Top 10 used cars in Missouri

Clement Pre-Owned, a used car dealership, presents its best  ten used vehicles, spotlighting dependability and safety in a background of escalating car prices. 

In 2024, car prices have surged by 21% compared to the beginning of 2020. This increase is partly due to inflation and higher interest rates, making car financing more expensive. We curate our selection of top used cars with a focus on safety, reliability, and maintenance costs. Moreover, our list is in line with the increasing popularity of electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids, which reflects a noteworthy trend in the industry.

Clement Pre-Owned's best-used cars rating encompasses a range of categories, from subcompact SUVs to electric vehicles. Here are our experts’ picks in the Missouri used car market:

The Subaru Crosstrek is a comfortable everyday companion that will shine in inclement weather thanks to standard all-wheel drive. It's also economical, offering the best fuel economy (29 mpg) among non-hybrid SUVs with AWD. 

Also, the Subaru Crosstrek has earned an impressive Reliability Rating from Repair Pal, placing it at the top among 26 compact SUVs. Its annual repair cost of $492 is lower than the average, making it an even more attractive choice in the present market. The Crosstrek is a solid choice for those in Missouri who want a fuss-free daily driver with some off-road ability.

The Subaru Forester checks all the boxes for affordability, space, and capability. With a highway fuel economy of over 30 mpg, it offers an economical option for long drives. Its tall windows and high roof create ample space in both seating rows and a roomy cargo hold. 

With standard all-wheel drive and greater ground clearance than many rivals, the Forester is popular in snowy regions of Missouri, effortlessly navigating deeper drifts without scraping its underbelly. Moreover, it comes with generous standard advanced driver aids, with additional options available as stand-alone features or bundled into higher trim levels.

The Prius Prime stands out with its sleek and stylish design, but what's truly thrilling are its impressive all-electric range, exceptional fuel economy, and delightful driving experience. Keeping it charged regularly can significantly cut down on gas expenses. 

While the Prius may have limited space for rear passengers and cargo, it compensates with its ability to maintain power on the road while delivering outstanding fuel efficiency, capable of covering over 40 miles solely on electric power. Additionally, its intuitive infotainment system adds to the overall user experience.

The Mazda 3 is a versatile compact car available in sedan or hatchback variants. There are two engine options: a four-cylinder or an upgraded turbocharged four-cylinder that includes standard all-wheel drive. While it may not match some rivals in terms of practicality or efficiency, the Mazda 3 excels in one crucial aspect: driving enjoyment. What also sets the Mazda 3 apart is its unique blend of style and refinement, making it a more satisfying choice compared to many other small hatchbacks.

Also, having an average yearly repair expense of $433, the Mazda 3 boasts excellent ownership costs. Moreover, repairs are generally not very severe, and while issues may occur with an average frequency, major problems are rare.

Hybrid technology has expanded beyond quirky-looking economy vehicles. It's now impressive to see exceptional efficiency in a car as spacious as the Camry. Toyota's midsize sedan accommodates adults comfortably in front and rear seats, boasts a capacious trunk, and achieves fuel economy nearly on par with the Prius. The Camry Hybrid is a spacious, comfortable, and affordable sedan. Key advantages include high fuel efficiency and best safety technology.

The average annual total repair and maintenance costs on a Toyota Camry amount to $388. This stands in contrast to the average of $526 for midsize cars and $652 across all vehicle models. The Camry is a highly reliable vehicle on the road.

The Ford Maverick is a compact pickup truck and represents the best budget-friendly option within the Blue Oval brand's lineup. Departing from the conventional body-on-frame construction seen in larger used trucks, the Maverick adopts a unibody setup, specifically derived from the Bronco Sport's platform. While it may not fit the traditional truck image your grandfather might prefer, it boasts a reasonably sized bed and impressive towing and payload capacities for its compact size. 

Primary benefits include a low starting price for base versions, a plethora of available equipment to enhance towing and off-roading capabilities, excellent fuel economy from the hybrid power-train, and quick acceleration from the optional turbocharged engine.

The Model Y is an attractive and roomy electric SUV. Its advantages include a generous range, impressive acceleration (especially in the Performance model), access to the convenient Supercharger network, and ample seating and cargo space. As Tesla's compact crossover SUV, the 2024 Model Y sets a high standard as one of the earliest fully electric cars in its class. 

Tesla, renowned for its EVs and innovative technology, ranks as the most cost-effective brand to maintain. With a total maintenance cost of $4,035 over 10 years, Tesla demonstrates the financial advantages of owning an electric car. EVs typically have fewer moving parts than traditional gasoline-powered vehicles, leading to lower maintenance and repair expenses over time.

Read more about Tesla in our next post.

The Toyota Highlander receives high praise for its fuel-efficient engine, smooth ride quality, confident handling, and inclusion of many standard driver-assist features. However, it falls short in terms of third-row accommodation compared to its top competitors. Despite this drawback, Toyota's Highlander remains one of the most practical and easy-to-drive three-row family vehicles. It offers excellent visibility and comfort, making it suitable for both city driving and long highway trips. 

One more benefit is its high fuel economy. The average annual total cost for repairs and maintenance on a Toyota Highlander is $489. In comparison, the average cost for midsize SUVs is $573, and for all vehicle models, it's $652. If you're interested in a more efficient or larger Highlander, options like the gas/electric Hybrid or the supersized Grand Highlander are worth considering.

In the realm of midsize luxury SUVs, options abound with manufacturers like Audi, Cadillac, and Maserati, all offering compelling choices. However, the BMW X5 distinguishes itself in its class with an exceptional balance of power, performance, and utility. It boasts a wealth of standard features and a plethora of customization options, ranging from distinctive blue brake callipers to heated armrests.

Major strengths of the BMW X5 include a robust performance, a luxurious and comfortable cabin that justifies its price tag, and ample interior space along with a generous cargo area.

Explore more about the BMW in MO here.

The Toyota RAV4 is currently one of the market's most popular vehicles. Its plug-in hybrid variant, the RAV4 Prime, offers owners the advantages of an electric car without the concerns of range anxiety. This is possible because the Prime can be charged like an EV and run solely on electricity. After the battery is depleted, it functions as a hybrid vehicle, maintaining impressive fuel efficiency. This setup essentially combines the benefits of both electric and hybrid cars, making RAV4 Prime particularly advantageous for individuals with shorter daily commutes.

The essential perks include a long all-electric driving range, impressively quick acceleration, a comfortable and quiet ride, and generous cargo and passenger space.

In conclusion, from fuel-efficient hybrids to cutting-edge electric autos, our selection of best-used cars in MO offers a blend of dependability, innovation, and driving satisfaction, catering to diverse preferences in an ever-changing market. At Clement Pre-Owned, we have a wide selection of more than 1000 used vehicles. Explore our inventory today to compare the best cars side-by-side and find your perfect model.

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