New report: The best used cars to buy in 2019

If you’re looking to buy a used car soon, CarGurus is out with a brand new list of vehicles that you may want to consider.

The automotive research and shopping website identified the best recent-year used car models by analyzing factors like projected value retention, driver satisfaction, expert reviews, and model popularity and availability.

“CarGurus knows that research is the bedrock of a great car-buying experience and we hope that our third annual Best Used Car Awards help today’s car shoppers in that process,” said Matt Smith, Senior Editor at CarGurus. “These award-winning vehicles are popular, plentiful, well-reviewed and—based on our projections—should retain their value for years to come. For people shopping for a great used car, these vehicles are certainly worth considering.”

CarGurus announces 2019 best used cars list 

Here are the winners of the 2019 CarGurus Best Used Car Awards and the vehicles that came in second and third place in each of the 16 automotive categories:

Clark’s car buying tips 

If there’s a vehicle on this list that you like, head to Consumer Reports to read detailed vehicle ratings and reviews.

In general, money expert Clark Howard recommends that you buy a car that’s two or three years old because brand new cars begin to lose value the second they’re driven off the dealer’s lot.

With a used vehicle, you don’t eat that depreciation — a key benefit to buying a pre-owned car.

Once you find a used car, follow these steps:

1. Check the vehicle history report. Run the VIN through CARFAX.com to find out if it’s a flood vehicle or if it has been in a horrible accident.
2. Have the used vehicle inspected by an independent mechanic. One of the key things to know about buying a used car is that you buy “as is.” CarFax alone is not enough of a check; you need to take this additional step.

Finally, arrange auto financing in advance! Look at credit unions, online banks or even traditional banks. Only take dealer financing if it beats any other offer you have.

More Clark.com stories you may like: 

• 7 steps to buying a good used car
• Buying gas from a station on this list is better for your car
• Best and worst auto insurance companies