When purchasing a used car, consumers are most concerned about finding a reliable, comfortable, and value-retaining product on a limited budget. Based on recommendations from Consumer Reports and professional organizations, we have compiled a list of the most worthwhile used sedan options to consider in 2025.
Among them, the Toyota Avalon has become a standout model due to its unique positioning and exceptional product strength.
01 2025 Used Car Market Overview
The used car market in 2025 shows new trends. On one hand, Japanese and German brands continue to lead in value retention rates. According to data from the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce’s Automobile Dealers Chamber, Japanese brands have a value retention rate of 56.08%, while German brands are at 52.18%.
On the other hand, new energy used cars are beginning to emerge, with brands like Tesla performing particularly well in value retention.
Simultaneously, Chinese car exports have grown significantly, including a rapid increase in used car exports.
According to Luo Lei, Vice President of the China Automobile Dealers Association, starting from the pilot program in ten cities including Beijing and Tianjin in 2019, to the full liberalization in 2024, China’s total used car exports have grown from 3,000 units at the end of 2019 to 436,000 units in 2024.
This trend indicates that the recognition of Chinese cars in the international market is gradually increasing.
02 Recommended Used Sedans Worth Watching
Considering various dimensions such as reliability, value retention, and user experience, the following used sedans perform exceptionally well in 2025:
1. Used Toyota Avalon
As Toyota’s flagship sedan, the Avalon enjoys a high reputation in both domestic and international markets. Positioned between the Camry and Lexus ES, it offers more space, more refined workmanship, and excellent comfort.
The Avalon’s 3.5L V6 engine is renowned for its reliability and smooth power delivery. Many owners report that with basic maintenance, the vehicle can exceed 250,000 miles.
2. 2019 Toyota Corolla
Consumer Reports rated it the best used sedan under $15,000. This 12th-generation Corolla is equipped with a 168-horsepower four-cylinder engine and offers excellent fuel economy, with highway mileage reaching up to 36 mpg.
The interior is simple and practical, with a rich suite of safety systems including lane keeping assist, pedestrian detection, and lane departure warning.
3. 2016 Mazda 6
Rated by Consumer Reports as the best used car under $10,000. It is highly praised for its agile handling and outstanding driving experience, with a combined fuel economy of 32 mpg.
Although the interior is not luxurious, the craftsmanship is fine, reflecting Mazda’s attention to detail.
4. Tesla Model 3
In the new energy sector, the Tesla Model 3 is one of the electric sedans with the highest value retention. Its advantage lies in its continuous OTA upgrade capability, allowing the car to “improve with use” like a smartphone.
For tech enthusiasts, the Model 3 offers an intelligent experience that traditional fuel vehicles cannot match.
03 In-Depth Analysis of the Toyota Avalon Used Car
Among the many used sedans, the Toyota Avalon used model deserves special attention for its unique market positioning and product strength.
Market Positioning and Advantages
The Avalon’s position within Toyota’s lineup is quite unique—it is more upscale than the Camry, yet more accessible than the Lexus ES.
This positioning allows buyers to get an experience akin to Lexus at a Toyota price. The Avalon is typically equipped with features like leather seats, advanced driver assistance systems, and premium audio systems, providing comfort that surpasses its class.
Price Range Analysis
Prices for a used Toyota Avalon vary significantly based on model year, configuration, and mileage condition:
- 2011-2013 Models: Typically priced between $8,000-$12,000, with mileage around 120,000-150,000 miles.
- 2014-2018 Models: The price range is $14,000-$22,000; these models come with more advanced technology features.
- 2019-2022 Models: This is the final generation Avalon, priced between $25,000-$35,000, especially for low-mileage vehicles.
Hybrid models, due to their excellent fuel economy (combined fuel consumption up to 40 mpg), even exceed the value of V6 models in the used market.
Purchasing Advice
When buying a used Toyota Avalon, pay special attention to the following points:
- Mileage: Avalons with less than 80,000 miles are particularly popular and command higher prices.
- Vehicle Condition: Check maintenance records to ensure the vehicle has no accident history, and that interior wear is within acceptable limits.
- Configuration Selection: The Limited trim, equipped with features like ventilated seats and premium audio systems, positively impacts resale value.
04 Used Car Buying Guide
Buying a used car requires considering multiple factors. Here are some key points:
Determine Budget and Needs
Before purchasing, clarify your budget and primary usage scenarios. If it’s for family use, more consideration for space and comfort may be needed; if for commuting, fuel economy and reliability are more important.
Check Vehicle Condition and History
Be sure to check the vehicle’s VIN, understand the maintenance history, and carefully inspect key areas like the A/B pillars, radiator frame, and front longitudinal beams for any signs of welding or repair.
For hybrid models, it’s also necessary to understand the battery’s remaining lifespan and warranty status.
Choose the Optimal Vehicle Age
Cars that are 2-4 years old are usually the ideal choice because they have passed the initial rapid depreciation period while still maintaining good performance and condition.
Utilize Professional Appraisal Services
Nowadays, many professional used car appraisal agencies offer inspection services. For example, Quhuo International’s CarNuxt inspection platform includes 267 inspection standards, helping buyers fully understand the vehicle’s condition.
05 New Opportunities for Chinese Cars for Sale in the Used Export Market
With the rise of China’s automotive industry, used car exports have become a new trend. For overseas consumers, Chinese cars for sale offer more choices.
Current State of Chinese Used Car Exports
Since China initiated the used car export pilot program in 2019, export business has developed rapidly. By the end of 2024, the number of enterprises nationwide filing for used car export qualifications had increased to over 2,800.
Major Target Markets
Chinese used cars are mainly exported to countries along the “Belt and Road” initiative, such as the Middle East, Central Asia, Eastern Europe, South America, and Southeast Asia. Different markets have different demands for vehicles—the Middle East prefers vehicles under three years old, while Central Asia needs vehicles over three years old.
Quality Improvement and Standardization
Chinese used car export enterprises are striving to improve product quality and standardization. Through strict inspection standards, reconditioning repairs, and after-sales service systems, they aim to enhance the reputation of Chinese cars for sale in the international market.
Some enterprises even use remanufacturing processes to restore used cars to 80% of their base performance, making them more suitable for the usage needs of overseas users.
When choosing a used sedan, be sure to consider comprehensively based on personal needs, budget, and local market conditions. The used Toyota Avalon, as a model combining comfort, reliability, and cost-effectiveness, is undoubtedly a choice worth serious consideration in the used car market.
No matter which model you choose, remember to conduct thorough inspections and test drives to ensure the choice you make is truly right for you.
