When you’re looking to buy a car, you may be wondering if it’s worth it to buy new over used. In some cases, it can be, but not everyone can afford a brand new model or qualify for the best financing. So, what are your options then? You’d be surprised by the types of used vehicles that can outshine some of the latest new cars.

Buying Used vs. New

There are advantages and disadvantages to buying a new vehicle. You get a brand new car with practically no miles on it and the peace of mind that comes with knowing nobody else has owned the vehicle but you. But it generally costs more to finance and if you have credit issues, you may find it difficult to get approved for financing. While these 2018 models are some of the top sellers right now, there are used cars that are equal in quality – and cheaper, according to US News:

If you’re looking into a…

  • 2018 Honda Fit2018 Honda Fit
    • Starting price: $17,085 (all prices include destination charges)
    • Fuel economy: 33 miles per gallon city / 40 mpg highway / 36 mpg combined
    • Max cargo space: 52.7 cubic feet
    • Fuel tank: 10.6 gallons

Consider buying a…

  • 2016 Kia Soul2016 Kia Soul
    • Average price: $12,370
    • Fuel economy: 24 city / 30 hwy / 26 combined
    • Max cargo space: 61.3 cubic feet
    • Fuel tank: 14.2 gallons

Looks are deceiving. A used 2016 Kia Soul is nearly $5,000 cheaper on avearge than a 2018 Honda Fit and comes with more cargo space. While the Fit’s fuel economy and gas tank size are more cost-friendly, the Soul has better handling and runs quieter than the Fit.

If you’re looking into a…

  • 2018 Toyota Tacoma2018 Toyota Tacoma
    • Starting price: $26,445
    • Fuel economy: 19 city / 24 hwy / 21 combined
    • Fuel tank: 21.1 gallons
    • Engine: V6 (optional on all but the base SR trim)

Consider buying a…

  • 2015 Nissan Frontier2015 Nissan Frontier
    • Average price: $12,912
    • Fuel economy: 16 city / 22 hwy / 18 combined
    • Fuel tank: 21.1 gallons
    • Engine: V6

Both trucks are great for off roading, but if you’re not ready to shell over 25K-plus on a truck, the 2015 Nissan Frontier is a great used alternative. With a similar fuel tank size, fuel economy, and V6 engine, you can’t go wrong with the Frontier.

If you’re looking into a…

  • 2018 Honda Accord2018 Honda Accord
    • Starting price: $24,465
    • Fuel economy: 30 city / 38 hwy / 33 combined
    • Fuel tank: 14.8 gallons
    • Max cargo space: 16.7 cubic feet

Consider buying a…

  • 2016 Chevrolet Malibu2016 Chevrolet Malibu
    • Average price: $13,604
    • Fuel economy: 27 city / 36 hwy / 30 combined
    • Fuel tank: 15.8 gallons
    • Max cargo space: 15.8 cubic feet

While the Honda Accord is a top seller in the mid-size sedan class, there are many other models that are just as good as the Accord – one of these is a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu. With the Malibu’s redesign in 2016 came more cargo space, a more comfortable ride, and great reliability. While the Malibu doesn’t have the fuel economy of the Accord, it’s over $10,000 cheaper on average and has a similar levels of comfort, handling, and space.

If you’re looking into a…

  • 2018 Mini Cooper2018 Mini Cooper
    • Starting price: $22,750
    • Fuel economy: 28 city / 38 hwy / 32 combined
    • Fuel tank: 10.6 gallons
    • Max cargo space: 34 cubic feet

Consider buying a…

  • 2016 Hyundai Veloster2016 Hyundai Veloster
    • Average price: $12,430
    • Fuel economy: 27 city / 34 hwy / 30 combined
    • Fuel tank: 13.2 gallons
    • Max cargo space: 34.7 cubic feet

While the Mini Cooper has an eye-catching look, it comes at a hefty price. A 2016 Hyundai Veloster is the next best alternative if you don’t want to spend a lot of cash. These two models are very similar in size, look, and driving capabilities. The difference? The Veloster is about $10,000 cheaper on average, and has a bigger fuel tank.

Get Behind the Wheel Today

When you’re ready to finance a used car, but don’t know where to turn, let Auto Credit Express help. We work with a nationwide network of dealers that have the lending resources available for people struggling with credit. Don’t hesitate, start by filling out our free online request form today.