By looking at how a car performed in testing when new and reviewing detailed reliability data, CR is able to recommend to car buyers the best models for the overall ownership experience.However, it's important to note that a great new car doesn't necessarily make a great used car, especially when considering depreciation and long-term reliability.
Rather than just handpicking a single model year, we identified smart choices by studying cars from a generational perspective (a generation is when a single design was offered for a given year). We then narrowed down our choices by targeting specific price ranges, taking into account the median used car price and selecting based on the most recent model years.
The reason we focused on the latest eligible version is because cars tend to improve over time based on reliability and equipment. Our reliability analysis consistently reveals that cars get less trouble over the years, from one generation to the next. Reasons for improvement: Automakers practice and improve their craftsmanship of cars by making numerous changes to improve the assembly process. Over time, they also learn from owner feedback and warranty claims what parts of the vehicle need to be updated. Such advances are usually seen in the last few years of a generation, because it takes time to identify opportunities and develop solutions. In other words, the last two years of a generation tend to be the best. Additionally, automakers add features over time, often improving convenience and safety, and sometimes comfort and fuel economy, over the years. Each car comes standard with electronic stability control, a proven safety feature.
The strategy we employed in selecting used cars was value-heavy, and the models highlighted may not have been the ones that received the highest scores when we tested them new. Rather, they are often good quality cars that have depreciated more than other cars, making them more attractive as used cars than they were new. Examples of this would be the Buick Envision, Chevrolet Cruze, and Mazda CX-9. These three were solid choices when new, and are now relatively good deals as used cars. Comparable priced rivals are often many years older, and likely from a previous generation. In other words, you would have to pay several thousand dollars more to buy a direct rival of the same model year and mileage.
By recommending cars based on the most recent eligible year in a given price range, you maximize the useful life of the car, since newer cars tend to have lower mileage. Plus, looking at it from a generational perspective gives you a broader target for shoppers. If you can't find your exact model year highlighted below, research the generation. You'll find nearly as good (and at a lower price!) by considering older versions of the same car. You might even find a great deal on a newer model.
Clicking on a vehicle page will give you more detailed information about issues that vary by year, as well as detailed road tests, owner satisfaction ratings, pricing details and more.
Remember: Each used car is unique and has its own story, so your best protection is to focus on CR Recommended Used Vehicles and inspect each individual vehicle you want before you buy.
