Best Used Ford Model to Buy [2021 Guide]

Last Updated on July 23, 2021 by Jason Mason

Are you considering buying a used Ford in 2021 but not sure which model is right for you? Then this guide is perfect four you.

Ford Motors Company was the best-selling car brand in the U.S. during 2019 mainly due to its ability to offer an unmatched experience to each market segment. With so many good vehicles available it is understandable that deciding on one is difficult. 

The goal of this guide is to narrow down your options based on what is most important to you, value, reliability, or performance. At the end of the guide, we also include the vehicle which, in our expert opinion, is the best overall used Ford to buy in 2021.

Criteria used in this guide

We discarded pre-2005 Ford cars as we consider this to be a reasonable limit to guarantee trouble-free vehicles. For each selected vehicle:

• We conducted extensive research on NHTSA to find Ford models with the lowest incidence of issues possible. 
• We corroborated the quality and satisfaction ratings of the pre-selected vehicles on reputable websites such as Kelley Blue Book, NADA Guides, and Edmunds to rule out models with poor ratings.

To ensure full transparency in the results (and avoid biasing our picks using our personal experience), we only used the online resources mentioned above.

Best Value – 2016 Ford Fusion SE AWD EcoBoost

Estimated Price Range: $9,675 – $14,025 (2016)

The 2016 Ford Fusion SE AWD EcoBoost is certainly a unique vehicle. You might think it is a bit pricey to be our pick as the Best Value Ford to buy in 2021. And you would be probably right. You can purchase a 2013 Ford Fusion well under $7,500. However, no other year/trim combination offers the amazing reliability and resale value that the 2016 Ford Fusion SE AWD EcoBoost has.

First of all, the all-wheel-drive drivetrain is something you don’t see too often in this class. It adds a huge advantage during adverse weather conditions, as it enhances safety and drive-ability, meaning the AWD is a desirable feature that adds value on its own. Secondly, the 2016 Fusion SE comes standard with high-tech features such as automatic parallel parking, adaptive cruise control, GPS navigation, 17-inch allow wheels, eight-way power driver seat, six-speaker sound system, and more. Last but not least, the advanced 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine delivers enough oomph to outshine other sedans in this class.

There is simply no way you can find a 2016 Toyota Camry or Honda Accord with all those advantages at this price level. If what you need is a dependable midsize sedan fully-loaded with convenience and safety features then the 2016 Ford Fusion SE AWD EcoBoost is hands down your best option.

Most Reliable – 2017 Ford Explorer XLT EcoBoost 4WD

Estimated Price Range $20,475 – $25,700 (2017)

If you are looking for the Most Reliable Ford to buy in 2021, our suggestion is a 2017 Explorer XLT EcoBoost 4WD. Why? You get the great set of standard features offered in the XLT trim-level such as the voice-activated touchscreen navigation system, blind spot information system, 8-way power driver seat with lumbar support, and more, plus a reliable 280-hp 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine.

Worried about a four-cylinder engine on a Ford Explorer? Ford’s latest-gen EcoBoost engine delivers almost the same driving experience as a V6 (but with a considerably lower carbon footprint). Furthermore, maintenance costs are also cheaper thanks to the advanced technology used in this little engine.

Summing up, the 2017 Explorer XLT combines luxury, comfort, and 4WD SUV experience with Ford’s renowned reliability making it a solid choice for people looking for a family vehicle.

Best Performance – 2017 Ford Mustang GT Premium

Estimated Price Range $21,925 – $27,425 (2017)

Yet another iconic car in Ford’s stable is the winner of the Best Performance category, the formidable Mustang GT 2017 available in both, Coupe and Convertible versions. If you love authentic American Muscle Cars, then the aggressive look, powerful V8 engine, and superior handling offered by the 2017 Mustang GT will not disappoint. Performance-wise, the 2017 GT can kick you from zero to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds thanks to its gorgeous 435 horsepower 5.0-liter V8. That is without any modification.

Mustang’s enthusiasts know this baby can be fitted with Nitrous Oxide, Supercharger, Turbocharger, you name it. If you prefer a turn-key Mustang supercar (and are willing to pay over $51k) then you can purchase a 2017 Shelby GT350 R and enjoy its street-legal 526-hp V8 engine. Arguably that is one of the key factors making the Mustang stand out from the rest.

If you love speed and performance you have the muscular V8, if you love Mustangs but prefer fuel economy you can choose the four-cylinder EcoBoost or V6 variants and still have fun driving it. Without a doubt, the 2017 Ford Mustang GT Premium is not for the faint of heart, but rather for anyone who wants to break boredom and have fun driving it.

Overall Winner – 2015 Ford F-150 Lariat Crew Cab 2WD

Estimated Price Range $19,990 – $29,999 (2015)

If what you need is a reliable multipurpose vehicle capable of performing the most demanding tasks while also fulfilling the role of a family car, then your best choice is by far the 2015 Ford F-150 Lariat Crew Cab 2WD. Ford managed hit those impossible requirements with the F-Series alone. While competition sells “a pickup truck” Ford sells an unmatched driving experience tailored to customers’ needs.

If you have never driven a Ford F-150 all you have to do is closing your eyes and forget about its exterior. Perceive how comfortable are the seats, amaze yourself with the controls, and enjoy the many features you have at your disposal. Start the engine and drive. You will be astonished by how quick the F-150 accelerates and how predictable it is driving this “large truck”.

Not convinced yet? The 2017 Ford F-150 is available in 7 trim levels and 44 different configurations. We picked the Lariat Crew Cab 2WD because we believe it offers a spectacular combination of performance, luxury, convenience, and price. We included the amazing hi-tech 2.7L TwinTurbo V6 EcoBoost in the equation since it delivers sedan-like responsiveness and an unsurpassed fuel economy for such a big vehicle. However, if you want a V8 engine, a larger wheelbase or 4WD is up to you. That is the beauty of the F-150, you can configure it to your needs, a workhorse, an efficient daily driver, or something in between. You decide.