9 Cars You Should Never Buy New, According to Auto Experts

It’s tempting to want to buy a new car. After all, not much is better than that luxurious new car smell, purr of the engine and the satisfying comfort of leather seats. However, many financial advisors will steer car shoppers away from buying a new car and encourage them to shop used instead to save money.

GOBankingRates spoke to two auto experts about reliable car models that are much better deals pre-owned than they are when purchased brand new. See which nine cars the experts recommend buying used and how much you can save buying these vehicles.

• New starting price: $28,700
• Used price: $15,000 to $23,299 (2018 model)

“Camrys are extremely durable,” said Mark Beneke of Westland Auto Sales in Fresno, California. “During their first five years, they depreciate at a rapid pace; but, after that period, the vehicles retain their value very well.”

This means you can drive a Camry for many years and still resell it at a decent price later on. Opting for a 6-year-old used Camry can save you 40% compared to buying new.

• New starting price: $22,125
• Used price: $9,395 to $15,000 (2018 model)

Hyundais like the Elantra provide reliability at an affordable price, especially when purchased used. 

“Older models are very durable, fuel efficient, easy to maintain and available at a fraction of the cost,” Beneke said.

You can get a 6-year-old Elantra and save more than 50% off a new one.

• New starting price: $23,950
• Used price: $12,352 to $19,000 (2018 model)

Mazdas depreciate quickly, so they can be scored for deep discounts used.

“This is great for those who are interested in getting a vehicle they can depend on for a long time at a very affordable price tag,” Beneke said.

Buying a 6-year-old Mazda 3 can save you up to 50% compared to new.

• New starting price: $31,590
• Used price: $22,500 to $34,988 (2018 model)

The Tacoma has one of the strongest resale values on the market. “Even a 2001 model today is more expensive than many 2010 [or newer] of other brands,” Beneke noted.

Their durability makes pre-owned Tacomas hold value while still offering up significant savings compared to purchasing new.

• New starting price: $37,000
• Used price: $19,996 to $33,991 (2018 model)

A brand-new Silverado 1500 is a bit pricey. However, according to Beneke, “A 5- to 10-year-old model has a very long life still left in it without needing to break the bank.”

• New starting price: $28,295
• Used price: $15,996 to $23,992 (2018 model)

Known for longevity, Accords retain value well as they age.

“They also perform well with our clientele as far as safety, durability and affordability,” Beneke said.

A 6-year-old Accord costs 40% less than a new one.

• New starting price: $24,250
• Used price: $14,415 to $22,900 (2018 model)

“The Honda Civic is an economical, reliable and practical car,” said John Lin, car mechanic and owner of JB Motor Works in Philadelphia. “Buying a 2018 used Civic with about 40,000 miles will only run you about $15,500, which is much cheaper than a brand-new model.”

• New starting price: $29,250
• Used price: $15,995 to $24,495 (2018 model)

Lin recommends the RAV4 used since it “holds its value very well and is a top pick for a reliable, long-lasting crossover SUV.” A 2018 RAV4 with 50,000 miles sells for around 25% less than new.

• New starting price: $29,010
• Used price: $14,250 to $22,988 (2018 model)

The Subaru Outback retains value well. “It has fewer problems than many other used cars,” Lin said.

A 2018 Outback sells for around 25% less than new.

Heather Taylor contributed to the reporting for this piece.