3 Reliable Family Used Cars Orange County - The Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, And Mercury Milan

Is it time to for you to get a new used car for the family? According to Consumer Reports, you there are three excellent cars to choose from. Although a lot of people prefer foreign cars, if you prefer to buy an auto from a US manufacturer, you'll be happy to know that two out of the three meet the bill.

The three top choices for used cars in Orange County are the Honda Accord, the Ford Fusion, and the Mercury Milan. All have tested very well in terms of comfort, handling, and reliability. And they are all quite affordable.

When the Accord was redesigned back in 2003 it became a quieter, better handling automobile. Anti lock brakes (ABS) was first included that year as standard equipment. Then electronic stability control (ESC) became standard on the 2006 V6 models. And when the Accord was once again redesigned in 2008, ESC was made standard on all models.

The Ford Fusion was first introduced as a 2006 model. Back then it was offered only with front wheel drive. The build quality was solid and its seats are supportive, even if you're tall. That year, though, the available engines were a bit underpowered.

In 2007 Ford added front seat airbags as well as side curtain airbags as standard equipment. All wheel drive was also added. If you're considering a Ford Fusion, a 2007 or newer model would be preferable. In 2008 anti lock brakes became standard equipment and traction control became standard the following year along with stability control - a very worthwhile option.

Your best choice as far as the Fusion goes would be one that comes with the Sport Appearance package because it adds a sport tuned suspension, 18 inch wheels and special trim.

In 2009, U.S. News & World Report rated the Mercury Milan number 8 out of 22 affordable midsize cars. The Milan shares a majority of its parts with the aforementioned Ford Fusion. If you're shopping for a Fusion you should check out the Milan, and vice-versa.

One of the major complaints about the 2008 Milan was that it lacked Stability Control. This was addressed in 2009, when it became available on all Milans. One of the differences between the Fusion and the Milan is that the Milan has the reputation of being an entry level luxury car.

Car and Drive magazine said, "The Milan and its platform-mate, the Ford Fusion are thoroughly modern four-doors, with roomy interiors, excellent crashworthiness ratings, and a better-than-average fun-to-drive index."

Consumer Guide said, "This midsize sedan has some substantive advantage over a comparably equipped Ford Fusion. Though both are quite capable midsize sedans, Milan has a longer list of standard equipment and richer-looking interior appointments. The added availability of all-wheel drive further enhances its credibility."