Cars with the Most Bang for the Buck

Fuse
Fuse

Fuse

For most consumers, a car is the second most expensive purchase they will ever make. Aside from a house, cars tend to put the biggest dent in our wallets. So when it comes to buying a new or used car, it’s important to find a make and model that delivers the best value.

Car shoppers should be sure to take into consideration gas mileage, repair costs and durability when buying a new or used car. Also, checking a reputable valuation source such as Kelley Blue Book to see how much that car on the dealer’s lot really is worth can save buyers some money in the end.

There are cars that offer the best big bang for the buck, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all proposition. For example, a vehicle that best suits a young family might not be best for a college student or retiree. Taking some time to take stock of what you really need in a vehicle can make it easier to find the best fit.

Perfect for the Young Family

The young family is going to need a car that is many things: safe, spacious, practical, convenient, affordable… the list goes on. In many ways, young families need a car that does everything. For this reason, many young families opt for crossovers, minivans and small SUVs, which provide the space and practicality benefits of a sports utility vehicle — ample cargo room and seating — while allowing for lower ownership costs, thanks to reduced fuel consumption. Some of the best small SUVs, minivans and compact crossovers on the market include:

  • Honda CR-V

  • Hyundai Santa Fe

  • Ford Edge

  • Mazda 5

Keep Your Teen Safe and Sound

When it comes to your teenage driver, there is one thing that takes precedence over all other concerns: safety. Luckily, automotive safety technology improves every year, with more and more safety features included in most models. Even today’s most affordable models now come with anti-lock brakes, side airbags and traction control as standard equipment. If you’re seeking a car for a young driver, you might choose from the following, which are safe, practical, easy on gas and reliable:

  • Ford Fiesta

  • Mazda 3

  • Toyota Corolla

  • Honda Civic

Stretch Your College Dollars

College can be a learning experience in more ways than one. Most college students are on a budget, so they want a car that is affordable, reliable, spacious, convenient and practical. There are many options, but a popular choice for college students is a hatchback model. More spacious than they have any right to be, these new cars will be the perfect college companion, helping you get the most out of your four years at university.

  • Honda Fit

  • Volkswagen Golf

  • Kia Soul

  • Ford Focus

  • Chevrolet Spark

Retire in Style – Without Breaking the Bank

If you’ve reached the end of your professional life and finally are reaping the rewards of your hard work, congratulations! Now, you’ll want to buy a car that is spacious, comfortable, reliable, perhaps just a tad bit sophisticated and of course, affordable. Most retirees want a vehicle that suits their needs without breaking into that retirement fund.

These mid-size sedans will take you all the way to the moon with proper maintenance, and look good doing it, plus they costs tens of thousands of dollars less than today’s mid-size luxury cars. If you’re considering buying this category of cars, consider these models:

  • Honda Accord

  • Toyota Camry

  • Hyundai Sonata

  • Ford Fusion

  • Chevrolet Malibu

Jessica Oaks is a freelance journalist who loves covering technology news and the ways that technology can make life easier. Follow her on Twitter @TechyJessy.

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