Looking for a car with a budget of half a million rubles, you can hardly expect to find a lot of great deals at this price and you probably expect the worst. Fortunately, today's cars, even the least expensive ones, are much better than many people think. There are examples with good performance and fuel economy, comfortable interiors and plenty of amenities to relieve stress during everyday trips.
If low cost is a priority, your best bet is the aftermarket. Although used vehicles that are not covered by the warranty are inherently riskier purchases, careful research can still reveal reliable, profitable and attractive models, costing within 500 thousand rubles. We have compiled a list of several worthy candidates, giving preference to models with good quality and long-term reliability. These cars do not require large investments and last surprisingly long.
Buying an inexpensive used car has its pitfalls. As a general rule, bargain priced used cars usually have high mileage. They may have some mechanical problems and rust out of sight. This does not bode well for buyers on a budget. The situation worsens with age: for 500,000 or less, it is unlikely that you will be able to find a copy in good condition younger than 8 years old. However, there are great deals in this price range as well.
The following models are designed by reputable brands with a solid reputation for quality construction and good looks. They are not capricious in operation, inexpensive to repair and maintain, convenient and durable. These machines do not impress with performance, luxury or technology, but have good overall ratings. They should be easy to live with from day to day. Here are 10 options worth considering to get you started.
1. Toyota Corolla
The Corolla has an excellent reputation when it comes to value, reliability and everyday ease of use. Sitting behind the wheel, you will immediately feel comfortable: all the main working elements are where you want.
The controls are precise and easy, despite being described as "boring" by many owners; the suspension is tuned for comfort and keeps the cabin quiet and calm. Trunk space is decent for its class, with plenty of room in both rows, although large adults will find it cramped in the back.
With an engine of 110-124 hp the machine will not impress you with its speed, but it will be commendably economical. If you can afford a 2009 or newer model, it would make more sense to go that route, if only because the safety ratings are higher.
2. ScionxB
While the tC may have been Scion's best seller, the xB was the brand's early success. The square minivan looks solid and unusual enough to attract attention on the road. It has enough room for tall passengers and bulky luggage, and its 2.4-liter engine provides enough power for everyday driving. A stellar track record of reliability, of course, comes as a bonus.
Scion has equipped all xB models since 2009 with air conditioning, power windows, keyless entry, cruise control, and a six-speaker Pioneer audio system. A five-speed manual transmission was standard, while a four-speed automatic was optional.
The first generation is smaller than later 2008-2015 versions but tends to get better reviews and ratings from owners. There are not many such cars in Russia, so originality is guaranteed to you. The XB was unlike any other car or crossover when it was new, and it still is different.
3. Suzuki Grand Vitara
In 2012, after years of declining sales, Suzuki announced that it was withdrawing from certain automotive markets, but left behind some attractive used car deals like the Grand Vitara. This often-overlooked compact crossover features a torquey V6, a sturdy ladder-frame chassis and a choice of manual or automatic transmissions.
The available all-wheel drive system provides good off-road capability, and the five-seat saloon although trimmed in cheap hard plastic, it offers comfortable seats and a solid cargo space.
Ultimately, the Japanese brand didn't sell many Grand Vitara, at least compared to the popular Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. However, you will find quite a few used models at a significant discount compared to the competition.
4. Suzuki SX4
Like its fellow Vitara, the Suzuki SX4 has been a victim of the brand's departure from the leading car markets. It was offered in sedan and hatchback body styles and was one of the few compact cars with all-wheel drive in its time, making it popular with 4WD fans.
Inside, the car is roomier than you'd expect, especially in a hatchback, and feels nimble and responsive on the open road. Engine performance, however, is not impressive: the SX4 is equipped with a four-cylinder unit with a capacity of 150 hp. with., connected to a six-speed manual or stepless automatic (CVT).
5. Hyundai Elantra
The Elantra isn't particularly flashy to look at or exciting to drive, but it does the basics well. The interior is well thought out, neatly finished and spacious. The suspension is adept at softening bumps in the road, and the steering feels nicely weighted and responsive.
This machine has also earned a good reputation for reliability, ruggedness and durability. Hyundai offered Elantra in the form of sedans and hatchbacks - the latter were called Touring. A 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a five-speed manual transmission were standard, with a 4-speed AT optional.
6. Mazda2
This machine is compact, agile and fun to drive on winding highways and crowded city streets. It has a harsh suspension, but responsive steering, powerful brakes and a peppy four-cylinder engine that revs up quickly.
Models usually went on sale with a five-speed manual transmission, a four-speed automatic was available as an option. Among the advantages are very comfortable front seats and decent cargo space for such a small car.
The Mazda2 ranks well for reliability, though its crash safety ratings leave a lot to be desired. Among the shortcomings is also cramped space in the back row.
7. Mazda6
It is always nice when reliability is combined with pleasure. The Mazda6 has been impressive since its first generation with its agile and calm, confident ride, as well as its dynamic four- and six-cylinder engines.
Inside, the interior is upscale with decent passenger space in both rows, and the exterior is pleasing too, according to most observers. All variations, available as four-door sedans and five-door hatchbacks in different trim levels, built a strong reputation for reliability, comfort and economy, especially with four-cylinder engines.
8. Ford Explorer
Ford knows how to build durable cars. Its products are present in almost all automotive classes and price categories. It's no wonder the Explorer, one of the most respectable members of the SUV family, is so popular. It boasts a spacious interior that can accommodate up to seven seats, glides smoothly over rough roads, and handles fairly well for a large, heavy SUV.
None of the several engine options, including the V6 and V8, are super economical, but all are great for everyday driving and towing lighter trailers. We suggest sticking with the 2007-2010 versions as they are the least problematic compared to other low price used Explorers.
>>>>Ideas for life | NOVATE.RU<<<<
9. Kia Optima
The second-generation versions are a bargain for used sedan buyers. The 2006-2010 models are inexpensive, easy to drive and offer plenty of passenger and cargo space. They have proven themselves well in terms of crash safety, and their four- and six-cylinder engines have been running trouble-free for years.
It's hard to find low mileage examples, but paradoxically, buyers are more likely to run into issues with later 2011 models. and newer.
10. Ford Focus
It would seem, what could be the difference between several model years? And how can an older car be better than a newer one? The third-generation Ford Focus (from 2012 to 2018) has gone through a wave of powertrain problems that have made it a risky choice for used car buyers. Another thing is the previous generation versions released from 2008 to 2011.
They have a good track record, a strong 2.0-liter engine, balanced driving dynamics and a high safety rating. And they are usually much cheaper.
But no matter how reliable the machine is, there may be reasons why her engine dynamics will drop.
A source: https://novate.ru/blogs/261021/61009/