3 of the Best Cars to Buy New
It’s true that the best cars to buy new are usually more expensive than used ones. Still, some shoppers actually prefer new cars because these ones have updated safety features and improved fuel-efficiency technology. Some of the latest new models only have a minimal price hike compared to their gently-used counterparts.
While the situation is improving, used cars are far more expensive than they used to be. That’s because supply and demand side effects from the pandemic are impacting the prices of most consumer-favorite models. Here are the three new cars with the lowest depreciation rates.
1. The Tesla Model 3 is one of the best cars to buy new
iSeeCars data says that a used Tesla Model 3 is only $923 cheaper than a new version. In addition to its high demand, the price gap between the two markets was shortened thanks to a drastic MSRP in 2023. The newest Tesla Model 3 is currently $39,990, and the Performance model with all-wheel drive costs $52,990. Due to an unprecedented volume of orders, the Tesla Model 3 Long Range is currently unavailable to order.
That trim gets 358 miles of electric range, but the other two versions are still very efficient. The base trim can be driven for 272 miles of range on a full battery. The Tesla Model 3 Performance has 315 miles of range.
The latter is also the fastest version of the Model 3, promising a 0-60 mph time of 3.1 seconds. It has a top speed of 162 mph, which is 22 mph faster than the standard Model 3. The Performance trim also includes some exclusive equipment like performance brakes and an enhanced audio system.
However, most of the Model 3’s infotainment features are standard across all trims. The same applies to its advanced driver’s aids, but the latest version of Autopilot and Tesla’s Summon feature cost extra.
2. The Toyota Tacoma is a great brand-new truck option
On average, a used Toyota Tacoma is 4.2% cheaper than a new one. While the next-gen Tacoma will debut in the near future, the current model hasn’t been updated since the 2016 model year. However, the 2020 Tacoma received extra technology features and a remodeled exterior.
The Toyota Tacoma has two engine choices, but the 278-hp V6 typically attracts higher praise from critics. With just 159 hp on tap, the base four-cylinder only allows the Tacoma to tow 3,500 lbs. When enhanced with the Tow Prep package, the V6-powered Tacoma can pull 6,800 lbs.
Both engines come with a six-speed automatic transmission, though the TRD trims can be optioned with a five-speed manual. Those two models carry more adventuring equipment and higher asking prices, as much as $35,940 for the TRD Off-Road.
The TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road trims also receive a lot of critical praise, which often increases demand (and dealership prices). The base SR trim currently retails for $27,750, and a gently-used one is usually $1,557 cheaper. If you’re in the market for a truck, the Toyota Tacoma is one of the best new cars to buy today.
3. Check out a brand-new Kia Telluride
Kia made the Telluride more off-road-friendly for this model year by introducing the X-Line and Pro-X models. Regardless of which trim you buy, they all have a 291-hp V6 engine. Every Kia Telluride can accommodate at least seven riders, while a few can carry up to eight.
All three rows can seat adults as well as kids. The Kia Telluride is popular among families for its above-average cargo capacity and user-friendly infotainment interface.
A used Kia Telluride can be up to $2,456 cheaper than a new one, as the study from iSeeCars suggests. However, since the Kia Telluride’s popularity has always been high, it can be hard to find one that hasn’t been marked up. We’d consider the 2023 Kia Telluride’s suggested MSRP (starting at $35,890) affordable by segment standards. Among the best cars to buy new, you have plenty of high-quality options to be your next daily driver.
