If you’re in the market for a new car but are considering a used version of the same model for your next vehicle, you may want to think again. When it comes to the cost, you’re better off buying new than used for some models in Seattle, and there’s a study to prove it.

iSeeCars.com analyzed the best cars you should buy new instead of used if you live in Seattle. Their study focused on sales from August 2018 to January 2019, and compared the new 2018/2019 models to lightly used 2017 and 2018 models. Curious as to what they found out? Keep on reading.

The Top 5 Cars to Buy New in Seattle

  • 2018 Ford FocusFord Focus

    The Ford Focus is the best vehicle to buy new in Seattle according to iSeeCars.com. Although a redesigned Focus is coming in the second half of 2019, you can still buy a brand new 2018 model that’s just as affordable as its lightly used counterpart.

    • 2018 model MSRP: $17,950
    • Used 2017 model average price: $16,194
    • Difference: 11.6 percent, $1,756
  • 2019 Toyota TacomaToyota Tacoma

    Next up is the Toyota Tacoma. This popular pickup truck can handle the rugged areas surrounding Seattle while staying reliable.

    • 2019 model MSRP: $25,550
    • Used 2018 model average price: $21,659
    • Difference: 12.3 percent, $3,891
  • 2019 Honda CivicHonda Civic

    The Honda Civic is one of the most popular cars to buy new across the US according to iSeeCars.com, and it made its way onto the list for Seattle.

    • 2019 model MSRP: $19,450
    • Used 2018 model average price: $16,945
    • Difference: 12.3 percent, $2,505
  • 2019 Subaru CrosstrekSubaru Crosstrek

    The Subaru Crosstrek is another popular crossover SUV for residents in and around Seattle. The Crosstrek retains its value well, so buying new could help if you plan on trading it in down the road.

    • 2019 model MSRP: $21,895
    • Used 2018 model average price: $18,917
    • Difference: 12.2 percent, $2,978
  • 2019 Honda CR-VHonda CR-V

    Following behind the Civic, the Honda CR-V is another popular vehicle residents of Seattle tend to gravitate toward.

    • 2019 model MSRP: $24,350
    • Used 2018 model average price: $21,120
    • Difference: 12.2 percent, $3,230

What if I Can’t Afford These New Models?

After seeing the prices, you may find yourself worrying about affording a brand new car. If that’s the case, it’s okay to opt for an older model. Many of the vehicles listed – such as the Tacoma and Civic – are known to be excellent cars that are reliable for years and they hold their value well over time.

Make sure you do some vehicle research ahead of time, and check things in addition to the price range such as safety and reliability ratings.

Finding a Dealership in Seattle

There are many used car lots and dealerships around Seattle that want to help you get the financing you need, and we can steer you to them in no time. At Auto Credit Express, we’ve been helping people in Seattle and across the US find the financing they need for 20 years with the nationwide network of dealers we work with.

The process is simple. Just fill out our free auto loan request form, and we’ll work to get you connected to a local dealership in no time!