When it comes to buying a new car, you shouldn't just look at the sticker price. You should also look at overall value. To help with that, Consumer Reports just came out with its latest list of best value vehicles.
Sticker price is one thing, but how much will a car really cost you over time? Every year - Consumer Reports answers that question - then compiles its list of the "Best New Car Values."
"Our value scores are based on three elements: Our road-test scores, predicted reliability from our Annual Auto Survey, and our estimate of how much it'll cost to own the car for five years," said Rik Paul of Consumer Reports.
Consumer Reports says the Toyota Prius offers the best value. With a sticker price that's under $30,000, Consumer Reports says over time the Prius ends up costing a very economical 49¢ a mile to own.
"Every category from small cars to SUVs have both good and bad performers," said Paul. "But if you want some space and want a good value, we recommend a wagon, a small SUV or a minivan."
Some good choices include the Toyota Sienna and the Mazda5.
If you're looking for a smaller vehicle, Consumer Reports says the Mini Cooper's base model is another great value. It costs a low 49¢ a mile to own. It has plenty of luxury features, plus, it's apparently a lot of fun to drive, too!
The Philadelphia International Auto Show begins soon, and you can watch Philly on Wheels, our auto show preview, Saturday night at 7 p.m. on 6abc.
