12 Best Used Cars Under $15,000 to Buy in Canada

12 Best Used Cars Under $15,000 to Buy in Canada

January 10, 2025    Auto News

When buying a used car, finding a vehicle that fits your budget may be one of your biggest concerns. If you’re looking for the best used cars under $15,000, there are a number of options available. 

Purchasing a new-to-you car means doing a certain amount of research beforehand. You want to find a vehicle that’s reliable and gets good gas mileage, while also sticking as closely as possible to your budget. And of course, you might be concerned with how the car you buy looks and drives.

You might be wondering what kind of cars are in range if you’re working with a budget of $15,000 or less. Fortunately, there are a number of options within this price range that could meet your needs. To help you in your quest to find your next vehicle, we’ve done the research for you and put together this list of the best used cars under $15,000 for 2025.

12 Best Used Cars Under $15,000 To Buy In Canada

  1. 2010-2020 Honda Civic
  2. 2015-2017 Mazda3
  3. 2015-2018 Toyota Prius
  4. 2013-2015 Toyota Corolla
  5. 2015 Honda CR-V
  6. 2013-2015 Honda Accord
  7. 2015-2017 Mazda6
  8. 2016 Toyota Camry
  9. 2018 Hyundai Elantra
  10. 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer
  11. 2018 Nissan Sentra
  12. 2016 Volkswagen Golf

1. 2010-2020 Honda Civic

Vehicle Specs

The Honda Civic has long been a top pick for Canadian drivers, and for good reason. Known for its reliability and performance, this compact car provides excellent fuel economy, making it ideal for city driving and longer commutes. The Civic also offers plenty of space for passengers and cargo, thanks to its clever interior design. It’s also easy to maintain, with parts readily available across Canada.

  • Engine: 1.5L to 2.0L 4-cylinder options
  • Fuel Economy: 7.5 L/100km city | 6.0 L/100km highway
  • Transmission: Manual and CVT automatic
  • Seating: 5 passengers
  • Features: Modern infotainment system, advanced safety options (later years), sporty exterior design

Average Price

Expect to find well-maintained models from 2010-2020 in the $9,500 to $14,500 range, depending on mileage and condition.

2. 2015-2017 Mazda3

Vehicle Specs

The Mazda3 stands out for its sporty handling, sleek design, and impressive efficiency. This compact car comes in both sedan and hatchback styles, giving you flexibility for cargo and passenger needs. The interior feels refined, often rivalling pricier vehicles. Its nimble handling and smooth ride make it fun to drive, especially on winding roads.

  • Engine: 2.0L or 2.5L 4-cylinder
  • Fuel Economy: 8.0 L/100km city | 6.0 L/100km highway
  • Transmission: 6-speed manual or automatic
  • Seating: 5 passengers
  • Features: High-quality interior, responsive steering, Bluetooth connectivity

Average Price

Models between 2015 and 2017 generally range from $10,000 to $14,500.

3. 2015-2018 Toyota Prius

Vehicle Specs

For those prioritizing fuel economy, the Toyota Prius is hard to beat. As one of the leading hybrid cars, the Prius is not only eco-friendly but also surprisingly spacious and reliable. The hybrid system transitions smoothly between electric and gas power, making it ideal for stop-and-go city traffic.

  • Engine: 1.8L 4-cylinder hybrid
  • Fuel Economy: 4.9 L/100km city | 4.5 L/100km highway
  • Transmission: CVT automatic
  • Seating: 5 passengers
  • Features: Hybrid system, touchscreen infotainment, roomy interior

Average Price

You can find models from 2015-2018 from around $12,000 to $15,000.

4. 2013-2015 Toyota Corolla

Vehicle Specs

The Toyota Corolla is a staple among reliable sedans. Known for its longevity and affordability, the Corolla is easy to maintain and offers a smooth, comfortable ride. It’s an ideal choice for students, young professionals, or anyone seeking a hassle-free ownership experience.

  • Engine: 1.8L 4-cylinder
  • Fuel Economy: 8.0 L/100km city | 6.5 L/100km highway
  • Transmission: Manual or CVT automatic
  • Seating: 5 passengers
  • Features: Dependable engine, spacious cabin, modern tech (newer years)

Average Price

Corolla models from this range typically cost between $10,000 and $13,500.

5. 2015 Honda CR-V

Vehicle Specs

If you’re looking for a dependable compact SUV under $15,000, the 2015 Honda CR-V is an excellent option. It offers generous cargo space, reliable performance, and solid fuel efficiency. It’s perfect for road trips, city errands, or tackling snowy Canadian winters with the AWD option.

  • Engine: 2.4L 4-cylinder
  • Fuel Economy: 9.0 L/100km city | 7.2 L/100km highway
  • Transmission: CVT automatic
  • Seating: 5 passengers
  • Features: Spacious interior, AWD options, versatile cargo space

Average Price

Prices for a well-maintained 2015 CR-V typically range between $12,000 and $15,000.

6. 2013-2015 Honda Accord

Vehicle Specs

The Honda Accord remains a strong contender for used car buyers seeking a midsize sedan with a balance of comfort and performance. It features a roomy cabin, smooth ride, and long-lasting reliability. Its strong resale value also makes it a smart investment.

  • Engine: 2.4L 4-cylinder or 3.5L V6
  • Fuel Economy: 9.0 L/100km city | 6.8 L/100km highway
  • Transmission: Manual, automatic, or CVT
  • Seating: 5 passengers
  • Features: Spacious interior, modern infotainment system, solid safety ratings

Average Price

Expect to pay between $11,000 and $14,500 for models from 2013-2015.

7. 2015-2017 Mazda6

Vehicle Specs

The Mazda6 is a stylish midsize sedan that delivers sporty driving dynamics and excellent fuel efficiency. Its premium feel sets it apart from competitors. If you love driving, the Mazda6 offers a more engaging experience than most sedans in its class.

  • Engine: 2.5L 4-cylinder
  • Fuel Economy: 8.5 L/100km city | 6.3 L/100km highway
  • Transmission: 6-speed automatic
  • Seating: 5 passengers
  • Features: Sporty design, high-quality interior, advanced safety features

Average Price

Models from 2015-2017 generally fall within the $11,500 to $14,500 range.

8. 2016 Toyota Camry

Vehicle Specs

The Toyota Camry has earned its reputation as a reliable and comfortable midsize sedan. It’s a solid choice for families or commuters seeking durability and efficiency. Its spacious interior and smooth ride make long trips more enjoyable.

  • Engine: 2.5L 4-cylinder or optional V6
  • Fuel Economy: 9.0 L/100km city | 6.7 L/100km highway
  • Transmission: Automatic
  • Seating: 5 passengers
  • Features: Comfortable interior, solid performance, excellent reliability

Average Price

Well-maintained 2016 Camry models are priced between $12,000 and $15,000.

9. 2018 Hyundai Elantra

Vehicle Specs

The Hyundai Elantra is a practical compact sedan with modern styling and user-friendly features. It’s reliable and efficient, making it perfect for commuters and first-time car buyers.

  • Engine: 2.0L 4-cylinder
  • Fuel Economy: 8.3 L/100km city | 6.4 L/100km highway
  • Transmission: 6-speed automatic or manual
  • Seating: 5 passengers
  • Features: Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, comfortable ride

Average Price

Expect to pay between $11,500 and $14,500 for 2018 models.

10. 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer

Vehicle Specs

The Mitsubishi Lancer offers sporty looks, responsive handling, and a reputation for durability. Its sharp design appeals to those looking for an affordable, fun-to-drive car.

  • Engine: 2.0L or 2.4L 4-cylinder
  • Fuel Economy: 9.5 L/100km city | 7.0 L/100km highway
  • Transmission: Manual or CVT
  • Seating: 5 passengers
  • Features: Sporty design, solid safety ratings, practical interior

Average Price

Models from 2015 fall between $9,500 and $13,500.

11. 2018 Nissan Sentra

Vehicle Specs

The Nissan Sentra combines excellent fuel economy with a comfortable ride and spacious interior. It’s perfect for everyday driving and longer commutes.

  • Engine: 1.8L 4-cylinder
  • Fuel Economy: 8.0 L/100km city | 6.3 L/100km highway
  • Transmission: CVT automatic
  • Seating: 5 passengers
  • Features: Spacious cabin, user-friendly controls, modern tech

Average Price

2018 Sentra models typically range between $11,500 and $14,500.

12. 2016 Volkswagen Golf

Vehicle Specs

The Volkswagen Golf delivers European styling, a versatile hatchback design, and an engaging driving experience. It’s well-suited for urban commuting and weekend adventures.

  • Engine: 1.8L turbocharged 4-cylinder
  • Fuel Economy: 8.2 L/100km city | 6.0 L/100km highway
  • Transmission: Manual or automatic
  • Seating: 5 passengers
  • Features: Premium interior, ample cargo space, responsive performance

Average Price

Prices for the 2016 Golf range from $11,000 to $14,500.

Conclusion

When considering your next used vehicle purchase, it’s important to find the right lender if you need financing. At Birchwood Credit Solutions, we have an extensive inventory of used cars, trucks and SUVs to choose from. We also work with buyers from all credit backgrounds to provide financing options tailored to your situation. Stop in today to view our selection of new and used vehicles or start the financing process by completing a loan application online.

Rebecca Lake
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