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If you are in the market for a used car, you want to look at more than just the sticker price. In addition to the purchase price of a vehicle, you also need to consider the cost to maintain the vehicle. It is important to factor in all the costs of owning a vehicle before you purchase a car, truck, or SUV. You want a vehicle that is affordable not only to purchase, but also to maintain. Toyota Corolla The Toyota Corolla is a compact sedan with a reliable track record. Not only is this sedan priced right when shopping used, but it also is affordable to service. Owners can expect to pay $341 a year for maintenance, according to the RepairPal Index. Honda CR-V The Honda CR-V is one of the most popular SUVs on the road, and for good reason. The CR-V is an affordable vehicle to get behind the wheel of. It also is trustworthy, with the 2017 model year earning the top spot on a CarMD list for most reliable used vehicles. Subaru Outback Vehicles require maintenance, so when it comes time to service your vehicle, you want a vehicle that is easy to care for and affordable to repair. The Subaru Outback is one of the best vehicles when it comes to affordable repairs. When the check engine light comes on, the average repair cost for a 2017 Outback is $60, according to CarMD. Honda Accord In the market for a family sedan? If so, the Accord is an excellent option for reliability and affordability. This mid-size sedan is spacious and trustworthy. When it comes to annual maintenance and repair costs, the Accord costs about $351, according to RepairPal Index. Lexus NX Looking for something luxurious? The Lexus NX is a luxury crossover SUV with a reliable track record. Both the 2016 and 2015 model years of the NX earned a spot in the top 10 on CarMD's most reliable used vehicles list. Mercedes-Benz C-Class Another trustworthy luxury vehicle is the Mercedes-Benz C-Class. This luxury sedan is affordable to repair when the check engine light comes on. The average cost for the 2016 model year is $85, according to CarMD. Ford Mustang Muscle car enthusiasts don't have to worry about breaking the bank with a Mustang. This classic car is affordable to care for when it comes to service costs and routine maintenance. The RepairPal Index estimates the Mustang costs $454 per year to care for. Honda Odyssey Families on the go need a vehicle they can trust. The Honda Odyssey is that vehicle. This minivan has low repair and maintenance costs when it comes time to care for your vehicle. The minivan is estimated to cost $403 per year to maintain, according to RepairPal Index. Whatever your needs may be in a used vehicle, you can find a car, truck, or SUV that is reliable, trustworthy, and suitable for your budget. To shop for a top-quality used car that is within your price range, be sure to check out what Rath Auto Resources has to offer. Image via RathAuto.com

When you buy a used car, you want one that will be worth the money you put into it. iSeeCars conducted a study where they analyzed 13.8 million cars sold in 2018 and calculated how many of those vehicles made it to 200,000 miles. Here are some of our favorites that made the top 10 lists. Toyota Tacoma If you're looking for a truck that's going to last you, the Toyota Tacoma should be near the top of your list. According to the study, around 2.6% of Tacoma trucks reach 200,000 miles. It's no small coincidence that the Tacoma has become one of the most popular trucks in the United States, with the trustworthiness and flexible options it offers to truck drivers. The Tacoma was the second-longest-lasting truck, following the Honda Ridgeline's 3.0%. Toyota Prius For a commute-ready passenger car, check out the Toyota Prius. According to the study, around 1.7% of Prius cars sold had over 200,000 miles. The Prius has made its mark in the personal car world with the technological advancements that make it stand out from the crowd. The Prius has been known for its amazing mpg ratings for years. Toyota also built them to last, which saves you even more money in the long run. Upgrading your daily travels with a Prius is always a smart move for your comfort and your wallet. Ford Expedition One of the most notable takeaways from the study was that SUVs by far lasted longer than other body types. Tied for second on the list of all cars, SUVs and otherwise, is the Ford Expedition, with 5.0% of them lasting past 200,000 miles. It's a confident performer and it gives you enough power to take on any road with ease. If you're looking for an America vehicle that can handle everything you and your family's busy lives can throw at it, the Ford Expedition can handle the miles. Toyota Sequoia Want to know what the longest-lasting vehicle in all categories was? It's another Toyota, and another SUV; the Sequoia. This three-row SUV is one of the largest options on the market, which makes its durability that much more impressive. With more space to pack who and what you need to make the best out of your adventures and enough power to get there, the Toyota Sequoia is one of the best options if you're looking for longevity in a vehicle. Chevrolet Silverado Truck drivers who want to drive their haulers for miles and miles need to take a look at the Chevrolet Silverado. In the truck segment of the study, it came in fourth place at 1.9% of units reaching 200,000. The Silverado's popularity in the American market is in large part due to this lifespan, as well as the many performance features and useful power it brings to drivers. When you're ready to find your next used car that will last you for years to come, give our team a visit at Rath Auto Resources in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Let us help you find the perfect vehicle for your busy lifestyle. Image via Toyota.com

For drivers on the hunt for a late-model pre-owned vehicle, an off-lease car or truck is worth a look. These vehicles have some unique advantages. You can often count on them to be in very good shape, have excellent maintenance records, and have less mileage than other used cars. Here are some excellent models you can get off-lease for less. How Do I Find Off-Lease Vehicles? The best place to find great deals on newly off-lease vehicles is by visiting your local dealership or by going to your dealership's website. Make sure to look in the used car area and speak with a team member to find out the history of the vehicle. Many lease returns go through a reconditioning process and sold as CPO vehicles or Certified Pre-Owned. With millions of lease customers turning in their vehicles, the options are unlimited. Kia Forte The Kia Forte is a compact sedan with features that will fit any driver. It has a comfortable cabin with room for up to five passengers and lots of user-friendly technology. The wide range of trim levels makes it easy to get the features you want, including leather upholstery in the higher trims along with heated front seats, keyless entry, and a hands-free trunk opener. It comes standard with a rearview camera, and you can get blind-spot monitoring, adaptive headlights, and rear cross-traffic alert. Volkswagen Jetta The Jetta is a stylish and fun sedan. With several engines available, you can get all the power you need without sacrificing fuel economy. There is room for five in the Jetta with up-level models offering synthetic leather upholstery, sport seats, and heat for the front seats. There is a touch-screen display, Bluetooth, and some models come with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and satellite radio. Mazda 6 The most affordable way to buy a luxurious Mazda 6 is by taking a look at recent off-lease models. The 2017 has an upscale cabin, and it gets excellent fuel economy. The strong engine offers quick acceleration and a fun driving experience. Every 2017 Mazda 6 comes with a rearview camera, and some come with a blind-spot monitoring system along with rear cross-traffic alert. Some models also have automatic emergency braking, automatic high beam headlights, and forward-collision warning. Chevy Traverse If you want to get into a late-model used SUV, the Chevy Traverse is a good choice. The V-6 engine in the Traverse provides 281 horsepower and plenty of acceleration even when you have all three rows filled with passengers. A rearview camera comes standard, and the OnStar communications system is also in every model and available for use with a subscription. The Traverse offers room for seven, and it has a spacious cargo area so you can pack up both people and cargo. These are just a few of the vehicles you can choose if you want to save on an off-lease vehicle. You can find any type of car or truck, whether you need something for commuting to work or a family hauler. Image via Pixabay.com

An SUV is a powerful automobile with four-wheel drive that can be driven over bumpy roads. It combines the features of passenger vehicles with the features of off-road vehicles. You can always find a used SUV with plenty of life still in it. The following examples of used SUV cars have top dependability scores from J.D. Power. J.D. Power's Dependability score is a mixture of quality and dependability scores.  It is a score out of 100 given to each model per year, and is determined by consumer insights, resale, dealership, experience, and performance ratings. 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan The 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan is a small SUV with a J.D. Power Dependability score of 81 out of 100. SUV owners who dwell in the city will enjoy its accurate steering and compact design that makes it a good car to move through traffic and also to squeeze into close-fitting parking spots. 2015 Hyundai Tucson The 2015 Hyundai Tucson is diminutive and is another small SUV with a high J.D. Power Dependability score. This one received an 80 out of 100. Its small size and car-like handling make it easy to drive around town. It is very reliable and also very affordable. 2015 Audi Q3 The 2015 Audi Q3 is a small premium SUV with a J.D. Power Dependability score of 87 out of 100. The interior layout and the driving dynamics are all excellent are a great reason to single it out as a noteworthy option. 2014 Toyota FJ Cruiser The 2014 Toyota FJ Cruiser is a very compact SUV with J.D. Power Dependability score of 84 out of 100. It has a very rugged body that contributes to an overall blocky look which has a resemblance to the 1960s Toyota J40 Land Cruiser. Its off-road capability is also very good, and coupled with its high dependability score, this vehicle will appeal to SUV-lovers looking for a used SUV they can off-road in. 2015 Chevrolet Equinox The 2015 Chevrolet Equinox is another compact SUV with J.D. Power Dependability score of 82 out of 100. There are many models of this SUV on the road today because of the obvious merit of the vehicle. It has good fuel economy and lots of interior room. 2014 and 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK Both the 2014 and 2015 models of the Mercedes-Benz GLK are compact premium SUVs. The 2014 model has J.D. Power Dependability score of 89 out of 100 while that of 2015 has J.D. Power Dependability score of 87 out of 100. These models of SUV cars have managed to hold on to the top dependability spot in the past two dependability ratings. You should understand that for used vehicles, maintenance history, repair history, and other factors can greatly affect the value and dependability of a particular vehicle, even a high-rated one, and turn it into an undesirable car. You should still follow the best practices to make a good choice when you shop for a used SUV. Image via Pixabay.com

Just because you're looking for a used car instead of a new one, doesn't mean you have to sacrifice quality and safety to stay within your budget. When you're shopping for your next vehicle, you can enjoy more peace of mind when you check out these safe used cars for every budget. Under $20,000 The Honda Accord proves you don't have to give up style or safety when you're shopping for a used car. If you choose the 2016 model of this sleek and modern sedan, you'll be looking at spending around $16,000. You'll also discover an impressive variety of safety features. Both the coupe and sedan models are available with Honda Sensing, which is a suite of safety technologies that include automatic emergency braking, road departure mitigation, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Even better, the 2016 Honda Accord received five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Under $15,000 If you're searching for a used car that's under $15,000, consider the Mazda 3. This compact car offers a fun drive, yet it's still a sensible pick for anyone on a budget. Even though it's small enough to easily fit into tight parking spaces, you'll still find plenty of room inside to load up friends or family for an afternoon out. If you get a 2016 model, you can expect to pay around $12,000, and you'll enjoy standard safety features that include a rearview camera and dual front air bags. If you get a higher trim level, you might also find available safety features that include a blind-spot warning system, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic high beams, lane departure warning, and forward emergency braking. Under $10,000 If you think you're limited to a sedan when you're shopping for a safe used car, think again. The 2011 Kia Sportage is one good option you can find for around $9,000. This compact SUV comes standard with a 2.4-liter engine that pumps out 176 horsepower for an exciting drive. In addition to an engaging drive, the 2011 Sportage was also a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Other safety features that come standard on the Sportage include anti-lock brakes, hill start assist, downhill brake control, electronic brake distribution, brake assist, stability control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. Under $5,000 The Toyota Sienna is another great option to consider if you're looking for a safe and budget-friendly used car. The 2010 models of this minivan tend to go for under $5,000. Some Sienna models come with all-wheel drive to help you handle a variety of road conditions. In addition to this great safety feature, you'll also enjoy plenty of room for everyone in the family since it seats up to seven people. Whether you're making the daily commute to work or driving your family around, you want a vehicle that's safe and reliable. Fortunately, you can stay within your budget and still get a safe vehicle when you choose one of these excellent options. Image via Pixabay.com

Traveling with your family is the perfect time to make memories. Before you leave on your next adventure, consider the vehicle you are driving. If you like the idea of a minivan, the 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan is perfect for your next trip. Buying a  used van saves money that you can use during your vacation. Seating There is no reason to leave anyone home from the road trip. The 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan has plenty of space for seven people to ride comfortably. The seats are spread out over three rows. The back row is a bench seat that helps with cargo space when it is not needed. You have your choice between either cloth or leather seats. If you're planning a road trip during colder months, enjoy the heated front seats. Cargo Space All four trim levels of the Grand Caravan have plenty of cargo space for anything you need on your trip. With all seven seats occupied, 33 cubic feet of space is available. If you don't need seating for seven, the third row folds flat into the floor. You can use the extra space for a cooler, more bags, or anything else you need for your trip. If you are only traveling with one other person, the second row also folds down for a maximum cargo capacity of 143.8 cubic feet of space. Technology for the Driver The van is full of plenty of technology to help you enjoy your road trip. It starts with a heated steering wheel to keep you comfortable in colder months. Take advantage of the remote start system during lousy weather so the van is ready to go as soon as you step inside. It also includes cruise control standard for open roads that allow you to take your foot off the gas. Many of the trims also feature a power liftgate, making it easier to load and unload all of your gear. Use the rearview camera to get a good look at your surroundings before leaving a parking space. The Bluetooth audio connection means you can make hands-free phone calls and keep you eyes on the road. Keep Everybody Entertained One of the most important aspects of planning family travel is entertainment. Luckily, the van takes care of everyone's entertainment needs on the road for you. Use your steering wheel-mounted controls to find the perfect radio station to fit the mood, whether you want something fun during the day or slower for an overnight drive. All of the trims except for the SE include satellite radio. Ask the kids to bring a movie or two to watch along the way. A DVD player and video monitor are standard equipment in the GT and SXT trims. USB connections for charging or playing music from your MP3 player are standard in all four trims. All of the vans also include an auxiliary audio plug. Stop by Rath Auto in Fort Smith today to explore our 2018 Grand Caravans in person. We'll help you find the perfect minivan before you start making memories on the road. Image via Flickr by nybuspics

Student drivers have specific needs when looking for the right vehicle. They usually need space for cargo and passengers, whether they're packing for the dorm, heading to soccer practice, or picking up friends for a night out. Safety features are also ideal as they tend to be newer drivers with concerned parents. Most student drivers also want some connectivity for their music and apps. Here are five used models that meet these needs and more. Honda Fit The Honda Fit provides versatility, efficiency, and style. This five-door sedan is great for college students with long drives home for holidays. Road trips are made easy with plenty of space and less stops for fuel. If you find a model with the Honda Sensing suite of safety features, you'll be well-covered on the road. Features like forward collision warnings, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control act as a second set of eyes on the road. Toyota Prius Go with the 2018 Toyota Prius if you want an updated vehicle with an affordable price and great, student-friendly features. Any used Prius from 2016 until 2018 will have most of the same features as there were no major updates made to the design over those years. The Prius is a four-door hatchback sedan with seating for five people. The Prius also comes in a plug-in hybrid trim, so you can take efficiency to a new level. Students will love the reliability and technology features of a used Prius. Jeep Wrangler For students who love weekend adventures and want some serious capability in their used car, a used Jeep Wrangler is ideal. These vehicles offer lots of space for friends and cargo and they're awesome companions on rough roads. You can enjoy Spring Break by taking on the outdoors or take multiple friends home for Thanksgiving with the family. Jeep Wranglers are in their fourth generation, so any used vehicle from 2017 and on will share most features with new models. Subaru Impreza The Subaru Impreza is a great vehicle for active students who need a reliable vehicle to get to work, practice, and everywhere else. Since 1992, the Impreza has come in five-door models that offer an impressively large cargo area. With standard all-wheel drive, this vehicle is great for students driving in poor weather conditions. In the 2018 models, you'll find loads of great features like a fully-connected infotainment system and jaw-dropping fuel economy. Ford Focus Ford has decided to discontinue the Focus model for 2019, but used models will remain available. The Focus comes in a sedan and a hatchback, so you can decide which best fits your lifestyle. ST models offer some extra kick for students who want some rev to the engine. No matter which Focus model you choose, you'll enjoy a seriously reliable car with top-notch safety, convenience, efficiency, and power. Head to Rath Auto Resources to browse our great selection of used vehicles. Try out a few models with a test drive and see which is the best fit. Image via Flickr by Ya, saya inBaliTimur

Whether you need a break from work, the kids, school, or life in general, a road trip is a good way to refresh. The best vehicles for an enjoyable long drive offer space, comfort, entertainment, and performance. Here are five of the best pre-owned models that do just that. 1. Mazda CX-5 The 2016 Mazda CX-5 got some updates from previous model years that you're sure to enjoy during a long trip. A new infotainment system with standard Bluetooth capability allows for quick and easy connectivity to keep you and your passengers entertained. Updated safety features, like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning, will keep you safe on the highway. You can even opt for an all-wheel drive model if you're looking to take some road trips off the road. 2. Honda Odyssey Drivers with families will love the 2016 Honda Odyssey. This minivan seats up to eight people comfortably and will keep everyone entertained from the front seats to the third row. An updated infotainment system offers connectivity and easy access to music and apps for the driver while an available backseat entertainment system features a 16.2-inch screen with HDMI ports. The 2016 Odyssey is the first minivan to offer an on-board vacuum cleaner so those road-trip snacks won't cause stress. 3. Chevrolet Traverse For all the space of a minivan with the SUV look, the 2017 Chevrolet Traverse is a three-row SUV with capability and style. This vehicle can also seat up to eight passengers while offering power with a V-6 engine that pumps out 288 horsepower. When paired with the available all-wheel drive system, the Traverse will take you anywhere you want to go, even in rough driving conditions. Folding down the second and third rows opens up a shocking 116.3 cubic-feet of cargo space, so you can take friends, family, or adventure toys along for your next trip. 4. Toyota Camry The Toyota Camry is one of the most reliable vehicles on the market year after year. No matter which model year you choose, you're getting a quality car. This may seem a small choice for a road trip vehicle, but if you only need space for a few friends and a little cargo, the Camry works well. This sedan offers impressive fuel efficiency in every model so you can drive more and stop less. More recent models like the 2016 Camry feature a sleek exterior appearance and plenty of updated technology inside. 5. Subaru Outback Adventure lovers understand the value of a Subaru. The 2011 Subaru Outback was a new version of this capable wagon model ideal for drivers looking for a practical alternative to the SUV. You'll be able to seat five comfortably and still have space for additional cargo in the rear. All trim levels come standard with a roof rack and a rear seat with a 60/40 split that folds to give 71.3 cubic-feet of space.  Stop by Rath Auto Resources for a look at our pre-owned vehicles. Take a few options out for a test drive and find your perfect road trip companion. Image via Flickr by Jack Snell

If you're on the market for a reliable compact car that will suit your daily needs and deliver plenty of gusto to boot, the 2018 Honda Civic is one to keep on your radar. Check out why the Honda Civic is built to last. 1. Reliable and Cutting Edge The Civic's 2018 model adds impressive high-tech features to the Civic's reputation for reliability. Some of the vehicle's stand-out tech features are included in the Honda Sensing package which includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, road-departure mitigation, forward-collision warning, and the Collision Mitigation Braking System, which can automatically apply the brakes to help avoid a frontal collision. Honda Lane Watch makes changing lanes easier than ever by effectively eliminating your blind spot. When you signal right or left, the cameras attached to your side mirrors stream video to give you a visual before you change lanes. These features have helped make the 2018 Civic a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. 2. Everyday Comfort and Sporty Performance The Civic will get you where you need to go with enough pep that you'll enjoy getting there. The 2.0-liter engine is equipped with 158 horsepower and 138 pound-feet of torque on the XL and EX models. The EX-T, EX-L and Touring models kick it up a notch with 174 standard horsepower and 168 pound-feet of torque. You can also choose from available turbocharged engines that pump out up to 306 horsepower. MacPherson struts also come standard on the 2018 Civic, allowing you to handle turns and curves with ease. Available manual or automatic transmission puts you in control of your driving experience. The 6-speed manual transmission that comes standard on the XL and EX-T models gives you maximum control as you switch through gears. If you prefer an automatic shift, CVT (continuously variable transmission) comes standard on other models — optional on the XL and EX-T models — and has been tailored to each engine to allow for the smoothest and most fuel-efficient transition between gears. 3. Features to Suit Your Needs The 2018 Civic is available in seven trim levels and three body styles, including the sedan, coupe, or hatchback. The base LX offers plenty of features like 16-inch steel wheels, automatic headlights, Bluetooth, a USB port, a 5-inch infotainment screen, a rear camera, and cloth upholstery. The 2018 Civic offers a comfortably spacious interior. Its 60/40 split-folding seats create up to to 15.1 cubic feet of cargo space. All-season floor mats protect your interior come rain, shine, or snow. Moving up the trim levels to the EX adds features like 16-inch alloy wheels, an additional USB port, and a 7-inch touchscreen. In addition to upgraded features, the EX includes a moonroof, the convenience of remote start, and adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. As you move up the trim levels you can add features like leather upholstery, heated seats, and full LED headlights.  When you're ready to take the 2018 Honda Civic for a spin, stop by Rath Auto Resources for a test drive. Experience the Civic's features for yourself and let our team find the perfect car for you and your family to enjoy for years to come. Image via Flickr by SoulRider.222

2015 Ford focus ST 5-Dr Hatchback2015 Ford Focus ST 5-DR Hatchback A lot of work goes into planning a summer adventure. If you're planning a longer road trip, you'll need to decide if you want to put that many miles on your daily driver. For trips like these, or when your daily driver isn't the best, you may want to consider purchasing a used car for road trips. They typically aren't too expensive and provide flexibility in regards to your timeline and destination. Check out these top used models for your next road trip. 2016 Toyota Camry The Toyota Camry is just the right mix of efficiency and comfort, perfect for long road trips across the country. This fuel-sipping sedan can take you wherever you need to go this summer. Toyota has a long-standing reputation for being dependable and safe, letting you worry about where the road will take you next, not whether your car will survive the journey. This year's model has plenty of trims to choose from; there are also 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder configurations for those looking for more power. When you hit the road, you'll want to know there are plenty of great entertainment features to keep all of your passengers happy. The 2016 Camry is packed with plenty of in-demand options. Entune internet access with smart device integration helps you stay connected on long drives. Features such as satellite radio, voice-activated radio, and MP3 player connectivity are all available on the 2016 Camry. 2015 Ford Focus Stepping back a few model years will help you save a bit of money when you are considering a second car for summer adventures. You can find the 2015 Focus in a traditional four-door sedan or a five-door hatchback. While there are only three trims for this year's release, you'll find each one suitable for road tripping. The 160-horsepower four-cylinder engine is not only efficient but also powerful enough to give this small sedan plenty of punch when you hit the gas. Similar to the 2016 Camry, the 2015 Focus has plenty of exciting entertainment features. Ford SYNC allows for internet connectivity and the entertainment console includes MP3 connectivity, speed-sensitive volume, and satellite radio connectivity. You'll also love the safety features on this year's Focus. They include ventilated disc brakes for better braking efficiency, knee air bags, braking assistance, and side-impact air bags. 2015 Dodge Grand Caravan If you're heading out on a summer adventure that requires you to stow a bit more gear, the 2015 Grand Caravan is an excellent choice. It has extra seating for larger families, tons of excellent entertainment features, and good safety features. The ability to stow the rear seats to allow for more cargo room gives you plenty of flexibility. Anyone interested in purchasing a used vehicle to use on summer adventures or road trips should check out one of these models. They offer the right mix of value and dependability. Image via Flickr by Michel Curi

Getting your driver's license and having your first car are major milestones in your life as a teen. Getting the right car, however, is an important task, and the choice can either simplify or complicate a teen's life. Finding the right used model for a teen driver depends on his or her needs, but choosing any of these vehicles would definitely be a good idea. Toyota RAV4 Given the fact that the thing a teen driver lacks most is experience, a sturdy SUV might be the ideal choice. The Toyota RAV 4 received a facelift in 2016, so any used model sold after that time will look like the latest version. All models come with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine capable of producing 176 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque. The horsepower isn't too much for a new driver to handle, but it's enough to get you out of tight spots and make the SUV seem agile. The handling and steering feel great and are very precise, making the RAV4 easy to handle, even for an inexperienced driver. It's also a very comfortable car, mostly because of the large cabin and soft seats. Active safety systems such as pre-collision system, lane departure alert, and intelligent high beam will help the driver keep the vehicle out of harm's way. Kia Soul EV Since teen drivers don't usually go on very long drives, an electric vehicle is definitely a great choice. The combination of a 109-horsepower electric motor and a 27-kWh battery in the KIA Soul EV offers an estimated 93 miles of driving range, which should be more than enough for any teen's daily routine. It also spares teens from spending allowance money on gasoline. Its boxy shape makes it roomy enough to carry things around, while the Soul also has enough features to be fun enough for a teen. Most used Kia Soul vehicles on the market are equipped with the Plus trim, which features front and rear parking sensors, 17-inch alloy wheels, smartphone connectivity, and a rearview camera, among many other features. You'll also get many active safety systems to assist the new driver. Hyundai Accent Safe SUVs and economic electric cars are definitely good choices for a teen driver, but another good choice is a simple compact and inexpensive car. Simple because it makes it easier for a new driver to grasp the fundamentals of driving, compact because it's easier to maneuver, and inexpensive because a new driver will most likely scratch and dent the car, at the very least. The Hyundai Accent ticks all these boxes, making it a great first car. Its interior is quiet and comfortable, with excellent outside noise cancellation. Just because it's relatively inexpensive doesn't mean the Accent compromised on safety, with features such as electronic stability control and a smart air-bag system. Having your first car is an experience you're not likely to forget any time soon. Any of these three cars would be a good choice for any teen, as they check off all the right boxes when it comes to quality, comfort, and safety. Image via Flickr by theKCB

When it's time to shop for a new ride, don't limit the search to the new side of the dealership, even if you plan to drive the car for a long time. The average new automobile will be worth only about 35 percent of the purchase price after five years. Therefore, it's smart to avoid the depreciation hit by finding a great pre-owned car or truck that suits your needs. Do your homework though as some models hold their value better than others. Check out these options for some vehicles that retain their value and have a long useful life. Trucks and SUVs If you think you may be ready to trade in the car in a few years, depreciation should be a primary concern for you. In that case, consider a truck or a sport utility vehicle (SUV) instead of a car. Kelley Blue Book gives an annual award for Best Residual Value to vehicles that retain a higher percentage of their value after five years. For the 2018 model year, nine of the 10 models on the list are either trucks or SUVs. One example is the 2018 Toyota Tacoma full-size truck. It is expected to retain more than 60 percent of the original sales price by 2022. KBB Best Overall Brand For 2019, Toyota vehicles took home the top three spots in the Kelley Blue Book Best Resale Value Awards. The Tacoma, the Tundra and the 4Runner all demonstrate the ability to bring a solid price when you sell or trade them in. As if that's not enough to inspire confidence, Toyota also took first prize in three of the vehicle categories evaluated. The 2019 Highlander won the category of 3-Row Mid-Size SUV/Crossover. The 2019 Toyota Tacoma emerged as the winner in Mid-Size Pickup Trucks, and the 2019 Tundra led the pack of Full-Size Pickup Trucks. With all these accolades, it's obvious why Toyota is the Best Overall Brand in the survey for 2019. Edmunds Choice for Best Retained Value For 2018, Edmunds also published a list of vehicles to consider if you're looking for something that holds its value over time. In the category of Trucks and Vans, Edmunds agreed with Kelley Blue Book and gave the highest honors to the 2018 Tacoma and Tundra. For Midsize SUVs, the 4Runner was the top pick. Honda also did well in the Edmunds study, taking home top awards for the CR-V in the Compact SUV category and the Civic in the Compact Car category. The Honda Accord won in the category of Midsize Car. Keep Depreciation in Mind The allure of a shiny new car is appealing, no doubt. Sometimes, new may be the best choice. However, a wise shopper keeps depreciation in mind no matter whether they're buying new or preowned. With such extensive data available from reputable sources, there's no excuse for not doing your homework where the long term value of your vehicle is concerned. When you're ready to make your purchase, visit Rath Auto Fort Smith to find just what you're looking for. Image via Flickr by danielctw