Buying (my) first car

health

Hello,

I'm in the market to purchase my first vehicle (I am 21 but my father owns the title to my current). I want to move into a somewhat luxury class vehicle but don't really have any knowledge on how to decide and what to weigh in on. I like the 2014 Lexus IS250, 2014/15 Audi A4's and am possible considering a 3-series. Any suggestions or warnings that you may want to provide? I am attempting to make a (somewhat) informed decision.

kyfdx

What is your budget?

Are you commuting? If so, how far?

Michaell

A couple more questions ...

How long to do plan to keep the vehicle?

Where do you live?

health

kyfdx said:

What is your budget?

Are you commuting? If so, how far?

I apologize for the late response, but I am looking at about $30,000.

I am not commuting.

Michaell said:

A couple more questions ...

How long to do plan to keep the vehicle?

Where do you live?

I plan on keeping this vehicle for about 4-5 years.

I live in San Marcos, Texas

abormann

I'd stay away from Chrysler anything; their cars are at the bottom of the heap reliability-wise. Trucks, maybe.

Since it seems your taste runs towards American nameplates, how about the Pontiac Vibe? I have an '07 with 17k and stick shift and punched it into Manheim a couple weeks ago... the car would probably not even fetch $10 at auction right now. You should be able to snag a nice 07 or 08 automatic with 20-30k miles for $12. If you like the car at all, that's a fantastic deal.

I'd forget about used Hondas, not because they're bad, but because their resale is very high... no point in buying used.

There are plenty of good new cars to be had for < $20, too. And they have long warranties while you pay them off. Just something to think about.