Looking for a reliable car under 20K, any recommendations?

I have $20K to spend and need a car that will last at least 10 years. I’m 22 and will be driving long distances for work and school, about an hour each way. I had a 2018 Toyota Camry SE and absolutely loved it, but it was totaled in an accident. I’m leaning toward another Camry, but I’m open to other options. What do you recommend?

Another used Camry would be a great choice.

Go for the newest Camry or Corolla you can afford.

Micah said:
Go for the newest Camry or Corolla you can afford.

Appreciate it!

If you loved your Camry, why not get another one? No reason to switch if it worked well for you.

Consider a Toyota Avalon. It’s comfortable and reliable.

Denise said:
Consider a Toyota Avalon. It’s comfortable and reliable.

Camry might be the better deal though.

TimothyPerez said:

Denise said:
Consider a Toyota Avalon. It’s comfortable and reliable.

Camry might be the better deal though.

Avalon is basically a stretched Camry.

You can’t go wrong with a Toyota. Just pick one that fits your budget and keep up with regular maintenance.

Evans said:
You can’t go wrong with a Toyota. Just pick one that fits your budget and keep up with regular maintenance.

Another Camry sounds like the right move.

A hybrid Camry, Corolla, or even a Prius would save you a lot on gas and last well beyond 10 years.

Weston said:
A hybrid Camry, Corolla, or even a Prius would save you a lot on gas and last well beyond 10 years.

Just make sure it’s not too old—some hybrids might need a new battery around the 10-year mark.

@TimothyPerez
We have a 2007 Lexus RX 400h with the original hybrid battery still running strong. Toyota hybrids tend to hold up well.

Check out Lexus dealerships. Sometimes they have low-mileage used models at great prices. If you go private sale, a 2012-2017 Camry Hybrid is one of the most reliable hybrids Toyota has ever made.

Davido said:
Check out Lexus dealerships. Sometimes they have low-mileage used models at great prices. If you go private sale, a 2012-2017 Camry Hybrid is one of the most reliable hybrids Toyota has ever made.

Thanks! That’s super helpful.

If you can find a Lexus ES 300/350 within your budget, it might be worth considering. It’s very similar to a Camry but more comfortable.

Consider a used Lexus. People who buy them new usually take great care of them, and they last forever. We’ve had multiple Lexus models with high miles and zero major issues.

graceruth said:
Consider a used Lexus. People who buy them new usually take great care of them, and they last forever. We’ve had multiple Lexus models with high miles and zero major issues.

That’s great to hear! I’ll check some out.

Camry is still the way to go.

Avoid 2022-2023 Camrys. I work at a dealership and I see a lot with leaky oil pans. Go for 2021 or older if buying used.