Sit back and observe a family with young kids and you’ll realize that choice is a concept that most of us embrace at an early age. We revel in the ability to control what we eat, wear and use for entertainment, and soon develop a knack for saying yes to some things and responding with a definite no to others.
Problem is, as young kids demonstrate as they try to choose a single candy bar at a gas station candy kiosk, too many choices can be overwhelming. That’s a fact that’s proven true not only for children but also adults. We want options, yet also require set criteria to assist us with narrowing things down to a manageable number. This is especially true when diving into the used car scene, where a general search can yield thousands of results.
With that in mind, we’ve compiled this list of the Best Used Cars of the 2000s. This grouping is all about the cars, so you won’t find any SUVs, trucks or vans detailed on these pages. Every entry scores at least an average rating for dependability or reliability according to data provided by J.D Power and Associates and Consumer Reports, and each is a model that we’ve thoroughly tested and confidently recommend.
Editor’s note: We’ve included general pricing information and links to Vehix Used Car Values to help you determine if these Best of the 2000s models fit your budget. Figures are accurate as of November 2011, and reflect an average of 10,000 miles per year. Pricing for specific models in your area may vary due to factors such as mileage and vehicle condition.
Share Your Favorite Used Car of the 2000s
You’ll soon read our choices and we understand you may disagree. We’re anxious to hear your choices for the Best Used Cars of the Decade. In fact, leave your suggestions in a comment below or send an email to articles@vehix.com. We’ll publish a follow-up article where Vehix readers choose their Best Used Cars of the 2000s.
Throughout the 2000s, the Acura TL (view photos) has continually delivered comfort, amenities and upscale value wrapped in an exterior that has evolved from inoffensive to notably sporty. There are better known and more aggressive alternatives on the market – think BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 – but none can match the TL’s record for dependability.
Between 2001 and 2008, the TL was offered with a 3.2-liter V6 that generated at least 225 horsepower, though our favorite was the 286-horsepower 3.5-liter variant packed into the 2007-2008 Acura TL Type-S. When mated to an available six-speed manual gearbox and working in conjunction with an upgraded chassis, the larger six-banger delivered the excitement craved by those who sought something more than a premium family sedan.
Average retail base price for a 2007 Acura TL is $22,150.
2001 Acura TL
2005 Acura TL
2008 Acura TL