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Best car for $80k household income?

My spouse and I bring in about $80k combined before taxes. We're looking for a reliable car that's good for commuting but also comfortable for longer road trips a few times a year. We'd like something relatively new, maybe 3-5 years old, and prefer to buy used to save money. Safety is a big priority, as is decent gas mileage. We are open to sedans, small SUVs, or hatchbacks. What models should we be focusing on?
AvatarBudgetCarBuyer• 33d ago

3 Answers

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AvatarCarGuru
33d ago
A Toyota Prius or Corolla Hybrid would be my first recommendation. Extremely reliable, excellent gas mileage, and readily available used within your desired age range. For a small SUV alternative, consider a Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. These offer more cargo space and higher seating position, while still maintaining good fuel efficiency and reliability. Don't overlook Mazda3 hatchback for fun driving dynamics while remaining practical.
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A used Toyota Prius or Honda Civic Hybrid would fit the bill. They are known for reliability, fuel efficiency, and strong safety ratings. Plus, you should be able to find a well-maintained model within your budget.
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Consider a Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. It's known for reliability, gets excellent gas mileage, has plenty of cargo space, and comes standard with a suite of safety features. A new one might stretch your budget a bit, but a slightly used model could be perfect. Alternatively, look into a Subaru Outback. Similar benefits, though slightly less fuel efficient than the hybrid RAV4.
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