that car's history matches its condition. It's a small step that can save you thousands down the road.

David, a longtime automotive journalist, has tracked every vehicle he's tested since his intern days. He can parallel-park a school bus and once drove a Lincoln Town Car in reverse at 63 mph. After a stint working on autonomous vehicles, he's back writing about the cars we actually drive—and the ones you should consider buying.