I’m tired of owning shitboxes and want a modern car. I currently have an ‘05 4runner which probably needs a head gasket that will cost more than I paid for the car. I make enough that I can afford a much nicer car but my main consideration is that there is a 50% chance I will be moving out of the country in about 15 months. With that in mind i’ve been looking at taking over a lease but they’re hard to come across and seemingly get snapped up instantly. I also considered an 18 mo on one of the nissans but the tax in chicago destroys those deals. At this point do i just bite the bullet and finance a new car, (one that doesn’t depreciate too much) and sell when I have to leave? I’d buy something used that’s closer to the bottom of its depreciation but I don’t want to spend more than 15k if i’m paying cash and that doesn’t really get me anything modern. Any suggestions from the hackers?
If youre in chicago, just forget about leasing
Why are you OK with financing new but don’t want to finance used?
Look for another used Toyota.
Maybe 2006 Highlander this time?
If new, get something like a Camry. It doesn’t have to be the top trim, even the XLE will feel way more modern compared to an older 4R.
For something with a bit more premium feel, 2012-2016 Mercedes E350. Very durable engine and transmission; it’s really the sweet spot for “not going to depreciate a lot” combined with “not going to cost an arm and a leg in maintenance.”
2014+ have the upgraded headlights as standard; otherwise look for P2 packaged 2013 and older cars (they are rare and sometimes owners don’t even know or advertise it, but they are out there).
Compared to everything else in the used car market, you get a lot for your money.
https://newjersey.craigslist.org/cto/d/tenafly-2012-mercedes-e350-matic/7615040356.html
https://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/cto/d/burke-2014-mercedes-benz-e350/7619854238.html
https://southcoast.craigslist.org/cto/d/rehoboth-2016-mercedes-e350/7618272650.html
15k?
Thats prime Q50/slightly older m37 money!
everything i’ve seen so far, the rates are much worse. definitely open to it if it makes sense financially
i’m aware of taxes on taking on a new lease here being terrible, do you know if that’s the case even if I take over someone else’s?
I’m at similar position.
E350 not a bad choice. The m276 all leaks at front timing cover tho.
I also look at ml350 and q5
They all got their own problems however.
I’m so tired of mark up on new Toyota and Honda
For example, the new HRV. It’s lackluster engine a CVT , can’t justify having to pay over Msrp for it
If you fall under the income cap, find one of the vehicles here under the price cap and get the $4k tax credit.