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When shoppers are looking for a great used car that is friendly to your budget, you should consider a few options. More specifically, if you are looking for a small car that also keeps your budget in much better shape, there are a few models to look at. It’s easier than ever to find a used car that fits your budget if you shop for a used subcompact car priced under $5,000. 

2009 and 2010 Smart ForTwo

For a few years, the Smart ForTwo was one of the most talked about small cars available. This tiny size made it an ideal choice for drivers in busy cities and urban areas. Despite the small footprint of this car, the interior is surprisingly spacious for both passengers. According to U.S. News and World Reports, the seats are comfortable and supportive, making it easier to enjoy the roads going forward.

One of the most impressive aspects of the Smart ForTwo is that this tiny car is remarkably efficient. Because of the 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine, drivers are going to love how efficient this engine is. In the city, where this small car is most at home, you can enjoy 33 mpg. If you do decide to venture onto the highway, you will enjoy 41 mpg. 

When you dig into this small car, you will love that this interior can offer quite a few features. While there are not too many features as standard, available packages have plenty of features and technology. If you find the model with uplevel features, you will enjoy air conditioning, a stereo, and heated leather seats. 

2011 Hyundai Accent

The Hyundai Accent has long been popular for shoppers looking for a car ready to impress with its price and size. It offers you the compact size you have been looking for while ensuring you can have a comfortable ride anywhere. More importantly, when you consider a used Hyundai Accent, you will enjoy a decent amount of cargo space.

One of the most important parts of any car, especially this size, is its performance. Now, don’t go expecting something that can blow the doors of the competition. But, for drivers who need enough performance on the city streets and can adequately tackle the highway, this small sedan is more than ready to impress. The standard 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine is undoubtedly slow, but it is also efficient. This engine delivers 27 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. 

When you step inside one of these Hyundai Accent models, you will enjoy a comfortable place to spend time. The seats are basic but comfortable and supportive. Taller passengers may be a bit uncomfortable, but that is to be expected with a small car. Furthermore, the interior can offer you some modern features but don’t expect the highest level of luxury.

$5,000 can go a long way with these models

a woman looking at a 2009 smart fortwo, a great subcompact car that costs pennies
A woman looking at a 2009 Smart ForTwo | Jeff Greenberg via Getty Images

The $5,000 price point is an excellent start when shopping for a budget-friendly car. In the past, anything priced this low seemed like a risky investment, but in today’s market, as well as with the strict guidelines, these models can be affordable and smart choices. They can help drivers get something that can have good reliability and ensure all drivers can get something they will enjoy.

Consider one of these used models for your big city drives

As a driver looking for an affordable used car, take a look at a Smart ForTwo or a Hyundai Accent. These two subcompact cars are great choices for shoppers who want to save money, fuel, and space!

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