Top Underrated Used Car Models in Maryland You Should Consider in 2025

As 2025 approaches, the used car market in Maryland offers a treasure trove of underrated gems waiting to be discovered. While flashy mainstream models often steal the spotlight, there are hidden contenders that deliver exceptional value without the hefty price tag. From reliable sedans perfect for your daily commutes to versatile SUVs ready for weekend adventures, the options are abundant. This guide will unveil the top underrated used car models, highlighting their unique features, affordability, and longevity. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade your current ride, these models deserve your attention. Join us as we explore the secret stars of the Maryland roads—vehicles that combine comfort, performance, and style, all while keeping your budget intact. It’s time to rethink what a "good deal" looks like and discover your next favorite car! To navigate this process with confidence, reviewing a comprehensive guide on how to buy a used car can equip you with essential knowledge and tips.

Why Choose Underrated Used Car Models?

When shopping for a used car, most buyers are drawn to the big-name brands and popular models. While these vehicles are well-known, underrated used car models can offer surprising advantages. From affordability to individuality, they provide great value without sacrificing performance or reliability. Exploring these lesser-known options may help you uncover hidden gems that fit your budget and lifestyle.

1. Cost Savings and Better Value

One of the biggest reasons to consider an underrated used car model is the potential for significant cost savings. Popular models tend to hold higher resale values, often inflating their prices on the used car market. In contrast, underrated vehicles are more affordable, allowing buyers to get more features and quality for less money. On top of the lower purchase price, these models often come with reduced insurance premiums, making overall ownership more budget-friendly.

2. Reliability and Long-Term Durability

Underrated doesn’t mean unreliable. In fact, many lesser-known car models are praised for their solid engineering and durability. Because they’re not in the spotlight, these vehicles often fly under the radar despite offering strong performance and dependable longevity. For buyers planning to keep their car for years, choosing a reliable underrated model can be a smart investment that avoids the hype-driven price tag of more mainstream options.

3. Standing Out with Unique Style

Beyond financial and practical benefits, underrated used cars give drivers the chance to express individuality. While many people opt for the same popular models, choosing something less common ensures your car has a distinct presence on the road. This uniqueness appeals to those who want originality while still enjoying comfort, performance, and modern features. By going against the grain, you can drive a car that feels more personal and distinctive.  — Ready for an upgrade or a reliable daily driver? Explore Bumble Auto’s latest used cars to find your next ride.

Top Underrated Used Car Models for 2025

As we look ahead to 2025, several underrated used car models stand out for their exceptional value and performance. These vehicles may not be the first to come to mind, but they offer a compelling mix of features, reliability, and affordability. Top underrated used car models for 2025 include:

• Mazda6
• Subaru Legacy
• Hyundai Santa Fe

Detailed Reviews of Each Model

Mazda6

The Mazda6 is a midsize sedan that has consistently flown under the radar despite its many strengths. Its sleek, stylish exterior is matched by a well-appointed interior that offers both comfort and sophistication. The Mazda6 is powered by a responsive engine that delivers a spirited driving experience, making it a joy to drive on both highways and winding backroads. Its precise handling and smooth ride quality are standout features, providing a level of driving enjoyment that's hard to find in this segment.

Inside, the Mazda6 boasts a high-quality cabin with premium materials and an intuitive layout. The seats are supportive and comfortable, making long drives a pleasure rather than a chore. The infotainment system is user-friendly, featuring a responsive touchscreen, smartphone integration, and a robust sound system. Additionally, the Mazda6 comes equipped with a range of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control, enhancing both convenience and peace of mind.

Overall, the Mazda6 is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable, stylish, and engaging midsize sedan. Its combination of performance, comfort, and advanced features makes it a standout in the competitive used car market. With its strong reputation for reliability and attractive pricing, the Mazda6 is a smart investment for 2025 and beyond.

Subaru Legacy

The Subaru Legacy is a midsize sedan that often gets overlooked in favor of more popular models, but it has a lot to offer. One of its standout features is the standard all-wheel drive, which provides excellent traction and stability in all weather conditions—a significant advantage for Maryland drivers. The Legacy's smooth ride and composed handling make it a comfortable and confidence-inspiring choice for daily commutes and road trips alike.

Inside, the Legacy offers a spacious and well-designed cabin with high-quality materials and plenty of legroom for both front and rear passengers. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making it an ideal choice for long journeys. The infotainment system is modern and intuitive, featuring a large touchscreen, smartphone connectivity, and voice controls. Additionally, the Legacy is equipped with a suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking, contributing to its strong safety ratings.

The Subaru Legacy's reputation for reliability and longevity is another key selling point. With regular maintenance, these vehicles are known to deliver many years of dependable service. The combination of all-wheel drive, spacious interior, and advanced safety features makes the Legacy an excellent choice for those seeking a practical and reliable used sedan.

Hyundai Santa Fe

The Hyundai Santa Fe is a midsize SUV that offers a compelling mix of versatility, comfort, and value. Its bold and modern design is complemented by a spacious and well-appointed interior that can comfortably accommodate both passengers and cargo. The Santa Fe's ride quality is smooth and composed, making it an excellent choice for families and those who enjoy road trips. Its responsive engine options provide a good balance of power and fuel efficiency, ensuring a pleasant driving experience.

Inside, the Santa Fe features a well-designed cabin with high-quality materials and a host of modern amenities. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with a large touchscreen, smartphone integration, and plenty of connectivity options. The seats are comfortable and supportive, with ample legroom and headroom for all occupants. Additionally, the Santa Fe comes with a range of advanced safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward collision warning, enhancing both safety and convenience.

The Hyundai Santa Fe's strong reliability ratings and affordable price point make it an attractive option for used car buyers. Its combination of versatility, comfort, and advanced features makes it a standout in the crowded midsize SUV segment. Whether you're looking for a family vehicle or an SUV for weekend adventures, the Santa Fe is a smart choice that offers excellent value for money.

Price Ranges and Value for Money

One of the key considerations when purchasing a used car is the price range and overall value for money. Underrated models like the Mazda6, Subaru Legacy, and Hyundai Santa Fe often come with more affordable price tags compared to their more popular counterparts. For a deeper dive into what to expect, understanding the trends for current used car prices in 2025 will help you set a realistic budget. This affordability doesn't mean compromising on quality or features—in fact, these models often provide a higher return on investment due to their combination of performance, comfort, and reliability.

The Mazda6, for example, can be found in the used car market for a fraction of the cost of a new vehicle. Depending on the model year and condition, prices can range from $10,000 to $20,000. This price range offers excellent value for a midsize sedan that delivers a sporty driving experience, a well-appointed interior, and a host of advanced features. Additionally, the Mazda6's strong reliability ratings mean that maintenance costs are likely to be lower over the long term.

Similarly, the Subaru Legacy offers great value for money, with used models typically priced between $12,000 and $22,000. This price range provides access to a reliable and well-equipped sedan with standard all-wheel drive, making it a practical choice for Maryland's variable weather conditions. The Legacy's reputation for longevity means that even older models can provide many years of dependable service, making it a smart investment for budget-conscious buyers.

The Hyundai Santa Fe is another excellent value proposition, with used models typically priced between $15,000 and $25,000. This price range offers a versatile and well-equipped midsize SUV with a spacious interior, advanced safety features, and strong reliability ratings. The Santa Fe's affordable price point and excellent features make it a standout choice for families and those seeking a reliable and comfortable SUV.

Maintenance and Reliability Ratings

When considering a used car, it's essential to evaluate its maintenance requirements and reliability ratings. These factors can significantly impact the overall cost of ownership and determine how long the vehicle will remain dependable. The Mazda6, Subaru Legacy, and Hyundai Santa Fe are all known for their strong reliability and manageable maintenance costs, making them excellent choices for used car buyers. Following essential car maintenance tips from dealership experts will help ensure your vehicle remains a dependable investment for years to come.

The Mazda6 has built a reputation for reliability, with many owners reporting minimal issues even after several years of ownership. Routine maintenance, such as oil changes, brake inspections, and tire rotations, are typically straightforward and affordable. Additionally, Mazda's widespread availability of parts and service centers ensures that any necessary repairs can be performed quickly and cost-effectively. This combination of reliability and low maintenance costs makes the Mazda6 a smart choice for those seeking a dependable used car.

The Subaru Legacy is another model known for its strong reliability ratings. Subaru's engineering focus on durability and longevity means that the Legacy can provide many years of trouble-free driving with regular maintenance. The all-wheel-drive system, a hallmark of Subaru vehicles, is robust and reliable, requiring minimal maintenance. Additionally, Subaru's extensive network of service centers ensures that any necessary repairs can be performed efficiently. These factors contribute to the Legacy's reputation as a reliable and low-maintenance sedan.

The Hyundai Santa Fe also boasts strong reliability ratings, with many owners reporting few issues over the years. Routine maintenance for the Santa Fe is straightforward, with affordable costs for oil changes, brake services, and other regular upkeep. Hyundai's comprehensive warranty coverage, even for used vehicles, can provide additional peace of mind and reduce the cost of any unexpected repairs. The Santa Fe's combination of reliability and manageable maintenance costs makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a dependable and versatile midsize SUV.

Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision

Purchasing a used car is a significant investment, and making an informed decision requires careful consideration of various factors. By looking beyond the mainstream options and considering underrated models like the Mazda6, Subaru Legacy, and Hyundai Santa Fe, you can find vehicles that offer exceptional value, reliability, and performance. These hidden gems provide a unique blend of affordability and quality, making them smart choices for budget-conscious buyers in Maryland.

When evaluating potential used cars, it's essential to consider factors such as the vehicle's history, mileage, fuel efficiency, and availability of replacement parts. Taking the time to research and inspect each vehicle can help you avoid potential pitfalls and ensure you make a sound investment. Additionally, exploring different avenues for finding and financing used cars can increase your chances of securing a great deal that fits your budget and needs. For those concerned about their budget, exploring financing options at a bad credit car dealership can make ownership a reality.

Ultimately, choosing the right used car involves balancing your priorities and preferences with practical considerations. Whether you're seeking a sporty sedan for daily commutes, a reliable family vehicle, or a versatile SUV for weekend adventures, the models highlighted in this guide offer a range of options to suit your lifestyle. By making an informed decision and considering these underrated models, you can enjoy the benefits of a high-quality vehicle without breaking the bank. It's time to rethink what a "good deal" looks like and discover your next favorite car in Maryland for 2025 and beyond.