Buying a new car is exciting. It’s also a big purchase that will put a big dent in your checkbook. Though cars are essentially money pits, the car you choose will determine how much money you spend out of pocket, as well as on maintenance down the line. Here are five great low-maintenance used vehicles you should consider when car shopping. 

1) Honda HR-V

As most know, anything by Honda is sure to last you for many years to come. As low-maintenance used vehicles go these are an excellent choice. The Honda HR-V is one of their newest models. It is an excellent option for those looking for a subcompact SUV. Though HR-Vs were first on the market in 1998, they were discontinued in 2006. After almost a decade of being on hiatus, the second generation was released in North America in 2015. 

Buying a used second-generation Honda HR-V is an excellent choice if you have a family or need lots of cargo space. It won’t be the most comfortable ride of your life, but for the list price and low maintenance costs, the trade-off is worth it. 

2) Toyota Prius

If you’re looking at used cars, you can’t go wrong with the Toyota Prius. Like Honda, Toyota has a strong reputation for being affordable and reliable. The current fourth generation of this snazzy little car has been on the market since 2015. 

Whether you need a small car to get around the city or want something with a bit more trunk space, there’s a Prius for you. The Prius V and Prius C models are both hatchbacks. This gives you maximum space for your dollar.

3) Buick Encore

Like the Honda HR-V, the Buick Encore is a subcompact crossover SUV. Though Buick’s reputation has wavered over the years, the current generation of Buick Encores is highly rated in terms of safety, fuel economy, cost, and maintenance. 

While the style of the body isn’t for everyone, the interior is one of the nicest in its class. Grab the family and head out on a road trip or do some geocaching. It’s the perfect choice for parents who want a sensible family car but is a big step up from the classic minivan. 

4) Lexus RX

Any Lexus will cost you more than a Honda or a Toyota. But if you have the extra cash and you’d like to ride in luxury, a used Lexus is the way to go. Like Hondas, a Lexus will last you at least a decade if you treat it right. The Lexus RX is one of the most popular models right now, thanks to its stylish interior, sleek design, and comfortable driving experience. 

Though the price tag is a little higher, it will cost you next to nothing in maintenance. Music lovers will appreciate the fantastic surround-sound system and virtually nonexistent road noise, which will level up your next road trip. 

5) Honda Civic

Last but not least is the classic Honda Civic. Though the Civic has a reputation for being one of the most boring cars on the market, this isn’t the case today. Newer models are much more sporty and even come with a hatchback option. Putting flash aside, the Honda Civic is undoubtedly the most reliable vehicle you could hope to buy. 

If you choose to buy a used Honda Civic, you should be able to sell it five years later for almost the same price you purchased it. These little cars are in high demand. While you can’t ever wholly avoid depreciation when you buy a car, you can be sure that a Civic will cost you the least.