American households are truely starting to feel the real impact of our fluctuating economy and gas prices. With this in mind, it is more important than ever for car buyers to look at the complete cost scenario when choosing a new car. I asked Jody Victor to give us the skinny.
Jody Victor: According to a Consumer Reports analysis, a typical new car depreciation accounts for 46 percent of the owner costs over the first five-year period. If saving money, not just fuel, is your true goal, then consider buying used.
Pre-owned vehicles have already gone through the initial period of rapid depreciation. By focusing on a nearly-new model, maybe 2-3 years old, you can find a vehicle that offers comparable fuel economy, performance, safety, and reliability as a new car, often with some transferable warranty coverage remaining.
With a lower transaction price, sales tax, and insurance, used cars can be more affordable to purchase and own. Of course, buying used can put a larger, better-equipped model within your budget, but if fuel economy is your driving motivation, then consider these frugal choices.
Under $10,000 - Overall MPG
2000 Honda Insight (manual) - 51 mpg
2001-02 Toyota Prius - 41 mpg
2000-05 Toyota ECHO - 38 mpg
1998-2002 Chevrolet Prizm - 32 mpg
1998 Mazda Protege LX- 32 mpg
1998-2000 Toyota Corolla LE - 32 mpg
1998-2001 Acura Integra LS (manual) - 32 mpg
$10,000-$20,000 - Overall MPG
2004-06 Toyota Prius - 44 mpg
2001-03 Toyota Prius - 41 mpg
2006-07 Honda Civic Hybrid - 37 mpg
2003-05 Honda Civic Hybrid - 36 mpg
2007 Honda Fit Sport (manual) - 34 mpg
2007 Toyota Yaris Liftback (base, manual) - 34 mpg
Thanks, Jody! Many of us will be checking these vehicles out very soon!