The midsize sedans
It’s easy to forget that just a few short years ago, before the SUV tidal wave subsumed everything in its path or almost, auto manufacturers were investing heavily in the development and production of midsize sedans. And these products are bountiful on the used-car market: Ford Fusions, Hyundai Sonatas and Kia Optimas, Toyota Camry Hybrids and more. You could include the Honda Accord in this category as well. All of these, if you shop carefully, can be found on the market for under $15,000; look for 2013 or 2014 models.