Top 20 New Cars to Buy Instead of Used: Comprehensive Study

Top 20 New Cars to Buy Instead of Used: Comprehensive Study

The auto market has seen its fair share of ups and downs in recent years, making it challenging for consumers to determine whether a car’s price is a good value or a ripoff. However, as things slowly return to normal, new vehicle inventory shortages have caused used car prices to skyrocket. In light of this, iSeeCars conducted a study to identify the top 20 cars that are better to buy new instead of used.

According to iSeeCars executive analyst Karl Brauer, “Buyers seeking a used car value should avoid these cars, which offer less than a 10 percent savings compared to a brand-new model. At these prices, shoppers are better off simply buying a new model and getting the full new-car experience at a slightly higher cost.” It is important to note that the numbers provided by iSeeCars are averages, so there may still be opportunities to find a used bargain despite the study’s findings.

The list of the top 20 cars to buy new includes a few models with more than 8% depreciation, but all the models in the top 10 had less than 6% depreciation over their first year of use. Here are the top 10 cars that made the cut:

1. Land Rover Range Rover: With just a 2.8% depreciation, the Range Rover proves to be a solid investment even when purchased new. The average price for a used Range Rover is $147,311, just $4,067 less than a new model.

2. Kia Rio: The Kia Rio experiences almost no depreciation, with a negligible -0.1% difference between used and new prices. With a starting price of $18,682, it’s no wonder that this model retains its value so well.

3. Mercedes-Benz G-Class: Despite being a high-end premium vehicle, the G-Class only depreciates by 2.3% in its first year. This luxury SUV still carries a hefty price tag, with an average used price of $196,112.

4. Ford Maverick: The Ford Maverick experienced a modest 4.1% depreciation, making it a viable option for those looking to buy new. With a starting price of $32,505, it offers great value for money.

5. Ford Maverick Hybrid: Similar to its non-hybrid counterpart, the Maverick Hybrid only depreciates by 4.4% in its first year. With a starting price of $32,039, it provides an eco-friendly option without breaking the bank.

6. Toyota Sequoia Hybrid: The Sequoia Hybrid experiences a 4.6% depreciation, making it an attractive choice for those in the market for a spacious and fuel-efficient SUV. However, with an average used price of $77,653, it may still be worth considering a new model.

7. Toyota Corolla Hybrid: With a 5.0% depreciation rate, the Corolla Hybrid offers excellent value for money. Its average used price is $26,038, which is just $1,359 less than a new model.

8. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid: The RAV4 Hybrid depreciates by 5.3% in its first year, providing buyers with a compelling reason to opt for a new model. The average used price is $37,727, representing a $2,131 difference compared to the new model.

9. Honda Civic: The Civic experiences a 5.5% depreciation rate, making it an attractive option for those looking for a reliable and economical vehicle. The average used price is $26,934, just $1,577 less than a new model.

10. Kia Sportage Hybrid: With a 5.9% depreciation rate, the Sportage Hybrid offers a great balance of performance and fuel efficiency. The average used price is $33,397, which is $2,085 less than a new model.

It is worth noting that high-end premium vehicles typically depreciate faster than mainstream models. However, it is surprising to see that the Range Rover actually gained value after one year, with average prices running more than $4,000 over the new MSRP. On the other end of the spectrum, the Mercedes-Benz EQS depreciates an average of 47.8%, offering savings of over $65,000 off its original price tag.

While the iSeeCars study identifies the top 20 cars that are better to buy new instead of used, it’s important to consider individual circumstances and preferences when making a purchasing decision. Whether buying new or used, conducting thorough research and considering all factors will help consumers make an informed choice that aligns with their needs and budget.