10 Best Used Compact Cars Under $15,000 (2024)

2019 Chevrolet Cruze Front Left Side in Grey

2016 Dodge Dart Front Left Side in Silver

2018 Ford Focus Front Left Side in Blue

2018 Honda Civic Front Left Side in White

1. 2017-2019 Chevrolet Cruze

The second-generation Chevy Cruze didn’t last very long before being discontinued, but it’s a solid compact car. Available as a sedan or a hatchback, the Cruze benefits from an excellent infotainment system, a sleek look, and great fuel economy, especially with the available diesel engine. Find a used Chevrolet Cruze for sale.

2. 2014-2016 Dodge Dart

The Dodge Dart was the brand’s final compact car and it did a nice job bringing a muscular attitude to the compact segment. Don’t expect Hellcat-like performance, but the Dart offers agile handling, good safety scores, and a great available Uconnect infotainment system. We recommend the available 2.4-liter engine, which is easy to find in this price range. Find a used Dodge Dart for sale.

3. 2015-2018 Ford Focus

The Ford Focus is on the sporty side of compact cars, especially if you can find the turbocharged ST model at this price point. No matter which model you go with, the Focus has sharp handling, an upscale interior, and some nice available tech features that you might be surprised to find in an affordable used compact. Find a used Ford Focus for sale.

4. 2016-2018 Honda Civic

The Honda Civic is one of the easiest used cars to recommend in any class. Early examples of the excellent 10th-generation model can be found under $15k and offer a comfortable interior, enjoyable driving manners, and good fuel economy all in a stylish package. It can be had as a sedan, coupe, or a hatchback, meaning there’s a Civic for everyone. Find a used Honda Civic for sale.

5. 2017-2018 Hyundai Elantra

The Hyundai Elantra is a great bargain in used compact cars. It’s more roomy and comfortable than you might expect for a small Hyundai and it’s packed with modern, user-friendly technology. On top of the sedan, the sporty Elantra GT hatchback model is practical and fun compact for a reasonable price. Find a used Hyundai Elantra for sale.

6. 2017-2018 Kia Forte

The Kia Forte got a facelift for the 2017 model year with refreshed styling, new available active safety features, and a more efficient base engine, making it an excellent commuter. Also, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay became available starting in 2017 so it’s a good car to shop for if you want modern smartphone connectivity. Find a used Kia Forte for sale.

7. 2015-2018 Mazda3

The Mazda3 sedan and hatchback is a sporty option in affordable compacts. It has two engine options, both of which are peppy and efficient, and the handling is among the sharpest in its class. You also get a high-quality interior and a modern infotainment system all at an agreeable price point. Find a used Mazda3 for sale.

8. 2016-2018 Nissan Sentra

The Nissan Sentra got an update for 2016 that brought re-tuned steering and suspension plus improved sound insulation and more available features. This helped modernize the Sentra and keep it competitive. The interior is pretty roomy for a compact car, making it a good option if you plan on having frequent back seat passengers. Find a used Nissan Sentra for sale.

9. 2014-2016 Subaru Impreza

Looking for an affordable used car with all-wheel drive? A used Subaru Impreza is a great option since AWD is standard on every trim. Available as a hatchback or sedan, the Impreza also benefits from a spacious interior and a smooth ride. It’s also pretty good on gas for an AWD car. Find a used Subaru Impreza for sale.

10. 2012-2015 Toyota Prius

What the Toyota Prius lacks in excitement, it more than makes up for in practicality. A used Prius is an excellent value not only when you buy it, but the whole time you own it thanks to incredible fuel economy and a rock-solid record of reliability. It adds up to a super efficient, super reliable compact car with very low ownership costs. Find a used Toyota Prius for sale.