Pretty much every major manufacturer has a "pre-owned" certification they'll attach to used cars that are in good condition and have low mileage. I think a lot of them are cars that people lease when brand new, but then return after 1-2 years. Knocks the price down and you get assurance that you aren't buying a lemon, something that's been through an accident and has rags for airbags, etc.

Not as cheap or environmentally friendly as getting a 2010 Corolla or something, but easily better than buying new if the concern is safety.