I think it's time to buy my first car. At 40. Any tips? Hoping for something used, fuel efficient, and wallet friendly. Not super interested in aesthetics or bells and whistles!

Would love any recs on process or product!

Question

I think it's time to buy my first car. At 40. Any tips? Hoping for something used, fuel efficient, and wallet friendly. Not super interested in aesthetics or bells and whistles!

Would love any recs on process or product!

Lisa · Answer

All the test drives: Take out all the cars you are interested in, and take your time. Car lots are the actual worst but it's worth it to understand what you enjoy driving. Drive it on a highway to get a sense of noise and stability. Sit in the back seat. Try the AC and radio. Try not to get down because of the toxic vibes of car lots; power on!

Taryn · Answer

Toyota Corolla: Mine is nearly 20 years old and I have NEVER had a problem with it. The only car I’ve ever owned and hopefully the only one I ever do. Mine came without any features but over the years I’ve added Bluetooth to the stereo and a dashboard screen for navigation (all surprisingly easy to do).

JZ · Answer

Hyundai: In my amateur opinion, Hyundai has taken the mantle from Toyota and Honda for affordable, reliable, efficient, and identity-free cars.

(If you want to spend a little more for a semi-luxury option that still checks the above boxes, I also recommend Mazda.)

Elena · Answer

Toyota for hybrid cars: They were the first to do it, and therefore are most tested and proven, plus they've continued to innovate and invest in the tech for more sustainable vehicles. I opted for a hybrid plug in and now I only buy gas when I do a road trip, it’s incredible.

I wanted a Subaru but went for a preowned Toyota because when it comes to hybrid it was far superior. I recommend heavily comparing online based on how you use your car to Hondas, Kia’s, and others but ultimately TEST DRIVE is the only way to decide.

The best part about preowned was that it came with some of the bells/whistles I never would’ve paid for but am so happy I have (and at a discount!) like a moon roof, and heated seats which are a godsend in northern winters.

Kate · Answer

just get a subaru: I feel like it's a cliche of the semi-outdoorsy, bi-sexual woman who listens to NPR and has a tote bag filled with her other tote bags, but I've only ever driven Subarus, and they've never let me down.

I like the Crosstrek, I settled for the Forester because I got a good deal. Great for adventures.