One of the toughest decisions to make is what type of car and model to buy. There are so many different brands and styles that it can be nearly impossible to choose one car that has everything you need. A couple of things you should look at, initially, are price and mileage. This is because you'll want an affordable car that will be reliable and last for many more miles to come.

If you're looking for help identifying some models to consider, look no further. The following vehicles, according to Bankrate.com, are some of the best and most affordable used cars for buyers wishing to spend less than $15,000. As an added bonus, they’re also very safe and, with proper care, can last well beyond 200,000 miles.

And The Winners Are…

  • 2008 Chrysler Pacifica2004-2008 Chrysler Pacifica (2008 model pictured)

    Price range: $5,108 to $7,538

    Average mileage: 124,166

    Average safety rating: 5.0 out of 5.0

  • 2011 Honda Accord2003-2012 Honda Accord (2011 model pictured)

    Price range: $5,629 to $13,865

    Average mileage: 97,659

    Average safety rating: 5.0 out of 5.0

  • 2011 Honda Odyssey2004-2010 Honda Odyssey (2011 model pictured)

    Price range: $5,026 to $14,234

    Average mileage: 122,490

    Average safety rating: 5.0 out of 5.0

  • 2005 Lexus IS3002001-2005 Lexus IS300 (2005 model pictured)

    Price range: $6,102 to $9,583

    Average mileage: 135,441

    Average safety rating: 5.0 out of 5.0

  • 2010 Subaru Legacy2003-2012 Subaru Legacy (2010 model pictured)

    Price range: $5,061 to $14,595

    Average mileage: 89,428

    Average safety rating: 5.0 out of 5.0

  • 2008 Toyota Avalon2001-2010 Toyota Avalon (2008 model pictured)

    Price range: $5,006 to $13,937

    Average mileage: 112,598

    Average safety rating: 5.0 out of 5.0

  • 2014 Volkswagen Golf2004-2014 Volkswagen Golf (2014 model pictured)

    Price range: $5,089 to $14,448

    Average mileage: 58,510

    Average safety rating: 5.0 out of 5.0

  • 2009 Volvo S602004-2009 Volvo S60 (2009 model pictured)

    Price range: $5,127 to $9,139

    Average mileage: 103,580

    Average safety rating: 4.9 out of 5.0

  • 2009 Toyota Camry Hybrid2007-2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid (2009 model pictured)

    Price range: $8,401 to $12,690

    Average mileage: 103,580

    Average safety rating: 4.9 out of 5.0

  • 2007 Ford Explorer2003-2010 Ford Explorer (2007 model pictured)

    Price range: $5,177 to $13,146

    Average mileage: 120,278

    Average safety rating: 4.9 out of 5.0

The Bottom Line

The words “used car” can sound demeaning, but, according to Bankrate.com, these used cars have proven to be some of the best, most affordable vehicles you can get for the money.

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