Six CPO Fords You Should Pursue

The benefits of a certified pre-owned vehicle are rather obvious. While general used vehicles come with their fair share of risks, a CPO had been meticulously inspected by the brand or dealership, assuring that everything is working properly. While you’ll have to pay a bit extra for these certified pre-owned vehicles over their non-certified counterparts, the extra cash is worth the extra security.

While it may be an easy decision to opt for a CPO, it isn’t as easy choosing a specific nameplate. If you’re in the market for a Ford certified pre-owned car, we’re here to help. Below, we’ve provided a list of ideal targets, making your decision a lot easier when you ultimately head to a dealership.

Ford Mustang

This nameplate is a rather popular choice among those seeking a de facto sports car. However, it’s also proven to be the perfect option for those looking for an affordable certified pre-owned option.

Specifically, the early 2010 variation of the Ford Mustang would be a logical target. The vehicle saw a redesign during this specific model year, as the exterior and interior were revamped to provide drivers with an improved driving experience. While horsepower numbers are relatively low for a muscle car (210 horsepower to 315 horsepower), these numbers are presumably superior to any other sporty vehicle you’d find sitting on a used dealership’s lot. Furthermore, when you consider the fact that the car’s muscle will still be intact after half-a-decade on the road, you shouldn’t be overly concerned about the power numbers.

If anything, it’s important to give a certified pre-owned Ford Mustang a test drive before committing to a purchase. After all, owners of these cars tend to drive them into the ground. In other words, there’s a chance that a used variation of this nameplate is well past its peak, in which case it might be better to opt for an alternative car.

Ford Taurus

This nameplate isn’t as muscular as the Ford Mustang, but it certainly rivals the other nameplate when it comes to elegance and cosmetics. The Taurus is generally considered to be one of the brand’s more stylish offerings, and its solid drivability makes it a target whether you’re after a certified pre-owned car or a new vehicle.

Models released around 2010 and 2011 can be equipped with a powerful V6 engine that manages to pump out 263 horsepower. Considering the car hasn’t been on the road all that long, it’s easy to assume that the vehicle will still possess its power despite being used. The car also proved to be relatively fuel efficient, as the front-drive variation of the car managed to deliver an impressive 28-mile-per-gallon highway fuel efficiency. Therefore, you’ll save money on your certified pre-owned car and at the gas station.

Best of all, the Ford Taurus is plenty modern, as engineers included a number of notable technological amenities that improve the entire driving experience. Ultimately, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better bang for your buck in the entire industry.

Ford F-150

If you’re looking for a vehicle that’s better prepared to overcome adverse weather or odd terrain, then the Ford F-150 is a good option. 2009 models generally sold for less than $25,000 new (which is an absolute steal), so prospective buyers should be able to secure a solid deal on a certified pre-owned version of the pickup truck.

The nameplate has been lauded for its incredible driving experience, as the quiet cabin and smooth handling reminds many of a much smaller car. However, the Ford F-150 still manages to pack quite the punch, as the 2009 variation was able to haul up to 11,300 pounds. Whether you’re looking for a worksite companion or a general commuter, the Ford F-150’s versatility makes it a logical target for any scenario.

Ford Ranger

This Ford pickup isn’t as popular as the previously-mentioned nameplate due to its lack of elegance or style. The exterior of the vehicle looked rather outdated (even in the late-2000s), and the interior space left plenty to be desired.

However, if you’re looking for a vehicle that will solely accommodate you, then you probably won’t find a better deal elsewhere. The vehicle still managed to pack quite the pop, as the 4.0-liter V6 engine cranked out an impressive 207 horsepower. Combined with a five-speed manual transmission, drivers might think they’re driving a sedan when they’re behind the wheel of a Ford Ranger.

Ford Expedition

If you’re forced to tolerate winter driving, then it might be in your best interest to pursue an SUV. Well, if you’re looking for a used vehicle that’s reliable, powerful, and safe, you can’t make a better choice than the Ford Expedition. Specifically, early 2010 models have proven to possess all of these attributes, making it an ideal target for those seeking a certified pre-owned vehicle.

The vehicle possesses plenty of muscle under the hood, but it still manages to deliver a smooth and easy-to-handle driving experience. The vehicle is plenty versatile (especially when you consider the 9,200-pound towing capacity), and the roomy interior makes it a perfect choice for road trips. Plus, engineers did an admirable job of including a number of technological amenities in the vehicle, meaning your occupants will never be bored when traveling in the SUV.

Ford Fusion

Finally, if you’re trying to find a pseudo-luxury car on a certified pre-owned lot, then the Ford Fusion is a clever target. The vehicle is plenty stylish inside and out, and the early 2010 variations of the nameplate saw a notable redesign that led to a host of new features and amenities.

The vehicle was also surprisingly powerful, as the car managed to crank out between 175 and 265 horsepower. Despite the power, the vehicle was incredibly easy to handle, making it the perfect choice for commuters. If customers want to save even more money, they could opt for the hybrid version of the nameplate, which managed to deliver upwards of 41-miles-per-gallon in the city. However, you’ll really have to search hard to find this specific version of the nameplate sitting on a certified pre-owned lot.