Every April, Consumer Reports gives advice for new and used buyers in its annual auto issue. This year, a trio of Asian and European names top the tally: Audi, Subaru and Lexus. They scored an 80, 8 and 76, respectively, on a 100-point scale that measures the overall score, road-test score, and predicted reliability results from the magazines extensive auto tests.
Here’s a quick rundown of the top 10 best brands:
- Audi: 80
- Subaru: 78
- Lexus: 76
- Porsche: 76
- BMW: 76
- Mazda: 74
- Buick: 74
- Toyota: 72
- Kia: 72
- Honda71
Of course, most people are used car buyers, not new car buyers. And with the average used vehicle costing half of what it costs new, with 80% of its life left, that would make buying used instead of new a very smart buy!
If you are buying a car, use these helpful ‘Used Car Tips!’
Arrange your used auto financing first. Look at credit unions, online banks or even traditional banks. Only take dealer financing if it beats any other offer you have. Of course, some people can and should pay for an affordable used car completely in cash!
Next, have the used vehicle inspected by an independent mechanic. One of the key things to know about buying a used car is that you buy “as is.” CarFax alone is not enough of a check; you need to take this additional step: Check out your no-haggle buying options. It can be tough to find a diamond in the rough and weed out the lousy deals. Carvana.com has a seven day, no questions-asked policy.