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A little patience can pay off in a big way when you're shopping for a car. While new cars definitely have the shine and allure to draw buyers, and a warranty that gives you a great deal of peace of mind, they also come with a big hit to the value in the form of depreciation. Some models lose up to 25 percent of their value as soon as you drive off the lot. One way to get the best of both worlds is to look for a vehicle from the last model year. Here are three great choices from the 2018 lineup. 2018 Toyota Corolla For a student or a young adult just starting out, a new car probably isn't in the budget. However, if you do your homework and research carefully, you'll find some good options to fit even a small budget. The 2018 Toyota Corolla is a compact sedan that might just fit that sweet spot for you. CarGurus named it a winner in its segment in the 2018 Best Used Car Awards, estimating that the Corolla holds its value 29 percent better than competitors. The Toyota name itself is synonymous with quality and reliability so you can buy with confidence. 2018 Chrysler 300 For a family or a professional who needs to be able to transport clients, a car larger than the Corolla might be in order. A full-size sedan like the 2018 Chrysler 300 may suit those needs nicely. This highly rated model earns positive reviews from current owners; they rank it higher than other similar cars more than half the time. The Chrysler 300 retains its value better than 7.9 percent of other large cars on the market. Another bonus is the availability of the 300. They're plentiful on the lots, so you have more to choose from. 2018 Ford Explorer Since 1991, the Ford Explorer has been a favorite in the full-size SUV/crossover market. It appeals to soccer moms, road warriors, and anyone else who needs room to carry cargo and people. All the things that make the Explorer the best selling new vehicle in its class year after year also make it a darling in the pre-owned car market. The 2018 Ford Explorer retains its value 23 percent better than its competitors, an impressive figure for this highly competitive segment. As the most plentiful SUV on the pre-owned lot, you'll have lots of colors and options to choose from when you go shopping. Pre-owned Saves You Money Smart buyers know that you can save money and avoid the depreciation associated with a new car without giving up the advantage of the manufacturer's warranty by buying a one-year-old pre-owned ride. Do your research and know what you're looking for in terms of features and colors before you start to check out the lots. The friendly professionals at Rath Auto Fort Smith will be glad to help you find just the right 2018 model to match your needs. Visit today and start your search. Image via Flickr by truckhardware

Deciding on a used car is a huge decision. There are so many to choose from since each make and model has their own advantages and disadvantages. When you are in the market for a used car and want to find one that is reliable, equipped with the latest technology and safety features, and one that you can afford, it is important to do your research. Here are some of the most reliable late-model used cars to get your search started. 2016 Toyota Camry The 2016 Toyota Camry is one of the top used cars on the market. It has a spacious interior with room for up to five passengers, has an excellent reliability rating, and comes with some advanced safety features. All the 2016 Camry trims come with a rearview camera, and the XSE and the XLE both have adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, Toyota's pre-collision system, and lane departure warning. A certified pre-owned Toyota Camry also comes with Toyota's limited warranty and must pass a 160-point inspection. Roadside assistance is available as an extra service. 2016 Chevy Malibu The 2016 Chevy Malibu received excellent reliability ratings and offers a smooth ride and good fuel economy. The 2016 Malibu received a complete redesign and is the best year for shoppers looking for a late model used Chevy. Just one level up from the base model Malibu will get you a rearview camera, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 7-inch touch screen. The top-level Premier trim adds several advanced safety systems, leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats. 2017 Nissan Altima The 2017 Nissan Altima offers excellent crash ratings and comfortable seats and is extremely reliable. The Altima is a fuel-efficient vehicle, and halfway through the model year, Nissan updated the 2017 model with some added safety features including predictive forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking. The 3.5 SR model has the option for a powerful V-6 engine and comes with rear parking sensors, a navigation system, and a moonroof. This model also includes the NissanConnect infotainment system complete with smartphone integration and a 7-inch touch screen display. 2015 Toyota RAV4 The 2015 Toyota RAV4 is an excellent choice for buyers looking for a versatile crossover SUV with good resale value and reliability. It provides a comfortable ride and has a large cargo area with room for tons of gear even with the rear seat up. Plus, the cabin features top-notch materials. The 2015 model comes standard with a rearview backup camera, and it offers the option for blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The RAV4 has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 176 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque which is plenty to give it more than enough power for confident highway driving and accelerating up to 60 miles per hour in just under 10 seconds. Take a look at these late-model used cars in your search for a reliable vehicle. You can feel safe and confident in any of them and save on the bottom line. Image via Flickr by JLaw45

Whether your new driver is buying their first car on their own or you're doing it together, it's a huge step. There are arguments for both new and used cars when it comes to teen drivers, but you really can't go wrong with a later-model used vehicle. Here are some of the best cars for a new driver. 2017 Honda Fit The Honda Fit is an excellent subcompact car. The cabin is comfortable with high-quality materials, and the rear seat passengers have a good amount of legroom. All Fit trims come with a rearview camera and a brake assist system, and the Honda LaneWatch system is available to help drivers see what's in their blind spots. This little vehicle has above-average reliability ratings, and it comes in three different trim levels offering a variety of technology options. The EX-L is the only trim that comes standard with the automatic CVT. It also has a 7-inch touch screen and the HondaLink infotainment system. 2015 Honda CR-V The 2015 Honda CR-V is a compact SUV that offers excellent fuel economy, and it has a large cargo area and room for up to five passengers. It comes standard with a rearview camera, and depending on the trim, you can get a blind-spot camera, adaptive cruise control, and a lane keep assist. It also offers a 7-inch touch screen, navigation system, and leather upholstery as options. The Honda CR-V EX-L adds leather seats and comes with dual-zone automatic climate control. 2014 Hyundai Sonata The sleek looking Hyundai Sonata is a five-passenger sedan, and the 2014 model comes standard with extensive standard features and technology. The combination of excellent fuel economy and top notch reliability ratings make it a top choice for a new driver. It has a four-cylinder engine that produces 190 horsepower with the option for a four-cylinder that gets 274 horsepower. The Sonata offers a sporty handling experience and a comfortable ride for its passengers. Choose the SE trim for a rearview camera and a driver-side blind-spot mirror. All trims come standard with electronic stability control and a full suite of air bags. 2016 Toyota Camry There's lots to like about the 2016 Toyota Camry. It gets excellent safety ratings, comes with a host of standard and optional equipment, and has a roomy, upscale cabin. All 2016 Camry trims come with a rearview camera, and both the XLE and XSE come standard with Toyota's Pre-Collision system, blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. For technology, even the base model Camry has a 6.1-inch touch screen, Bluetooth, and remote keyless entry. Stepping up in trims will add heated front seats, leatherette or leather upholstery, and, in some models, a navigation system. Check out these used models that make some of the best choices for a new driver. They can get some of the advanced safety technology and even some extra comfort and convenience features to keep everyone safe and happy on the road. Image via Flickr by -JvL

When it's time to go car shopping, we all have our list of must-haves. Some buyers like cargo room, while others want best-in-class fuel economy. One top priority for most people is safety. Whether your family's new car is big, compact, or sporty, it's important to make sure it's loaded with safety features. Here are four used hatchbacks that provide superior safety features for families on the go. 2017 Chevrolet Spark The Chevrolet Spark's 2017 model earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) highest rating of Good on the only two exams conducted: moderate overlap front and side crash tests. This organization also gave this model Spark's LATCH child-seat system their second-highest rating. For 2017, a rearview camera comes standard on the Spark, and it offers great maneuverability to help keep you on the road. With plenty of available technology, this small Chevy delivers the connectivity you want to stay in touch with family. It's reliable and earned a stellar predicted reliability rating 3.5 out of five from J.D. Power. 2017 Hyundai Accent The 2017 Accent is an appealing choice for those who want a safe, no-frills daily driver with a low average price. It's just as reliable as the Spark, earning 3.5 out of five from J.D. Power, and boasts 47.5 cubic feet of cargo room. IIHS rated this model year's Accent Good in the top three categories: moderate overlap front trial, rear crash protection, and roof strength test results. They also reported that LATCH tether anchors for the Accent's child safety seats were in an easy-to-find location. 2017 Kia Soul The 2017 Soul ranks among the best in this competitive hatchback class. The IIHS gave it their highest rating of Good in all categories, except the passenger-side small overlap front test, which resulted in the second-highest grade. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded this hatchback a perfect five-star score for overall, front, and side-impact tests. The 2017 Soul's rollover crash test resulted in an impressive four-star performance. The Soul is available with a slew of standard safety equipment, including a rearview camera, forward collision warning, and lane departure warning. You'll also get blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alerts, and available parking sensors. 2014 Chevrolet Sonic Agile handling and a roomy interior help make the 2014 Chevrolet Sonic one of the top used subcompacts on the market. It also touts some of the best safety scores in its class. Chevy gave the Sonic a nice package of active safety features for the 2014 model year, like the available rearview camera, forward collision warning, and lane departure alerts. It also features some of the highest safety scores in our rankings. The NHTSA gave the 2014 Sonic a perfect score of five in all but one test: the four-star rollover evaluation. The IIHS awarded the 2014 Sonic its top rating of Good in all trials, except the small overlap front crash test. Active safety features help drivers make quick stops while maintaining control. With these four used hatchbacks, get superior safety features for your family. Photo by M 93: „Dein Nordrhein-Westfalen“ | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

You've made the bold decision to start your own business, and you need a vehicle to put you in the driver's seat. There are quite a few good, used pickups ideal for starting a business. Today's trucks and vans perform better and are more dependable than ever before. We've picked out this list of capable used pickups for startup businesses. 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 The 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ranks at the top of the full-size pickup truck class and is more than competent on the job. It features a quiet, upscale cabin for on-the-go meetings and plenty of user-friendly tech, like an 8-inch touchscreen loaded with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. Stay connected with the home office from the job site with an available a Wi-Fi hotspot. New for the 2017 model, Chevy bumped up the Silverado's maximum towing capacity from 12,000 to 12,500 pounds. That power combined with payload capacities make it an excellent work truck. The 2017 Silverado touts an above-average predicted reliability rating of 4.5 out of five from J.D. Power, making it one of the most dependable full-size pickup trucks on the lot. 2008 Ford Super Duty F-250 The 2008 Ford F-250 Super Duty is one heavy-duty pickup truck. Whether you're into construction, agriculture or you need to tow equipment, you'll love the Super Duty's enhanced performance and convenience. The 2008 F-250 comes standard with a 5.4-liter Triton V-8 engine that delivers 300 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque. It also has a 3,170-pound payload capacity and can tow up to 12,500 pounds. Ford included a durable hitch receiver on every Super Duty, featuring a robust seven- or four-pin connector. Ford's 2008 model year refresh of its most popular work truck included a full-scale addition of a slew of class-exclusive features, both inside and out. From its quiet steel dash panel to power telescoping and folding trailer tow mirrors, everything on the 2008 Super Duty was aggressively tweaked. 2017 Ford Transit Wagon While not exactly a pickup, the 2017 Ford Transit Wagon makes for a great startup vehicle. It offers seating for up to 15 and is the ideal vehicle for shuttle drivers, a taxi service, or any other profession that transports peoples. The 2017 Ford Transit offers a European-style, tall roofline for added versatility and convenience in this passenger-friendly wagon. The 2017 Ford Transit is easy to drive, with a footprint that isn't much larger than a full-size pickup truck. It features light and accurate steering and a buttoned-down suspension. Because of its agile handling, it's easy to maneuver your way through parking lots, the airport, or around busy city streets. If you're starting your own fleet or you need a dependable vehicle to transport everyone to the church retreat, the 2018 Ford Transit Wagon is a must-have. Starting your own business offers a sense of freedom and can be very profitable in the long run. With a dependable truck from your local dealership on your side, you're sure to succeed. Photo by truckhardware | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

The 2018 Dodge Challenger is a performance muscle car with 15 models to choose from, including the SXT. If you've been thinking about upgrading your ride to a powerful vehicle with attitude, read on to learn why the Dodge Challenger SXT might be the car of your dreams. Head-Turning Exterior Style The first thing you'll notice about the 2018 Dodge Challenger SXT is that it has classic good looks that never go out of style. The SXT includes body-color side mirrors and door handles, dual bright exhaust tips, and a muscular figure that pays tribute to its heritage. Along with these good looks, the SXT also comes standard with plenty of convenience features, including heated side mirrors, solar control glass, daytime running lights, LED taillights, and automatic headlights. Excellent Performance and Power While a stylish exterior is nice, what you really care about is the power and performance offered by the Challenger SXT, and you'll be impressed with what you'll find when you put your foot on the gas. The SXT comes with a 3.6-liter V-6 engine that delivers up to 305 horsepower and 268 pound-feet of torque. The SXT also includes the convenient AutoStick automatic transmission. With AutoStick, you can enjoy the ease of an automatic transmission when you need it, but you still get the fun of clutchless manual shifting when you want it. All the Latest Technology The Dodge Challenger SXT comes with plenty of great technology features to keep you connected and entertained when you're on the road. The infotainment system comes standard with a 7-inch touch-screen display that includes Uconnect 4, integrated voice command using Bluetooth connectivity, and a six-speaker audio system. Additionally, the SXT also includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which lets you send texts, make phone calls, listen to your favorite music, get directions, and more while keeping your phone safely out of your hands. Great Interior Comfort In addition to top technology features, you'll find plenty of interior comforts to enjoy on all your drives. The Dodge Challenger comes standard with premium cloth sport seats that are relaxing and supportive. To help you stay comfortable no matter what the weather is like outside, the SXT also includes automatic dual-zone climate control. The standard leather steering wheel and leather-wrapped shift knob offer a classic and luxurious touch, and the auto-dimming rearview mirror, media hub with two USB ports and auxiliary input, and 12-volt center console power outlet are all incredibly convenient. Plenty of Safety Features While the Dodge Challenger SXT provides excellent power for an exciting drive, it also comes with great safety features to keep you secure when you're on the road. The SXT comes standard with all-speed traction control, electronic stability control, electronic roll mitigation, a rearview camera, rain brake support, hill start assist, and a tire pressure monitoring display. If you've been dreaming about cruising the streets in a bold muscle car with plenty of good looks, you need to get behind the wheel of the 2018 Dodge Challenger SXT to make your dreams become your reality. Photo by Marcal.net | Licensed under Public Domain Mark 1.0

If you're interested in getting an SUV, choosing a used model is a great option to stay within budget but still get all the conveniences and features you want. One good choice for a used SUV is the 2017 Dodge Journey. With excellent power and a spacious interior, you'll find plenty of reasons to choose the Journey as your next vehicle. Great Exterior Features The 2017 Dodge Journey comes with a bold exterior style that will stand out on the street. The standard black side roof rails and available platinum chrome side roof rails make it easy to haul items that won't fit inside. Other standard features include heated side mirrors, automatic headlights, and daytime running lights. However, those aren't the only conveniences you'll enjoy on the Journey. If you go up in trim levels, you'll also find available LED taillights, fog lamps, and dual exhaust tips. Plenty of Power If you work hard and play even harder, you'll be impressed by the power and performance offered by the Dodge Journey. The SUV comes standard with a 2.4-liter engine that works with a four-speed automatic transmission to produce 173 horsepower and 166 pound-feet of torque. If your fun calls for even more power, consider the available 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine that teams up with a six-speed automatic transmission to generate 283 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Impressive Technology Many people have the belief that if they're considering a used vehicle, they have to sacrifice some of the latest technology features. However, that's not the case when you look at a 2017 Dodge Journey. In fact, the vehicle's infotainment system that comes standard with a 4.3-inch touch-screen display, audio input jack, and USB port. If you go up in trim levels, you'll find the available 8.4-inch touch-screen is intuitive and easy to see. Plus, your back seat passengers will love the optional second-row overhead 9-inch video screen for watching movies or playing video games. Comfortable Interior While all that technology is nice, you also want a vehicle that offers a comfortable interior for those daily drives. That's what you'll get when you climb inside the 2017 Journey. To help you stay comfortable through a variety of weather conditions, the Journey comes standard with dual-zone automatic climate control. Additionally, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and three-zone automatic climate control are all available features. All the Safety You Want in a Used SUV When you're considering a 2017 Dodge Journey as your next used vehicle, you don't have to give up some of the latest safety features. In fact, every Journey comes standard with a rearview camera, tire pressure monitor sensor and display, traction control, electronic stability control, and electronic roll mitigation. Higher trim levels might also include the optional ParkSense rear park assist system, which alerts you with visual and audible warnings when it detects an object behind your vehicle when you're in reverse. If you're thinking about getting a 2017 Dodge Journey, you now know several reasons why it's a good choice as your next used vehicle. Photo by Zytonits | Licensed under cc BY-SA 2.0

If you're like many drivers, you hate feeling cramped when you get inside your vehicle, which is why you might assume you should avoid a small vehicle such as the FIAT 500. Well, contrary to what you might believe, several excellent FIAT 500 models provide outstanding interiors with a surprising amount of space. Before choosing your next vehicle, you should learn about a few of the most valuable FIAT 500 models and the interesting interior features that they provide. 2017 FIAT 500 Although you can find several excellent models of the FIAT 500, the standard model is still one of the best, both in terms of value and comfort. If you invest in this stellar vehicle, you'll get a wide range of features in a small package, including surprising interior comfort. For example, the available one-touch power sunroof can let you enjoy a little fresh air and extra headroom. The FIAT 500 also offers easy cargo storage, thanks to a split-folding rear seat. You'll also have access to excellent seating in this vehicle. Both premium cloth and leather trimming are available, and for extra comfort, you can add heating functionality to your seats. 2018 FIAT 500L If you're interested in driving a FIAT and want the most interior space and comfort possible, you should pick the 2018 FIAT 500L. This FIAT model's design has long road trips in mind and provides a wide range of top-notch interior features that you're sure to love. To make traveling fun and easy, the 500L provides ample cargo storage space. With the rear seats in the upright position, you'll have 22.4 cubic feet of storage space, and if you fold these seats flat, you'll be able to use 68 cubic feet of cargo space. The FIAT 500L also features some of the best seating in any FIAT model. Both front and rear seats provide generous head and legroom, and the front seats offer heating that feels great on cool days. 2018 FIAT 500X Another FIAT model that you should consider driving is the 500X. This model is for entertainment and provides several features that will make sure you have a great time while on the road. One of the most interesting features of the 2018 FIAT 500X is its dual-pane sunroof, which allows both front and rear seat passengers to enjoy fresh air and sunlight. With this model, you can also choose a heated steering wheel that will activate if the cabin temperature drops below a certain threshold, guaranteeing that your hands will never get too cold when you go for a drive. Up to five passengers can ride in the 500X, and whether you're in the front or the rear, you'll have plenty of room to stretch out. The 500X also provides 60/40 split-folding rear seats, and when these seats fold down, you'll have an impressive 50.8 cubic feet of cargo space. For entertainment, the 500X is available with Apple Music. As you can see, several FIAT 500 models offer much more room than you would think. Test drive one of these FIAT vehicles today if you need a comfortable, valuable automobile. Photo by planetc1 | Licensed under cc BY-SA 2.0

When you're interested in purchasing a used car, you want to be sure that you're getting the biggest bang for your buck. Fortunately, if you're looking for a used vehicle that provides both value and reliability, you can choose one of the many excellent used Dodge models available on the market. Dodge automobiles are well-known for their dependability, and when you choose a used Dodge, you'll be getting a world-class vehicle for an extremely affordable price. Here are a few of the best used Dodge models that you should consider when you need a reliable automobile. 2014 Charger Although there are countless used Dodge models worth driving, when it comes to a top-notch combination of power and style, there's almost no competition for the 2014 Charger. When you hit the road in the Charger, you'll have the outstanding performance and eye-catching style that you can only find in the muscle car class, and the 2014 version of this vehicle provides a variety of features that you're sure to love. While the 2014 Charger has a wide range of engine options, the base 3.6-liter V-6 provides an impressive 292 horsepower, which is more than enough for most used car consumers. This version of the Charger is also available with an array of useful equipment, including smartphone connectivity, remote start, and a 4.3-inch touchscreen. 2015 Journey If you're looking for a used vehicle for your family, then a midsize SUV is a great choice, especially the 2015 Journey. With this used midsize SUV, you'll have the necessary utility for a family vehicle, as well as technology features that make every family road trip easy and entertaining. The Journey is available with two or three rows. If you choose a three-row version, you'll be able to seat up to seven passengers! This SUV also provides unique, versatile cargo storage options. In addition to fold-flat rear seats, the front passenger's seat can also be folded flat to make it easier for you to transport long items. One of the best reasons to buy a used Journey is that you'll be able to access great technology features for a low price. To help your family stay connected, for example, you can choose a Journey with a Wi-Fi hotspot Other optional technology features you should look for in your used Journey include an Infinity stereo system, rear seat entertainment system with 9-inch monitor, and heated front seats. 2016 Durango When it comes to value and reliability, there is almost no used Dodge better than the 2016 Durango. Driving this full-size SUV means having outstanding performance and features at an irresistible price. For example, with the proper equipment, this SUV can tow up to 7,400 pounds, making it a great vehicle for taking your boat down to the lake for a relaxing day on the water. The Durango is also available with luxurious equipment such as heated first and second-row seating and second-row captain's chairs. This SUV also comes standard with a Uconnect infotainment system. If you're in need of a reliable, affordably priced used vehicle, check out one of these excellent Dodge models. Photo by TransformersMan | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

If you have a family, then finding the right vehicle to travel in can be a bit of a hassle. There are many factors to consider, like cargo space, comfort, and entertainment for long drives. Fortunately, the Toyota Sienna can make traveling much easier for you and your family. It comes with a wide range of features that can help you get through long trips with few problems. Here are four reasons why the 2017 Toyota Sienna makes a great travel companion. Performance When people think of minivans, they generally don't think of good performance. However, the 2017 Toyota Sienna breaks that stereotype with performance features that you wouldn't expect. It comes equipped with Toyota's new 3.5L V6 Direct Injection engine to give it the power for a sportier driving experience. It is paired with a direct shift 8-speed transmission for better power management that leads to better performance and fuel efficiency. That way, your driving experience won't suffer because you chose a minivan. Driver-Assist Technologies Driving long distances can be hard without some help. Fortunately, the Toyota Sienna has plenty of driver-assist features that can give you a hand. The Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) is a big help for long drives since it can take over some of the driving. It works much like regular cruise control, but with an added feature. It uses radar to watch for cars ahead of you and automatically adjusts your speed to match. Having the support of your cruise control while driving can make a long trip feel much shorter. A Comfortable Interior Another thing that will make it much easier to travel is a comfortable interior. Toyota redesigned the controls to make them easier to reach and use while driving. With more intuitive controls, you or a passenger can easily control the climate and infotainment center with ease. The Sienna uses premium materials across the interior including leather and wood trim. There is also an optional double moonroof to give you a great view of the sky no matter where you sit. Cargo Options If you are making a long trip, then you will need to be able to easily manage your cargo space too. The Toyota Sienna has 39 cubic feet of trunk space with all of the rows in place. If you have fewer passengers and you need more space, you can fold the back rows and get up to 150 cubic feet of space. Getting in and out is also easier with powered sliding doors. The liftgate is also powered to make loading and unloading much easier. Traveling can be much easier when you have a vehicle like the Toyota Sienna that has the right features for traveling. If you want to see what the Sienna can really do, take it for a test drive at your local Toyota dealership. Rath Auto Resources has Toyota Siennas on the lot that you can test drive and see what traveling would be like in a new Sienna. Photo by FaceMePLS | Licensed under cc BY 2.0