Are you always looking for the latest technology, whether it’s the newest smartphone on the market, the most capable smartwatch, or the most advanced smart home devices? Perhaps that search also extends to what you drive. If that’s the case, you might be surprised to learn that used cars are a popular option in the high-tech market thanks to automakers like Chevrolet and many others that are committed to offering the latest technology on every model. That’s what brings us to our list of the best high-tech cars that you can buy used.
#1 – 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV
The 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV makes the top of our list of high-tech used cars. Prior to the Bolt EV, electric vehicles were only an option for wealthy consumers who could afford the high price tags of what many called “vehicles of the future.” The Bolt changed that with an affordable price tag of $30,000 after the full federal tax credit. Today, buying a used 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV will run you around half that, allowing drivers to reap all the benefits of its impressive technology features at an incredibly affordable price.
The 2017 Bolt EV is packed with tech, beginning with its large 10.2-inch color touchscreen display. From the display, drivers can access various in-vehicle apps as well as the EV-specific navigation system that routes the Bolt so that it maximizes its range and puts it near compatible charging stations as needed. The Bolt is also equipped with Bluetooth capability that enables drivers to connect their smartphones with the vehicle for access to apps, calls, messages, and more. Additional tech features that make the Bolt a top purchase are the rear camera mirror, surround vision, wireless phone charging tray, and the battery that gives the Bolt an impressive 238-mile range on a single charge.
#2 – 2017 Chevrolet Cruze
The Chevrolet Cruze is next to make our list, and for good reason, since the Cruze is Chevrolet’s best-selling car worldwide. With new models priced between $18,000 and $24,000, the 2017 Cruze offers great value as a used vehicle because of its suite of connectivity and safety features as well as its remarkable fuel economy that averages as much as 31 MPG in the city and 52 MPG on the highway. So, what makes the 2017 model so special?
Aside from offering an excellent fuel economy, plenty of passenger and cargo space, and multiple trim options, the 2017 Cruze boasts Chevrolet’s impressive MyLink infotainment system. Through the system, drivers can use Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to sync their smartphones or take advantage of the 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. The technology extends beyond connectivity to safety with the Cruze offering Teen Driver Technology that encourages safe driving habits among young drivers.
#3 – 2018 Toyota Camry
Long the best-selling midsize car in America, the Toyota Camry is a natural addition to our list of high-tech used cars. With new models starting at $24,000, Toyota gave drivers the option to add various technology and safety packages to create a high-tech sedan priced around $34,000. The fully loaded Camry XLE trim was a popular purchase among drivers looking for a luxury sedan with all the bells and whistles.
Today, drivers can enjoy those same bells and whistles at a fraction of the price by looking for a used 2018 Camry XLE. The model features the Toyota Entune Infotainment system as well as Toyota’s Safety Sense package that offers innovative tech like Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist, and Rear-Cross Traffic Alert. Additional tech features on the model include LED headlights, a wireless charging tray, a 10-inch heads-up display screen, and a 360-degree camera system to give drivers a clear view of the entire vehicle and its surroundings.
#4 – 2018 Honda CR-V
In good company with Chevrolet, Toyota, and Ford, Honda is one of the best-selling automotive brands in America. This is thanks to vehicles like the Honda CR-V, which has been among America’s best-selling SUVs for over two decades. The 2018 Honda CR-V is especially notable since it reflects Honda’s commitment to innovation by offering drivers an extensive suite of tech and safety features designed to make driving the CR-V even more enjoyable. It’s easy to see why finding a used CR-V is such a great deal.
The 2018 CR-V is loaded with premium tech features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration as well as HD radio, Pandora, and SiriusXM, all of which can be accessed through the 7-inch touchscreen display. The display is also home to the available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System. The CR-V’s tech extends even further to the Honda Sensing suite of safety and driver-assistive features. This suite includes advanced tools like Collision Mitigation Braking with Forward Collision Warning, Road Departure Mitigation with Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Monitoring, and the Blind Spot Information System.
#5 – 2018 Chevrolet Sonic
The 2018 Chevrolet Sonic wraps up our list of the best high-tech cars to buy used because of its affordability and many tech features. Priced at just $16,000 when brand new, the 2018 Sonic is remarkably affordable and available as a sedan or a hatchback in several trim options like the LS, LT, and Premier. Chevrolet also offered available packages like the RS, which gives the Sonic a sportier exterior with black emblems, a rear spoiler, piano black decor, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and red cloth seating.
Despite its low price tag, the subcompact Sonic is packed with tech features like the 7-inch touchscreen display that houses the Chevrolet MyLink Infotainment System. Through the display, drivers have access to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration and the available 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. Beyond its connectivity, the Sonic also boasts an impressive safety suite with a rear-vision camera as well as the Driver Confidence Package that includes advanced safety features like Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning, and Rear Park Assist.
Finding the Right Tech for You
When shopping for a used car, there are many factors to consider to ensure you find a reliable vehicle that will serve you well and is priced fairly. First and foremost, you’ll want to consider the mileage of the vehicle and its condition. How many previous owners has the car had, and what’s its maintenance, repair, and collision history? These questions are a great starting point as you look for the best car for your needs.
If you’re someone who is interested in the latest technology, then you’ll also want to ask about the vehicle’s tech features. These features extend from the car’s connectivity options like the center touchscreen display and infotainment system to options like navigation, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and smartphone integration like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. But a vehicle’s tech features don’t stop there and, on “newer” used cars, you’ll find advanced safety and driver-assistance features like a rear-view camera, blind-spot monitoring, and lane change alert tools that make driving a more enjoyable experience. Be sure to keep all these features in mind as you look for the best high-tech used car to call your own.
