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Despite all of the midsize cars that are being discontinued, there is still a significant amount of affordable used midsize cars on the market today. Autotrader recently released its list of the best used midsize cars you can buy for under $20,000. If you are in the market for a midsize car and you are looking to cash in on some savings, here is everything you need to know about Autotrader’s top-used midsize cars for under $20,000.

1. 2019 Chevy Malibu

The Chevrolet Malibu is one of the few cars on this list that is still in production today. Unfortunately, a brand new 2023 Chevy Malibu starts well above our $20,000 spending limit. Fortunately, the 2019 Chevy Malibu is essentially the same vehicle as the new one.

The Malibu gets class-leading ratings in cabin space and fuel economy ratings with most Malibu trim levels receiving a 1.5L engine that gets 29 mpg city and 36 mpg highway. For less than $20,000, the 2019 Chevy Malibu is one of the best values in the midsize automotive market.

2. 2020 Ford Fusion

While the Ford Fusion went a long while without an exterior refresh, there isn’t much else to complain about when it comes to the Fusion. The Ford Fusion is a good midsize sedan with a ton of standard safety features including, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. While the fuel economy isn’t as good as the Malibu, only coming in at 23 mpg city and 34 mpg highway, the Fusion is still a great midsize car with a ton to offer.

3. 2018 Honda Accord

The Honda Accord continues to dominate in performance, longevity, and reliability both in the new and used car markets. The 2018 Honda Accord is the oldest car on this Autotrader list, just showing how well these cars hold their value over time, making the Accord a sound investment.

Behind the wheel, you can tell the Honda Accord is expertly engineered because it has a ton of power under acceleration but still manages to get around 30 mpg city and 38 mpg highway. If you are an automotive enthusiast, the 2018 Honda Accord is also one of the only offerings on this list available with a manual transmission.

4. 2019 Hyundai Sonata

Hyundai has stepped up its game in recent years when it comes to reliability and drivability, and its Sonata is no exception. For 2019, the Hyundai Sonata comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as Bluetooth and USB smartphone integration.

While the Sonata offers plenty of standard features, this car is also available with leather seating, a panoramic sunroof, 10-speaker audio system, and more. With a fuel economy rating of 28 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, the Hyundai Sonata competes with the best in its class when it comes to efficiency.

5. 2020 Kia Optima 

The 2020 Kia Optima, one of the best used midsize cars
2020 Kia Optima Hybrid | Kia

The Kia Optima and Hyundai Sonata are extremely similar vehicles. The same parent company produces both, and they share nearly identical measurements and engines; they are even built on the same platform. What sets the Kia Optima apart from the Hyundai Sonata is the design aesthetics. While the Sonata aims to look a little more subdued and sensible, the Optima aims to be a little more sporty in its design.

The Kia Optima holds one of the best warranties in the industry. And with solid standard features, the Optima gives drivers everything they love about the Hyundai Sonata in a slightly more affordable and sportier package.

What midsize car is right for you?

Midsize cars are currently less popular than they used to be due to the rising popularity of crossover SUVs and other types of vehicles. With this drop in popularity, you are bound to find a great deal on a midsize car that fits your needs.