The numbers are in, and the Ford F-150 still reigns supreme as the top selling used vehicle in the US in 2023. ISeeCars recently published its list of the most bought used cars in the US based on the last five model years (2018 to 2023). The list produced some interesting and even surprising results.
When it comes to the F-150, the XLT trim proved most popular for its balance of technology, utility, comfort and price. Coming in second place was the Chevrolet Silverado 1500. In a surprising move, the Chevy Equinox small crossover SUV knocked the Ram 1500 pickup out of the top three.
The Most Popular Electric Vehicles of 2023
As a surprise to no one, Tesla remained the top selling used EV in the US. The Model 3 ranked number 1 while the Model Y came in second place.
Interestingly, 2023 saw a rise in popularity of the Chevy Volt and Nissan LEAF which came in at number 3 and 4, respectively. These more affordable models replaced the Tesla Model S and X. Surveys have consistently found that price is one of the top barriers to people buying battery electric vehicles (BEVs), so it makes sense these affordable entry-level models would have wide appeal.
Federal tax credits of up to 30% or $4,000 on used EVs likely helped drive sales. In 2024, dealers who register with the IRS can apply the tax credit immediately as a downpayment, which will likely push the popularity of more affordable BEVs like the LEAF and the Volt even higher.
Most Popular Vehicles in High Population States and Major Metro Areas
Tastes often vary between the major population centers in the United States. Surprising no one, the Ford F-150 pickup was the most popular vehicle in Texas and in the major cities of San Antonio, Houston, Dallas/Fort Worth and even Austin. But the F-150 didn’t take the top spot in every state and major metro area.
In California, drivers preferred the Honda Civic, which was also the most popular used car in all the major metro areas, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego and Sacramento. The higher cost of living in the state makes the affordable Civic an attractive option.
In New York state the Equinox took the top slot, but drivers in New York City preferred the Jeep Grand Cherokee. If it can make it there, the Grand Cherokee can make it anywhere people like roomy comfort and the promise of rugged escapes.
Down in Florida, they love used Toyota Corollas, which held true in the Miami-Fort Lauderdale and Orlando-Daytona Beach metro areas. The Corolla is a practical used car with legendary reliability, a long service life and affordable price. There’s no word on what used vehicle was most preferred by the legendary Florida Man.
Meanwhile, the folks inside the beltway of Washington, D.C. preferred the Toyota Camry. The Camry offers some luxuries the denizens of DC demand at a good value, while also providing a smaller size and maneuverability that’s perfect for the tight streets and parking spaces in the capital city.
The Bottom Line
Whether you’re looking for inventory or transportation, project or parts cars, the top sellers of the year provide a valuable benchmark to help you zero in on the vehicles that fit your needs. And you can find them in almost every condition at Copart.
