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SUVs are exceptional family vehicles, but if your primary use will be to travel around with lots of passengers, you've got to look for certain features to ensure you make a good purchase. Things like price, safety, and comfort are priorities, and all SUVs are certainly not equal in these categories. Consider these qualities that make for great SUV s and a few standout options in each category. Price Price is a priority for many families, and it should be at the forefront for you when shopping used. After all, you want to get a good deal. A few of the best-used SUVs that come in under $20,000 include: more 2014 GMC Terrain 2014 Honda CR-V 2015 Chevrolet Equinox These SUVs are certainly affordable, but be mindful whenever shopping for something that's older than roughly 5-7 years. Newer SUVs have lots of exciting active and passive safety technologies, but some older SUVs only had them on certain trims or available through specific packages. This can make it hard to find older vehicles that come with things like a bird's-eye camera or collision warning systems. Conversely, if you don't mind compromising on some of these newer technologies, luxury models will become affordable. The 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK and 2012 Cadillac SRX, for example, can be purchased for well under $20,000. Safety Though cutting-edge technologies like rear cross-traffic alert, rearview cameras, and intelligent cruise control are more common in newer vehicles, you can still find them in many used SUVs. Your best bet is to look at options from 2014-2018. Also, ask about trims above the base level. These come with more standard features. A few of the safest used SUVs include: 2014 or newer Acura MDX 2013 or newer Buick Enclave 2013 or newer Cadillac SRX Regardless of whether you find something with newer technologies, you should check the less enticing safety features of the vehicle before you buy. Things like a comprehensive air bag system and working Latch connectors are vital for families with young children. Comfort When it comes to comfort for families, you've got to consider seating materials, interior space, and how quiet of a drive you're getting on the highway. With these qualities in mind, the best thing you can do is head to a used car lot and take some SUVs out for a drive. Also, like safety features, more recent models are your best options if you want an exceptionally comfortable ride. A few recent models that have stood out for their interior comfort include: 2016 Acura MDX 2016 Buick Enclave 2016 Ford Flex 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee Hopefully, you'll find a quality SUV that delivers in each of these categories. You may have to make some compromises when you buy used, so come prepared with a list of your wants and needs — and don't skimp on the latter category. Also, let us know what your priorities are. We can recommend the best options currently available on our lot. Check out the inventory at Rath Auto Resources NWA, and take a few of your favorites out for test drives. You can even bring the family along to help you decide! Photo by truckhardware | Licsensed under cc BY 2.0

When you have a family, your priorities in a vehicle change. Namely, things like safety and connectivity become much more important. So, when you visit a car lot, you need to settle on a vehicle that will help keep your passengers entertained and safe. These are some features you absolutely must look for when shopping around for a used family car. Connectivity Entertainment is more important than you might think — just ask any family that road tripped with kids before the days of in-car Blu-ray players and Wi-Fi. Some connectivity features that can make a huge difference on the road include: more USB ports Wireless charging stations Wi-Fi hotspot (note that a subscription is needed to have internet access) GPS or navigation apps, such as SiriusXM Traffic Of course, connectivity is about more than entertainment. It's also about staying safe on the road. A car with Wi-Fi can help you stay updated on traffic and weather, and some vehicles have built-in apps that you can access from a touch-screen display to get real-time data about hazards and delays. Make connectivity a priority to ensure your family is entertained and safe on the road. Also, features like tire pressure monitoring can help you stay connected regarding your vehicle's maintenance. Visibility Visibility aids are essential safety features for a modern family vehicle. Additions such as a rearview camera, for example, can help you safely back out of your driveway and ensure that there are no people or hazards in your path. Two other examples are rear-cross traffic alert and blind spot monitoring. These types of safety features alert you to oncoming traffic that's occupying areas that are normally very difficult for drivers to see. Highway Safety Features Visibility is important on the road, but it's only one category of safety features that can prevent an accident from happening. Advanced features like these can be hard to come by since they're often only available in certain trims or as optional packages. But if you find a vehicle with them, it can make a huge difference when you get out on the road. A few safety features to add to your want list include: Forward collision warning Lane-keep assist Lane departure alert Active cruise control Emergency brake assist Other Modern Safety Features If you're buying used, you can rest assured that any vehicle made within the last five years will have modern features, such as a comprehensive airbag system and Latch attachments for child seats. However, you should still take a moment to check that these systems are functional. Looking at a vehicle's repair history should inform you if there's ever been an issue with these safety features. Things like electronic stability control and anti-lock brakes are also standards in newer vehicles, but you should still check for them. Picking the vehicle that's best for your family is worth the effort. You don't want to compromise on essentials that will keep all your passengers safe, so check for these features while browsing the selection of used cars at Rath Auto Resources NWA. Photo by The National Roads and Motorists' Association | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

There are a lot of excellent used cars out there, but it is important to take a good look at them before buying to make sure it is in good shape. When you shop for a used car, the goal is to find one that performs well and is within your budget. Just remember that your budget should include maintenance, operating costs, and even warranties if you can. Take a look at these important used car red flags to look for. Oil Stains Under the Car Take a peek under the car to see if there are any oil or other fluid stains. If the car has recently been moved, ask where it was previously parked and take a walk over to check the ground. If you see oil stains, it could mean there is a significant mechanical issue. You should have the car inspected by a mechanic to make sure everything is in good working order before making a purchase. more Check The VIN Always check the VIN number on the vehicle against the VIN on the title to make sure they match. You'll find the VIN right at the base of the windshield on the driver's side, or in the doorjamb. If the VINs don't match there is a problem and you should walk away from the sale. Check The Interior Take a good look inside the car's cabin to make sure all the colors match and check for any strange smells. If it has an unusual odor, it could indicate a problem. A lingering smoky smell probably means that the previous owner was a smoker which you can fix, but if there is a sour smell or a moldy smell, it could indicate that the vehicle was either in a flood, or it has some kind of water damage. No Service Records A big red flag to watch out for is a car that doesn't have any record of regular service and maintenance. Routine oil changes and major mileage services are important to the life of a vehicle. Always ask the seller or dealership for the service records so you can check its maintenance history. Title Issues When you check the history of the vehicle, make sure to look for any problems on the car's record. A title history will show any kind of previous damage from hail to water and fire. Most of these issues are an obvious red flag, but issues that you should always avoid include flood damage and a salvage title. A salvage title means an insurance company declared the car a total loss because of damage. Junk titles are also a red flag because they mean the car is not safe to drive. Make sure to look at a used car carefully before buying. A reputable dealer will have good, safe cars available, but you'll still want to do your homework to make sure you get something that will last you a long time. Photo by RL GNZLZ | Licensed under cc BY-SA 2.0

If you are looking for some good used SUVs, there are a number of vehicles that you can choose from. Here are four SUVs that give you great value for your money while giving you the safety and comfort that you want when buying a second-hand vehicle. GMC Acadia If you are looking at the GMC Acadia, you want to focus on the 2011-2014 years. The Acadia seats eight and has lots of cargo room as well. The Acadia models made between 2011 and 2014 have five-star safety ratings from NHTSA as well as the title of "Top Safety Pick" from IIHS. The safety ratings alone make it a great option when shopping for a second-hand vehicle because you know it will be trustworthy. more The Acadia has a 3.6-liter V-6 engine with 288 horsepower and a six-speed automatic transmission. While front-wheel drive is standard on most trims, there are all-wheel drive options available too. You can expect to spend between $11,000 and $18,000 on a used GMC Acadia. Acura MDX The Acura MDX is a luxury crossover SUV. The SUV has room for seven with three rows of seating. For drivers who want to check out the MDX, you should look at the years between 2007 and 2013. The safety ratings for the 2011-2013 years are very high, with the MDX receiving an overall five-star rating in 2011 and 2012. The 2012 and 2013 models also won the title of "Top Safety Pick" from the IIHS. The Acura MDX comes with a 300 horsepower, 3.7-liter V-6 engine. Standard with all the trims is Super Handling All-Wheel-Drive (SH-AWD), so no matter what year you decide to go with, you will get some excellent traction with this vehicle. You can expect prices to be between $14,000 and $25,000 for a used Acura MDX. Honda CR-V The Honda CR-V has a reputation for being reliable, and the 2012-2014 models certainly stand up to that reputation. Between 2012 and 2014, the CR-V earned a five-star overall crash-test rating and also received the title of "Top Safety Pick" in 2012 and 2013. The CR-V seats five passengers and runs on a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine that gets 185 horsepower. Standard features that come with the CR-V include a rearview camera, Bluetooth, and you may be able to find some trims with navigation and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system. A pre-owned CR-V sells for between $8,000 and $16,000. Lexus RX The Lexus RX is another luxury SUV that offers high quality and is an excellent option for a used SUV. While the Lexus RX offers very dependable models, the 2010-2014 models are where you should focus your attention. The Lexus RX was redesigned in 2010. That year, the RX 350 trim won "Top Safety Pick" by the IIHS. The RX 350 has a 3.5-liter, V-6 engine that gives drivers 275 horsepower. Drivers have the option of both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. There is plenty of luxury inside the vehicle as well, with a leather steering wheel and wood trim standard on all trims. You can expect the prices to be between $14,000 to $16,000. These are just four of the best SUVs to buy used. For more information about the SUVs at Rath Auto Resources NWA, check out our online inventory, or give us a call today! Photo by RL GNZLZ | Licensed under cc BY-SA 2.0

Buying a used car can be an economical choice for families. In this article, you will find a list of five fuel-efficient used cars that are excellent for families who love long road trips. These vehicles stand the test of time, and this list can come in handy when you are planning your next used car purchase. Factors that Matter Most for Family Vehicles In this article, we'll focus on features that matter to families who put a lot of miles on their used car: trunk and storage space, fuel economy, and engine power. The amount of storage space will affect how much gear (and how many people) you can bring on your next family adventure. more Fuel economy is very important as well when you're traveling long distances and hope to stick to a budget; it's as important for the daily grind as it is for vacation. Finally, engine power matters if you're off-roading. A powerful engine will ensure that you have a smooth and safe ride on any terrain. Subaru Forester 2002-2005 The Subaru Forester has everything you need for your family car. It's a rugged SUV that has a 5-star safety rating and a large trunk to accommodate any cargo you might need to bring along. It also excels at fuel efficiency and has a 2.5L engine. For speed lovers, it has a 5-speed transmission selection range in both the automatic and manual models. Honda Accord Euro 2003-2007 This car is one of the top models out of Asia that is designed to fit the European standard. Although it is a sedan, not an SUV, its large trunk can still accommodate all of your road trip luggage. It has a four-star safety rating and a 2.4L engine capacity. Its fuel consumption is low due to its size and efficient engine. Significant discounts can be found on used varieties. KIA Sportage 2005-2007 The Kia Sportage is an SUV with a roomy trunk and cabin that's perfect for a road trip. This model has a 5-speed automatic transmission selection range, a 2.7L engine capacity, and a fuel consumption benchmark that is lower than the others on this list. Toyota Camry 2007-2008 The Camry shines in fuel efficiency, trunk space, cabin space, and safety. The car received a 4-star rating from ANCAP. It also has a 2.4L engine capacity that boasts similar fuel efficiency to the other economy cars mentioned. it has a 5-speed transmission selection range. This is a solid choice for smaller families on a budget. Hyundai Getz 2002-2011 Although the Getz is a small car, it is surprisingly roomy. It has a 3-star safety rating, and although this is a bit lower than other vehicles on this list, it makes up for it in reduced fuel consumption. Despite its size, it ticks all the boxes for a great used car for families. All of these are great vehicle choices that will hold up to heavy use, even when they already have quite a few miles on them. Visit the dealership to get some more ideas on great used cars for your family. Photo by The National Roads and Motorists' Association | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

One of the biggest advantages to owning an SUV is all that space and utility — and more specifically, the ability to pack up with your kicks and some camping gear in tow to the nearest state park or beach. Of course, not all vehicles are the same, and some are better than others in terms of family vacations. Shop for one of these five used SUV models that are amazing for these types of outdoor activities. 2017 Acura MDX The Acura MDX is one of the safest SUVs available, with the 2017 year model receiving top scores from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This is due largely to the vehicle's structural design and comprehensive airbag system, but the MDX has some more thrilling safety technologies, as well. Look forward to having active lane keep assist, automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control — all standard features — provide you ample peace of mind on the road. more 2017 Kia Sorento For a midsize option, the Kia Sorento is a serious contender. It has excellent towing capabilities, handling between 2,000 and 5,000 pounds depending on how the vehicle is configured. It also has solid efficiency for its class: 22 miles per gallon in the city and 29 on the highway. 2017 Ford Explorer Limited The Ford Explorer consistently rates well in terms of safety, power, off-road abilities, and utility. It's a smart choice for families who need space and sufficient engine power for towing a small camper but not a full-size RV or large boat. Its maximum towing capacity is 2,000 pounds. Go for the Limited trim for extra luxury and convenience, including starting features such as leather-trimmed seats and a cargo net. 2015-2017 Toyota RAV4 The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV, and though it's smaller than some of the other options available, it makes up for it with its sporty handling and higher fuel economy. The 2017 model gets an estimated 23 miles per gallon in the city and 30 on the highway. Plus, it still has plenty of utility. It can tow a maximum of 1,500 pounds and has 73.4 cubic feet of cargo volume if you include the seat area. 2017 Kia Sportage The Kia Sportage underwent a redesign in 2017, making it a good choice if you like the style of the newer models. This is another compact option that's comparable to the RAV4 in terms of fuel efficiency. It gets an estimated 23 miles per gallon in the city and 30 on the highway. The Sportage offers a bit more utility, though, providing a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds. However, there's a little less room at 60.1 cubic feet of space if you include the seat area. Used SUVs are a fantastic value, and these options will make it much easier to explore new places with your family. Find these vehicles and other top choices in stock at Rath Auto Resources in Fort Smith or Springdale, and come by to take your favorites for a test drive. Photo by MIKI Yoshihito. (#mikiyoshihito) | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

Jeep has a long history of producing vehicles that can get you places that most vehicles can't. Jeep developed the technology needed for extreme off-roading, so these vehicles can handle muddy, rocky, steep, and slick terrain with relative ease if you know how to use them right. The Jeep Renegade Latitude is no exception and makes off-roading possible and on-roading more enjoyable. If you are looking for a new vehicle, let the 2017 Jeep Renegade Latitude take you to new heights. Capability Off-roading can be fun but dangerous without the right equipment. Fortunately, the Jeep Renegade Latitude has all the right features to handle any kind of terrain. It comes with systems like the Jeep Active Drive Low 4x4 system, which is designed to give the Renegade more power at low speeds so that it can crawl over most obstacles. You can also cross deeper rivers up to 19-inches deep since the engine and exhaust systems are properly ventilated. These features make off-roading easy. more Agility With all of these rugged features, you might think that the Jeep Renegade Latitude is sluggish and stiff. However, Jeep designed the Renegade to be lean and agile. The wheelbase is 101.2 inches long, which makes it stable and the right size for better handling. Jeep also made sure that the Renegade had a small turning radius. At 35.3 feet, the Renegade can turn quickly to fit through any path. With a precision handling system, you can easily get your Renegade around or over obstacles safely. Versatility Driving can be difficult in bad weather, but the Jeep Renegade Latitude can make driving safer. This model is equipped with Jeep's Selec-Terrain Traction Management System, which lets you change how your Jeep drives to fit the needs of different weather conditions. You can choose from four terrain types including snow, sand, mud, and rock to maintain the best traction. There is also an automatic mode, which will make adjustments for you. Comfort On the Inside, the Jeep Renegade Latitude is designed to keep you comfortable regardless of where you are driving. The interior is leather-lined for the most durable finish and a touch of luxury. You'll get a great view of the sky with the double-pane sunroof that gives you good visibility from the front and the back rows. The Renegade also has the updated Uconnect infotainment system, which includes Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. SiriusXM Guardian is an optional added feature. With these features, you'll always have access to your different smart-devices and resources that you need, like navigation. The touchscreen is 7 inches across with an option to upgrade to an 8.4-inch screen with the Uconnect 4C Nav system. The Jeep Renegade Latitude has all of the features that you need to make driving more exciting and versatile. To get a better understanding of its capabilities, you need to take one on a test drive. Visit Rath Auto Resources NWA to check out the 2017 Jeep Renegade Latitude in person. Photo by RL GNZLZ | Licensed under cc BY-SA 2.0

In the busy midsize crossover class, the Chevrolet Traverse has always stood out as a vehicle with extraordinary value. With tons of interior space and a fuel economy as good as most sedans, the Chevy Traverse packs a lot of punch for the money. 2018 marks the start of the second generation of the Traverse crossover. As expected, there are some major changes, but trust us — they're all good. Whether you opt for a year older version for its lower cost and more traditional style or decide to go with the 2018 model, you'll get an outstanding value either way. Rath Auto Resources NWA is here to help, so let's compare the 2017 and 2018 Chevrolet Traverse. Interior Space The Chevrolet Traverse is already special in the midsize crossover class because it comes with three rows of seats instead of only two, but the 2018 traverse is more spacious than ever. Chevy added over 2 inches to the wheelbase. That may not sound like a lot, but when it comes to cars, that's a significant difference. more In the more premium trims, the second row now has comfy captain's seats instead of the typical bench-style seating. It can still easily accommodate seven people, making it the perfect vehicle for a large family. State-of-the-Art Technology Chevy was generous with interior package features in the new model, especially when it comes to the infotainment systems. State-of-the-art touchscreen integration makes it easy for drivers to search for a gas station and get directions. Thanks to the 7 or 8-inch touchscreen, it's now easier to see where you're going. The 2018 Traverse also comes equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for using your favorite smartphone apps, such as navigation or streaming music. Engines The 2018 RS model has an impressive 255-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, giving it a zippier feel. The other 2018 trims have a V6 engine that generates 305 horsepower. Every model of the Traverse now uses GM's new nine-speed automatic transmission. We're impressed, and you will be too! Handling The Chevrolet Traverse has always been known for its car-like feel, which is part of the reason people often choose a crossover. The 2018 handles better than ever due to a new stabilizer bar-fortified with all-wheel drive and an innovative independent suspension. You'll also love how the updated electric power steering provides more precise turns. We know you love your Chevrolet, and we do too. With a plethora of best-in-class awards and a bunch of great new features, the Traverse just keeps raising the bar and leaving its competitors behind in the dust. Whether you're thinking about getting a super deal on the 2017 Traverse or splurging for the next generation, you'll be impressed with a roomy interior, great features, and incredible value. We invite you into the dealership to wander about and check out all the inventory in the showroom. Take one or two vehicles for a test drive, and soon you'll see what all the fuss is about. Photo by RL GNZLZ | Licensed under cc BY-SA 2.0

It's likely that your car is one of the most expensive purchases of your entire lifetime. For the majority of people, it rates right up there with buying a new house or even paying for college. A brand-new car is wonderful. It smells fresh, clean, and new. Still, some people prefer to buy a car that's been gently used. There are many good reasons to buy a used car instead of a brand-new one, and most of the reasons involve saving money. From less sticker shock to cheaper insurance and less depreciation, sometimes buying a gently used car just makes good sense. Rath Autos Resources NW realizes that every customer's situation is different. So, if you're trying to choose between buying a new car or a used one, we are happy to help. These are four reasons to buy a used vehicle. Slower Depreciation Many new cars depreciate about 10 percent during the first year of ownership. That's in addition to the initial “drive-it-of-the lot” depreciation. That can add up quickly. Buying a used car instead of a new one helps you eliminate such rapid depreciation. Sometimes it's hard to find a 1-year-old car, but often 2 and 3-year-old gently used vehicles are easier to locate. more The Price is Lower A used car will always initially cost less than a new one. Although it's a thrill to buy a new car, and we hope everyone will experience it at least once in their lifetime, it's not unusual for a new car to lose thousands of dollars in value when you drive it off the lot for the first time. This is the reason why you can buy a 2007 Porsche for approximately the price of a 2014 Toyota Camry. Someone probably purchased that brand-new Porsche for over $60,000, but now it costs about half of the original price. Fewer Sales Tax Before you buy a new car, don't forget to calculate the cost of sales tax in your state and county. Some states charge sales tax on new cars but not used ones. Sometimes the cost of sales tax can be thousands of dollars, so look into it ahead of time and budget accordingly. Lower Insurance Costs The main determining factor of the cost of car insurance is the replacement value of the vehicle. Since a used car is worth less than a new one, insurance is generally less as well. Also, you can sometimes save even more money by dropping some of the coverage — like collision or theft — once a vehicle's value declines to a certain point. Purchasing a car is a big investment. You have a lot of options, and we're here to help you decide what is right for you. Fortunately, we have a lot of great financing options and a wide array of both new and used cars. So, come into the showroom, have a look around, and take a vehicle or two out for a test drive. Photo by CC-BY-CarImages | Licensed under cc by- sa 2.0

Over the past decade, SUVs have exploded in the automotive market. In the past, if you wanted an SUV, you had only a handful of options to choose from and most were designed for functionality over comfort. Sedans were the norm, but all that has changed. Now the question for many car buyers is whether to pick a sedan or an SUV. If you're in this boat, consider the pros and cons of each type of vehicle to find the right model for you and your lifestyle. Comfort Even just a few years ago, the comfort debate always went to the sedan segment. Most SUVs were truck-based, which meant a bumpy and rough ride. Although it is tough to beat the comfortable interior of a roomy mid-size or full-size sedan, crossover SUVs have come a long way to hold their own in this category over the past few years. more If it's tough for you to climb in and out of a car, a sedan will probably be the right choice since an SUV sits higher and may require you to step up. However, parents of young children often prefer the higher ride of an SUV when strapping kids in their car seats since it's easier to reach without bending too low. Functionality Some people argue that an SUV has a bigger cargo area than a sedan, but this really depends on the model. A full-size sedan can have a much larger trunk than what you'll find on a compact SUV. However, since the SUV's cargo area doesn't have a lid, you may be able to fit taller or bulkier items in the rear, which can be an advantage. Another area of functionality where an SUV beats a sedan is handling on rough terrain. An all-wheel-drive SUV will also perform more effectively in the snow, mud, or other adverse road conditions. Fuel Economy If your top priority is fuel efficiency, you'll probably end up choosing a sedan. Larger vehicles weigh more and have more powerful engines, which translates to worse fuel economy. Even when comparing hybrid models, the sedan will always win out. In fact, some hybrid sedans can get up to 50 miles per gallon, while an SUV will typically top out at about 35 mpg. Safety Overall, it's easier to maneuver a sedan through traffic since it's not as large as an SUV. However, the size of an SUV can stand up better if you get in a crash. Rollover rates are much lower than they used to be, thanks to features like rollover-prevention systems and electronic stability control. Both sedans and SUVs are available with the latest safety features as well, such as forward collision warning with automatic braking, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert, so you can certainly get a safe model in either segment. Sedans and SUVs each offer their own set of advantages and drawbacks. Finding the perfect car will make your driving experience more enjoyable, so test drive a few models before you make your final decision. Photo by Dougtone | Licensed under cc by 2.0

In the past, leasing a car was mainly done by luxury car shoppers and corporate customers, but this is no longer the case. If you're shopping for a new car, you may want to weigh the benefits of leasing before you take out a car loan or pay cash for a new model. Benefits of Leasing When you lease a vehicle, you'll leave the dealership behind the wheel of a brand-new model. The process is similar to buying a new car, although you'll typically have a lower monthly payment than what you would pay if you finance the entire purchase. When you take out a loan to buy a car, more you'll need to get enough to cover the full purchase price minus any money you have to put down. On the other hand, the financing in a lease agreement covers the cost of the depreciation of the vehicle for the term, which is generally around three years. If you love having the latest vehicle, leasing could be a good option. When the lease term ends, you can bring the car back to the dealership and choose a new vehicle and enter into a new lease agreement. Leased vehicles are typically covered under the manufacturer's bumper-to-bumper warranty, so you don't have to worry about unexpected repair costs. Drawbacks of Leasing One of the drawbacks of leasing a vehicle is the fact that you're only paying down the value of the expected depreciation. At the end of the term, you can pay the residual value to keep the vehicle, but the monthly payments you've been making are essentially like a rental fee to drive the car for a set amount of time. Another issue that might come is that a lease term will have mileage restrictions, so you may not be able to drive as much as you want, or you'll end up having to pay extra at the end of the term. Benefits of Buying When you finance a vehicle, you'll own it outright as soon as you make the last payment on the loan. If you want to purchase a different vehicle, you can sell the car and put the money toward another model. People who prefer to keep their cars for longer periods of time will often benefit from buying instead of leasing since they'll have more to show at the end of the loan agreement. Additionally, you won't have any restrictions on normal usage of your car, even when you're still under the terms of your loan. You can drive as many miles as you want without having to pay anything extra. Drawbacks of Buying A new car's value will depreciate the most in the first few years, so when you buy the car, you'll have to take that financial hit. Changing market conditions could also impact what it's worth within just a few years. Some lenders require a significant portion of the loan as a down payment, so that could make it more difficult to qualify for a loan. As you decide whether to buy or lease your next vehicle, weigh the pros and cons to help you make a decision that works best for your financial situation and meets your needs. Photo by free pictures of money | Licensed under cc by 2.0