KDKA.com Consumer Web Extras
Mar 20, 2008 6:15 pm US/Eastern
Consumer Reports Ranks Best & Worst Used Cars
(KDKA)
Some people say a car is the worst investment you'll ever make. And with the value plunging thousands in the first year, more and more people are driving used cars off the lot.
Through aggressive long-term tests, Consumer Reports has now ranked the most reliable and efficient used cars, but experts say that making a smart buy means making some smart decisions.
"You know, in the first year, you lose about 30 percent of its value and the depreciation comes down, so one-, two-, or three-year-old cars are the best value in terms of the automotive world," says Consumer Reports Senior Director of Auto Testing David Champion.
For the top rated cars, testers say there are no real surprises.
"Most of the reliable cars come from the typical Japanese automakers, such as Honda, Toyota, and Subaru," said Champion. "All of those cars are excellent in terms of used car value."
Other vehicles that made the top rated list include the Toyota Highlander, the Toyota Rav-4, the Corolla, the Buick Lacrosse, and the Lincoln Town Car
But on the worst list, researchers have put the Nissan Armada SUV. In the long run, Consumer Reports says it's just not that reliable, and it would cost you more just to own. Experts say chief among those reasons would be the price just to fill it up.
Other vehicles that made the worst list include the Buick Rendevous, the Volkswagen Touareg, Pontiac G6, Saturn Relay, and the Chevy Blazer.
Also, experts say while the price tag might be the main selling point, it is also important to remember to find one that is reliable.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
Does It Really Do That? (Recent Reports)
Best & Worst Used Cars
Stumble It!
