It's no secret that new cars are out of reach for many shoppers. On average, a new vehicle now costs over $47,000 – an all-time-high – according to Kelley Blue Book. This makes paying for a new car a challenge for many users. With most shiny brand-new cars slightly out of the reasonable price range, consumers who can't afford to buy one are forced to look elsewhere in order to avoid overextending themselves on car costs.
Sadly, the thought of ending up with a vehicle beset by fault after fault makes many people apprehensive about buying a used model. Unaddressed recalls, hidden damages, and poor maintenance make it even harder to trust the process. But used cars aren't always bad news. In fact, the market is replete with quality vehicles that are as enjoyable and reassuring as brand-new models.
If you can't afford a new American car but still want something you can depend on, we've identified some reliable vehicles that can provide a no-hassle ownership experience well into six-figure mileages. Please read on to learn.
10 2020 Chevrolet Impala
The Chevy Impala is a capable large sedan that often gets overlooked in favor of other more opulent options. Nonetheless, it is a roomy, comfortable machine with a cushioned and relaxing ride.
The Impala also offers excellent utility, including easy access to the rear as well as above-average leg and headroom. The 2020 Chevrolet Impala scores 82 out of 100 in J.D. Power's predicted reliability rating.
9 2018 Ford Escape
If you're after an efficient compact SUV that provides comfortable seating for up to five, then a used Ford Escape might be worth putting your money into.
Built with simplicity, ease of maintenance, and convenience in mind, the Ford Escape enjoys an excellent reliability record, scoring 4 out of 5 in J.D Power's reliability rating for 2018.
8 2019 Ford F-150
One of America's most desirable trucks, the Ford F-150 has been purposely designed to withstand the punishing rigors that come with your active lifestyle.
Whether you're into farming, manufacturing, or construction, buying the F-150 means getting a capable truck that's insensitive to the tough everyday conditions. This full-size pickup truck scores 4 out of 5 in U.S. News & World Report predicted reliability reviews for 2019.
7 2020 Ram 1500
Ram Trucks doesn't just make trucks. It builds workhorses with a rich heritage of toughness, dependability, and proven capability at a bargain price – the best proof of that being the Ram 1500.
The 1500's luxurious cabin, utility, power, and exceptional ride quality make it a robust full-size pickup truck capable of making light work of applications that appear impossible to many. The Ram 1500 has a great predicted reliability score of 85 out of 100.
6 2019 Buick Envision
Sophisticated and well-equipped, the Buick Envision is an impressive luxury compact SUV loaded with a host of advanced driver safety and convenience technologies.
The first American-badged crossover SUV to be manufactured in China, the Envision has proven itself to be a safe, reliable vehicle available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive. The 2019 Buick Envision earns a predicted reliability rating of four out of five.
5 2020 Ford Fusion
After 15 years in production, the Ford Fusion was discontinued in 2020 as part of a shift away from sedans and small cars. However, that does not detract from the fact that the 2020 Fusion is one of the most uncompromised midsize cars you can buy used.
Available in S, SE, SEL, and Titanium trim levels, the Ford Fusion has a wide choice of powertrains and an extensive list of standard safety features. Buying this car also means you may benefit from available premium features such as a heated steering wheel, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a moonroof, and other niceties.
The 2020 Ford Fusion has a predicted reliability score of 87 out of 100.
4 2020 Dodge Charger
The Dodge Charger is a bold, fast, well-equipped machine that's perfect for performance-minded consumers who are looking for a sedan that communicates precisely what one would expect in a large car.
It brings roomy seats that provide plenty of support and comfort as well as a wide range of robust powertrains, including a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 that develops an astounding 707 horsepower. Plus, the 2020 Charger doesn't break that easily, boasting an impressive predicted reliability score of 89 out of 100.
3 2019 Chevrolet Cruze
The Chevy Cruze is a spacious, sturdy, and reliable compact car with dynamic driving performance, reassuring manners, and enduring reliability.
Packed with an impressive list of tech, safety, and convenience features, the Cruze's quality is right up there with the best small cars. This vehicle is available in sedan and hatchback body styles and has an excellent predicted reliability rating of 4.5 out of five.
2 2019 Buick Encore
'Exceptionally reliable' is the best way to sum up the 2019 Buick Encore. Its driving experience might feel underpowered due to the equipped 138-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine, but this subcompact SUV is undoubtedly one of those great American vehicles you can buy.
The 2019 Encore has agile handling, razor-sharp steering, intuitive technology, and a premium interior that wraps occupants in comfort. Best of all, it boasts a stellar predicted reliability rating of 4.5 out of five.
1 2019 Chevrolet Equinox
The 2019 Chevrolet Equinox is quite simply the most reliable American vehicle you can buy used today. While other vehicles might have more premium-feeling materials and better base powertrain, Equinox's reliability is second to none.
This compact has generous equipment, low running cost, and an ample, comfortable interior that provides access to modern in-car technology. The 2019 Chevrolet Equinox's reliability rating is a perfect five out of five.