14 “Economical” Cars That Aren’t Saving You Money
When hunting for an economical car, it’s important to look beyond just the sticker price. Factors like long-term costs, reliability, and overall value play a significant role in determining whether a car is truly “economical.” In this article, we’ll list 14 cars that many may consider “economical” but may not necessarily be so. Remember that these cars have their benefits, but their overall value may not be worth the initial purchase price or the cost of ownership. One ought to always think about the big picture when making a purchase.
These scores are based on expert reviews and data, and they may vary over time. Strap in your seat belts and zoom through this list with us! Stick around because some of these might surprise you.
Tesla
This a sleek-looking and cutting-edge electric car, but the initial cost and battery replacement are high. Not to mention that Tesla has some of the worst resale value of any car right now.
Volkswagen Beetle
The iconic Beetle has charm, but you need to be aware of its reliability and maintenance costs. It’s not the most cost-effective choice, however, the 2019 Volkswagen Beetle gets 31.8 MPG on average.
Mini Cooper
This cute little car looks like a toaster or an ice cube and is fun to drive. However, repair costs and the fact that it needs premium gasoline can chip away at your bank account. Their initial purchase price can be relatively high compared to other compact cars.
Toyota RAV4 Prime
The RAV4 Prime has a higher initial price tag than its hybrid counterparts. Compared to other electric vehicles, it can go pretty far without needing a recharge. The RAV4 Prime has a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Although CVTs have improved over the years, lots of concerns remain.
Fiat 500
The Fiat 500 is compact and stylish, but below-average reliability and limited cargo space might not justify the price. Finding replacement parts for the Fiat 500 can sometimes be tricky, leading to expensive repairs, but it’s not as costly as some other models.
Nissan Leaf
The Leaf is an electric vehicle (EV), so it saves on fuel expenses. As the battery ages, its capability diminishes which affects the car’s performance. Replacing the battery can be extremely expensive! The Leaf’s range is less than other vehicles, going only about 180 miles on a single charge (according to a 75-mph highway test). This may not be sufficient for some consumers, specifically those with longer commutes or frequent road trips where charging stations may be scarce.
Ford Explorer
The current-generation Ford Explorer has a reputation for being unreliable. Consumer Reports has consistently ranked it as one of the least reliable vehicles on the market. The 2023’s reliability score is one out of five, and its owner satisfaction score is a mere two out of five. That’s about as bad as you can get.
Jeep Wrangler
Jeep offers off-road potential, but its reliability is subpar, and it’s not the most budget-friendly option either. Additionally, the Wrangler’s fuel efficiency isn’t stellar, and premium gas is recommended.
Land Rover Range Rover
These luxurious vehicles are capable of going off-road and look pretty awesome. However, beware of the expensive price tag, maintenance costs, reliability, and fuel consumption.
BMW X
The BMW X is sporty and spacious and can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds. However, the high initial cost, expensive repairs, and premium fuel requirements can strain your pockets.
Mercedes-Benz GLC
The Mercedes-Benz GLC is a luxury compact SUV and starts at $43,850. It has a high cost of ownership (including maintenance and repairs). Despite this, it is most certainly elegant and well-equipped.
Audi A4
The Audi A4 is a luxury car, and luxury often comes with a hefty price tag. The 2024 Audi A4 price range spans from $41,200 to $51,300. Watch out for the resale value of the Audi A4, its depreciation tends to be steeper compared to some other models. The costs for premium fuel and maintenance can add up.
Porsche 911
Porsche 911s are iconic sports cars. Their initial price and maintenance costs are not for the budget-conscious. Depending on the model year, trim, and condition, the average used Porsche 911 sells for about $127,008 right now!
Alfa Romeo Giulia
These cars are bad to the bone and go from 0 to 60 mph in just about 4.46 seconds. The Alfa Romeo Giulia boasts a stylish design and spirited performance. This obviously makes it an attractive choice for many. However, reliability issues and costly repairs can be a nightmare.
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