Five Used Chevy Models for Budget-Conscious Buyers

The used car market continues to boom for a number of reasons. As a used Chevy dealer, we’ve heard them all, from “They just don’t make cars like they used to” to “Why should the depreciation happen on my time and dime?” A vehicle is one of the biggest expenses in our lives, and smart shoppers looking to make sure every dollar counts are taking an increased interest in used Chevys. With their reputation for longevity, quality, and style, used Chevys are a go-to choice for savvy, budget-conscious shoppers. If you’re looking for a pre-owned Chevy but are unsure which model is right for your needs, keep reading because we’ll cover five very different (but equally tremendous) pre-owned Chevys worth considering. 

#1 – A Stylish Sedan: The Malibu (2019-2025)

Need something that says, “Professional, cosmopolitan, but also easy-going”? Then it sounds like a used Chevy Malibu could be right for you. Refreshed in 2019, this stylish midsize sedan oozes sophistication without carrying a luxury price tag. Drivers and passengers love how smooth it rides and how spacious its interior is. Upper trims, in particular, are popular among commuters because they boast features that can keep you comfortable on long trips. Available heated and ventilated seats provide four-season climate comfort, while a highly adjustable driver’s seat ensures you’re in the perfect position when you’re stuck in traffic. Plus, perks like a Bose speaker system and built-in navigation can ensure you always find your way and are entertained along the way.

The Malibu is also clearly made for professionals with added perks like a 120-volt power outlet on the rear console, perfect for rear-seat passengers who need to plug in devices and work on the road. The available Wi-Fi can help with that, too, enabling everyone to go online and handle tasks. Wireless smartphone compatibility rounds out the work-ready features of the Malibu. If you’re after that ideal commuter for corporate life or a cosmopolitan existence, consider a used Malibu.

#2 – A Work-Ready Truck: The Silverado 1500 (2021-2025)

We’ll take a sharp turn from the sleek, city-ready appeal of the Malibu to the tough and work-ready Chevy Silverado 1500. This light-duty, full-size pickup is perfect for contractors, DIYers, and adventurers who need solid towing and payload figures. The 2021 model year is a great option to jump on the Silverado 1500 train because that’s when Chevy added the highly popular Multi-Flex tailgate. Built for the doers of the world, the Multi-Flex tailgate can be set to a variety of positions, creating a work desk, a load stop, a full-width step, and other options that give you plenty of ways to make the most of your tailgate and bed.

Variety is a core characteristic of the Silverado 1500. Used models offer so many engine options, ranging from efficient turbocharged engines to powerful V8s to muscular diesels. So you can decide if you want to have a Silverado 1500 that’s a daily driver, a sometimes-workhorse, or a dedicated work truck. Plus, with the ability to tow up to 13,300 lbs in 2021 and later models, the Silverado 1500 can help you take some decent-sized trailers along for work or fun. You can also find it with a short, regular, or long bed, as well as a regular, crew, or double cab. 

We also like that in 2021, Chevy started adding tons of trailer-ready technology. On 2021 and newer models, you’ll find features like a Trailer Length Indicator, Jack-Knife Alert, and the in-vehicle trailering app, where you can create profiles for your trailers and take advantage of handy pre-departure checklists. The 2021 and newer Silverado 1500s are packed with features that make life on job sites and camp sites easier. 

#3 – A Family-Friendly SUV: The Suburban (2021-2025)

Looking for a classic full-size SUV that’s ready for morning carpools, soccer games, grocery store runs, and family road trips? The Chevy Suburban is one of the most beloved large SUVs and has been a staple of the Chevy lineup for decades! Passengers love the generous rear legroom and the extensive beverage holders and storage cubbies throughout. Parents love the advanced safety features that help them command the road and monitor their surroundings. Features like Rear Pedestrian Alert and the HD rear vision camera enhance safety in situations like backing out of driveways in neighborhoods where kids might run out into the street. 

You’ll also enjoy loads of cargo space in the Suburban. With the rear rows folded down in 2021 and later models, you’ll unlock 144.7 cu.ft. of cargo room for all of your backpacks, adventure gear, groceries, and more. Plus, the Suburban can even tow up to 8,300 lbs. So you can take that camper or boat with you on your family road trips. When you need a vehicle ready for tons of passengers and their belongings, a used Suburban is the way to go.

#4 – A City-Friendly SUV: The Trax (2017-2022)

Looking for the ride height of an SUV but still need easy-to-handle dimensions and excellent fuel efficiency? Check out a used Chevy Trax. This subcompact SUV is perfect for those who spend time in the city and out exploring open roads. Its small dimensions mean that squeezing into tight parking spots in the city is a breeze. Zipping between lanes in congested streets is easy, too. Its fuel economy is certainly noteworthy, making it perfect for commuters and road trippers. The start/stop technology helps with that fuel efficiency, shutting the engine off when you take your foot off the gas pedal and turning it back on when you put your foot back on the gas. 

The Trax even has all-wheel drive available, so if you need a vehicle that gets good traction on wet and slippery roads, it has you covered. That all-wheel drive performance makes it right for dirt roads, too. The Trax’s available Wi-Fi and smartphone compatibility make it a tech-forward option. You can sync your Apple or Android device to the touchscreen and control your apps from there. And with a Wi-Fi hotspot, you don’t need to worry about overextending your data plan. For a small SUV, the Trax boasts big cargo possibilities thanks to a 60/40 split-folding rear seat and a fold-flat front passenger seat that creates space for large and long items. 

#5 – An Affordable Hatch: The Spark (2019-2022)

Many people were disappointed when Chevy dropped this subcompact hatch from its lineup after 2022. At one point, it earned the title of “most affordable new car in America,” which should give you a sense of just how affordable the Spark can be when purchased used. If you’re lucky enough to find one, this model features some of the easiest-to-park dimensions around while still boasting a spacious trunk, thanks to that hatchback design. Fold down the rear seats, and you’ll get 27.2 cu.ft. of cargo space.

The Spark’s fuel economy makes it highly popular with anyone who does a lot of driving. The EPA estimates it gets 30 MPG in the city and 38 MPG on the highway. If you want some more upscale features, you can shop for one of the upper trims. Those can get you access to upgrades like advanced driver-assist features, more premium materials, and remote keyless entry while still going easy on your wallet. We all miss the cute and efficient Spark.