There is a car for every budget

The time has come, a car purchase is right on the horizon. Maybe someone just got a driver’s license, or you’re looking for an upgrade or even just looking to change things up. The good thing is, regardless of your budget, you can definitely find just the right used car in Kitchener Waterloo for your needs. Split up into four different price range, there should be a solid option for everyone here.

For under $15k, it’s difficult to find a more versatile choice than a pre-owned Ford Focus. You can commonly find good early third-generation examples starting as low as $9,000, and later top range ‘Titanium’ trim models starting in at $11,000. The Focus is truly the manifestation of the phrase ‘jack of all trades’, what you’ll find very likable is its handling aptitude, refined ride quality, quality fit and finish with plenty of new tech and a practical interior. While the engine option is very limited, the 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated inline-4 is jaunty and relatively efficient, with a flex fuel variant available. 2015 models brought about a 1.0-litre turbocharged inline-3. You may want to avoid the notoriously problematic 6-speed Powershift automatic though.

I know what you’re saying, what if you want a properly big car? Fret not, the second-generation Chevrolet Equinox has you covered. With 2012 mid-range LT models becoming available at $13,000, the Equinox is now a good choice as an affordable second-hand SUV. What is being offered at this price point is a very pragmatic SUV with a comfortable ride. The back-seats are particularly capacious, and the interior sports a premium look. Admittedly the looks, especially compared to the latest Equinox, is beginning to age, the handling isn’t invigorating, and examples at $13k have some miles put onto them. However, the 2.4-litre inline-4 is respectable in performance and efficiency, and AWD is available.

Yes, it’s another Ford, but bear with me here. You can find a 2016 Fusion at around $17,000 with payments of just $49 weekly with $0 down (o.a.c), and if you stretch your budget, a 2017 model for $20,000. The second-generation used Ford Fusions are generally very well-received, offering a handsome look, punchy turbocharged engines, plenty of tech, and an appealing interior aesthetics. Interior quality is again, excellent, and offers good space for passengers and cargo. However, the infotainment system is said to be frustrating to use, and the efficiency isn’t quite up to par.

If you want a dependable cargo hauler, the Dodge Ram is a compelling rugged pick-up truck, with a variety of 2011 and 2012 Ram 1500 HEMI V8 models available for under $25,000. What you have here is an incredibly practical truck with plenty of interior room and a strong 5.7-litre HEMI V8 making 390 hp and 407 lb-ft of torque with a towing capability of 10,000 pounds. While the interior may seem a bit spartan, it’s sturdy and tough, ready for work, and there is a good amount of tech available. The seats are also comfortable, and you may be surprised at the tremendous ride quality for a truck. You’d want a 2012 model ideally, as it gets a 6-speed automatic, rather than the 5-speed found on 2011 models.

You can also find newer Dodge Rams for less than 30k

If you have a bigger family, you’d want a 7-seater, which the Pathfinder is. The 2017 SV models are coming in at just below $30,000, and it’s the facelift year for the third-generation Pathfinders. The 2017 refresh definitely breathed new life into the Pathfinder with the new direct injected 3.5-litre naturally-aspirated V6 engine offering strong performance at a reasonable efficiency. The CVT transmission has been revised too, aiding to reduce drone. The interior hasn’t changed much, but its still appealing with robust material choices, it also gets a new 8″ infotainment touchscreen system. The third-row seats are easily accessible, but loses out in space offered compared to rivals. Cargo space is also less impressive than contemporary competitors.

This is by no means a comprehensive list of options at each price point, but merely a starting point. There are dozens of models out there at these price range, and it’s getting increasingly difficult to find a genuinely detestable car to buy. Shop around, and you may be taken aback by the selection available for your price point.