Top 10 Used Vehicles to Save SoCal Drivers Like You Money

As desirable as our beautiful state with over 800 miles of coastline, rolling mountains, sandy deserts, and thriving forests surrounding our world-class cities and renowned universities and businesses is, there’s no denying that living in California is expensive, especially in coastal SoCal (Southern California), right outside of the City of Angels. Regardless of which region of California you call home, the pros to living in such a desirable state will forever outweigh the cons. There are, however, ways to keep the costs of living down for ourselves in even big-ticket areas. If you need a new vehicle, one of the ways you can save money is by heading down to an affordable used car dealer to see what they offer. We suggest visiting us here at Orange Coast, located conveniently here in Costa Mesa, CA, and let us show you everything we have to offer in our impressive used car selection.

By choosing to buy a used vehicle, you’re on the road to savings. At Orange Coast, we offer an array of used vehicles that will not only save you money upfront but save you from unnecessary expenses in the future. California has some of the country’s highest gas prices and yearly vehicle ownership costs. The last thing you need is a gas-guzzling unreliable vehicle you can’t keep on the road. To continue your forward momentum toward frugality, here’s a list of our top ten recommended used vehicles that are affordable, reliable, and fuel-efficient to save you money.

#1. Chrysler Pacifica: Family-Friendly Minivan

There’s nothing quite like a family hauler minivan, and no other brand has dominated the segment like Chrysler. When the Pacifica minivan debuted for the 2017 model year, it was a breath of fresh air for modern families looking for the interior comfort and space, fuel efficiency, and capability that minivans provide. Not only are there enough seats to carry up to seven people comfortably, with an interior fully stocked with features and amenities for comfort and convenience, but the Chrysler Pacifica is a suitable choice for our SoCal drivers because it’s fuel-efficient with both its hybrid and gasoline models. The gas-powered models can get an estimated combined 22 MPG (miles per gallon) with front-wheel drive and 20 MPG with all-wheel drive, and the front-wheel drive only plug-in hybrid Pacificas receive the best fuel economy of the two with up to 82 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) or an all-electric range of 32 miles on a full charge.

#2. Honda Civic: Fun-To-Drive Compact Car

Minivans aren’t just for families, but they’re not desired by everyone. If you prefer to sit low to the ground with quick and agile handling like a sports car, the Honda Civic might pique your interest. It is one of the most popular vehicles for California drivers, and it’s not just because of its sporty appearance and fun performance. Believe it or not, the Honda Civic has been in production since 1972, available in various body styles to appeal to any driver. It is one of the world’s most popular vehicles due to its reliability and efficiency. The Civic Sedan can easily accommodate up to five passengers comfortably. More importantly, newer models like the 2020 Honda Civic sedan can get up to an estimated combined 36 MPG with the 4-cylinder turbo engine, saving you plenty at the pump.

#3. Ram 1500: Go Anywhere and Do Anything Half-Ton Pickup

Even drivers living in the city or the suburbs of SoCal can benefit from owning a pickup. You never know when you’ll need to haul some lumber, home improvement or landscaping equipment, or tow a camper or trailer, but with the power and strength needed for towing, you’ll usually take a hit to the wallet on the initial purchase price and fuel costs. While the Ram 1500 might not be the cheapest truck on the market, it’s a valuable one. It has been available since 1981, formally known as the Dodge Ram 1500, until Ram became a subsidiary brand in 2010.

It’s known for its durability, reliability, and premium qualities for being a workhorse, off-woad warrior, and even a daily driver with its fuel-efficient powertrains. Not only has it offered an efficient and powerful diesel engine since 1989, but the Ram 1500 has also been a fuel-efficient model for those who prefer gas-powered trucks with the e-Torque system, which became available in 2019 and can see up to a combined 22 MPG with the 2020 and 2021 rear-wheel-drive 6-cylinder e-torque powertrains.

#4. Nissan Pathfinder: Attractive and Versatile Minivan Alternative

For our families here in SoCal, the Nissan Pathfinder is another great vehicle you can find to save you money at the pump. So if your family isn’t thrilled with driving along the crowded beaches in a minivan, the three-row Nissan Pathfinder SUV is worth looking into. It’s another vehicle that has been favorable among drivers since the 1980s but didn’t receive the third row, allowing it to seat up to seven passengers until the 2005 model year.

Most Nissan Pathfinders carry a gas-powered engine under the hood, giving them truck-like capabilities. However, you’ll find that newer models like the 2021 Pathfinder can also get you an estimated combined 23 MPG for reduced fuel expenses. More importantly, if you keep up with its maintenance, the Pathfinder has a reputation for lasting a very long time.

#5 Dodge Challenger: A Practical Sports Car

For the most fun in the sun cruising down the coast of SoCal, you might find yourself looking into a performance car. Honestly, there’s nothing wrong with spoiling yourself, especially by purchasing a pre-owned model like the Dodge Challenger that can turn heads on the boardwalk, provide powerful performance, and save you on fuel costs. Plus, since the Challenger has been in Dodge’s lineup since 1970 with models which can still be found on the road and at antique car shows today, you know you’re getting a vehicle that will last. However, as tempting as it may be to get an 8-cylinder model, for the most fuel-efficient Dodge Challenger, you might want to stick with the lesser 6-cylinder powertrain option. The 2021 model year is estimated to get up to a combined 23 MPG in front-wheel drive and 21 MPG in all-wheel drive, making it efficient and versatile enough for everyday driving.

#6 Chevrolet Bolt EV: Electrify Your Commute

Suppose saving your wallet from fuel costs isn’t your only concern, and you’re looking to improve the quality of the environment you live in. In that case, the all-electric Chevy Bolt EV is an eco-friendly subcompact car that makes for a great little commuter. Since its debut for the 2017 model year, the Bolt EV has received several awards and recognitions. Time magazine even listed it in its Best 25 Inventions of 2016. It’s one of the most affordable electric vehicles on the road and has remained a success since its release. So if you’re looking to see a range of around 250 miles on a full charge, you should check out the Chevy Bolt EV.

#7 Chrysler 300: Luxury Without Sacrificing Your Wallet

Luxury doesn’t always come with an expensive price tag. Even a brand-new premium Chrysler 300 is an attainable full-size sedan that’s customizable with both powertrain and trim options to tailor the car to your needs and preferences. Finding one in the used market will certainly make you and your wallet happy.

This modern-day replica of the Chrysler C-300 from the 1950s entered Chrysler’s lineup for the 2005 model year and has been stealing the hearts of drivers since with a lavish exterior, premium quality materials and amenities, a spacious interior for you and your family and friends, and a history of consistent reliability. Plus, with the right powertrain, you’ll get some pep with acceleration and up to a combined 23 MPG. You can’t get much better than an affordable car that can save you in the long run.

#8 Ford F-150: A Truck Built Tough and Affordable

Ford’s F-150 is another pickup worth buying for your SoCal traveling. It has been on the market since 1975 and has improved significantly, becoming more popular than ever. It is affordable, offers versatile performance, and is capable of being a family hauler, work truck, commuter vehicle, and an off-road warrior. Plus, with the addition of the all-electric Ford F-150 Lightning for 2022, the iconic F-150 has become even more efficient and eco-friendly. But suppose an all-electric truck doesn’t appeal to you. In that case, the standard light-duty truck is available with a variety of powertrain options ranging from gas-powered 6-cylinders of all sizes and efficiencies, 8-cylinder options, and even a hybrid powertrain for models built for 2021 and newer, estimated to see a combined 23 to 25 MPG depending on the drivetrain.

#9 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Powerful Sophistication

The Jeep brand is known for its capability and versatility, and the Grand Cherokee adds a touch of luxury to the mix. Since its introduction for the 1993 model year, this midsize SUV has been setting the standard for its class. You can tackle California’s best off-road trails with ease one day and cruise the beach or commute through the congested city the next in comfort and style. A 2021 model will give you an estimated combined fuel economy of 21 MPG, which gives you an idea of its great efficiency. No matter which model Jeep Grand Cherokee you choose, they are built with some of the highest quality materials and premium features for the ultimate driving experience that you can enjoy for many years at a reasonable used price.

#10 Toyota Prius: Hybrid Innovation

The Toyota Prius has a reputation as the industry’s first mass-produced hybrid vehicle that’s still going strong. Today’s five-passenger car might not be the roomiest option if your looking for a family vehicle, but if you’re looking for an affordable, fuel-efficient car that was even rated one of the cleanest vehicles by the California Air Resources Board in 2007, consider a Prius. Today, you can even buy a plug-in Prius Prime for an even better all-battery range of up to 25 miles for the 2020 and 2021 model years with the all-electric mode.