It’s a choice every NZ car buyer wrestles with: do you buy a brand-new ride or opt for a used car? Deciding between that new car smell or a pre-owned set of wheels comes down to various factors. Buckle up as we explore the advantages of buying new vs used cars and why newer doesn’t always mean better.
An Oldie but a Goodie – The Benefits of Used Cars
At Portage Cars, we firmly believe ‘used’ doesn’t mean used up! There are plenty of benefits of buying used cars over new ones; here are a few of them.
Money Matters!
While the decision between buying a new vs used car isn’t all about price, it is a significant consideration. Not everyone has the cash to splash on a new vehicle; a used car will always be cheaper. The lower costs of used vehicles mean buyers can get the wheels they need when they need them and may even be able to step up to a nicer model.
Avoid Hidden Fees
The sticker price of a new car often isn’t the real one. Once dealerships add on shipping charges, destination fees, and dealer preparation costs, that number could look much bigger than it initially did. With used vehicles, you won’t be saddled with any hidden fees; the price you see is the price you get.
Depreciation that Doesn’t go Down the Second You Leave the Lot
Every car loses value with each passing moment and mile, but the steepest decline happens within the first year. With used cars, there’s no depreciation hit the second you drive it off the lot. Used vehicles will generally remain around the same value as when you got them.
You Won’t Get Stuck with Hefty Insurance Rates
Insurance rates for used cars are typically cheaper than for new cars. A little pre-purchase research or sage advice from the Portage Car team will save you from a stiff insurance bill, regardless of your chosen vehicle.
In with the New?
As vehicle safety and emission laws become ever more stringent, manufacturers have changed how they build cars. Modern vehicles have become safer and more fuel efficient while becoming more powerful. When buying new, you get the best in safety and fuel efficiency. However, these newer features usually come at a hefty price. Additionally, since new cars typically lose their value within the first year, you’ll likely lose money when you sell yours in the future.
Find a Used Car that’s New to You with Portage Cars
Deciding between buying a new vs used car comes down to various factors, including but not limited to how big your piggy bank is. Here at Portage Cars, we stock an extensive range of high-quality used cars to make it easier for Kiwis to find a car. We aim to make buying used cars easy and hassle-free. Get yourself a new set of wheels with Portage Cars today. Give us a call now if you have any questions about our range.
