1. Determine Your Credit Score

Unless you’re paying for your car in full, you’ll need to secure a car loan. The first step toward getting a car loan and figuring out how much you can afford to pay is determining your credit score. This can also be referred to as your “FICO score” and is a numerical representation of your credit history. The three major credit reporting agencies – Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion – can each provide you with your FICO credit score. Another option is to check with your bank or credit card companies. Many of these institutions also provide a free credit monitoring service that will tell you your credit score. 

A credit report, as well as monitoring services, also include a record of your credit history, including any items that are lowering your credit score. The higher your credit score, the better loan term you will be able to secure. Car manufacturers and dealerships will advertise special payment terms like zero-percent financing, but it’s important to remember those terms typically only apply to buyers with favorable, if not top-tier, credit scores. 

If your credit score is low, you should try to boost your number before you purchase a car. You should aim for a credit score of 680 or above, but higher is always better. You can start by making sure you make your credit card and loan payments -- especially any auto loan payments -- on time. Resolve any past-due accounts, and pay down as much of the balance on your loans as you can, especially revolving credit accounts. You should also avoid opening new accounts, as frequent inquiries to the credit bureaus seeking new credit can lower your credit score.

While a good credit score isn’t required to secure a car loan, it will afford you a better annual percentage rate (APR) on the interest you’ll have to pay. The higher interest rate you have, the more you will end up paying in the long run. If you are unable to achieve a favorable credit score, another option is to get a co-signer on your loan. Your co-signer will agree to make loan payments if you default on your loan, which can lower an otherwise high interest rate.

2. Determine Your Down Payment

Making a down payment will lower the amount of the loan, or principle, you will need to take out, which will reduce your monthly payment. This also reduces the overall interest you’ll pay on the loan over time. While this can help make a car easier to afford, don’t deplete your savings account. Be sure to keep enough money on hand for whatever surprises might come your way. Dealers and lenders may offer deals for zero down payment financing, but you can still put money down to shorten the length of your loan and reduce your monthly payment.

3. Estimate the Value of Your Trade-In

The process of trading in your car begins with determining how much your car is worth. Major factors that impact your car’s value include how many miles it has on the odometer and its overall condition. Having your vehicle professionally detailed can also boost the trade-in value for your current vehicle.

Several websites, including Edmunds (Edmunds.com) and Kelley Blue Book (kbb.com) have valuation tools that will give you a ballpark estimate on the value of your car. Make sure you are as honest as possible in answering any questions about your car’s condition. Some valuation tools offer an estimate specifically for trade-in value, but that’s just what it is – an estimate.

You can also sell your car to a private buyer, which will be more profitable than trading your car into a dealership. In this instance, you can price your car in accordance with its market value, which is higher than your car’s trade-in value. A car’s trade-in value is the amount of money a car dealer will offer you for your vehicle, whereas market value, also referred to as private party value, is the amount of money you would get selling your car directly to a buyer. Because dealerships handle the complex process of selling the vehicle, they offer a lower trade-in value to ensure they make a profit when they sell the car. 

There are helpful online tools like the iSeeCars Price My Car Tool, which provide a detailed pricing report to help calculate your used car’s value. Simply enter your vehicle’s VIN or provide its make, model, year, trim, style, and mileage. 

Whether you decide to sell your car privately or trade-in at the dealership, you can apply your car’s value toward the purchase price of your next vehicle, along with your down payment if you’re making one. 

4. Calculate Your Car Budget

Setting a monthly budget will guide your new or used car search. As a general rule of thumb, your car payment should not exceed 10 percent of your monthly income, and your total car expenses (fuel, maintenance, car insurance, registration) should not exceed 15 percent of your monthly take-home pay, which is the amount of money you make each month after taxes. Or, if you’re paying in cash, determine the amount you’re willing to pay for your vehicle. You can use the 15 percent rule as a guide, but if you have other major monthly expenses like student loans, you should determine a monthly payment you can comfortably afford.

5. Determine Your Car Loan Amount

After you determine your monthly payment amount, you can determine how much you can borrow from a lender for your car purchase. One way to do this is by obtaining a pre-approval letter from a financial institution, which will review your credit history to determine how much money they will loan you. Keep in mind that you might be pre-approved for more than you can afford, so make sure you stick to your budget. You can also use a car affordability calculator, which is available on many personal finance websites, by entering your credit score, estimated monthly payment, and desired loan term. Remember -- the shorter your loan term, the less you will pay in interest over time. Don’t be tempted to stretch out your loan term in order to have a lower monthly payment, because you’ll end up paying more in the long term. For example, if you purchase a $25,000 used car and put $4,000 down with an interest rate of 4.5 percent, your monthly payment on a four-year loan will be roughly $625 and you will pay $1,488 in interest over the duration of the loan. If you spread the loan out over five years with a higher interest rate of 5 percent, you will pay roughly $396 per month and nearly double, $2,778, in total interest. While a smaller monthly payment might seem appealing, it will cost you a lot more in the long run.

It’s important to note that most lenders will not provide a loan on a vehicle that’s more than five years old, so if you are relying on the financing you should consider a later model used vehicle.

6. Shop Around for the Best Loan Rates

??You should always visit a bank or credit union to get pre-approved for a loan before you go to the dealership. Even if you plan on securing an auto loan through the dealership, having a pre-approval option from a financial institution can help you negotiate against the dealer’s rate. It will also show them that you are a serious buyer, which will give you more bargaining power. Because dealers make more money on vehicles they finance, they will likely try to beat the rates you’ve already secured.  

7. New Car or Used Car?

When purchasing a vehicle, you have the choice of buying a new or used car. Although they are more expensive, there are perks to buying a new vehicle, including peace of mind, the reduced likelihood of unexpected repair bills, and warranty coverage. New cars also typically come with lower interest rates and financial incentives.

According to an iSeeCars study on off-lease car deals, the average used car loses 39 percent of its value after three years. When you buy a used car, the largest percentage of depreciation has already been absorbed by the original owner, and you get the car at a much lower price. You can even buy a car that is just one year old, which will typically cost 17 percent less than its new version. However, in today’s market, some lightly used cars cost more than their new versions, so be sure to compare the cost of new and lightly used vehicles. You may find that buying a new car is a better financial decision than purchasing a lightly-used one.

If you’re purchasing your used car through a franchise dealer, you will have the option to purchase a certified pre-owned (CPO) car. (Check out our handy guide to learn what does certified pre-owned mean? to better understand the CPO car buying process.) CPO cars are typically used cars that are less than five-years-old and have fewer than 75,000 miles on the odometer. CPO cars typically cost slightly more than non-certified used cars, but they are backed by manufacturer warranties and may also carry special financing. CPO cars combine the best of both the new and used car worlds, by offering added warranty protection on a late-model used car.

8. Buying or Leasing?

Another factor to consider is whether you want to buy or lease your vehicle.  If you choose to lease, you don’t need to finance because you’re not buying the car. You just need to be able to afford the down payment and the monthly payments. If you don’t want to borrow from a bank and take out a loan, leasing could be your best option. Your lease payments typically cost less money than what you would pay for a monthly car payment if you were buying the vehicle. You can also get a much nicer car for your money and get to drive a new car every few years. Another benefit of leasing is that you don’t have to pay for repairs, as issues with your car that occur during your lease term are usually covered by the car’s factory warranty.

The downside to leasing is that you never own the vehicle. As soon as your leasing term ends, you will begin the cycle again. If you purchase a vehicle, you will likely be able to enjoy several years without a car payment, provided that you don’t take out too long of a loan term. Another drawback is that car leases come with mileage limits, which commonly range from 12,000 to 15,000 miles per year. If you exceed those mileage limits, you will have to pay excessive mileage fees, which can get expensive. Lastly, the upfront cost to lease is usually more than if you were purchasing. You might need to put down a larger down payment due to your credit score, and it’s likely that the dealership will often want the first month’s payment as well. 

For more information on leasing vs. buying a car, refer to our guide.

9. Be Sure to Factor In Extra Costs

’s important to make sure you budget for more than the advertised price of the car. While each state has different taxes and associated fees, you can expect to pay an extra 10% on top of the purchase price to cover the total cost of the vehicle. This includes sales tax, which is typically 5 percent to 10 percent depending on your state. There’s also documentation and registration fees, which also vary by state and the amount can be found on your state’s department of motor vehicles website. If you’re financing the vehicle, it’s important to understand you’ll also be paying interest on the financed portion of the vehicle. You should also research the car’s ownership costs to get a better understanding of what you’ll be paying per month. Car insurance is a major added expense, and it will cost more on later-model used vehicles. Be sure to check with your insurance agent before you purchase the vehicle to get an idea of what your new monthly rate will be. Be aware that used car insurance rates are also higher on sports cars and performance vehicles. You can also take the opportunity to shop around with other auto insurance companies to compare insurance quotes to ensure you’re getting the best rate. If you’re purchasing an SUV or a less fuel-efficient vehicle, you should also factor in additional fuel costs to make sure there is room in your budget. (You can refer to our list of Best Gas Mileage Cars to help reduce your fuel costs.)

10. Find the Right Car  

Once you’ve determined your budget, you can now search for cars within your budget. Helpful car websites and search engines have made it easier and more convenient than ever to find the right car to meet your needs. Car search engines like iSeeCars.com equip buyers with all the information they need to find the right vehicle. 

When deciding on a vehicle, some important things to consider include:

• Why are you buying a car? Do you need a spacious family hauler or a fuel-efficient car for commuting?  
• Are you looking for the safest car possible?
• How long do you plan on keeping the car? If longevity is important to you, you should consider vehicles that have proven to be among the longest-lasting cars. 
• How important is fuel efficiency to you? Should you consider a hybrid or electric vehicle to cut down on fuel costs?
• Do you have towing needs? If so, consider a vehicle with a high towing capacity.
• What kind of features are most important to you? Do you want the latest safety features like automatic braking and lane departure warning? Or comforts like ventilated seats or a heated steering wheel?

Be sure to browse iSeeCars in-depth research guides and Best Cars rankings to help you find the best car to meet your ownership needs.

11. Beware of Depreciation

The depreciation on a new car means there’s a much greater loss in its value in the first few years after purchase compared to a used car. After all, The average new car loses nearly half its value after five years. If you’re going to keep your new car for the life of your loan, which will likely be between 5 and 7 years, that’s not a concern. But if you decide to switch cars earlier, the vehicle’s depreciation represents a significant ownership cost. If you plan to switch cars every few years you’ll save a lot of money buying cars that are at least 3 years old. Keep in mind that cars depreciate at different rates, so buying a car that best holds its value is a smart purchase decision.

Top 10 Vehicles With the Lowest Depreciation

Here are the vehicles that depreciate the most after five years:

Top 10 Vehicles With the Highest Depreciation

Trucks and truck-based SUVs retain their value better than average, while luxury vehicles depreciate more than average. Reliable vehicles, like Toyotas and Hondas, also tend to have high resale value because of their durability and lower-than-average maintenance costs.

12. Find the Best Price

Now that you’ve selected which models you’re interested in, you can do your research to find the best deal. While this mainly applies to used cars, which vary greatly in pricing, you can also do research to see which dealerships and manufacturers are offering the best new car incentives and finance rates. You may find that you can afford a more expensive vehicle than you anticipated if you spot a good deal.

Used car search engine iSeeCars.com uses data to objectively rank millions of cars and thousands of dealers, providing helpful insights and guidance to car buyers to find a good car at a good price from a trustworthy seller. Used car search engines and research sites allow you to easily compare prices and features like warranties, vehicle histories, and condition. Tools like the iSeeCars free VIN check will provide you with a pre-purchase analysis to ensure you are making the smartest purchase decision possible. It will also alert you to any red flags that could end up costing you money down the road. This includes:

• Pricing Analysis – Calculates the car’s fair value based on the local market and maps similar cars for sale locally.
• Condition – Analysis of mileage on the odometer, positives and negatives about the vehicle’s features and condition, and other resources like theft record, recalls.
• Depreciation – Estimates how much the car will depreciate over 1, 3, and 5 years
• Supply Analysis –Identifies similar vehicles for sale within the local area. 
• Best Time to Buy – Analyzes when or what months may get you a better price.
• Vehicle History - Free CARFAX or Autocheck reports when provided by the seller.

Bottom Line

Whether you’re buying or leasing a car, it’s important to understand that you’ll likely keep your vehicle for several years. When taking out an auto loan or signing a lease contract, do your best to anticipate your future financial situation and make sure you’ll be able to make payments for the duration of the payment term. Also, when you determine how much you can afford to pay for a vehicle, you can still shop for cars that cost less than that amount. Just like it’s important to do your research and shop around for a vehicle, the same rule extends to auto loans. Follow our steps and you will find the best car at the best price within your budget.

Ready to begin your used car search? The iSeeCars.com used car search engine is the perfect place to start. With millions of listings that rank the best deals first and 59 user-friendly search filters, it can help you find the best car at the best price. And be sure to check out the comprehensive iSeeCars VIN check report to further help guide you through the car buying process and secure the best deal possible. 

This article, How Much Car Can I Afford?, originally appeared on iSeeCars.com.

The powertrain warranty covers the most expensive components of your car, yet what it covers and what it excludes isn’t clear for a lot of car buyers. We break down the ins and outs of what the powertrain warranty includes.

What is the Powertrain?

A car’s powertrain refers to the critical components that produce the power for a car and deliver it to the wheels. These parts include the engine, transmission, differential, axle shafts, and, depending on whether a car is front-wheel, rear-wheel, or all-wheel drive, the transaxle, driveshaft, and transfer case. In short, if a component directly engages with the creation or flow of engine power, it’s part of the powertrain.

As you might imagine, these parts are complex pieces of engineering - there’s nothing simple about an engine or transmission. When there’s a major failure with one of these parts, the cost can be high due to the labor hours necessary for repair as well as the cost of obtaining replacement parts. This is becoming doubly true as cars incorporate more and more technology under the hood. 

All vehicles also have something called a drivetrain, a term that can be easily confused with the powertrain. The drivetrain, however, focuses on the driven wheels. All-wheel drive (AWD), four-wheel drive (4WD), front-wheel drive (FWD), and rear-wheel drive (RWD) are the four types of drivetrains. The components of these drive systems are covered by the powertrain warranty. (For more on drivetrains, refer to our guides: 4WD vs. AWD and RWD vs. FWD.) 

What is Covered by a Powertrain Warranty?

The powertrain warranty is a type of limited warranty that covers the cost of any repairs or replacement of any of a vehicle’s powertrain component. 

Exactly what is protected differs in detail from warranty to warranty. Typically, covered parts include seals and gaskets, internal parts like the crankshaft, pistons, valves, fuel injectors, and timing chain, the cylinder block and oil pan, transmission gears and synchronizers, and all the hardware that composes the differential and axle systems.

It’s important to note that coverage of all these components can be voided if the vehicle has been altered from factory specifications, if it has been used irregularly, or was otherwise intentionally abused. What this means is that you shouldn’t expect a powertrain warranty to cover the damage arising from off-roading your Mitsubishi Mirage.

Getting in an accident also voids the warranty. Any powertrain repairs needed as the result of a collision will be covered by your insurance, not the warranty. 

Also, be sure to take your car to authorized service providers and dealerships when it’s time for a warranty claim; the work of a local independent mechanic will not be covered by the terms of the factory warranty. 

What is Not Covered by a Powertrain Warranty?

With every warranty, there’s a long list of exclusions as to what’s not covered; sometimes this list seems longer than the list of covered parts. As we mentioned, the particulars of what is and isn’t included differs with every manufacturer, but a common theme is that all electronics, engine control module sensors, belts, hoses, emissions, and cooling systems are not covered. Wheel bearings, catalytic converters, oil pumps, and water pumps are other parts that are potentially not covered.

A good rule of thumb is that anything considered to be a wear item is not covered by a powertrain warranty. For instance, if your clutch goes on your manual-transmission car, don’t expect the dealership to cover the replacement cost. Even if it lasted just 20,000 miles, the service department will simply call it a wear and tear item and hand you the bill. The same goes for other items such as the timing belt or CV joints, which are considered wear items and will not be covered by a warranty.

Common maintenance items like oil changes, tire rotations, and brake pads will also not be covered. The warranty is designed to protect car owners from unexpected repairs, not pay for routine maintenance.

If you don’t want to be surprised at your local mechanic about what is and isn’t covered by your service contract, you’ll need to read the fine print regarding your warranty coverage. It doesn’t matter whether you’re buying a new car with factory coverage or some third-party warranty - the contract will clearly spell out the terms of the warranty.

How Long Does a Powertrain Warranty Last?

The length of a powertrain warranty differs with every manufacturer, but coverage terms are usually written like this: five years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. The longest-lasting warranty belongs to Hyundai, Kia, Genesis, and Mitsubishi; which include powertrain coverage that lasts for ten years or 100,000 miles. The Korean brands have been providing decade-long powertrain coverage since the late 1990s; twenty years later their warranty remains the most long-lasting in the industry. Here is a list of automakers and the length of their powertrain warranties:

How Does a Powertrain Warranty Differ from a Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty?

Together, these two auto warranties are known as the manufacturer’s warranty. The powertrain warranty covers the most expensive, crucial mechanical components of your vehicle. As previously noted: if it has to do with the direct creation or flow of power, it’s part of your powertrain and would fall under the terms of a powertrain warranty. 

The bumper-to-bumper warranty, on the other hand, is a comprehensive warranty that covers any systems and components that don’t fall under the powertrain warranty. Suspension and brake components that aren’t considered wear and tear items would fall under the bumper-to-bumper warranty, as would the power steering system, air conditioning, infotainment system, and lighting systems. 

The bumper-to-bumper is intended to protect against shoddy workmanship, defective materials, or any other premature failures that aren’t due to neglect, abuse, or wear. Typical bumper-to-bumper warranties only last about three years or 36,000 miles, which is less than the typical five years or 60,000 miles of coverage provided by a powertrain warranty.

Should I Buy an Aftermarket Extended Powertrain Warranty?

Plenty of companies offer extended warranty coverage to concerned buyers looking for the peace of mind provided by a warranty. These third-party warranties typically cost $1,000 to $3,000, depending on the extent of coverage as well as the age and mileage of the used vehicle to be covered. 

Considering that the cost of powertrain repairs can be in the thousands, an extended third-party warranty can look like a tempting proposition. But it only looks that way: in truth, most buyers of these extended powertrain warranties never actually use them. If they do, the cost of repairs often turn out to be less than the cost of the warranty. 

A better financial decision is to save what a third-party warranty would cost you in an account that’s earmarked for emergency car repairs. If you need to tap into it because of an unforeseen trip to your mechanic, the money is there; if you don’t need it, you have extra savings toward your next vehicle purchase.

For more information on aftermarket warranties, read our article on extended car warranties.

The Bottom Line

The powertrain is the heart of an automobile. If any component in this integrated series of systems fails, your car becomes undrivable. A properly working powertrain is vital to having a reliable, dependable vehicle. 

The powertrain warranty is a welcome safety net in the event your car suffers a major premature failure of any major mechanical system that could require expensive repairs. A powertrain warranty protects the consumer and also allows them to feel better about their purchase. Automakers benefit as much as the car buyer: Hyundai and Kia, for instance, saw their own sales increase markedly after the introduction of their ten-year warranty. 

Whatever car you’re buying, read the fine print about any powertrain warranty that may be included or offered with the sale. Know the duration of coverage, what is and isn’t covered, and what any deductibles might cost if you do need to use the warranty. Being informed is the most effective way to avoid any surprises during the warranty period.

More from iSeeCars:

• New Vs. Used Car Buying
• What is a Salvage Title?
• Leasing Vs. Buying: Which is Better?

If you’re in the market for a used or new vehicle, you can search over 4 million used cars and new cars, trucks, and SUVs with iSeeCars’ award-winning car search engine that helps shoppers find the best car deals by providing key insights and valuable resources, like the iSeeCars free VIN check and Best Cars rankings.

This article, What is a Powertrain Warranty and What Does it Cover?, originally appeared on iSeeCars.com.

Full-size SUVs are an ideal choice for drivers who want powerful vehicles with massive cargo holds. While the entire segment offers ample cargo and passenger space, some are more spacious than others.

What are the Best Large SUVs?

These big, brawny SUVs have strong powertrains, which often include V8 engines. And because most large SUVs still use body-on-frame construction and are built on pickup truck platforms, they have a higher towing capacity than their midsize and compact SUV counterparts. Large SUVs come standard with rear-wheel drive, while four-wheel drive (4WD) is available for improved all-weather capabilities. These large SUVs return sub-par fuel economy as a result of their power and size, but they have many safety and family-friendly tech features like rear-seat entertainment systems and touchscreen infotainment systems.

The GM full-size SUVs including the Suburban, Yukon, and Tahoe saw a redesign for the 2021 model year to include updated styling, added cargo space, and more standard safety features. The iconic Land Cruiser was discontinued for the 2022 model year, so those looking for this vehicle will have to browse used car lots.

Here is the ranked list of the cars with detailed attributes, excluding the specific rankings:

1. Toyota Land Cruiser 

• Last Model Year: 2021
• iSeeCars Score: 9.1 / 10
• Reliability: 9.9 / 10
• Value Retention: 8.3 / 10
• Safety: Not Available
• New Car Price (MSRP): $85,665 - $87,995
• Used Car Price: $58,989 - $89,998
• Cargo Volume: 16.1 - 53.5 cu ft

2. Toyota Sequoia

• Last Model Year: 2022
• iSeeCars Score: 8.9 / 10
• Reliability: 9.7 / 10
• Value Retention: 8.0 / 10
• Safety: Not Available
• New Car Price (MSRP): $50,500 - $69,775
• Used Car Price: $35,995 - $62,495
• Cargo Volume: 18.9 cu ft

3. Ford Expedition

• iSeeCars Score: 8.7 / 10
• Reliability: 9.0 / 10
• Value Retention: 7.2 / 10
• Safety: 10 / 10
• New Car Price (MSRP): $54,660 - $83,800
• Used Car Price: $29,828 - $70,599
• Cargo Volume: 20.9 - 63.6 cu ft

4. Ford Flex

• Last Model Year: 2019
• iSeeCars Score: 8.3 / 10
• Reliability: 9.2 / 10
• Value Retention: 7.4 / 10
• Safety: Not Available
• New Car Price (MSRP): $30,575 - $47,485
• Used Car Price: $16,787 - $28,503
• Cargo Volume: 20.0 cu ft

5. Chevrolet Tahoe

• iSeeCars Score: 8.2 / 10
• Reliability: 9.1 / 10
• Value Retention: 7.5 / 10
• Safety: 8.0 / 10
• New Car Price (MSRP): $50,450 - $79,900
• Used Car Price: $29,996 - $72,241
• Cargo Volume: 25.5 - 70.3 cu ft

6. GMC Yukon

• iSeeCars Score: 8.2 / 10
• Reliability: 9.1 / 10
• Value Retention: 7.4 / 10
• Safety: 8.0 / 10
• New Car Price (MSRP): $58,200 - $98,755
• Used Car Price: $34,984 - $83,498
• Cargo Volume: 25.5 cu ft

7. Chevrolet Suburban

• iSeeCars Score: 8.1 / 10
• Reliability: 9.1 / 10
• Value Retention: 7.3 / 10
• Safety: 8.0 / 10
• New Car Price (MSRP): $57,600 - $82,900
• Used Car Price: $29,969 - $72,890
• Cargo Volume: 41.5 cu ft

8. GMC Yukon XL

• iSeeCars Score: 8.1 / 10
• Reliability: 9.0 / 10
• Value Retention: 7.3 / 10
• Safety: 8.0 / 10
• New Car Price (MSRP): $61,200 - $101,755
• Used Car Price: $32,900 - $84,887
• Cargo Volume: 41.5 cu ft

9. Nissan Armada

• iSeeCars Score: 8.0 / 10
• Reliability: 8.9 / 10
• Value Retention: 7.0 / 10
• Safety: 8.0 / 10
• New Car Price (MSRP): $56,520 - $71,590
• Used Car Price: $23,275 - $56,251
• Cargo Volume: 16.5 cu ft

What Other Vehicles Should I Consider?

Buyers seeing smaller, or crossover SUVs, should check out our Best Midsize SUVs list, or our Best Small SUVs list. You can also find premium luxury SUV models like the Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator, INFINITI QX80, and the BMW X7 in our Best Luxury Large SUV list and all-electric models in our Best Electric SUVs list. Lastly, if you want a more efficient family hauler, be sure to check out our Best Minivans list.

More from iSeeCars:

• Best Off-Road SUVs
• Best Midsize SUVs
• Best SUVs with 3 Rows

About iSeeCars.com

iSeeCars.com is a data-driven car search and research company that helps shoppers find the best car deals by providing key insights and valuable resources, including the iSeeCars VIN Check report and Best Cars Rankings. iSeeCars has saved users over $417 million so far by applying big data analytics powered by over 25 billion (and growing) data points and using proprietary algorithms to objectively analyze, score and rank millions of new cars and used cars.

This article, Best Large SUVs, originally appeared on iSeeCars.com.

Here are America’s most popular car colors in each state:

White is the overwhelmingly most popular car color in 45 of 50 states, while black is the most popular in the remaining five. 

Most Popular Non Grayscale Car Colors by State

iSeeCars also examined the most popular car colors by state excluding grayscale colors, which include white, black, gray, and silver.

For non-grayscale colors, blue emerges as the favorite, topping the list in 42 most states, with red as the favorite color in the remaining eight.  

Whether you're looking for a classic white or a vibrant blue, understanding these trends can help guide your next car purchase to match popular preferences and stand out on the road.

More from iSeeCars:

• The Best and Worst Car Colors for Resale Value
• Cars are Half as Colorful as They Were 20 Years Ago

Methodology:

iSeeCars analyzed over 8.2 million 1- to 5-year-old used cars sold in June 2023 to June 2024. Within each U.S. state. The market share of each car color was tallied and used to rank the most popular car colors.

Power and Performance

The 2024 Jeep Wagoneer S is set to impress with its performance specs. The SUV packs a formidable 600 horsepower and 617 lb.-ft. Of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 3.4 seconds. Such speed, traditionally associated with sports cars, places the Wagoneer S among the fastest SUVs available. Moreover, it boasts a range of over 300 miles on a single charge, addressing the common concern of range anxiety.

Pricing and Availability

The Wagoneer S will be available in the U.S. in the fall of 2024 with a starting MSRP of $71,995, including destination charges. This pricing positions it competitively within the luxury electric SUV segment, offering consumers a blend of performance and prestige.

Advanced Technology and Design

Jeep has equipped the Wagoneer S with a suite of advanced technologies. It features a 400-volt, 100-kilowatt-hour battery pack capable of fast charging from 20% to 80% in just 23 minutes. The vehicle’s all-electric, four-wheel-drive system utilizes Stellantis-designed electric drive modules (EDMs) to power the front and rear wheels independently, ensuring optimal traction and control.

Inside, the Wagoneer S boasts 45 inches of screen space, including a segment-exclusive interactive front passenger screen. The vehicle also features a 19-speaker, 1,160-watt McIntosh audio system and a reimagined illuminated seven-slot grille, highlighting its modern design. With a coefficient of drag (CD) of 0.29, it’s the most aerodynamic Jeep ever produced.

Luxury and Sustainability

The interior of the Wagoneer S is designed for comfort and sustainability. It includes a fully digital cockpit, wine red-stitched flat-bottom steering wheel, and customizable LED lighting with 64 color options. The seats, console, doors, and instrument panel surfaces are made from non-leather synthetic materials, and the headliners and carpets use recycled materials. Heated and ventilated seats in both the front and rear ensure a luxurious experience for all passengers.

Charging and Efficiency

Owners of the Wagoneer S will benefit from a 48-amp Level 2 home charger and public charging credits via the Free2move Charge app, which helps locate charging stations and track charging history. The vehicle includes over 170 standard safety and security features, including Active Driving Assist, Intersection Collision Assist, Drowsy Driver Detection, Traffic Sign Recognition, and a Surround View camera. Over-the-air updates ensure the vehicle's software remains current with the latest features and improvements.

Market and Environmental Impact

Jeep has emphasized environmentally friendly processes and materials in the design of the Wagoneer S, reflecting the company’s commitment to sustainability. The vehicle will first be available in the U.S. and Canada, with global availability to follow. It qualifies for the Inflation Reduction Act Retail and Lease EV credits and includes membership in the Jeep Wave premium loyalty program, which offers worry-free maintenance and dedicated 24/7 support.

Conclusion

The 2024 Jeep Wagoneer S represents a bold step into the future for Jeep, combining the brand’s renowned ruggedness with the latest electric vehicle technology. As the market for electric vehicles continues to grow, the Wagoneer S stands out as a promising contender, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and sustainability poised to attract a wide range of consumers. With its launch on the horizon, the Wagoneer S is set to impact the automotive world significantly.

With an eye on the prize, the Equinox EV is Chevrolet's punch in the fight to dominate a market swiftly swiveling toward sustainability. Touted by Mary Barra, the indomitable Chair and CEO of General Motors, as a pivotal player in the mainstreaming of electric vehicles, the Equinox EV seems to say, "Plugin, buckle up, and watch us lead the charge."

Starting at a modest $34,995, this vehicle is easy on the wallet and on the eyes. It sports sleek lines and sporty proportions enabled by GM’s Ultium Platform. It’s an electric chariot for the masses, designed to whisk you away without a whisper or a whiff of gasoline. The standard model promises an EPA-estimated 319-mile range on a full charge—enough to make range anxiety a quaint memory of the early EV days.

The Equinox EV doesn’t skimp on tech or comfort inside the cabin. A mammoth 17.7-inch infotainment screen is the command center, with Google built right in, ensuring that both your maps and your media are just a voice command away. And for those cold Michigan mornings? Heated seats front and back, a heated steering wheel, and even a heated wiper park to banish windshield ice.

Chevrolet hasn't just electrified an SUV but transformed it into a mobile tech hub. Available Super Cruise technology offers hands-free driving on compatible roads, a boon for anyone fantasizing about reading a newspaper on the morning commute — just kidding, we keep our eyes on the road, right?

Safety is also front and center, with features like Automatic Emergency Braking and Forward Collision Alert. Chevrolet seems to have thought of everything, turning every potential EV drawback into a selling point.

But let's address the electric elephant in the room: Is the Equinox EV the people's champion Chevrolet claims it to be? It might just be for families looking to transition to electric without sacrificing the familiar comforts of a good old SUV. Yet, while the

Equinox EV is poised to shake the market, one wonders if it can truly spark the EV revolution or if it will be another option in an increasingly crowded space.

Ultimately, the Equinox EV is more than a vehicle; it's a statement. Chevrolet is betting big that when it comes to the electric future, the masses won't just want to join in; they'll want to do so without breaking the bank. And perhaps, in this audacious electric gambit, the Equinox EV will not only match its internal combustion ancestor but might lap it on the sales charts. For Chevy and its customers, the future looks electric and surprisingly affordable. Maybe it’s time to plug in and join the ride.

Apple has been teasing the next generation of CarPlay since 2022, and during its annual developer’s conference (known as WWDC) earlier this month the company said it would begin rolling out the new smartphone interface later this year. Porsche and Aston Martin are expected to be the first brands to embrace it.

This ambitious update allows CarPlay to expand beyond the main infotainment screen, taking over instrument clusters and any other screens on a dashboard, as the manufacturer permits. That means it will need access to data from the car so it can display things such as speed readouts. CarPlay won’t need to be wired to handle these tasks either.

Apple will also split functions into user interface (UI) “layers,” some of which will run on a paired phone and some of which will run locally in the car, according to the report. A “remote UI” layer runs on the phone, and contains functions such as maps and music that are also part of today’s CarPlay, but now they can be projected to any screen in the car.

In addition to the phone-based functions, a locally-run “overlay UI” handles things such as turn signals and the odometer. These elements can be styled but otherwise run entirely on the car, according to the report. A “local UI” controls gauges, the look of which can be customized by automakers, although Apple will reportedly make its San Francisco font mandatory.

There’s also a “punch-through UI” layer that lets automakers integrate their own interfaces with CarPlay, which could address some automaker concerns that this new version of CarPlay cedes too much control to Apple, The Verge notes.

Functions such as backup-camera views, or even seat-massage controls, can be shown in CarPlay as they would normally be viewed without the system active. Apple is also providing fairly generic climate controls, likely with the expectation that automakers will customize them or import their own settings.

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Meanwhile, some automakers are cozying up to one of Apple’s main rivals. Volvo, Polestar, GMC, Nissan, and Infiniti are adding Google built-in features, while General Motors is adopting Google infotainment systems that will push aside Apple CarPlay entirely.

In a world where speeding contributes to over a quarter of U.S. traffic fatalities – over 12,000 deaths in 2022 alone – the push for Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) systems is gaining traction. According to a survey by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, more than 60% of drivers are open to their vehicles, giving an audible and visual warning when they exceed the posted speed limit.

The European Union is already ahead of the curve, mandating that all new vehicles come equipped with ISA systems by next month. These systems will alert drivers with audible or visual warnings when they hit the speed limit. Meanwhile, California is considering legislation making such systems mandatory by 2032. New cars must beep and display a warning if the driver exceeds the speed limit by at least ten mph.

But what exactly are these ISA systems, and how do they work? Unlike traditional speed limiters, which set a maximum speed, ISAs use GPS, speed limit databases, and sometimes cameras to dynamically adapt to the actual speed limit. This means no more guessing if you're still in a 45 mph zone after missing the last sign.

The survey revealed that more than 80% of drivers want a feature that displays the current speed limit, while 70% prefer a gentle tone to sound when the speed limit changes. Interestingly, about half of the drivers are even open to more intrusive measures – like the accelerator pedal becoming harder to press or the vehicle automatically restricting speed.

There's a pragmatic twist to this. Insurance companies could offer lower premiums for drivers who don’t speed, with around 70% of drivers indicating they’d want ISA in their next car under these conditions. It’s a classic case of "carrot and stick" – the stick being the chime, the carrot being an insurance discount.

However, only some people are thrilled about this technological nanny. Frequent speeders are 20% less likely to accept ISA than occasional or rare speeders. Moreover, half of the drivers in the accelerator-feedback and speed-limiter groups admitted they’d frequently override the feature.

One might wonder about the practicality of these systems. What happens when a car’s internet connection is lost? Past research shows drivers worry about irritating other motorists if they drive too slowly, which could be another sticking point. To address these concerns, experts suggest using camera-based traffic sign recognition systems that don’t rely on data connections. Additionally, they recommend allowing the system to be disabled but having it enabled by default with every ignition cycle.

The potential for ISA systems to curb speeding is significant, but it will take time to happen. With the average car on U.S. roads being 14 years old, it will take time for newer, ISA-equipped vehicles to replace the older models. Nonetheless, the direction is clear: safer roads with fewer speed-related fatalities.

In conclusion, the chime of the future is more than just a noise. It’s a lifesaving tool, and as it turns out, most Americans are ready to listen. Whether you're a speed demon or a cautious cruiser, the roads ahead are set to be a bit safer and maybe a tad quieter, thanks to the inevitable rise of ISA systems. So, next time you hear that chime, remember, it’s not just your car nagging you – it’s a reminder that safety comes first.

So how can you lease a used car, and is it a good idea? We have the answers.

Which Used Cars Can be Leased? 

Used cars that are available to lease are typically Certified Pre Owned cars (also known as CPO) from car dealerships. A certified pre-owned vehicle is a late-model used car that is sold by a franchised dealer after it has been thoroughly inspected, and comes with a factory-backed extended-powertrain warranty and bumper-to-bumper warranty. Each manufacturer has different criteria for their CPO vehicles, but they generally will be less than 6 years old and will not have more than 48,000 miles on the odometer. 

You can also take over a lease from someone who wants to get out of their lease. It could be because they are facing a hardship or because they no longer require a vehicle. Whatever the reason, they will post their car on a leasing company website like SwapALease.com or LeaseTrader in hopes that someone can take over their lease so they won’t have to incur the penalties associated with breaking their lease contract. In this case you won’t be required to make a down payment, and you can likely negotiate with the seller to have them pay the transfer fees. However, when taking over someone’s lease, you should estimate how much you plan on driving the vehicle to make sure that you don’t exceed the mileage limit. If you do go over the mileage limit, you will have to pay a penalty when you turn the car in. 

How To Find a Used Car to Lease

Used-car leases from dealerships are rare and aren’t widely advertised. The best way to find a leased used car is to do the legwork yourself. All major manufacturers, both mainstream and luxury, offer CPO vehicle leases. However, some automakers, including Stellantis, Ford, and Nissan, require outside financing, while Toyota’s finance department does provide financing for used vehicle leases.  

The best way to find a used lease is to decide what vehicle you are interested in, and call around to franchised dealerships to see if they offer used car leases on their CPO inventory.

How to Shop For a Used Car Lease 

When deciding if leasing a used car is right for you, you should always shop around. Just as you should compare prices when shopping for used vehicles, you should contact multiple dealerships to see which offer the best pricing.

You should also compare the cost of leasing a used car with the cost of a new car. New car leases often come with better finance rates and may also have incentives and special offers. This cost difference between a new-car lease and used-car lease will be smaller with used Honda and Toyota cars, while the savings will be more significant on luxury vehicles from Acura or Lexus.

The smartest used car lease purchases are for later model year cars, two-to-three-years old and still under warranty, or that offer extended warranties. Otherwise, you are responsible for costly repairs on a car you don’t own. Keep in mind auto insurance is often more expensive for leased cars, so make sure to get a quote from your insurer and factor it into your budget.

As with any used car purchase, you should make sure you get the car fully inspected by an independent mechanic before leasing. You should also use helpful online research tools like the iSeeCars free VIN check that provides a free CARFAX or Autocheck vehicle history report as part of its comprehensive VIN check tool. A comprehensive VIN check will complement the vehicle history report to provide all the important information an interested buyer should know before making a used car purchase. 

How Does Used Car Leasing Work?

Used-car leases are similar in structure to new car leases. Just as with a new car lease, the lender will base payments off of a car’s residual value compared to its sales price. The lender will also determine a money factor, which is the vehicle’s interest rate. Just as used cars usually have higher interest rates than new cars, a used car lease will likely have a higher interest rate than a new car lease when it comes to a car loan. However, because a used car has already taken its depreciation hit, the used vehicle will have a lower sales price and lower depreciation rate, which will result in a lower monthly payment than a new car lease. Savings between new and used car leases tend to be more significant when leasing luxury cars. 

Used Car Leases: Benefits

The main draw to leasing a used car is the lower monthly payments. It may also allow you to afford a more expensive car than what you would be able to afford with a new car lease. If you don’t care about having the latest new car technology, but want to get rid of a car before it's too dated, a used car lease might be an appealing option. Additionally, you may have lower car insurance costs than what you would pay on a new car since rates are based on a car’s value.

Used Car Leases: Drawbacks 

By leasing a used car, you are responsible for repairs after the vehicle runs past its warranty. You also won’t be able to enjoy the main benefit of new car leasing, which is driving a brand new car with the latest technology. By leasing a used car, although the payments are likely lower, you are still making monthly payments and maintenance costs for a vehicle you don’t own. You may also be charged at the end of the lease if the vehicle is not in good shape or you drive it past the mileage limit as stated in your lease agreement. In many instances, buying a practical used car and keeping it for several years will save you money in the long run compared to leasing.

Bottom Line

If you’re interested in leasing a car and want to lower your monthly lease payments or upgrade to a more expensive vehicle while keeping costs down, a used car lease might be a smart decision. However, used car leases are hard to find, so you should be prepared to do some extra legwork to find the best used car lease deals. Also, be sure to compare prices and lease rates to other used CPO leases as well as new vehicle leases. Avoid leased vehicles that extend beyond a car’s warranty so you won’t be responsible for expensive repairs. 

Lastly, once your lease term ends, you’ll have the option for a lease buyout with a purchase price based on the residual value of the car. If you don’t buy the car, you’ll need to find another car to lease. That’s why purchasing a used car outright, that you can keep as long as you want, is often the smartest long-term financial decision. 

More from iSeeCars.com:

• Most Reliable Sedans
• What to Look For When Buying a Used Car
• How Much is My Car Worth?

If you’re interested in a new car or a used car, be sure to check out iSeeCars’ award-winning car search engine. It uses advanced algorithms to help shoppers find the best car deals across all used cars and provides key insights and valuable resources, like the iSeeCars free VIN check report and Best Cars rankings. Filter by make, model, price, CPO vehicles, and special features to find the best deal on your next vehicle. 

This article, Can You Lease a Used Car? originally appeared on iSeeCars.com.

iSeeCars.com identified the best value (“best for the money”) new SUVs based on their price and potential lifespan. SUVs with the lowest cost per 1,000 miles of total potential lifespan are ranked the highest.

All SUVs share common features, like available all-wheel drive and a focus on functionality, as reflected in greater passenger space and cargo space. SUVs also have the potential for higher towing capacity and off-road capability than traditional cars, but not all SUVs are created equal.

Many of today’s most popular SUVs are very car-like in their design. That includes being built on a car-based platform with a front-wheel-drive, four-cylinder powertrain as the base engine. This design improves an SUV’s driving experience, giving it a more refined ride quality while improving its fuel economy. Most compact SUVs, like the Kia Sportage, Mazda CX-5 or Subaru Forester, use this approach to create a roomy, fuel-efficient SUV with a long standard features list and an affordable starting price. High-trim versions typically benefit from more powerful turbo engines and standard all-wheel drive (AWD).

While that’s the most common approach, the spectrum of SUV variants on sale today for new car buyers means the options are nearly limitless. Serious off-road machines, such as the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, and Land Rover Defender, sit at one end of this spectrum. Premium models, with powerful engines and high-tech features, including the Genesis GV80, Mercedes-Benz GL, and Porsche Cayenne, reside at the opposite extreme.

Buyers seeking the best mix of practicality and reasonable mpg should consider the midsize SUV segment, with models like the GMC Acadia, Kia Sorento or Volkswagen Tiguan. These models can be had with up to three rows of seating, gas mileage ratings in the mid-to-high 20s, and enough cargo capacity to carry a family of five, and their luggage, for a weekend getaway

For bigger families seeking roomier road trips, larger SUVs like the Ford Explorer, Kia Telluride or Jeep Grand Wagoneer offer sizable third-row seats with all-day comfort for adults. These models include high horsepower engines that easily haul people or cargo while towing 5,000-plus pounds. These models also include the latest infotainment system technology and driver assist features.

Conversely, SUV buyers on a tight budget might be surprised by how many standard technology and safety features are included in the latest model year SUVs. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are among the items included in nearly every modern SUV’s standard equipment specs, while rear-seat USB ports and wireless charging are increasingly common on base trim levels. Shoppers can research these items on each model’s product page.

How We Rank These Cars

The Best Cars for the Money list ranks cars by their annual cost, which compares the purchase price of the car against how long it lasts. We believe this is a good value determinant —the lower the annual cost, the better the value.

iSeeCars analyzed millions of cars to determine how long each car can last. Then we calculated the annual cost over the lifespan for each vehicle. In the event two or more vehicles have the same annual cost, we use iSeeCars proprietary rating of the overall quality of the car (iSeeCars Score) to break the tie.

The overall iSeeCars Score is an analysis of three factors: reliability, resale value and safety. It is calculated based on the latest research and analysis by our data science team. The data analysis comes from over 12 million new and used vehicles in our Longest-Lasting Cars and 5-Year Depreciation Studies, combined with NHTSA and IIHS Safety Ratings.

Here are the Best SUVs for the Money ranked by their annual costs.

Best Subcompact SUVs for the Money

1. Mitsubishi Outlander Sport - $2,447.89
2. Chevrolet TrailBlazer - $2,772.22
3. Jeep Compass - $3,214.97
4. Honda HR-V
5. Hyundai KONA

Best Small SUVs for the Money

1. Honda CR-V - $2,671.56
2. Toyota RAV4 - $2,720.87
3. Nissan Rogue - $3,016.44
4. Hyundai TUCSON - $3,053.06
5. Chevrolet Equinox - $3,140.40

Best Luxury Small SUVs for the Money

1. INFINITI QX50 - $3,998.37
2. Acura RDX - $4,015.26
3. Volvo XC60 - $4,603.92
4. BMW X3 - $4,990.49
5. Audi Q5 - $5,125.94

Best Midsize SUVs for the Money

1. Mazda CX-9 - $3,722.11
2. Toyota Highlander - $3,888.78
3. Hyundai SANTA FE - $3,904.94
4. Toyota 4Runner - $3,917.04
5. Chevrolet Blazer - $3,950.70

Best Luxury Midsize SUVs for the Money

1. Lexus RX 350 - $4,665.71
2. Lexus GX 460 - $4,995.94
3. Acura MDX - $5,305.24
4. INFINITI QX60 - $5,669.40
5. Audi Q7 - $7,305.57

Best Large SUVs for the Money

1. Nissan Armada - $6,059.08
2. Chevrolet Tahoe - $6,929.51
3. Ford Expedition - $7,566.63
4. Chevrolet Suburban - $7,774.52
5. GMC Yukon - $8,204.89

Best Luxury Large SUVs for the Money

1. Buick Enclave - $5,400.11
2. Lincoln Aviator - $6,587.52
3. Volvo XC90 - $6,784.77
4. Lexus LX 600 - $7,448.06
5. INFINITI QX80 - $9,128.84

Best Crossover SUVs for the Money

1. Mitsubishi Outlander Sport - $2,447.89
2. Honda CR-V - $2,671.56
3. Toyota RAV4 - $2,720.87
4. Chevrolet TrailBlazer - $2,772.22
5. Nissan Rogue - $3,016.44

Best Luxury Crossover SUVs for the Money

1. INFINITI QX50 - $3,998.37
2. Acura RDX - $4,015.26
3. Volvo XC60 - $4,603.92
4. Lexus RX 350 - $4,665.71
5. BMW X3 - $4,990.49

Best Hybrid SUVs for the Money

1. Ford Escape Hybrid - $3,764.33
2. Toyota Highlander Hybrid - $3,990.73
3. Toyota Sequoia (hybrid)
4. Jeep Grand Cherokee (Plug-in Hybrid)
5. Toyota Venza (hybrid)

Best Luxury Hybrid SUVs for the Money

1. Lexus RX 350h - $4,518.56
2. Lexus RX 500h - $5,308.30
3. Audi Q5 (Plug-in Hybrid)
4. Mercedes-Benz GLE (Plug-in Hybrid)
5. Lincoln Aviator (Plug-in Hybrid)

By choosing one of these top-ranked SUVs, you can ensure you're getting the best value for your money, combining cost-efficiency with performance, comfort, and reliability.

More from iSeeCars:

• Best Trucks for the Money
• Best SUVs
• Most Reliable SUVs

About iSeeCars.com

iSeeCars.com is a data-driven car search and research company that helps shoppers find the best car deals by providing key insights and valuable resources, including the iSeeCars VIN Check report and Best Cars Rankings. iSeeCars has saved users over $417 million so far by applying big data analytics powered by over 25 billion (and growing) data points and using proprietary algorithms to objectively analyze, score and rank millions of new cars and used cars.

This article, Best SUVs for the Money, originally appeared on iSeeCars.com.

Highlights:

• Grayscale colors (white, black, gray and silver) made up 80 percent of cars in 2023 compared to 60.3 percent in 2004
• Gray gained the most market share since 2004, up 81.9 percent; followed by white gaining 77.4 percent; silver was the biggest grayscale loser, down 52.2 percent
• Every other color lost share, with the biggest losers being gold (-96.8 percent), purple (-92.7 percent), brown (-86.5 percent), beige (-85.3 percent) and yellow (-75.7 percent)
• This drop in diversity comes despite nearly the same number of colors being offered in 2023 versus 2004 – with an average of 6.7 colors per model today compared to 7.1 colors per model 20 years ago
• Green is the only non-grayscale color to increase share in recent years, with a small improvement since 2020

Colorful cars continue to lose ground against the ever-dominant shades of white, black, gray, and silver – often referred to as grayscale colors. In the 2004 model year, grayscale cars made up 60.3 percent of the market. Twenty years later, their share has moved to 80 percent, cutting the percentage of non-grayscale cars in half. Among these dominant shades, gray made the biggest move up, gaining 81.9 percent. Silver was the biggest loser, dropping 52.2 percent.

iSeeCars analyzed the colors of over 20 million used cars from model years 2004 - 2023 sold from January 2023 to April 2024. The share of each color within each model year was calculated, as was the difference in share between model years 2004 and 2023.

“Colorful cars appear to be an endangered species,” said Karl Brauer, iSeeCars Executive Analyst. “Despite a diverse palette being offered by automakers, there are far fewer non-grayscale cars sold today. They’ve lost half their market share over the past 20 years, and they could become even rarer in another 20 years.”

The Grayscale March: Ever Upward?

The growth in grayscale colors has been constant over the past two decades, with only a slight pullback between 2012 and 2013. In the past three years the curve seems to be plateauing, suggesting the market may be approaching a saturation point for white, black, gray and silver vehicles. This drop in the car color spectrum occurred despite nearly identical color offerings per model over the past 20 years, with 6.7 colors available for the average 2023 car versus 7.1 colors for the average model in 2004.

“Will grayscale shades drive out all other car colors over the next 20 years? A flattening of the curve in the past few years indicates a possible maximum market tolerance for these four colors,” said Brauer. “Whether driven by dealers ‘playing it safe’ by ordering only popular colors, or consumers wanting to ensure maximum interest when it’s time to sell or trade in their vehicle, grayscale colors play the dominant role in the car world.”

Car Color Market Share Trends

The rise of grayscale cars is reflected in three of the four grayscale colors. White is the most dominant car color today, after passing black about 10 years ago and continuing to climb. Gray’s massive gains over the past decade has given it almost as much share as black. Black has also increased its market share by more than half. Bucking the trend of the grayscale colors, while silver has consistently lost market share since 2004.

The remaining car colors combined have lost almost half of their market share since 2004. Obscure colors like gold, purple, brown, and beige have each lost more than 80 percent of their share over this period. But even more mainstream colors like green, red, and blue gave up some share. Interestingly, green has made a small comeback in the last few years as the only non-grayscale color to gain market share since 2020.

“The big mover over the past 20 years is gray, which grew by 81.9 percent in share since 2004,” said Brauer. “The biggest loser among popular car colors is silver, dropping 52.2 percent and just barely ahead of blue in today’s market share.” 

“If drivers think they’re seeing less color on the roads these days, they are,” said Brauer. “Every non-grayscale color lost ground over the past 20 years, leading to the undeniable dilution of our car color spectrum.” 

Colors By Vehicle Type: Trucks, SUVs, Passenger Cars, and Sports Cars

When broken out by vehicle type the market share numbers remain fairly consistent across trucks, SUVs, and passenger cars. Grayscale colors make up around 80 percent share for each of these three segments. The one exception is sports cars, where owner expression through exterior color choice has limited grayscale share to 62.4 percent.

“Trucks followed the overall market trend, though some primary colors, like red, lost far more share than others, like blue,” said Brauer. “Red is down 57 percent in the truck segment, while blue lost less than 1 percent.”

“Gray’s popularity across the SUV segment had it more than doubling in market share,” said Brauer. “White and black also saw big gains among SUV shoppers, with those three colors’ gains coming at the expense of silver, green, blue, and red.”

“Cars have lost appeal in the consumer market, but they continue to serve in rental car fleets and other commercial uses,” said Brauer. “This likely explains the more than doubling of share for white in the car segment, a color popular with fleet managers due to its relatively high durability and low maintenance costs.” 

“The sports car segment managed to break the industry pattern, with grayscale colors only gaining 4.3 percent share since 2004,” said Brauer. “White more than tripled in this segment, and gray jumped by 81 percent, but those gains were mostly offset by silver falling 83 percent and black losing 2.1 percent. Red also lost ground with sports car buyers, while blue and orange made substantial gains.”

The next few years could be very telling in the car color world. Will gray continue to gain favor, surpassing long-dominant black and approaching white’s top spot? Will the grayscale shades continue to absorb market share, making our roadways less colorful, or has their popularity finally peaked?

More from iSeeCars.com:

• Best Used Cars for the Money
• Car Color and its Effect on Value
• Top 10 Cars That Hold Their Value the Best

Methodology

iSeeCars analyzed the colors of over 20 million used cars from model years 2004 - 2023 sold from January 2023 to April 2024. The share of each color within each model year was calculated, as was the difference in share between model years 2004 and 2023.

About iSeeCars.com

iSeeCars.com is a data-driven car search and research company that helps shoppers find the best car deals by providing key insights and valuable resources, including the iSeeCars VIN Check report and Best Cars Rankings. iSeeCars has saved users over $417 million so far by applying big data analytics powered by over 25 billion (and growing) data points and using proprietary algorithms to objectively analyze, score and rank millions of new cars and used cars.

This article, Cars are Half as Colorful as They Were 20 Years Ago, originally appeared on iSeeCars.com.

The Mighty Tundra

The first is the 2024 Toyota Tundra Hybrid. Combining a 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 with electric power, this beast delivers nearly 50 extra horsepower and over 100 lb-ft of additional torque. The Tundra Hybrid achieves a respectable 22 MPG combined. Whether you're towing a boat or cruising down the highway, this truck packs the power to get the job done while keeping fuel consumption in check.

Ram’s Smooth Operator

Next, we have the 2024 Ram 1500 eTorque V6. This isn’t just any truck; it tweaks mechanics for a smoother ride and gives you a combined fuel efficiency of 23 MPG. Starting at $37,410, it offers 305 horsepower and a city/highway mileage of 20/26 MPG. With its mild hybrid system and enhanced alternator, the Ram 1500 eTorque blends power with efficiency in a sleek package.

Ford’s Powerhouse

Ford’s answer to the hybrid game is the robust F-150 Hybrid. With a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 paired with a 35-kW electric motor, this truck boasts an impressive 430 horsepower and 570 lb-ft of torque. Achieving 25 MPG combined, the F-150 Hybrid offers a blend of brute strength and efficiency. Starting at $57,480, it’s a powerhouse that doesn’t skimp on eco-friendliness.

The Efficient Maverick

For those prioritizing the economy over muscle, the 2024 Ford Maverick Hybrid is the leader of the pack. With a staggering 37 MPG combined and a starting price of just over $22,000, the Maverick Hybrid is as wallet-friendly as it is eco-friendly. It delivers 191 horsepower and can tow up to 5,080 pounds, making it a versatile choice for everyday use and light-duty towing.

Tacoma: Built for Any Terrain

Last but certainly not least is the 2024 Toyota Tacoma Hybrid. Built for both urban and off-road adventures, it boasts 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. The Tacoma Hybrid ensures you’re ready for any adventure with approach, departure, and breakover angles designed for rugged terrain. Achieving 23 MPG combined, this truck proves you don’t have to sacrifice efficiency for capability.

The Verdict: Efficiency vs. Power

So, are hybrid trucks the future of the American road? These new models suggest that the future is here. They offer a compelling mix of muscle and mileage, making them a strong contender in the market. It’s not just about saving the planet—it’s also about saving at the pump.

From rugged roads to fast lanes, these hybrids are changing how we think about trucking. Whether you’re towing your boat for a weekend getaway or just commuting to work, these trucks offer a balance of power and efficiency that’s hard to beat. So, can you indeed have both? With the 2024 hybrid lineup, it looks like you can.

With this exciting lineup, hybrid trucks are more than just a trend—they’re a revolution. Stay tuned as these eco-beasts continue to reshape the roads, proving that you can have your cake and eat it, too.

The Cullinan Series II takes craftsmanship to a new level. Picture this: botanical materials, 2.2 million stitches, and seats made from Duality Twill fabric, each with intricate embroidery and over 11 miles of thread. It’s a car where every inch stretches the imagination of what’s possible in a motorcar.

A Digital Luxury Experience

At the heart of the Cullinan Series II is the SPIRIT digital interface and the exclusive Whispers app, offering unparalleled connectivity. This isn't just luxury; it's smart luxury. The new Clock Cabinet vitrine, featuring the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy figurine, adds a touch of heritage to this modern marvel.

Performance That Excites

Don’t be fooled by its luxurious appearance; the Cullinan Series II packs a punch under the hood. The Black Badge variant boasts 600 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque, ensuring it's not just a pretty face. With a slight adjustment to the suspension for the 23-inch wheels, the Cullinan maintains its signature "magic carpet" ride. After a spin around Ibiza, I can confirm it feels truly otherworldly.

Owners rave about its effortless performance, whether navigating city streets or touring the Spanish coast. The new lamp treatment and illuminated Pantheon grille ensure the Cullinan Series II stands out day and night. And let's face it, a memorable experience is a must.

Inside the Experience

The interior is a showcase of innovation and elegance. With a glass-panel fascia, updated SPIRIT system, and bespoke personalization options for the digital displays, the Cullinan Series II offers top-notch connectivity. Think WiFi hotspots, streaming capabilities, and Bluetooth headphone pairing for rear-seat passengers. This isn’t just a car; it’s a mobile luxury lounge.

The materials are extraordinary, from Grey Stained Ash wood to bamboo-derived Duality Twill fabric, inspired by nature’s finest. This combination of natural beauty and high-tech features makes the Cullinan Series II a unique experience.

A Bold Statement

For those seeking a bolder look, the Black Badge Cullinan Series II offers unique exterior and interior details that appeal to those with a taste for the visceral. Rolls-Royce continues to redefine luxury, blending heritage with innovation to meet modern demands.

Final Thoughts

The Cullinan Series II isn’t just about the physical aspects—it's about the experiences it provides. You can't take physical things with you everywhere, but the experiences and memories you create are forever. So, why settle for anything less than the ultimate experience in Smart-Luxury? The Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II is more than a car—it's a statement.

Experience the future of luxury with the Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II. Trust me; it’s an experience you’ll never forget.

A Waning Enthusiasm for EVs

According to AAA, the enthusiasm for EVs is waning. Nearly a third of Americans reported that they can't install an EV charger at home. For many, the dream of a sleek, eco-friendly ride is dashed by the practicalities of charging logistics. Imagine parking your shiny new Tesla at home only to realize you can’t juice it up without embarking on a herculean wiring project. Not exactly the glamorous future we were promised.

Big SUVs Fail Big Time in Crash Tests—With One Exception

Shifting gears to safety news, the latest results from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) have landed, and it’s not all good for the behemoths of the road. Large SUVs like the Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Expedition, and Jeep Wagoneer mostly scored poorly in crash tests. However, the new Jeep Wagoneer stood out with a top 'good' rating, making it the safest in its category. So, if you’re in the market for a family tank that can actually withstand a crash, the Wagoneer is your best bet.

The Fiat 500e: Beauty in Rose Gold—But is it All Rosy?

On a lighter note, Fiat has finally delivered its 500e to U.S. shores, and they’re doing it in style—or at least in a very eye-catching shade. The 2024 Fiat 500e is now at U.S. dealers, initially rolled out in a bright red hue. Adding a splash of color to the EV market, a special edition called the Fiat 500e Inspired By Los Angeles comes in Marine Layer Mist, capturing the essence of Southern California's unique weather. But let’s be honest, color doesn’t charge a battery, does it?

BMW M3 Competition: More Power, More Speed, More Fun

For those who like their rides fast and furious, the 2025 BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive now delivers an extra 20 hp, bringing its total to a whopping 523 hp. This beast can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds. It also features the new BMW Curved Display with iDrive 8.5 and M-specific graphics, enhancing driver interaction with high-resolution screens and advanced functionalities. If you’re a speed demon with a penchant for cutting-edge tech, this might just be your new favorite toy.

Rolls-Royce Cullinan: The Prestige Refresh

Lastly, in the world of luxury SUVs, Rolls-Royce is moving forward with a refresh for the Cullinan despite its strong sales. It’s the only Rolls-Royce SUV in the lineup and arguably the most prestigious. Why mess with a good thing? Well, Rolls-Royce started the project three years ago, and the new daytime running lights they’re introducing might just set a trend for future vehicles. If you’re in the market for a symbol of opulence on wheels, the refreshed Cullinan should be on your radar.

Conclusion

From the wavering enthusiasm for EVs to the latest in SUV safety and luxury refreshes, the automotive world is as dynamic as ever. Whether you’re an eco-warrior grappling with the practicalities of going electric, a safety-conscious driver, or a speed enthusiast looking for the next thrill, there’s something in this week’s news for you. Stay tuned as we continue to navigate the twists and turns of the automotive landscape.

Reliability is a reflection of a vehicle’s long-term quality and durability. It is often reflected in lower operating costs for a vehicle owner, as well as reduced time and energy spent visiting dealerships to address issues beyond scheduled maintenance.

Value retention indicates how much market value a vehicle has after several years of use. This is typically the most expensive factor in vehicle ownership. Models that lose a substantial amount of value over time contribute far less to a consumer’s future trade-in value for their next purchase, or what the vehicle can be sold for in the used car market.

Safety ratings come from a standardized set of safety tests performed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These organizations perform comprehensive studies to determine the potential for occupant injury or death if a vehicle is involved in an accident.

For each model, the data related to these three components is aggregated across multiple model years and updated regularly. The data is combined to create a Quality Score, and that quality score is compared across all models within a segment to determine the ranking for best trucks.

What Kind of Trucks Are Available?

Trucks have substantially improved in both capability and refinement over the past 20 years, making them one of the most effective choices for accomplishing a wide range of tasks. Where they were once pure workhorse vehicles with crude ride quality, terrible fuel economy and rudimentary styling, today’s pickup trucks offer large touchscreens running advanced infotainment systems, fuel efficient powertrains, and plush four-door crew cab interiors featuring high-quality materials.

Modern trucks are primarily offered in two categories, full-size pickup trucks and midsize trucks, though smaller trucks like the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz prove there’s a growing market for compact trucks, too.

What Type of Truck Should I Buy?

A wide range of truck variants exist to satisfy nearly any consumer need. In the full-size truck category buyers can configure a basic half-ton, rear-wheel drive work truck with a two-door cab and minimum frills. This would be the least expensive version of a modern truck, but its uses would be limited to simple tasks like hauling basic cargo on a paved route.

A more sophisticated truck would feature towing and/or off-road equipment, including a trailer brake controller, a trailer hitch camera, four-wheel drive, and a two-range transfer case. These features would be reflected in improved towing capacity and off-roading specs. For truck buyers looking to haul as much weight as possible in the bed, configuring a truck with a revised rear suspension and enhanced braking and cooling components can improve its payload capacity.

While full-size trucks like the Chevy Silverado, Ford F-150 and Ram 1500 are typically associated with maximum towing and payload demands, the best pickup trucks for these activities are heavy duty models like the Chevy Silverado HD, Ford Super Duty, and Ram 2500. These models feature more robust frames, higher horsepower and torque figures, and improved standard and optional features to enhance their ability to tow and haul extremely heavy loads.

Another popular truck segment is the high-performance truck, such as the Ford F-150 Raptor and the Ram TRX. These trucks offer some of the highest horsepower and fastest acceleration figures in the truck world while maintaining exceptional towing, hauling and off-road specs. Other specialized full-size models include the off-road oriented Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 and Ram Rebel.

The midsize truck category features smaller models like the Chevy Colorado, Ford Ranger, and Jeep Gladiator. Unlike the V8 and turbocharged V6s seen in most full-size trucks, these midsize versions typically feature four-cylinder base engines with six-cylinder options. Their smaller size and improved mpg ratings make for better daily drivers, particularly in urban and suburban environments. Yet, these midsize models still offer impressive payload and towing capacities. The Ranger, even with its base twin-turbo EcoBoost engine, is rated to haul over 1,500 pounds and tow more than 7,000 pounds.

For eco-conscious buyers seeking truck utility, electric drivetrains have swept across the automotive world and now include the truck segment. Three of the first electric trucks, the Ford F-150 Lightning, GMC Hummer EV, and Rivian R1T, are powered exclusively by batteries. These models benefit from the instant torque offered by electric motors, giving them over 700 lb-ft of peak torque and some of the highest tow ratings in the industry. But like all electric vehicles, these models cost substantially more than their gasoline counterparts, and their driving range drops dramatically when their payload or towing capabilities are utilized.

Here are the Best Trucks across multiple segments ranked by their iSeeCars Quality Score.

Best Midsize Trucks

1. Honda Ridgeline - 9.2 / 10
2. Toyota Tacoma - 8.8 / 10
3. Ford Ranger - 8.5 / 10
4. GMC Canyon - 8.3 / 10
5. Nissan Frontier - 8.3 / 10

Best Full-Size Trucks

1. Ford F-150 - 8.8 / 10
2. Toyota Tundra - 8.8 / 10
3. Ram 1500 - 8.6 / 10
4. Chevrolet Silverado 1500 - 8.6 / 10
5. GMC Sierra 1500 - 8.6 / 10

Best Heavy Duty Trucks

1. Ram 3500: 9.4/10
2. Ford F-350 Super Duty: 9.4/10
3. GMC Sierra 3500HD: 9.2/10
4. Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD: 9.1/10
5. Ford F-250 Super Duty: 9.0/10

For the complete list of trucks in each segment, refer to our Best Trucks page.

More from iSeeCars:

• Best Trucks for Towing
• Best Off-Road Trucks
• Trucks with the Most Cargo Space

About iSeeCars.com

iSeeCars.com is a data-driven car search and research company that helps shoppers find the best car deals by providing key insights and valuable resources, including the iSeeCars VIN Check report and Best Cars Rankings. iSeeCars has saved users over $417 million so far by applying big data analytics powered by over 25 billion (and growing) data points and using proprietary algorithms to objectively analyze, score and rank millions of new cars and used cars.
This article, Best Trucks for 2024, originally appeared on iSeeCars.com.

You can simply take your used car to a local dealership and trade it in. The upside is, this is the easiest route. The downside is that dealer trade-in value is likely the lowest value for your car you could receive, because dealers have to re-sale your car, either at auction or to a private party, and ensure they profit from it.

While it certainly takes more effort, selling a used vehicle isn’t the hassle it once was, particularly with the modern car-selling tools available to every consumer. This article will walk you through the steps of selling your car yourself, which should remove any questions you have about the process.

Step One: Determine the Value of Your Car

Once upon a time, only dealers had access to industry valuation tools like the Kelley Blue Book price and a vehicle history report, two critical items when determining the best price for a car. Now anyone can access both items, along with a wide range of additional tools, as discussed below. 

A vehicle’s market value and service history can be found through a variety of sources. iSeeCars.com offers its own Price My Car tool, as well as a comprehensive  VIN Report (VIN stands for vehicle identification number), which combines both a market value assessment with a history of service, both customized to a specific vehicle based on its VIN. The iSeeCars VIN Report takes into account everything from local sales of similar vehicles to your car’s current odometer reading. It also provides an ownership history, recall history, and predicted depreciation over the coming 1, 3, and 5 years. These tools can help you confirm the right asking price for your vehicle.

Step Two: Organize Your Car’s Documentation

Once you know the value of your vehicle you can prep it for sale. The most important document you’ll need is your car’s title. If there’s a car loan on your vehicle you won’t have the vehicle title, which means you’ll need to work with the buyer and your lender on the title transfer once the car is sold. You should always tell prospective buyers the vehicle has a loan that has to be paid off early in the car sale process. 

It’s pretty straightforward when selling a car with a loan on it, where a bank or financial institution holds a lien on the vehicle. You simply ask the lender for the exact pay off amount, which the buyer can provide to the lender with a cashier’s check, at which point the lender will release the title. The difference between the pay off amount and your car’s sales price is what you’ll have left after selling the vehicle, which the buyer can pay directly to you. A cashier’s check is among the most secure forms of payment, so feel free to require one from the buyer.

You’ll also want to gather all paperwork related to your vehicle. This includes any service records and warranty documentation you may have, as well as past registrations to confirm the vehicle’s history of use (feel free to redact personal information, like addresses and phone numbers, from these documents for your own peace of mind and privacy concerns).

Step Three: Advertise Your Vehicle

There are several options for finding potential buyers when it’s time to sell your car. You can advertise in local listings like your city’s newspaper website or Craigslist, or use national car marketplaces like Autotrader, Cars.com, Edmunds.com, and Facebook Marketplace. Each of them has a large audience and an interface that makes it easy to zero in on cars based on price, location, color, features etc.

Be sure you take plenty of photographs of your vehicle for the online ad, as these will increase the confidence for non-local buyers that can’t easily see the vehicle in person. While you shouldn’t invest too much money in a car you’re about to sell, spending some time and/or a small amount of money getting the vehicle cleaned up will improve your chances of getting your asking price. 

Step Four: Working With Potential Car Buyers

Once your ad is live you should begin receiving inquiries from interested buyers almost immediately, assuming you did your homework and came up with a realistic asking price based on your car’s market value. 

Many car sellers feel uncomfortable when it’s time to deal with potential buyers. This is understandable, and some basic security measures should be taken before meeting a buyer in person. For instance, if a buyer wants to see the vehicle, don’t meet at your house or in some random location, and never meet them at night. Meet them where other people are likely to be milling about, like outside a busy store, or where security cameras are likely to be in use, like a police station parking lot. 

Feel free to bring a family member or friend along. The more the merrier! And if the buyer wants to take the car for a test drive, ask them to produce a valid driver’s license and auto insurance card first. Then ride with them on the test drive – never let them take the car on their own.

Step Five: Selling Your Car

You may have to negotiate the price with a buyer, but don’t be too quick to lower the price, especially if you’re still early in the sales process. If you valued your car properly, you should be able to find a buyer who will pay at or near your asking price. 

Once you have a buyer ready to buy your car you’ll need a bill of sale to record the transaction.

A bill of sale states the car’s year, make, model and VIN, plus the buyer’s and seller’s name, the date of the transaction, and the selling price. Both the buyer and seller should sign the bill of sale and both should have a copy of it once signed. 

As stated before, you’ll also need to sign over the vehicle title to the buyer, and if your title is held by a bank you’ll need the buyer to work with the lending institution to pay off the loan before the title is released. Meeting at the bank for the final transaction will make this process much easier, and even if you don’t have a vehicle loan the bank is a good place to transfer the title and receive the buyer’s funds, as you can verify the buyer’s form of payment before signing over the title. 

In some states you’ll want to sign a release of liability form, which is a record of the car leaving your possession and transferring to a new owner. This protects you from any future liability issues related to the car. Similarly, in many states you will want to remove the car’s license plates and keep or destroy those, while in other states the license plate number stays with a car, even when ownership is transferred. Check with your state’s department of motor vehicles (DMV) to confirm which protocol is in place.

Additional Options

If you own a classic, special interest, or high-performance vehicle you may get a better price by using an auction site that specializes in these types of vehicles. Two prominent sites for these types of vehicles are Bring a Trailer and Cars & Bids. Both allow you to list your car in front of a large audience that’s likely to recognize and appreciate your vehicle, and if two or more people want your car the sale price can really skyrocket. We recently published an article comparing Bring a Trailer to Cars and Bids that will explain how they work in detail.

If you’re still not convinced about selling your car to a private party there are other, non-traditional dealership options to consider. You can sell your car to online retailers like Carvana or Vroom. We even have an article that compares to two if you’d like a better understanding of how that process works. And if you’re combining your car selling process with the car buying process (a common pairing) you can use a non-traditional physical dealer like CarMax, which offers a network of stores across the country and a wide selection of cars and SUVs to choose from.

More from iSeeCars.com:

• How to Buy a Used Car
• How to Transfer a Car Title
• How Much is My Car Worth?

If you’re interested in a new or a used car to replace the vehicle you’re trading in or selling, be sure to check out iSeeCars’ award-winning car search engine . It uses advanced algorithms to help shoppers find the best car deals across all vehicle types and provides key insights and valuable resources, like the iSeeCars free VIN check report and Best Cars rankings. Filter by make, model, price, and special features to find the best deal on your next vehicle.

This article, How to Sell a Car, originally appeared on iSeeCars.com.

 Most modern minivans can also be upgraded with premium features, like second-row captain's chairs and adaptive cruise control. All of today's minivans utilize front-wheel drive (FWD) and automatic transmissions, though all-wheel drive is available on a few models. That doesn't make them truly off-road capable, but it does offer improved foul-weather confidence.

Additional family-hauler features, like a built-in vacuum cleaner or rear-seat camera system, are available, while fully reclining seats have been introduced to maximum comfort when parked. If you can't afford a new car, used models retain the high flexibility included with every minivan. However, if you're seeking the latest in safety technology, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and lane-keep assist, you'll want to stick with minivans from the last few model years. 

Buyers seeking a family-friendly vehicle without sliding doors and a boxy profile should look at our Best Large SUVs or Best Midsize SUVs lists. Those seeking a more premium experience can browse our Best Luxury Large SUVs or Best Luxury Midsize SUVs, most of which feature three rows of seating along with plush cabins and premium features.

1. Toyota Sienna 
   • iSeeCars Quality Score: 9.0/10
   • Reliability Score: 8.7/10
   • Value Retention Score: 8.2/10
   • Safety: 10/10
   • MSRP: $29,715 - $49,415
   • Used Price: $23,994 - $46,998
   • MPG: 20 - 21 mpg
   • Cargo Volume: 39.1 cu ft
2. Kia Sedona (Last Model Year: 2021)
   • iSeeCars Quality Score: 8.6/10
   • Reliability Score: 8.1/10
   • Value Retention Score: 7.7/10
   • Safety: 10/10
   • MSRP: $30,400 - $41,500
   • Used Price: $17,095 - $30,498
   • MPG: 21 mpg
   • Cargo Volume: 33.9 cu ft
3. Honda Odyssey 
   • Ranking: #1 of 7 Best Family Minivans
   • iSeeCars Quality Score: 8.5/10
   • Reliability Score: 8.7/10
   • Value Retention Score: 7.9/10
   • Safety: 9.0/10
   • MSRP: $37,840 - $49,970
   • Used Price: $24,809 - $44,148
   • MPG: 22 mpg
   • Cargo Volume: 32.8 cu ft
4. Dodge Grand Caravan (Last Model Year: 2020)
   • Ranking: #1 of 7 Best Minivans for Towing
   • iSeeCars Quality Score: 7.7/10
   • Reliability Score: 8.0/10
   • Value Retention Score: 7.1/10
   • Safety: 8.0/10
   • MSRP: $27,530 - $35,535
   • Used Price: $12,995 - $27,793
   • MPG: 20 mpg
   • Cargo Volume: 31.1 cu ft
5. Chrysler Pacifica 
   • Ranking: #2 of 7 Best Family Minivans
   • iSeeCars Quality Score: 7.5/10
   • Reliability Score: 6.1/10
   • Value Retention Score: 7.5/10
   • Safety: 9.0/10
   • MSRP: $39,400 - $58,985
   • Used Price: $19,995 - $42,470
   • MPG: 20 - 22 mpg
   • Cargo Volume: 32.3 cu ft

For the complete list of cars across all categories, refer to our full Best Minivans list.

About iSeeCars.com

iSeeCars.com is a data-driven car search and research company that helps shoppers find the best car deals by providing key insights and valuable resources, including the iSeeCars VIN Check report and Best Cars Rankings. iSeeCars has saved users over $417 million so far by applying big data analytics powered by over 25 billion (and growing) data points and using proprietary algorithms to objectively analyze, score and rank millions of new cars and used cars.

This article, Best Minivans 2024, originally appeared on iSeeCars.com.

Here is a list of the best luxury cars across multiple categories ranked by their iSeeCars Quality Score.

Best Luxury Small Cars:

1. Lexus IS 350: 9.1/10
2. Lexus IS 300: 8.9/10
3. BMW 3 Series: 8.6/10
4. Volvo S60: 8.6/10
5. Acura ILX: 8.6/10

Best Luxury Midsize Cars:

1. Lexus ES 250: 9.0/10
2. Lexus ES 350: 8.7/10
3. Lincoln MKZ: 8.6/10
4. Mercedes-Benz E-Class: 8.5/10
5. Lexus GS 300: 8.4/10

Best Luxury Large Cars:

1. Buick LaCrosse: 8.4/10
2. Acura RLX: 8.3/10
3. Lincoln Continental: 8.2/10
4. Lexus LS 500: 7.8/10
5. Mercedes-Benz S-Class (coupe): 7.7/10

Best Luxury Hybrid Cars:

1. Lexus ES 300h: 8.7/10
2. Lincoln MKZ Hybrid: 8.5/10
3. Lexus LS 500h: 7.9/10
4. Chevrolet Corvette (hybrid coupe): 7.7/10
5. Acura NSX (hybrid): 7.6/10

Best Luxury Plug-in Hybrid Cars (PHEV):

1. Volvo S60 (Plug-in Hybrid): 7.6/10
2. BMW 3 Series (Plug-in Hybrid): 7.3/10
3. Porsche Panamera (Plug-in Hybrid): 7.3/10
4. Audi A8 L (Plug-in Hybrid): 7.2/10
5. Volvo S90 (Plug-in Hybrid): 7.2/10

Best Luxury Electric Cars:

1. Tesla Model 3: 8.3/10
2. Tesla Model S: 8.1/10
3. BMW i3 (electric): 6.8/10
4. Porsche Taycan (wagon): N/A
5. Porsche Taycan: N/A

Best Luxury Sports Cars:

1. Porsche 911 (coupe): 9.2/10
2. Porsche 911 (convertible): 8.6/10
3. Audi TT (coupe): 8.3/10
4. Chevrolet Corvette (coupe): 8.2/10
5. Audi TTS (coupe): 8.2/10

Best Luxury Convertibles:

1. Porsche 911 (convertible): 8.6/10
2. Audi TT (convertible): 8.1/10
3. Chevrolet Corvette (convertible): 8.0/10
4. Porsche 718 Boxster: 7.9/10
5. Mercedes-Benz E-Class (convertible): 7.7/10

Best Luxury Wagons:

1. Mercedes-Benz E-Class (wagon): 8.7/10
2. BMW 3 Series (wagon): 8.5/10
3. Volvo V60: 8.3/10
4. Volvo V60 Cross Country: 8.2/10
5. Audi A4 allroad: 7.3/10

For the complete list of cars across all categories, refer to our full Best Luxury Car list.

About iSeeCars.com

iSeeCars.com is a data-driven car search and research company that helps shoppers find the best car deals by providing key insights and valuable resources, including the iSeeCars VIN Check report and Best Cars Rankings. iSeeCars has saved users over $417 million so far by applying big data analytics powered by over 25 billion (and growing) data points and using proprietary algorithms to objectively analyze, score and rank millions of new cars and used cars.

This article, Best Luxury Cars for 2024, originally appeared on iSeeCars.com.

Hybrid Performance Meets Efficiency

Central to the Crown Signia’s appeal is its advanced hybrid powertrain. With a robust 243 horsepower, a commendable 36 MPG combined fuel efficiency, and standard all-wheel drive, Toyota marries performance with environmental stewardship. In an era where power often overshadows eco-consciousness, the Crown Signia challenges the norm, providing an enticing option for the eco-aware driver who refuses to compromise on performance.

A Blend of Style and Substance

Toyota’s design philosophy shines brightly in the Crown Signia, which sports a monochromatic grille and sleek lines that command attention. The option of 21-inch wheels adds to its stately presence. Inside, luxury takes center stage with soft-touch materials, optional leather seating, and a panoramic glass roof, promising a lavish ride. Yet, in a luxury SUV market brimming with contenders, standing out demands continuous innovation.

Cabin Quietness and Spaciousness

The Crown Signia promises a serene cabin environment, emphasizing comfort and practicality with features like fold-flat second-row seating and a spacious 6.5-foot cargo area. Targeting both adventurers and families, Toyota aims to offer versatility. However, in a segment where spacious and comfortable interiors are expected, the Crown Signia will need to deliver exceptional experiences to distinguish itself.

Ahead in Technology and Safety

Equipped with a 12.3-inch multimedia touchscreen and the comprehensive Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite, the Crown Signia aims to be at the forefront of automotive technology and safety. This commitment positions the Crown Signia as a top contender in its category, though it will need to evolve continually to maintain its edge in a fast-paced tech landscape.

Bridging Traditions and Innovations

Drawing on the legacy of the Toyota Crown, the Crown Signia blends historical significance with modern aspirations. Assembled in Aichi, Japan, and based on Toyota’s New Global Architecture K platform, it aims to offer the best of both worlds: a sedan's comfort and an SUV's versatility. However, as the industry shifts towards electrification, the hybrid Crown Signia’s place in the future market remains to be seen.

A Contrarian Approach in an EV-Dominated Future

Toyota’s commitment to a hybrid SUV in an increasingly electric-focused world is both daring and contrarian. The Crown Signia expands Toyota’s electrified offerings in the U.S. to 19, signaling a broad commitment to sustainable driving options. Yet, the critical question remains: will the modern consumer be drawn to a hybrid in a market leaning heavily towards full electric vehicles?

In sum, the Toyota Crown Signia SUV is a compelling mix of luxury, efficiency, and innovation. It represents Toyota’s vision for an eco-friendly yet powerful driving experience. As the automotive landscape evolves, the Crown Signia’s success will hinge on its ability to resonate with buyers who seek more than just another luxury SUV. Toyota’s gamble on blending tradition with hybrid technology is bold. Only time will reveal if this move captures the hearts and minds of drivers worldwide.

As National Geographic explains in a recent article, electric taxis had a brief moment of popularity in the city in the 1890s. The fleet quickly grew from a dozen vehicles in 1897 to over 100 by 1899. It's an important reminder that battery-electric cars are not a new invention. The technology has changed significantly, but many of the qualities that make EVs appealing have remained consistent throughout.

A 19th-century model called the Electrobat has considered ideal for taxi service because of its quick acceleration and noiselessness, according to National Geographic. The instant torque of electric motors and lack of exhaust noise have also created many a modern EV enthusiast.

However, electric taxis are also responsible for two unfortunate historical firsts. In May 1899, taxi driver Jason German reportedly became the first operator of an automobile arrested for speeding after being clocked at a heady 12 mph on Manhattan's Lexington Avenue.

That same year, another taxi driver struck a person in what is thought to be the first pedestrian fatality involving a car. Concerns that pedestrians might not hear quiet electric cars resurfaced in the 2010s, leading to regulations requiring pedestrian sound alerts on both EVs and hybrids.

New York's 1890s electric taxis were a product of the early, experimental age of the car, when electric power competed with both internal combustion and steam. Both steam and electric cars were relatively popular until gasoline cars and their fueling infrastructure became reliable enough to take a clear lead in convenience.

As EVs re-emerged as a viable alternative to internal combustion in the 2010s, New York City thought about bringing them back. The city council began pushing for electric taxis around 2012, but concerns over charging led officials to consider hybrids instead. The ill-fated "Taxi of Tomorrow" project, which sought to enshrine the Nissan NV200 van as the default New York taxi, was also being implemented at this time but without discussion of hybrid or all-electric versions of the taxi.

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Nissan never did achieve a monopoly on New York taxis with the NV200. The fleet now features lots of hybrids, as well as some EVs, although the latter may be less attractive to cab operators now that a proposed EV exemption from the city's new congestion pricing appears to have fallen through.

It's also unclear, under the current administration of Mayor Eric Adams, how much progress New York is making toward a goal set by former Mayor Bill de Blasio in an executive order of making all NYC municipal vehicles electric by 2040.

Priced at $94,500, the 2024 Silverado EV First Edition RST boasts impressive specifications, including 754 horsepower and over 785 lb-ft of torque. Its Wide Open Watts Mode allows the truck to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 4.5 seconds, making it the fastest Silverado. The Silverado EV ensures extended driving without frequent charging stops, with a range of up to 440 miles per charge. It is designed to tow up to 10,000 pounds, offering significant utility without compromising environmental sustainability.

Beyond power, the Silverado EV is packed with advanced technology. The vehicle recognizes your approach via smartphone, unlocks the doors, and greets you with a custom lighting display. Inside, a 17-inch diagonal LCD screen springs to life with a dynamic 3D animation, eliminating the need for keys or a start button.

The Silverado EV also excels in practicality. It features a lockable front trunk, the eTrunk, and is spacious enough for large luggage. The innovative Multi-Flex Midgate enhances the cargo area while preserving rear passenger seating. Additionally, the truck is a mobile power station, providing up to 10.2kW of offboard power through up to 10 outlets, suitable for powering tools or even a tiny home.

Chevrolet has ensured that the Silverado EV is agile despite its size. Four-wheel steering enables easy maneuverability in tight spaces, and adaptive air suspension allows the truck to adjust its height by up to two inches, adapting to various road conditions.

The Silverado EV is more than just an electric truck; it represents a step forward in vehicle technology and environmental responsibility. As electric vehicle technology advances, the Silverado EV stands out by setting new standards and leading the charge toward a cleaner future.

With its high price point, the 2024 Silverado EV is a premium offering that signals Chevrolet’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. This truck is a testament to Chevrolet's leadership in the electric vehicle market, blending robust performance with environmental consciousness. The future of driving is here, and it's embodied in the Silverado EV.

Modern small cars come in sedan, coupe, and hatchback form, meaning everything from sporty styling to a roomy interior is available. But not all small cars are created equal. When viewing this list be realistic about your performance desires versus your real-world needs. While a powerful engine and engaging driving experience might sound appealing, a roomy rear seat and functional cargo space greatly enhance a small car's practicality.

What is a Small Car?

The term “small car” is often used loosely. It can refer to subcompact cars, compact cars, or both. We have combined the two vehicle segments in this list because both are worth considering given their similar size and characteristics. This list takes multiple model years into account, so if you can't afford a new car consider a used version of top-ranked vehicles like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. Shoppers with larger budgets and luxury car preferences might be interested in our Best Luxury Small Cars list, while buyers looking for maximum fuel efficiency from a hybrid or plug-in hybrid can view our Best Hybrid Cars list.

1. Honda Civic (coupe)
   • iSeeCars Score: 9.4 / 10
   • Reliability: 9.1 / 10
   • Value Retention: 9.1 / 10
   • Safety: 10 / 10
   • New Price (MSRP): $21,050 - $27,250
   • Used Price: $17,495 - $27,000
   • MPG: 29 - 35 mpg
   • Cargo Volume: 11.9 - 12.1 cu ft
   • Last New Model Year: 2020

2. Honda Fit
   • iSeeCars Score: 9.2 / 10
   • Reliability: 8.4 / 10
   • Value Retention: 9.3 / 10
   • Safety: 10 / 10
   • New Price (MSRP): $16,190 - $20,620
   • Used Price: $14,993 - $22,998
   • MPG: 31 - 36 mpg
   • Cargo Volume: 16.6 cu ft
   • Last New Model Year: 2020

3. Toyota Yaris
   • iSeeCars Score: 9.2 / 10
   • Reliability: 8.5 / 10
   • Value Retention: 9.0 / 10
   • Safety: 10 / 10
   • New Price (MSRP): $15,650 - $18,750
   • Used Price: $11,990 - $19,996
   • MPG: 34 - 35 mpg
   • Cargo Volume: 13.5 cu ft
   • Last New Model Year: 2020

4. Toyota Corolla
   • iSeeCars Score: 9.1 / 10
   • Reliability: 8.5 / 10
   • Value Retention: 8.9 / 10
   • Safety: 10 / 10
   • New Price (MSRP): $22,050 - $27,150
   • Used Price: $15,899 - $25,298
   • MPG: 35 mpg
   • Cargo Volume: 13.1 cu ft

5. Honda Civic
   • iSeeCars Score: 9.0 / 10
   • Reliability: 8.8 / 10
   • Value Retention: 9.0 / 10
   • Safety: 9.0 / 10
   • New Price (MSRP): $23,950 - $30,550
   • Used Price: $17,942 - $28,400
   • MPG: 31 - 36 mpg
   • Cargo Volume: 14.1 - 14.8 cu ft

6. Subaru Impreza
   • iSeeCars Score: 8.9 / 10
   • Reliability: 8.0 / 10
   • Value Retention: 8.7 / 10
   • Safety: 10 / 10
   • New Price (MSRP): $19,795 - $24,595
   • Used Price: $15,989 - $24,995
   • MPG: 26 - 32 mpg
   • Cargo Volume: 12.3 cu ft

7. Mazda Mazda3 Sedan
   • iSeeCars Score: 8.9 / 10
   • Reliability: 8.2 / 10
   • Value Retention: 8.4 / 10
   • Safety: 10 / 10
   • New Price (MSRP): $24,170 - $35,450
   • Used Price: $17,007 - $27,006
   • MPG: 27 - 31 mpg
   • Cargo Volume: 13.2 cu ft

8. Volkswagen Golf
   • iSeeCars Score: 8.8 / 10
   • Reliability: 8.2 / 10
   • Value Retention: 8.4 / 10
   • Safety: 10 / 10
   • New Price (MSRP): $23,195 - $23,995
   • Used Price: $15,488 - $23,080
   • MPG: 32 - 33 mpg
   • Cargo Volume: 17.4 cu ft
   • Last New Model Year: 2021

9. Hyundai Veloster
   • iSeeCars Score: 8.8 / 10
   • Reliability: 7.7 / 10
   • Value Retention: 8.8 / 10
   • Safety: 10 / 10
   • New Price (MSRP): $18,900 - $28,450
   • Used Price: $13,995 - $23,996
   • MPG: 28 - 30 mpg
   • Cargo Volume: 19.9 cu ft
   • Last New Model Year: 2021

10. Mazda Mazda3 Hatchback
    • iSeeCars Score: 8.8 / 10
    • Reliability: 8.2 / 10
    • Value Retention: 8.3 / 10
    • Safety: 10 / 10
    • New Price (MSRP): $25,690 - $36,650
    • Used Price: $18,284 - $29,983
    • MPG: 26 - 30 mpg

More from iSeeCars:

• Best Small SUVs
• Best Family Cars
• Best Gas Mileage Cars

About iSeeCars.com

iSeeCars.com is a data-driven car search and research company that helps shoppers find the best car deals by providing key insights and valuable resources, including the iSeeCars VIN Check report and Best Cars Rankings. iSeeCars has saved users over $416 million so far by applying big data analytics powered by over 25 billion (and growing) data points and using proprietary algorithms to objectively analyze, score and rank millions of new cars and used cars.

This article, Best Small Cars, originally appeared on iSeeCars.com.

There are advantages to both. If you have an exceptionally clean vehicle that has well over the normal number of miles on it, you may do better trying to sell the car yourself, as high mileage works against trade-in value at a dealership. Conversely, if your current car is on the junky side, you might find a buyer who doesn’t care as much about that as a new-car dealership does.

But then you’d be going through the hassle of putting your used car on the market and dealing with car buyers who may or may not have a genuine interest in buying. It’s simpler and easier to trade in your old car, but you’ll still need to do some prep work to make sure you are getting the highest trade-in value. You might also consider selling your car to CarMax or Carvana, as they will quickly determine the value of your used car and offer a purchase price. The money they provide can help you eliminate any loan balance you may have on your current car, and ideally provide you with a full down payment for your new car.

Determining the Value of Your Car

The process of trading in your car starts with determining how much your car is worth. First, take a hard look at your vehicle, eliminating any personal positive or negative feelings that may have arisen over the years. Is it too small? Not for somebody needing a small car. Too big? Somebody needs that carrying capacity. Too thirsty? A matter of opinion. The wrong color? See “too thirsty.” None of those are legitimate factors regarding trade-in value.

Factors that are legit: How many miles? The lower the better. How clean is it? It should be as clean as you can get it, or lacking that, have it professionally detailed – never try to trade in, or for that matter sell to a private party, a vehicle that needs a bath, a vacuuming, or has overflowing ashtrays. You’d be surprised at how many people ignore that advice and pay for it in reduced trade-in value for their current car.

So, what kind of shape is your old car in? Be honest. There may be great sentimental value in the fact that your third child was born in the back seat, but it doesn’t raise the value of the car. You must be clinical about valuing your trade-in. And don’t take it personally if a salesperson test-drives your car and proceeds to tell you everything that’s wrong with it. He or she may be setting you up to take less than it’s worth, but if you’ve done your research, hold your ground.

Several websites, including Edmunds (Edmunds.com) and Kelley Blue Book (kbb.com) have valuation tools that will give you a ballpark estimate on the value of your car. Again, be honest – you might be able to overlook some small rips in the upholstery, but a buyer or dealer won’t. Some valuation tools offer an estimate specifically for trade-in value, but that’s just what it is – an estimate.

It’s also worth searching sites like craigslist.com or iseecars.com for used vehicles like yours to see what the asking prices are. 

What’s Your Auto Loan Status?

Also worth researching is the value of your trade-in versus what, if anything, you owe on it, also known as your loan balance. Hopefully, your loan amount is lower than the value of your car, meaning you have “positive equity”. You can trade in a vehicle you are “upside down” on, meaning you owe more than it is worth, or have “negative equity”. But the payoff amount for your old loan will be deducted from what you are offered by the dealership. 

Almost all vehicles depreciate, save those handful that are worth more used than you paid for them new. However, some cars hold their value better than others. A dealer may offer to add the extra money needed for paying off your old vehicle by “rolling over” the negative equity into the new car loan terms, which can be a problem, as this can continue the cycle of having negative equity on your new loan, just as you may on your current loan. And if you have a low credit score or bad credit, the lender will most likely offer less desirable loan terms, including a higher interest rate that can translate into higher monthly payments.

This is the perfect time to carefully consider the predicted resale value of your next vehicle. While nobody likes to think about getting rid of the vehicle they are about to purchase, the reality is that you will eventually be selling or trading in your next car just like you’re trading in your current car. Utilize iSeeCars’ current studies on vehicles that depreciate the least, and most, to identify a model that will hold its value the best, thus giving you more value toward the next vehicle you buy when you’re done with this one.

Trading In Your Car for a New or Used Car?

When it comes time to trade your current vehicle in, think hard about whether you need a brand-new car, or if you really just want something that’s a few years newer than what you have. Used-car dealerships will also give you a trade-in value as part of a new (to you) used car purchase, but you can’t necessarily expect to get as much for your car as you would dealing for a new vehicle. New-car dealers always have a used-car lot, typically populated by very clean vehicles. Used vehicles that are “certified,” meaning they have been inspected closely and may even have a warranty, are the most expensive used cars at a new-car dealership, though they may be worth it. (Check out our handy guide for more on what certified pre-owned means.

And as for that new vehicle: On the majority of cars, you can expect some discount off sticker price, sometimes in the form of factory or dealer incentives. It might be a very small discount if you’re hankering for a hot seller, or a bigger discount if it’s a slower-selling model. If there’s a rebate of more than $500, or zero-percent financing is offered, odds are the vehicle is not selling like hotcakes. Ideally you should get the full trade-in value of your car, plus a discount off the new car list price. Even no-haggle dealers will usually haggle over trade-in value if it means making a sale. Also remember that you don’t have to buy a vehicle to utilize your trade-in vehicle; trade-ins are accepted when leasing a car, too.

Remain Vigilant Throughout the Buying Process

It doesn’t matter whether you’re buying a car outright or leveraging your current car as a trade-in, always shop around and take special notice of dealership add-ons that raise the sticker price beyond what the manufacturer suggests. There’s a reason they call it “suggested retail price” – new car dealerships can charge whatever they want. If you are offered well over what your trade-in is really worth, the dealership might try to get it back by charging more for the vehicle you are buying. Always focus on the difference between what the dealer is giving you for trade-in value and the agreed purchase price of the car you’re buying.

After you negotiate your best car price, beware the person in the nice glass office who actually closes the deal. He or she may try to upsell you on accessories, pinstriping, undercoating, an extended warranty, bigger wheels and tires, insurance on the loan itself, a higher interest-rate loan, a longer payback schedule, a lower-than-discussed trade-in value for your car, and anything else that will boost the dealer’s bottom line. 

Shoppers often assume once a purchase price is set, and a trade-in value is agreed to, the deal is done. But the deal isn’t done until all the paperwork is signed, and you have to examine added costs closely as the deal is finalized. Sales tax and registration costs are unavoidable, and some “documentation” charges make sense, though you should ask the dealership about every one of them to confirm what you’re paying for. 

Remember this: They are professional car sellers. You are an amateur car buyer. If you are easily swayed or aren’t confident you can swing the best deal, take along that car-nut friend who has likely been through this car shopping process a lot and understands the nuances – someone who, unemotionally, can say “no” if the deal isn’t a very good deal.

More Car Buying Advice:

• How to Buy a Used Car
• Most Reliable Cars
• How to Get a Car Loan

If you’re interested in a new or a used car to replace the vehicle you’re trading in or selling, be sure to check out iSeeCars’ award-winning car search engine. It uses advanced algorithms to help shoppers find the best car deals across all vehicle types and provides key insights and valuable resources, like the iSeeCars free VIN check report and Best Cars rankings. Filter by make, model, price, and special features to find the best deal on your next vehicle.

This article, How Does a Car Trade In Work?, originally appeared on iSeeCars.com.

It’s reasonable to assume a car will experience at least one recall over the course of its usable lifespan because cars are complex, mass-produced machines. But after analyzing the latest recall data from NHTSA, iSeeCars identified the 25 cars with the most projected lifetime recalls and determined that their projected recalls are much greater than a typical car. The Porsche Taycan EV has the most projected lifetime recalls at 70.7, while Tesla’s Model Y and Model 3 closely follow in positions 2 and 3, with 66.9 and 60.7 projected recalls, respectively. 

The most recalled cars have quite a bit more lifetime recalls than the industry median of 3.2, and substantially more than the 25 least recalled cars, which are projected to have less than one recall over the course of a 30-year lifespan. The MINI Convertible leads the industry with just 0.2 projected recalls, followed by the Lexus ES 300h, RX 450h, and NX 300h each having 0.3 projected lifetime recalls. These projections are based on NHTSA recall campaign data for 2015-2024 model-year cars. 

“If you’re hoping to avoid recall hassles, you can significantly improve your odds by choosing the right model,” said Karl Brauer, iSeeCars’ Executive Analyst. “A vehicle like the MINI Convertible or Lexus RX 450h has, literally, a fractional chance of being recalled even once, versus more than 60 projected recalls for the Porsche Taycan, Tesla Model Y, and Tesla Model 3. Even the industry median of 3.2 lifetime recalls sounds much better than the approximately 15-plus projected recalls for all of the cars on the most recalled list.”  

The 25 Most Recalled Cars

The 25 most recalled cars are projected to have between 14.7 and 70.7 recalls, with Porsche and Tesla appearing at least twice in the top 10 spots. Ford and Kia have five models in the top 25. All four of Tesla’s vehicles make the list, with Porsche showing up a total of three times, Ram and Volkswagen appearing twice, and Genesis, Lincoln, Lucid, and Rivian with one model each in the top 25.  

“It could be argued that a car company willing to issue and address safety recalls is being more proactive to protect its customers,” said Brauer. “And while that sounds honorable, most consumers would prefer a car not have a recall that needs addressed, thus saving them the time and trouble of visiting a dealership.”

What Happens When Over-the-Air Updates and Safety Recalls Are Removed?

Over-the-air (OTA) recalls can be addressed through remote software updates that usually happen at night while the car is parked and the owner is asleep. Dealing with these recalls is far less troublesome to consumers, who may not even know a recall was issued and fixed. But while OTA recalls aren’t as time-consuming to car owners as traditional recalls, they still represent safety concerns that need to be addressed to protect vehicle occupants and satisfy NHTSA standards. 

When OTA recalls are removed all four Tesla models and the Rivian R1S drop out of the top 25 most recalled list, while the Lucid moves to the last slot (25). Conversely, the Porsche Taycan remains at the top of the list and the Porsche Panamera moves to slot 2. 

Nearly All of Tesla’s Recalls Can Be Addressed By OTA

The recall numbers for Tesla are quite high, but so is the percentage of recalls that can be addressed through OTAs. This reduces the hassle for Tesla owners, though the need for so many recalls – OTA or not – is still concerning because every recall represents a safety issue.

“Tesla is ahead of the industry in its ability to improve models through over-the-air updates,” said Brauer. “We’re seeing other automakers take this route by increasing their OTA capabilities in recent years. We expect all car manufacturers to eventually leverage OTA updates as effectively as Tesla.”

The 25 Least Recalled Cars

The 25 least recalled cars are projected to have less than one recall over the course of 30 years. Lexus has seven models on this list, with four of them in the top 10. Mercedes-Benz has even more models on the list, with a total of eight. Audi appears three times, BMW twice, with Buick, Lincoln, Mazda, MINI, and Nissan appearing once, though Mini has the top slot with the MINI Convertible projected to have just 0.2 lifetime recalls.

“With Lexus and Mercedes-Benz occupying 15 of the top 25 slots it’s clear which two manufacturers do the best job of avoiding recalls,” said Brauer. “Nearly every least recalled model comes from a premium brand, with Nissan’s 370Z the only mainstream vehicle to make the list.”

Regardless of how many times a car is recalled, it’s important for car owners to address open recalls and ensure their vehicle is operating properly. Checking any vehicle for recalls is easy to do through the NHTSA website.

More from iSeeCars:

• Electric Cars Are Driven the Least While Costing the Most
• Top 10 Cars That Hold Their Value Best
• Most Reliable SUVs

Methodology

iSeeCars analyzed vehicle safety recall campaigns as of May 7, 2024 from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for cars from model years 2015-2024. The number of campaigns for each model was aggregated and projected for an expected 30-year lifespan, taking into account the overall behavior of the automaker and when each recall campaign was issued in the car’s lifetime. The resulting estimates were then used to rank models with the fewest and most expected safety recalls. Heavy-duty vehicles, low-volume models, and models discontinued prior to the 2020 model year were excluded from further analysis.

About iSeeCars.com

iSeeCars.com is a data-driven car search and research company that helps shoppers find the best car deals by providing key insights and valuable resources, including the iSeeCars VIN Check report and Best Cars Rankings. iSeeCars has saved users over $416 million so far by applying big data analytics powered by over 25 billion (and growing) data points and using proprietary algorithms to objectively analyze, score and rank millions of new cars and used cars.

This article, Tesla, Porsche, Lucid Have Most Projected Lifetime Recalls; Mini, Lexus and Mercedes, the Least, originally appeared on iSeeCars.com.

In the automotive world, where tradition often meets hesitation, Ford’s latest innovation has turned heads and dirt alike. In 2022, the engineering team, driven by curiosity and caffeinated ambition, took an ordinary Mustang Mach-E GT and envisioned it tougher, grittier, and ready for the rallycross arena. The transformation involved elevating the suspension by an inch, a necessary tweak for the rough and tumble of off-road racing, and outfitting it with 19-inch gloss-white wheels wrapped in Michelin® CrossClimate2 tires—ideal for navigating the unpredictabilities of loose and uneven terrains.

As if souping up an electric SUV with rally specs wasn’t audacious enough, Ford engineers pushed the envelope with rigorous testing protocols. At the Michigan Proving Grounds, a grueling 500-mile test—designed to simulate a decade of rallycross abuse—awaited the Mach-E® Rally. This wasn’t just any test drive; it was a baptism by dirt, challenging the vehicle under various weather conditions and on diversely composed dirt tracks, ensuring it could handle the real-world chaos of rallycross competitions.

The ingenuity didn’t stop at beefing up an existing model. The team constructed a bespoke rallycross course on what was previously just another patch of grass at the proving grounds. Every turn and dip was calculated for maximum authenticity and challenge through meticulous computer-aided engineering analysis, mirroring the conditions experienced in professional rallycross events.

The modifications made to the Mach-E® didn’t merely aim to impress the rally enthusiasts but were also about practical enhancements. The powertrain calibration was fine-tuned for dirt tracks, traction control was adjusted for better grip during high-octane maneuvers, and the MagneRide® suspension was optimized for more aggressive damping. This isn’t just any vehicle—it’s a Mustang equipped with a RallySport drive mode, designed to let drivers indulge in more controlled drifts and responsive handling on loose surfaces.

What makes this project stand out isn’t just the technical achievements—remarkable though they are—but the method of its conception and execution. All development was conducted in-house, which safeguarded the project’s confidentiality and significantly cut down on costs and development time. This approach brought about the Mustang Mach-E® Rally. It earned the team a Vehicle Engineering Validation award from Ford, a nod to the innovation and determination that brought the idea to life.

As the Mustang Mach-E® Rally prepares to hit the market and the dirt tracks, it promises to offer more than just a cloud of dust. It’s set to deliver an exhilarating fusion of performance, innovation, and some old-school rally spirit—electrically charged and ready to disrupt the status quo.

Ford’s journey from a simple question to a groundbreaking answer showcases how a blend of innovation, tradition, and a little bit of bold thinking can lead to remarkable outcomes. So, whether you’re a rally enthusiast, an electric vehicle aficionado, or someone who appreciates a good underdog story, keep your eyes on the dirt track—the Mustang Mach-E® Rally is bound to make a splash.

First, let’s talk speed. No, not the 0-60 kind, though the OPTIQ is no slouch there either. We’re talking about charging. The OPTIQ juices up faster than your smartphone, gaining 70 miles of range in just 10 minutes. That's right—while you're grabbing a coffee, your car is preparing for another 70-mile jaunt. And with a full range of up to 300 miles, your road trip dreams are very much alive.

Starting at around $54,000, the OPTIQ is designed to electrify roads from Shanghai to Sheffield. With its dual motor all-wheel drive setup and a hearty 288 horsepower under the bonnet—sorry, hood for our American friends—this car is engineered to handle everything from alpine snow to urban jungles. And with versatile drive modes, it caters to your every driving whim and weather condition.

Inside, the OPTIQ is a tech lover’s paradise. A 33-inch LED display spans the dashboard, providing a billion-color canvas for your navigation and entertainment needs. Safety isn’t an afterthought either; adaptive cruise control and blind zone steering assist ensure that the OPTIQ is as smart as it is stylish.

The Cadillac OPTIQ also has an eco-friendly side, with interior accents made from 100% recycled yarn. It’s luxury that doesn’t cost the Earth—a nod to conscientious consumers who want to feel good about their ride. And speaking of feeling good, the OPTIQ greets you with a choreographed light show as you approach. Because who doesn’t love a bit of drama?

Spaciousness is another feather in the OPTIQ’s cap. It boasts the most generous second row and cargo capacity in its segment, making it perfect for both family road trips and hauling your latest IKEA haul.

The OPTIQ is more than just another electric vehicle; it’s a statement. For those who’ve doubted that electric cars can be as thrilling as their gasoline-guzzling ancestors, it’s time to rethink. Cadillac isn’t just keeping pace in the electric vehicle race; it’s setting the pace. With plans to launch in over 10 regions worldwide, the OPTIQ is poised to make a global impact, turning heads and changing minds across continents.

So, for those who thought electric cars were all about compromise, the Cadillac OPTIQ is here to change the narrative. It’s not just an electric vehicle that goes the distance—environmentally, functionally, and globally—it’s a glimpse into the future of driving. And that future looks incredibly bright.

What’s even more compelling is the generational shift in attitudes. A robust 76% of Americans under 40 are open to purchasing vehicles from Chinese manufacturers, ​a figure that is slightly contrasting the mere 26% acceptance among those aged 60 and older. The younger drivers seem ready to embrace new horizons in automotive innovation, potentially gearing up for an East-meets-West revolution in their garages.

The allure? It isn’t just about affordability or novelty. Chinese automakers are charging ahead with cutting-edge electric vehicles (EVs) that promise high-tech interiors and eco-friendly rides. Take the Lincoln Nautilus, for instance—though not a Chinese brand, this U.S.-sold model is manufactured in China and features rival luxury German cars, with sprawling dashboard screens and plush seating. It ​i​s a testament to Chinese manufacturing prowess, blending luxury with technology.

However, it’s not all smooth driving ahead. The survey revealed significant privacy concerns, with 44% of respondents wary about data security in Chinese cars. Yet, a surprising 73% of the under-40 crowd would still consider a Chinese brand, prioritizing innovative technology over potential privacy pitfalls. It’s a bumpy road to trust but one that many young Americans seem willing to navigate.

The plot thickens with national security considerations. ​M​ost of all age groups perceive the potential presence of Chinese vehicles on American streets as a national security issue, ranging from cautious to downright skeptical. Nevertheless, there’s a notable openness to one compromise: 39% of young Americans indicate they would be more likely to buy if these cars were assembled in North America, suggesting that local manufacturing could be the golden ticket to winning over the U.S. market.

And what if these vehicles came from closer neighbors? The survey notes that if Chinese cars were made in Mexico and sold in the U.S., 37% of all respondents—and 73% of the under-40s—would consider buying them. It seems proximity might soften concerns, aligning with a broader trend of globalization in the auto industry.

Yet, political speed bumps emerge just as the wheels begin to turn. The Biden Administration’s recent decision to impose a 100% tariff on Chinese-built electric vehicles throws a wrench into what could have been a smooth entry. This move signals a turbulent path ahead, filled with tariffs and tech debates, privacy concerns, and patriotic tensions.

From tariffs to technology, the conversation around Chinese cars is getting into gear, and the stakes are high. Will these wheels roll into the U.S. market, or will they spin out under the pressure? The younger generation's enthusiasm might be the driving force that propels these vehicles into American lives, potentially marking a new chapter in automotive history. I just wanted to inform you that this story is one to watch.

What’s even more compelling is the generational shift in attitudes. A robust 76% of Americans under 40 are open to purchasing vehicles from Chinese manufacturers, ​a figure that is slightly contrasting the mere 26% acceptance among those aged 60 and older. The younger drivers seem ready to embrace new horizons in automotive innovation, potentially gearing up for an East-meets-West revolution in their garages.

The allure? It isn’t just about affordability or novelty. Chinese automakers are charging ahead with cutting-edge electric vehicles (EVs) that promise high-tech interiors and eco-friendly rides. Take the Lincoln Nautilus, for instance—though not a Chinese brand, this U.S.-sold model is manufactured in China and features rival luxury German cars, with sprawling dashboard screens and plush seating. It ​i​s a testament to Chinese manufacturing prowess, blending luxury with technology.

However, it’s not all smooth driving ahead. The survey revealed significant privacy concerns, with 44% of respondents wary about data security in Chinese cars. Yet, a surprising 73% of the under-40 crowd would still consider a Chinese brand, prioritizing innovative technology over potential privacy pitfalls. It’s a bumpy road to trust but one that many young Americans seem willing to navigate.

The plot thickens with national security considerations. ​M​ost of all age groups perceive the potential presence of Chinese vehicles on American streets as a national security issue, ranging from cautious to downright skeptical. Nevertheless, there’s a notable openness to one compromise: 39% of young Americans indicate they would be more likely to buy if these cars were assembled in North America, suggesting that local manufacturing could be the golden ticket to winning over the U.S. market.

And what if these vehicles came from closer neighbors? The survey notes that if Chinese cars were made in Mexico and sold in the U.S., 37% of all respondents—and 73% of the under-40s—would consider buying them. It seems proximity might soften concerns, aligning with a broader trend of globalization in the auto industry.

Yet, political speed bumps emerge just as the wheels begin to turn. The Biden Administration’s recent decision to impose a 100% tariff on Chinese-built electric vehicles throws a wrench into what could have been a smooth entry. This move signals a turbulent path ahead, filled with tariffs and tech debates, privacy concerns, and patriotic tensions.

From tariffs to technology, the conversation around Chinese cars is getting into gear, and the stakes are high. Will these wheels roll into the U.S. market, or will they spin out under the pressure? The younger generation's enthusiasm might be the driving force that propels these vehicles into American lives, potentially marking a new chapter in automotive history. I just wanted to inform you that this story is one to watch.

Determine Your Credit Score

The first step toward getting a car loan is determining your credit score. This can also be referred to as your “FICO score” and is a numerical representation of your credit history. 

The three major credit reporting agencies – Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion – will each provide a free credit report and your FICO credit score once per year. Another option is to check with your bank or credit card companies. Many of these institutions also provide a free credit report and will tell you your credit score.

The credit report contains a record of your credit history, including any items that are hurting (lowering) your credit score. Any previous car purchases, including the auto lenders’ names, will be listed, along with the car payment amount, interest rate, and other loan terms. If you’ve missed a car payment in the past, the financial institution likely reported it to the credit bureau, and you’ll see it here.

If your credit score is low, don’t panic. You can boost the number. Start by making sure you make your credit card and loan payments -- particularly any existing auto loan payments -- on time. Take care of any past-due accounts, and pay down the balance on your loans if you can, especially any revolving credit accounts. You should also avoid opening new accounts, as frequent inquiries to the credit bureaus seeking new credit can hurt your credit score.

A good credit score isn’t required to secure a car loan, but as a borrower seeking a competitive annual percentage rate (APR) on the interest you’ll pay, good credit is critical. If a bad credit score is causing a higher APR you might consider a co-signer. A co-signer, usually a close relative or very good friend, can agree to be responsible for making loan payments if you don’t, which can lower an otherwise high interest rate.

Get Pre-Approval

You should always get pre-approved for a loan before you visit the first dealership. A pre-approval means a lender has fully reviewed your credit and loan application to determine a likely loan amount and interest rate. During the pre-qualification process, the lender doesn’t look at your credit in as much detail. They’ll still give you an interest rate and a loan amount, but there’s a good chance the exact auto loan terms you’ll get, once your loan is fully approved, can change. 

Determine How Much Car You Can Afford

The amount of money a lender is willing to let you borrow, and the amount you can afford to borrow, are not necessarily the same number. How much you can afford is something you need to determine long before your car purchase.

As a general rule, your car payment should not be more than 10% of your take-home pay, and your total car expenses (fuel, maintenance, insurance, registration) should not surpass 15 percent of your take-home pay.

Many sites offer a free auto loan calculator, where you can quickly determine a car payment based on the purchase price, down payment, and interest rate. Consider the impact of that monthly car payment on your overall budget. If your monthly take-home pay is $4000, your car payment shouldn’t be more than $400, and your total monthly car expenses (including the payment) should be more than $600. If the loan terms, including principal payment, interest, and any additional fees, are cutting it too close, take out a smaller car loan, even if the bank is willing to loan you more.

Consider a Down Payment

A down payment reduces the amount of the loan you need to take out, and that reduces your monthly payment. This also reduces the overall interest you’ll pay on the loan. While that can help make a car easier to afford, don’t empty your savings account. Be sure to keep enough money on hand for whatever surprises might come your way.

New or Used?

When buying a vehicle, you have the choice of buying a new or used car. One of the big perks of new cars is the reduced likelihood of unexpected repair bills. They also come with new car warranties that protect you for a limited time. A new car loan can also mean a lower interest rate, especially if the manufacturer is offering incentives to sell a specific model. These could include zero percent interest if you have a good credit score. Used cars might not be as reliable, though many now come with their own manufacturer (CPO) warranties to set your mind at ease. (Check out our guide to learn more about Certified-Pre Owned cars and if they are worth it.)

And while new cars are sold exclusively through dealers, which can often arrange an auto loan, used cars can be purchased from a dealer or a private party. A private party purchase will require you to arrange your own car loan terms, but you already did that, as we suggested above, right?

Finally, keep in mind the depreciation on a new car means there’s a much greater loss in its value in the first few years after purchase compared to a used car. If you’re going to keep your new car for the life of the loan, which will likely be between 5 and 7 years, that’s not a concern. But if you decide to switch cars earlier the vehicle’s depreciation represents a significant ownership cost, beyond interest charges, insurance, maintenance, etc. If you plan to switch cars every few years you’ll save a lot of money buying cars that are at least 3 years old. Keep in mind that cars depreciate at different rates, so buying a car that best holds its value is a smart purchase decision.

Do Your Research

A car is a major purchase, so do your research before you decide which model to buy. Seek out online reviews to see what experts think about the car you’re considering. It’s also good to research consumer reviews to see if people who did buy your car are happy or if they have complaints about reliability.

Test Drive at the Dealership

Once you narrow down your choices, make time for some test drives. No matter how good a car looks on the internet, you need to get behind the wheel and drive it. This gives you the opportunity to check on the interior quality, the comfort of the seats, and the overall performance of the car you’re considering.

Don’t let a salesperson cut your test drive short. Take as much time as you need. Also, be sure to do the kind of driving you normally do every day, whether that’s cruising on the highway or navigating downtown traffic. If you have kids, check that their car seats fit and that everyone is comfortable. A test drive is your chance to make sure the car you’re looking at will really work for you and your lifestyle. (Check out our guide on What to Look for When Buying a Used Car to help you get the most of your test drive.)

Compare Dealer Financing with Outside Financing

There are multiple options for securing financing. First, there’s the dealership. Dealers often work with multiple auto lenders and will be able to check with several at one time to come up with a loan term, but they aren’t your only option.

As mentioned above, you can also work directly with a bank, starting with whichever one already has your business. They’ll often provide better loan rates to existing customers but check with other banks, too.

Finally, there are credit unions. They work much like banks and can offer the same types of loans and loan terms, but you may need to be a member of the credit union to secure a loan. This could be as simple as opening a checking account.

Check all three options – the dealership, banks, and credit unions – before you make a decision about financing. Many of these institutions will offer online lender applications, so don’t feel you have to physically visit each of them to receive a loan offer.

Negotiate 

Don’t feel obligated to accept whatever loan offer the dealership presents to you. Understand that you can usually negotiate your used car or new car price. There’s plenty of room for negotiation, especially if you secured your own financing before you went to the lot. Factors worth negotiating include the purchase price of the car, the value of your trade-in (if you have one), the length of the loan, the loan interest rate, and any extra charges (see below). Decide what loan terms you’ll accept before you arrive at the dealership, and be ready to negotiate to get the best deal. 

Beware of Add-Ons 

Once you’ve agreed to a car’s purchase price you’ll find yourself sitting in the finance office, where you will be presented with all sorts of add-ons that the dealer wants to tack on to your purchase. They’ll include everything from extended warranties to car washes to rust-proofing. The list is endless. Add-ons like extended warranties are not worth the extra cost. You do not have to accept a single one of these add-ons, and should be prepared for pushy sales people.

Look carefully at what is offered and be firm in saying no if you’re pressured to purchase add-ons you do not need. Remember, these add-ons aren’t free and they will increase your monthly payment.

Understand the Terms of Your Loan

Be sure you fully understand the terms and disclosures of your loan. Know the interest rate, the number of months the loan covers, and the final monthly payment. If you see a cost in the loan terms that doesn’t make sense, ask for an explanation and don’t proceed until you understand it and feel it’s justified. Check to see if there is any prepayment penalty if you try to pay off your loan early, and understand what fees will be incurred for things like late payments or returned checks.

Make Payments on Time

It will help your credit score immensely to make your payments on time. Consider scheduling automatic payments to keep your loan on track. Missed payments can add costly penalties and reduce your credit score.

Should I Refinance My Current Loan?

If you had poor credit when you first took out your loan and it has since improved, refinancing may be a good call. However, there are fees associated with refinancing. Make sure the lower interest rate isn’t offset by refinancing fees. 

Bottom Line

Buying a car is a major purchase. It’s not something you do every day, and understanding the auto financing portion of buying a car is as important as finding the right make and model to fit your needs. Take your time to figure out exactly how much you can afford and secure the best financing possible. Budget carefully so you don’t over-extend yourself, and make your car payments on time to maintain a good credit score.

More from iSeeCars.com: 

• Car Leasing Vs. Buying: Which is Better? 
• How to Buy a Used Car
• How Much is My Car Worth?

If you’re ready to start the car buying process, you can search over 4 million new and used cars with the iSeeCars.com car search engine that helps shoppers find the best car deals by providing key insights and valuable resources, like the iSeeCars free VIN check and Best Cars Rankings.

This article, How to Get a Car Loan, originally appeared on iSeeCars.com.