The Best Used Cars to Buy If You Live in a City

Living and driving in the city means you’re faced with parking constraints, narrow streets, and the constant stop and go of traffic. With all of that said when you’re ready to purchase a used vehicle these are all things that you need to keep in mind. So let’s take a look at some great options.

Must-haves

  • Excellent handling capability for the tight narrow streets
  • Compact so it can fit into tight parking spaces
  • Excellent fuel economy
  • Budget-friendly
  • A “green” car

Top five cars

Keeping our criteria in mind, it’s time to list our top five options.

  • Ford C-Max Hybrid: This hybrid vehicle was introduced in 2012 and offers drivers the ability to plug in their vehicle and take advantage of the “Green” features. It's easy to drive and the battery should be more than enough power for city driving. There is the plug-in hybrid and hybrid version available, both of which have incredible fuel economy.

  • Hyundai Sonata: This vehicle stands on its own as a peppy, easy to handle, midsize sedan. However, if you really want to save on fuel economy opt for the hybrid version of the car.

  • Dodge Dart: If you're the techie type, then the Dodge Dart was created with you in mind. This one has a variety of high-end tech features, yet the price tag of the vehicle remains reasonable. Kelley Blue Book lists its specs as city 25/ highway 36/mpg on the 2015 model, which also means you'll be getting great fuel economy.

  • Chevrolet Trax: Just because you live in the city doesn't mean you can't have an SUV. The Trax is a subcompact SUV which means it doesn't feel as bulky as a traditional one, yet you still will feel as though you've driving something with power and size.

  • Honda CR-V: Here’s another SUV that performs exceptionally well when it comes to handling, has decent fuel economy, and holds up well over time.

Final thoughts

There are all kinds of factors to consider when you live in the city and are searching for a vehicle. A test drive will prove to be incredibly important in the process. In addition, it never hurts to get a second opinion, or even a first opinion, on the best options out there. YourMechanic is always on-hand to do a pre-purchase car inspection when needed.


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5,137
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Jermaine

25 years of experience
382 reviews
Jermaine
25 years of experience
Dodge Durango V6-3.6L - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - Silver Spring, Maryland
Awesome mechanic! Very reliable !! Awesome personality! Explained everything and now I feel less stressed.
Hyundai Ioniq - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - Chevy Chase, Maryland
Jermaine was very friendly, efficient and professional. He kindly explained to me those things that did not score well in the service report, so that it didn't come as a surprise, and I would know what to do about it.

Caz

18 years of experience
146 reviews
Caz
18 years of experience
Mercedes-Benz GLA250 L4-2.0L Turbo - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - Woodstock, Georgia
Caz was extremely knowledgeable, personable and provided excellent service. He was on time for the appointment and answered and explained everything I asked concerning my vehicle. I will definitely use the company again and I would love to have Caz as my mechanic! Excellent!
Mercedes-Benz S550 - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - Mableton, Georgia
Caz Arrived on time much earlier than scheduled. He was very professional in inspecting the car and made excellent recommendations.

Brian

19 years of experience
138 reviews
Brian
19 years of experience
Lexus RX350 V6-3.5L - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - McDonough, Georgia
Brian was very informational and knowledgeable about the Inspection. He throughly inform me what issues on vehicle. Great Mechanic !!!
Ford Transit-350 HD - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - McDonough, Georgia
Great service. Honest , respectful and truly cares about making sure you get the best options possible at an affordable price. Finding a mechanic you can trust is rare. I highly recommend Brain.

Jay

24 years of experience
262 reviews
Jay
24 years of experience
Honda CR-V L4-2.4L - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - Glendale Heights, Illinois
Jay did a great job! Excellent at taking time to explain things about your car. And provided sound recommendation on repair. Courteous and responsive. I would definitely recommend Jay!
BMW 535i xDrive - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - Des Plaines, Illinois
Excellent ! Jay is very detail oriented and forward thinking. I would highly recommend him to anyone.

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