When it comes to purchasing a car, making the right choice is crucial. With so many models and options on the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which car will give you the most value for your money. The wrong choice can lead to costly repairs, poor gas mileage, and a lack of options to recoup your investment. On the other hand, the right car purchase can serve you well for years with affordable upkeep, great fuel economy, and strong resale value.
To help you make an informed decision, we spoke to Melanie Musson, an auto industry expert with AutoInsurance.org, to get her opinion on the best and worst car models in terms of value. Here are some of the top picks for 2024:
Honda Civic:
The Honda Civic is a compact sedan known for its great fuel efficiency, with an EPA rating of up to 36 mpg combined for models with the 1.5L turbo engine. The base model 2024 Honda Civic LX has a starting MSRP of $23,950. Despite its small size, the Civic offers a well-designed interior with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. Its strong resale value and low maintenance costs make it a smart choice for those seeking a dependable and economical vehicle.
Honda Odyssey:
For those in need of a minivan, the Honda Odyssey is a top pick. With comfortable seating for up to eight passengers and a powerful V6 engine that delivers smooth performance while achieving 22 mpg combined, the Odyssey is a great family vehicle. The starting MSRP is $38,240, and with routine maintenance, it can last well over 200,000 miles.
Subaru Outback:
The Subaru Outback is a rugged midsize SUV with all-wheel-drive capability and solid fuel efficiency at 29 mpg combined. Known for its durability, the Outback is a reliable choice that can last well beyond 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. With a user-friendly interior design and standard all-wheel-drive feature, the Outback is a great buy for your money.
On the other hand, here are some of the worst values in terms of car models for 2024:
Ram 2500/3500 Diesel:
If you’re considering a diesel truck, you may want to think twice about the Ram 2500 or 3500. Diesel engines require more expensive maintenance and repairs, and the poor fuel economy of these trucks (15-20 mpg combined) can lead to high costs at the pump. Limited repair options and expensive parts make these trucks a bad value in the long run.
Land Rover Range Rover:
While stylish, the Land Rover Range Rover is considered a maintenance nightmare by Musson. Despite its high starting price of $107,400, the Range Rover is one of the least reliable vehicles on the market, leading to frequent breakdowns and costly repairs. For most buyers, the luxury SUV just isn’t worth the financial pain.
Ford Focus:
The Ford Focus, a popular choice for budget-conscious car buyers, has been discontinued by Ford. While you may find a good deal on a used Focus, the car consistently underperforms in terms of reliability. Known for annoying problems like window electronics failure and a noisy ride, the Ford Focus may end up costing you more in repairs and have a low resale value.
In conclusion, choosing the right car for your money requires careful consideration of factors such as fuel efficiency, reliability, maintenance costs, and resale value. By selecting a model like the Honda Civic, Honda Odyssey, or Subaru Outback, you can ensure that your investment will serve you well for years to come. On the other hand, avoiding models like the Ram 2500/3500 Diesel, Land Rover Range Rover, and Ford Focus can save you from potential financial headaches down the road. Make an informed decision when purchasing a car to get the most value for your money.