Bypass SUVs in favor of a sensible 4-door sedan, and you’ve already made a great choice for your family. They may not be as flashy as SUVs, but sedans offer a great balance between frugality and fun, with a dash of practicality.
Used sedans tend to be a better value than SUVs, too. Here are 10 of the best used family sedans under $15,000.
1. 2017 Chevrolet Malibu
Nearly identical to a 2022 model, the 2017 Chevy Malibu slides in under our price cap and delivers up-to-date style at a reasonable price. These cars offer up a comfortable interior and an uncomplicated infotainment system. See 2017 Chevrolet Malibu models for sale
2. 2016 Ford Fusion
With its Aston Martin-lite styling, a 40-mpg-plus hybrid option, and plush interior, the Ford Fusion satisfies on a wide number of levels. This stylish choice also boasts an up-to-date infotainment system in most trim levels. See 2016 Ford Fusion models for sale
3. 2014 Honda Accord
Sleek styling and jewel-like assembly quality make the Honda Accord a must-shop for anyone in the market for a used car. These also happen to be great handling sedans with spacious, comfortable interiors that hardly lack features, especially in EX and higher trims. See 2014 Honda Accord models for sale
4. 2016 Hyundai Sonata
This high-value sedan was a great buy when new and makes for just as strong a purchase on the used market. Shop for a Sonata with the available turbocharged 4-cylinder for an excellent facsimile of a sports sedan with a roomy interior and lots of comfort and convenience. See 2016 Hyundai Sonata models for sale
5. 2017 Kia Optima
If you’re looking for a used family sedan, the Kia Optima is more than just a pretty face. This spacious 4-door has a comfortable, well-equipped interior and can be had in a thrifty hybrid configuration. See 2017 Kia Optima models for sale
6. 2015 Mazda6
The biggest Mazda sedan boasts clean lines inside and out and a 4-cylinder engine that nets great fuel economy. Its poised chassis makes it an entertaining cruiser on a winding road, too, so be sure to add this slick sedan to your shopping list. See 2015 Mazda6 models for sale
7. 2017 Nissan Altima
It’s possible to find a much newer Nissan Altima with lower miles, so if you’re seeking a $15,000 4-door that may still boast that new-car smell — and may even still be covered by a little bit of its factory powertrain warranty — shop the comfortable, roomy Altima. See 2017 Nissan Altima models for sale
8. 2014 Subaru Legacy
Legacy assets include a spacious interior, a comfortable ride, and standard all-wheel drive. For 2014, The Legacy was available with an advanced suite of crash-avoidance tech called EyeSight. You may be able to find one that sneaks under our budget with this top safety gear. See 2014 Subaru Legacy models for sale
9. 2014 Toyota Camry
The evergreen Camry is always a good choice, thanks in part to the automaker’s stellar reputation for quality. We’ll let you in on a little secret, too: the Camry can be great fun when fitted with the optional V6 engine, or it can be ultra-thrifty in hybrid guise. See 2014 Toyota Camry models for sale
10. 2016 Volkswagen Passat
Behind its conservative German styling sits a spacious sedan with excellent rear-seat room and decent turbocharged punch. The Passat makes up for its limited thrills with a sophisticated feel and timeless styling that belie its sub-$15,000 price tag. See 2016 Volkswagen Passat models for sale