What are some efficient used cars?

what are some efficient used carsGas prices fluctuate on a regular basis. However, in recent years, gas prices have followed a generally upward trend. With the rising price of gas, many drivers are making the decision to trade in their current vehicle and purchase a used vehicle that may offer greater fuel efficiency. Some vehicles regularly average less than 15 miles per gallon while others may get 45 miles per gallon or better on average.

This is a considerable difference that can result in great savings to you on a regular basis. You may also consider researching the cost of auto insurance as part of your buying decision. When you use a rate comparison website to shop for rates, you simply have to type in your ZIP code to receive multiple rate quotes. In order to enjoy savings, however, first you have to find a fuel efficient used car that also is affordable to insure.

Fuel Efficiency of Your Current Vehicle

If you are shopping for a fuel efficient used car today, your goal may be to save money on your monthly gas expense. In order to determine which vehicles may offer you savings as well as how significant those savings may be, you first need to determine what your current vehicle’s fuel efficiency rating is. You may find it helpful to research the fuel efficiency rating on your car online. You can use a basic Internet search query to learn this information. You should, however, keep in mind that actual fuel efficiency may vary from the listed fuel efficiency.

This may be due to local road conditions in your area or how you drive the vehicle. For example, if you live in a mountainous or hilly area, your actual fuel efficiency may be lower than what the vehicle is rated for. Because of this, you may find it useful to calculate your own fuel efficiency rating. Simply monitor how many miles you travel on a tank of gas compared to how many gallons of gas your tank holds to get a rough idea.

Most Fuel Efficient Cars to Consider

Once you know the fuel efficiency your current vehicle gets, your next task will be to shop for a more fuel efficient used vehicle. It may be helpful to start by researching the most fuel efficient vehicles on the market today. In 2012, the most fuel efficient vehicles are:

  • Mitsubishi i-MiEV
  • Ford Focus EV
  • Chevrolet Volt
  • Toyota Prius
  • Honda Civic Hybrid

The most fuel efficient non-hybrid and non-electric vehicles for 2011 are:

  • Kia Rio
  • Mazda2
  • Toyota Yaris
  • Mini Cooper
  • Hyundai Elantra
  • Ford Fiesta
  • Volkswagen Jetta TDI (diesel)

are some efficient used carsThe most fuel efficient vehicles will vary from year to year, so take time to research the top models for the model years you are considering buying.

The Importance of Buying a Functional Car

While few drivers will argue about how important finding a fuel efficient vehicle is, there are other factors to consider when purchasing a used vehicle. A vehicle should be functional as well as affordable. If you have a family of four, five or more, buying one of the smaller models of cars listed above may not be practical.

You may consider searching for a hybrid SUV or a fuel efficient mid-size or full-size sedan. Many people depend on their car not only to commute back and forth to work, but also to get the kids to school, to pick up a week’s worth of groceries and other functional purposes. You should consider the size of the vehicle carefully before buying a vehicle to ensure it is functional for your needs.

Other Costs to Consider

While the price of gas is a large and ever-increasing cost of driving, there are other costs of driving as well. These costs include your car loan payment, your auto insurance premium, and repair and maintenance costs of vehicles. Carefully consider how buying a used vehicle may impact your total driving costs. While one car may provide you with fuel savings, it may also cause your loan payment or repair costs to increase. The best car to buy is one that will truly save you money when all factors are considered.

Shopping for Loan Rates

Unless you are buying your used car with cash, you will need to shop for loan rates. Loan rates and terms are based in part on the age of the vehicle. You will find that higher interest rates and shorter terms are offered with older vehicles. While late-model used vehicles may have a higher sales price than older models, they will qualify for lower interest rates and a longer term. They may also have lower repair costs. This may help you to determine which model years you should consider buying when shopping for fuel efficient vehicles.

some efficient used carsShopping for Auto Insurance Rates

Once you have your model search narrowed down to a few different models, consider using a rate comparison website to shop for auto insurance rates. Rates will vary from model to model, so getting rate quotes can help you to determine which vehicle may be more affordable to ensure. Some rate comparison sites are fast and easy to use, with rate quotes generated off of your ZIP code.

It makes sense to trade in your current vehicle for a more fuel efficient used car. However, you should consider the functional use of the car as well as other vehicle costs when shopping for your used car. Research fuel efficiency ratings, shop for loan rates, and use an auto insurance comparison website to compare auto insurance costs before you decide which car to purchase.

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