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Car buyers have their own checklist of features they need in their dream car. Some buyers just want a budget-friendly option, but others have their eyes set on luxury autos. Other buyers, though, are a bit more discerning. Some zero in on the cars that will best fit their driving needs, but these driving needs might have little to do with a commute. Buyers might look for the cars, trucks and SUVs that are dubbed high clearance vehicles. What does this mean? Why are high clearance vehicles desirable? High Clearance Vehicle [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/What-is-a-High-Clearance-Vehicle.jpg] WHAT IS A HIGH CLEARANCE VEHICLE? A high clearance vehicle sits higher off the ground than a standard vehicle. While the definition of a high clearance vehicle may include varying measurements, the National Parks Service (NPS) defines this type of vehicle that dares to venture into Death Valley National Park as one that has tire rims measuring 15 inches (or more).  In comparison, NPS defines the standard vehicle as having “…less than 8 inches of clearance from the lowest point of the frame, body, suspension, or differential, to the ground.” A high-clearance vehicle can have two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive capabilities. The NPS designates that certain roads can only be navigated by vehicles designed to handle their terrain. This is why the NPS offers definitions for these types of vehicles on its site. Other auto sites could have different definitions for what is considered a high-clearance vehicle, but anything less than 15 inch wheels can’t take on the toughest terrain designated for high-clearance 4WD vehicles on the most rugged roads/trails in national parks. HIGHEST GROUND CLEARANCE SUV Motor Biscuit highlighted five SUVs with the highest ground clearance. These SUVs include: * Volvo XC90 * Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk * Jeep Wrangler Rubicon * Land Rover Discovery * Land Rover Range Rover The Range Rover is noted by Motor Biscuit as being the highest clearance vehicle, towering 11.7 inches. The Rubicon stands 10.8 inches. For buyers wondering how any of these vehicles can possibly tackle the 15-inch wheel criteria of NPS, it should be noted that larger rims can be equipped to certain vehicles to expand ground clearance. Jeep owners or those who drive other massive SUVs might swap out standard tires for larger options to adequately equip the vehicle for rougher terrain. SMALLEST CARS WITH HIGH GROUND CLEARANCE Cars that are only equipped with front-wheel drive likely won’t be able to take on any serious terrain—buyers won’t want to hit the paths not traveled. However, some buyers might wonder what small cars offer the highest ground clearance. For standard cars, high ground clearance likely won’t be high as defined by off-roading vehicles. Autobytel compiled a list of the highest ground clearance sedans and hatchback vehicles. Here are the top five models with the highest clearance: * 2021 Nissan Versa (stands 6.8 inches) * 2021 Mazda 6 (6.5 inches) * 2021 Mitsubishi Mirage (6.3 inches) * 2022 Subaru Legacy (5.9 inches) * 2021 Nissan Leaf (5.9 inches) High Clearance Vehicle [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Why-Would-Buyers-Prefer-Cars-with-High-Ground-Clearance.jpg] WHY WOULD BUYERS PREFER CARS WITH HIGH GROUND CLEARANCE? High ground clearance isn’t just beneficial for off-roading or taking on tough terrain, high ground clearance also is beneficial for those who have difficulty getting in and out of vehicles. When a car is higher, it’s easier for an individual to slide in and out of the car. In contrast, vehicles that sit low require drivers and passengers to squat down or pull themselves out of the vehicle. For those with injuries or who might have medical conditions that impact movement, lower vehicles can be very difficult for entering and exiting. Pregnant women or individuals with families also might find vehicles with higher ground clearance easier. When putting toddlers or small children into car seats, taller vehicles can just be easier. Caregivers don’t have to duck down or bend over as much. DOES HIGH GROUND CLEARANCE AFFECT THE PRICE OF A VEHICLE? Are taller vehicles an option for buyers on a budget? Of course! While new SUVs might be more expensive than standard smaller vehicles, shopping used or pre-owned  SUV or truck models can make these vehicles affordable to budget-conscious buyers. Some buyers need a higher vehicle because they are easier for those who might have difficulty getting into or out of the vehicle. Used models can be found at all different price levels, however, when shopping on a budget, buyers might have trade-offs when it comes to that low price. Used models could have lower prices because of: * Condition * Age * Mileage * Make/Model The value of a vehicle is impacted by these factors, and a car’s value will decrease as it ages and racks up more miles. The condition of the vehicle impacts its price, too. If a car is rusty or if the interior is a bit shabby, this less-than-stellar condition will lower its price. Buyers looking at luxury used or pre-owned models will still pay more for these makes/models than the standard models of the same age and mileage. However, no matter the buyer’s budget, there might be something that fits their needs. LEAST EXPENSIVE HIGH CLEARANCE VEHICLE For buyers who want the most affordable high clearance model, what is the least expensive high clearance vehicle? MotorTrend ranked the off-roading vehicles that are less than $5,000. The options included: * Jeep Cherokee XJ * Nissan Xterra * Suzuki Samurai * Subaru Forrester * Subaru Outback * Jeep Wrangler YJ For the least expensive standard vehicle that sits at the highest clearance, buyers might opt for the Mitsubishi Mirage. The Mirage also offers the best gas mileage, too. However, buyers also shouldn’t disregard minivans. These body types also offer high clearance. Here’s the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna and the * Honda Odyssey (4.5 inches) * Toyota Sienna (6.4 inches) * Kia Carnival (6.8 inches) The Kia Carnival offers the highest ground clearance for minivans, but the Toyota Sienna is only slightly lower. For families, minivans could provide maximum passenger space and higher ground clearance. However, the Kia Carnival is the most affordable option of the three minivan choices; the Carnival has a base price of $32,300. HOW HIGH IS HIGH CLEARANCE? USE RELAYCARS TO VISUALIZE THE OPTIONS Today’s buyers might start their new car research from home. Trying to understand the height of a vehicle using two-dimensional or flat photos might be difficult. How high is the vehicle? Buyers might have to do their best to understand the height until they can make a visit to the dealership. However, many car manufacturers now include augmented reality tools that help buyers better understand the design of models. Sites like RelayCars also offer augmented reality and virtual reality experiences that can transform the user’s environment into an augmented reality showroom. How does augmented reality work? Car buyers who have never experienced augmented reality shouldn’t be hesitant or wary of using this technology. Augmented reality platforms are often incredibly easy to use; they only require a smartphone or a tablet. With RelayCars, buyers also can explore thousands of different makes/models in virtual reality using Google Cardboard. Download the RelayCars app for free via the App Store or Google Play. Then choose the model from the inventory list offered by RelayCars. To explore the model in virtual reality, the user will need Google Cardboard. Users can then explore different makes and models in a virtual reality experience. . For buyers who are accessing RelayCars online with a phone or tablet, they also can explore an augmented reality experience. On the RelayCars website, explore cars using a smartphone or tablet camera to view the model. RelayCars also offers other information about each vehicle. Buyers can explore the MSRP and the specs of the model. This helps buyers to find the car that might best fit their budget. AFTER THE RESEARCH Augmented reality, virtual reality and 3D models can help buyers better visualize and understand the design of a model, but, often, the in-person experience is a necessary part of the buying process. At the dealership, buyers should take a test drive of their favorite models. For those who have difficulty entering and exiting a lower vehicle, explore the different options to find the model that is easiest to navigate. Buyers who want a higher vehicle for passenger ease should check out the back seat to ensure that it’s easy to access. Finding the best vehicle for off-roading may require a bit more research for buyers, though. Those who want to go off-roading or who are interested in venturing through national parks might need to upgrade their vehicle with special tires or just larger tires/rims. While there are many vehicles that are equipped to handle rough terrain, base models might not have all the options needed for the specific needs of adventure seeking enthusiasts. Talk to dealerships about what modifications or upgrades might be needed for off-roading, rock crawling or tougher terrain. For online research, buyers can use sites and apps like RelayCars to find more information and to better visualize their top vehicle choices. For buyers who need high clearance for off-roading adventures or to make the vehicle more accommodating, exploring the vehicle in person might be a necessary part of the buying process.

Today’s car owners tend to see their options in black and white. These contrasting hues are the most popular paint colors that car buyers choose for their vehicle. In fact, white is the most popular color car in America, followed by black. The third most popular choice is the mix of white and black—gray! American drivers seemed to gravitate towards black and white and shades of grey. Yet not all buyers fit the mold; some choose colors that are unique and perhaps even shocking. Check out these rare car colors that are guaranteed to catch the eye of other drivers and make it much easier to find the vehicle in a crowded parking lot! Car and Driver highlighted the newest and craziest colors offered by manufacturers for 2022; these hues were included on the list: * Dragon Orange Metallic (Audi Q8) * Sao Paulo Yellow (BMW M3 and M4) * NSX Thermal Orange Pearl (Acura RDX) * Cyber Orange (Ford Bronco) * Phoenix Yellow (Honda Civic Type R Limited Edition) * Ocra GT Top Coat (Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio) * Papaya Spark (McLaren 765LT) * Hellraisin (Dodge Challenger) While this isn’t the complete list, potential buyers might zero in on a few of the names. Citrus fruit hues seemed to dominate, and Dodge was even raising a little hell with its raisin-hued Challenger. Every year, manufacturers might include some unique paint hues for the buyer who wants something extraordinary. Through the years, though, some hues have become iconic and very much aligned with their time or even reminiscent of a certain company or tradition. THE PINK CADILLAC The Cadillac is a classic car; it exudes luxury in an all-American design. One color Cadillac, though, is renowned and has even been the title of hit songs: the Pink Cadillac. This sweet hue is associated with the ‘50s, but it’s also tied to cosmetics multi-level marketing giant Mary Kay.  A pink Cadillac on the highway will definitely turn heads and is quite uncommon. TROPICAL TURQUOISE ’57 CHEVY Another car straight from the ‘50s is the ’57 Chevy. The classic Tropical Turquoise hue is often associated with these cars. Not only is the ’57 Chevy an uncommon site, but the blue hue isn’t a tone that many modern car owners choose today. PURPLE LAMBORGHINI The song nodded to the Joker’s car in the movie The Suicide Squad. While this unique hue might not be common on many vehicles, it might have become more common among Lamborghini buyers who wanted their own strikingly purple vehicle. MotorBiscuit notes that buyers can score one of these cool cars for only about $369,000. THE LADYBUG Yes, some Volkswagen drivers like to have a bit of fun with their rides. Those who choose a VW Beetle sometimes customize the paint to look like a cute little ladybug. A buggy Bug! Occasionally, drivers will see these small cars buzzing by with their red and black paint, but the ladybug Beetle isn’t such a common sight beyond the garden. Rare Car Colors [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Opal-and-Chameleon-Paint.jpg] OPAL AND CHAMELEON PAINT Some paint colors actually change colors when viewed at different angles. One unique color is actually a pearl or opal hue. It’s pale cream with shimmers of pink and other hues—it looks like the gemstone opal. Chameleon paint offers a similar effect; the paint color might be purple but it also can look green when viewed from a different angle. A McLaren was painted with a chameleon-like shade called MSO Amazon Colour Stream; the paint hue reportedly bumped the car’s price by more than $38,000! TIE DYE When a car owner can’t decide on the best color, opt for a rainbow of hues! One woman’s husband had her car wrapped up in tie-dye. While this wasn’t an actual paint design, it was still extremely unique. WHEN ANY COLOR GOES While most manufacturers include a list of car hues for each model, some offer buyers the option to create their own custom color options. This is when the sky really is the limit. Luxury manufacturers like Lamborghini are more likely to offer carte blanche to buyers when it comes to the hues for their vehicles. A quick search reveals that Lamborghinis and other high-end vehicles are designed in some amazing hues. One Ferrari was actually painted pink with the Barbie logo on it. However, when Mattel launched a Ferrari for Barbie in the 1980s, a red hue and a white hue were offered. Some car buyers want what they want and they don’t care how much it costs. A Bugatti Divo was painted with an intricate red and black pattern that took two years to create. As Business Insider noted, the Divo has a price of $6 million. DOES COLOR IMPACT THE PRICE OF A VEHICLE? The color of a car might be a bit like the color of the walls in a home; some hues appeal to many buyers, but others only appeal to a select few. Real estate agents often advise homeowners to opt for neutral paint hues to increase the marketability of a home. Does the color of the vehicle impact its value? Unfortunately, some vehicles will lose value if they are painted in colors that just don’t have wide appeal. The most depreciating color hues include gold, brown, and purple.   The most popular colors are black and white for a reason: they appeal to many buyers. While a yellow car might still find a buyer, it might sit on the lot longer as it is less of an appealing choice. Interesting to note, the color that depreciates the least is yellow. Perhaps more buyers should opt for a bright yellow model! Rare Car Colors [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Choosing-the-Best-Car-Color.jpg] CHOOSING THE BEST CAR COLOR If car buyers are focused on the resale value of their vehicle, they could stick with the more popular choices: black and white. Yet, not all buyers want their vehicle to look like every other on the road. Some consumers are nonconformists and their car is a reflection of their personality. Those who have nearly bottomless budgets for a new car also might simply choose what they want. If this means that they are zooming down the road in a magenta Mustang, then so be it! They may worry little about the resale value of their purchase; they might simply love their car. HOW VEHICLE AVAILABILITY AFFECTS SELECTION When dealerships have crunched inventory, buyers might not be able to be picky about the color of car they want to purchase. Some dealerships might have a limited supply to offer buyers, and if a color or vehicle is backordered or can’t be ordered at all, buyers might have to opt for their second favorite color (or maybe whatever is on the lot). However, if custom orders are available through the dealership or manufacturer, this might be an opportunity for buyers to create the car they want in the hue they love. When supply is limited at dealerships or if car buyers simply aren’t finding what they want, they can inquire about custom orders. CAN CAR BUYERS PREVIEW CAR HUES? Buyers might not know what color they want for their car. Many manufacturers offer a list of choices, and while buyers might not want black or white, they also may be unsure how the hue will change the appearance of the car. Car buyers who want to preview different paint hues can use RelayCars to explore all their colorful options. The RelayCars app can be downloaded for free and lets buyers explore cars in augmented reality, virtual reality (if they have Google Cardboard) and with 3D car models, too. Car buyers also can explore RelayCars via the website, however only the augmented reality experience and 3D models are available. Both the app and the website let car buyers preview car models in every available paint hue offered by the manufacturer. There is no limit as to how many vehicles buyers can explore via the RelayCars app or the website. Buyers can explore as many models as they want and use the app or the website as long as they wish. With 3D models, car shoppers can choose the color they wish to view and then interact with the 3D illustration of the model. Using a fingertip or the mouse, users can turn the 3D car images to view them from any angle. Augmented reality experiences allow car shoppers to drop a model into their space. They might be able to view a car in their backyard or just the garage. If car shoppers have Google Cardboard, they can explore all their options in virtual reality! Car buyers who are focused on the potential resale value of their vehicle might opt for classic hues like black or white. However, they also might remember that yellow cars retain their value, too. Every car buyer might have their own favorite hue for their vehicle, and car buyers with bottomless budgets for a new car might even create a one-of-a-kind paint design that takes years to create. While there are many new colors offered from manufacturers in 2022, every year might include another different colorful selection. Color trends for cars might come and go, and they also might nod to the fashion trends of the moment. Car buyers who don’t find the hue they love and who might consider a custom paint job also can take inspiration by visiting Pantone’s website. Who knows? Maybe a few Pantone-inspired Veri Peri painted cars might be driving down the highway!

When the demand for used cars is on the uptick, buyers might look at their vehicle and see the potential for a financial windfall. Some vehicles that are popular with buyers might be more valuable than car owners realize. If a car isn’t being used or if the owner wants to upgrade to a new model, what is the fastest way to sell a car to get that money quickly? The options for selling a car include: * Selling the car privately * Selling the car to a dealership * Using the car as a trade-in ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF A PRIVATE SALE There is one major advantage to selling a car privately. A private sale allows for the owner to make the most money for their vehicle. A private sale doesn’t have a middleman; the buyer is purchasing the car to use for their own needs. When selling to a dealership, the dealership is actually the middleman in the deal. Since the dealership will resell the car, it needs to build in a profit on a purchase. For this reason, the dealership will typically pay less for the vehicle. When a buyer wants to sell a car privately, they can use Kelley Blue Book (KBB) to research the resale value of their vehicle. KBB will prompt the owner to either enter the make/model or the VIN or license plate number of their vehicle. The owner also will need to select the trim of their vehicle as well as any upgraded features (they also could just select the base trim). KBB will ask the owner about the condition of the vehicle, too. Car owners should be honest about the vehicle’s condition. Selecting that the car is in excellent condition when it isn’t will result in an inflated value. Once buyers understand the value of their car, they also need to clean the car and opt for a detailing, too (if they can afford it). Make sure the car is clean inside and out; remove any stains from the upholstery (if possible). The seller also should make any necessary repairs. In addition, they should disclose any issues when listing their car. Buyers will want to review a Carfax report, and car owners should have the report available. Car owners also should have maintenance records for the vehicle. If something still needs to be repaired, the seller needs to disclose this. Pocket Sense reports that severe damages need to be disclosed for legal and ethical reasons. The site further explains that “…the buyer must be told about any car that has been flooded; such an event can leave the engine useless, the frame rusted and the interior moldy. Any car that has had a salvage title (has been totaled by an insurance company) in the past must be reported in writing as such.” When selling a vehicle privately, the car owner also has to decide how to sell it and where to list the vehicle for sale. Some sellers might use Craigslist, but others prefer other selling platforms. When using any online site, sellers should be cautious when dealing with buyers: * Never meet a buyer alone, always take someone (for test drives, too) * Meet in a public place * Complete the sales transaction at your bank or use a secure payment system * Keep a paper trail, too (follow all state laws related to title transfers) KBB dedicated an article to how to stay safe when selling a vehicle. Those who are considering a private sale might review it. Fastest Way to Sell a Car [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Selling-to-a-Dealership-Can-be-a-Simpler-Solution.jpg] SELLING TO A DEALERSHIP CAN BE A SIMPLER SOLUTION Car owners who are reading about how to sell a vehicle privately might feel completely overwhelmed. Handling a private sale isn’t for every car owner. Selling to a dealership could be a much easier process. There is only one downside: the sale will be less profitable. Dealerships won’t offer as much for a vehicle as the owner might receive in a private sale. Dealerships need to build in their profit margin, and this means less cash for the seller. Car owners have two options in selling their car to a dealership. They can use the car as a trade-in or just sell it directly. Both options, though, might offer a similar purchase price. Before selling a car to a dealership or using it as a trade-in, car owners should research the trade-in value of their vehicle via KBB. The steps required to obtain the trade-in value are the same as those outlined for uncovering the resale value. Again, be honest about the condition. A car owner isn’t going to put one past a car dealership. However, understanding the trade-in value could help car owners receive the best price for their vehicle. The process for trading in or selling the car to a dealership is fairly simple. The car owner will need to sign over their title to the dealership; this process could vary by state. However, typically, the owner signs and dates the back of the title (and prints their name, too). The dealership also can typically walk a buyer through the steps of the sale. This is another reason why and how the selling process with a dealership can be much simpler. Since the dealership handles the sales process constantly, they are well-versed. In addition, car owners won’t have to worry about how they will be paid for their car. They may receive less than they want, though. When using the car as a trade-in, the value of the trade-in will help offset the purchase price of the new car. Fastest Way to Sell a Car [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Selling-to-Carvana.jpg] SELLING TO CARVANA AND OTHER SITES Think of sites like Carvana as online dealerships. If a car owner wants to sell their car, selling a car to an online dealership also is fairly simple. Each company, though, could have their own process. Carvana lets car owners get a quote for the price of selling their car; car owners will need their VIN or license plate number, though. The price that a car owner receives for their car might be in line with the trade-in value. Carvana and their competitors also need to build in their profit margin. Fastest Way to Sell a Car [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/When-is-the-Best-Time-to-Sell-a-Car.jpg] WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO SELL A CAR? There are certain days, months and even holidays that could offer better prices or deals for buyers. Is there an ideal time to sell a vehicle? Right now might be the best time to sell. This is due to the fact that the used inventory is crunched. KBB explains that dealerships are looking for used cars, and the site reports that “Used cars priced under $10,000 remain in the shortest supply. Vehicles in the $10,000 to $15,000 range are almost as hard to find….” For individuals who own older cars might get a better price than they might expect. As the market begins to correct, though, prices might not be so high for sellers and buyers. When demand is normal and the supply of used cars isn’t low, when is the best time to sell a car? Carbuzz reports that March and September are the worst months to sell, but February through around April and May are times when tax filers receive refunds. These months might be a good time to sell a car. EXPLORE NEW CAR OPTIONS WITH RELAYCARS Those who are interested in selling their vehicle might also want to purchase a new model. If a buyer has no idea what model is the best for their needs or budget, it’s time to start researching and exploring all the options. However, even buyers who are just thinking about buying a new car can have fun exploring new models. The RelayCars app and mobile site provide immersive tools that transform the car shopping experience. Explore vehicles using interactive 3D models or preview vehicles within augmented reality or virtual reality car showrooms. Download the RelayCars app for free via Google Play (for Android devices) or the App Store (for Apple devices). In the app, car shoppers can use their fingertips to interact with 3D models of their favorite vehicles; turn the car around and see it from different angles. The app also gives shoppers the opportunity to explore vehicles via a virtual reality showroom; however, users must have access to Google Cardboard. Car shoppers also can visit the RelayCars website on their mobile devices. The mobile site gives car shoppers the opportunity to explore cars via 3D interactive imagery. In addition, the mobile site offers an augmented reality experience. To access the augmented reality experience, car shoppers use the camera of their phone to capture their real-world environment. Whatever environment is shown via the camera is where a 3D image of the selected vehicle will appear. Preview a car anywhere or just check it out in the driveway. Both the RelayCars mobile site and the mobile app let car shoppers preview models in different paint hues. In addition, RelayCars also lets buyers research the MSRP and other pertinent data of thousands of popular models. While the easiest way to sell a car might simply be to sell it to a dealership (or offer it up as a trade-in), the RelayCars website and app provide the easiest tools for researching a new car. After selling that older car, use RelayCars to preview a virtual inventory of makes and models and have fun exploring the possibilities.

Salvage cars have been declared a total loss by an insurance company. There are a number of reasons why a car could be totaled or given a ‘salvage’ title: theft, fire, water damage, hail damage, and/or a car accident. Cars that were repaired and that passed an inspection could receive a ‘rebuilt’ title and be safe for the roads again. In addition, hail vehicles might be totaled but could receive a title that lets them be driven, too. However, the value of a totaled car becomes murky. Car owners might wonder: “what happens if someone hits my salvage car?” The answer to this question isn’t so simple. Here are two possibilities that could happen when someone hits a salvage car: * The owner is driving a car that cannot be legally driven, resulting in issues * The responsible party’s insurance offers some compensation WHAT HAPPENS IF THE OWNER WAS DRIVING A SALVAGE VEHICLE? If someone damages a car with a salvage title, the owner has already been compensated for the loss. If the car’s title is still ‘salvage,’ then it isn’t safe to drive and can’t be operated on public roads. If the owner was driving it with a salvage title—not rebuilt—there could be issues for the owner. In this situation, compensation might be the least of the owner’s worries. Would the party who hit the salvage vehicle still be responsible? Legally, hitting a vehicle might still render them responsible. However, their insurance company might balk at repairs or compensation if, again, the owner was not supposed to be driving the vehicle. Plus, salvage title vehicles cannot be insured. In the situation of a car owner driving a car that has a salvage title (and doesn’t have insurance), a lawyer might be the best person to offer advice. WHEN THE CAR OWNER RECEIVES SOME COMPENSATION The value of a rebuilt vehicle isn’t always easy to ascertain. Remember, the vehicle has already been totaled and declared a full loss. A rebuilt vehicle could offer some value, and this means the owner could be entitled to repair costs or some compensation (if the car is now unable to be repaired). How much compensation, though, might depend on the insurance company of the responsible party. The site CarInsurance.com offers some insight about the value of rebuilt salvage vehicles. The site explains: “Auto and insurance industry sources report that the decrease in value of a vehicle that has a rebuilt or salvage title is typically between 20% to 40%, depending on the type of vehicle, its age, the amount of damage it had and the local automotive market.” CAN CAR OWNERS BUY COMPREHENSIVE INSURANCE FOR A REBUILT VEHICLE? Car owners might wonder if they could purchase comprehensive auto insurance for a vehicle with a rebuilt title. Typically, auto insurers won’t take on a vehicle with a rebuilt title for comprehensive coverage. Again, the vehicle was already totaled. However, car owners might get liability coverage for these cars. They may need to research their best rates, though. Value Penguin explains that rebuilt vehicles also are deemed riskier because they could have hidden issues; thus, the site explains that insurance companies perceive them as more likely to result in claims. What Happens if Someone Hits My Salvage Car [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Is-Buying-a-Rebuilt-Car-a-Good-Deal.jpg] IS BUYING A REBUILT CAR A GOOD DEAL? While cars with salvage titles can’t be driven, car buyers might come across great deals at dealerships related to cars with rebuilt titles. Some car dealerships get hit by hailstorms, which results in a significant amount of their inventory being declared a total loss or being damaged. USA Today explains that hail damaged cars have their damage designated on their title. Buyers might feel better when they know that the reason for the ‘total loss’ was simply significant cosmetic damage. Hail-damaged cars could come with a much lower price tag. This could be a great opportunity for a buyer that wants a high-priced car that isn’t in their budget.  USA Today reports, though, that buyers still need to be cautious when buying these cars. Specifically, the paper reports that buyers should find out if the car can be protected with comprehensive insurance and if a lender will finance a hail-damaged vehicle. If a car cannot be covered with a comprehensive policy because of the hail damage, it’s possible that a lender won’t provide financing. Comprehensive coverage helps protect a lender’s interest. This coverage protects the car owner, too. If the owner is responsible for an accident and doesn’t have comprehensive coverage, they will need to cover the costs of repairs to their vehicle. In addition, if the car is completely destroyed, they will still be responsible for the loan. What Happens if Someone Hits My Salvage Car [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Should-Car-Owners-Even-Repair-a-Totaled-Car.jpg] SHOULD CAR OWNERS EVEN REPAIR A TOTALED CAR? If a car is in a major accident or severely damaged in a flood or a fire, fixing it could be impossible. In this case, once the car is totaled by the insurance company, the owner will simply need to let the insurance company take possession of it. The car might then be auctioned or completely scrapped. When a car is damaged by hail, the insurance company might let the owner buy back the car at the salvage value. The price will then be deducted from the settlement. In some states, a buy-back isn’t allowed except in certain circumstances. To better understand options when a car is totaled, car owners can research their state’s laws. Cars that were declared a loss because of hail might be able to be driven. However, the owner will need to re-title the vehicle and go through all the necessary steps required by their state to ensure the car is legal for road travel. HOW TO FIND A BUDGET-FRIENDLY CAR IF A CAR WAS TOTALED If someone hits a salvaged car that was rebuilt and street legal, the owner might receive some compensation. However, since these cars are worth much less than a car with a clean title, the compensation could be minimal.  In an accident that renders the rebuilt car useless, the car owner might be on the hunt for a new vehicle and have very little money to allocate towards that new purchase. How can car buyers find a vehicle that fits their budget? The first step is to figure out how much the buyer can feasibly spend on a new vehicle. This requires reviewing the budget; add up all the monthly expenses (including food, insurance and fuel). Then add up the monthly income (use the take-home pay, which is after tax and other deductions). Is there a budget surplus, or does the budget show that expenses are higher than income? If the latter is the reality, cutting expenses to afford a car might be required. However, if there is a surplus, this could figure into how much an individual could feasibly spend on a car payment. The general recommendation is that individuals should spend less than 10 percent of their monthly take-home pay on a car payment. Some people could afford to spend a little more, but others might need to spend much less. If someone hits a car with a rebuilt title and it is now completely destroyed, car owners could use any compensation they received to buy a car outright. This might mean that the car purchase might not be the owner’s dream vehicle. The goal might simply be to find a vehicle that is safe and gets the individual where they need to go. When buying a car in cash and without financing, search for vehicles under the budget. Why? Buyers will still need to pay sales tax (in applicable states) and fees related to registration/titling. The price of a car isn’t just about the sales price. When opting for used cars, ask to review the Carfax report. This can help a buyer understand the number of previous owners and any details related to accidents/repairs. Buyers also might insist on an inspection. In fact, Consumer Reports recommends that potential buyers take the vehicle for a professional inspection. Buyers also can research the value of cars via Kelley Blue Book (KBB). The site can help buyers compare prices at dealerships, but buyers also can enter in a car’s make/model to uncover a resale price. This could help them understand the price they might expect to pay. During a time of high demand for new and used cars, buyers might contend with high price tags. This doesn’t mean that buyers can’t find a car in their price range, but they might need to make a few concessions. Used cars vary in price based on several factors: * Make/model * Mileage * Age * Condition Rock-bottom prices could be attached to older cars, vehicles with very high mileage or maybe even cars that are in not-so-stellar condition. Not every buyer wants a car that’s 20-years-old, but some buyers could be fine with any model that allows them to buy a car for the cash in their pocket. Safety, though, is important. Buyers should consider the safety features in the car that they wish to purchase. Older cars might lack the advanced safety features found in newer cars. WHAT HAPPENS IF SOMEONE HITS MY SALVAGE CAR? When someone hits a salvage car or even a car with a clean title, the owner might be faced with only a claims check and a worthless car that is now the property of the insurance company. The check from the accident could be the car owner’s budget for a new car. They also could use the claim check to serve as their down payment for a new car. However, if the car owner happened to be driving a car with a salvage title that wasn’t able to be operated on the road, they may have other issues with which to contend after an accident (even if they weren’t at fault). Don’t drive a car with just a salvage title and understand that driving a car with a rebuilt title means it’s worth much less than a vehicle with a clean title.

The ground clearance of a vehicle refers to how high it sits off the ground. While some vehicles are designed to sit higher from the ground, some car owners modify vehicles with larger tires to provide additional clearance. Trucks and SUVs are typically the two types of vehicles designed with a higher ground clearance; these vehicles often are used for rougher terrain and, in some cases, off-roading adventures. The best ground clearance SUV models should enable drivers to navigate the wild terrain and go off the beaten path to explore and take on new adventures. Carfax rounded up the best ground clearance SUV models. The top five best ground-clearance SUVs for 2022 included: * 2022 Land Rover Range Rover * 2022 Land Rover Defender * 2022 Ford Bronco Badlands Sasquatch (Carfax listed the 2021 model in the second-place spot) * 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk (Carfax included the 2021 model in the 5th place spot) * 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Sport THE BEST HIGH CLEARANCE SUV MODELS ARE PRICED HIGHER The five SUV models with the highest ground clearance are not low-budget options. Land Rover models make up three out of five SUVs on the list. Land Rover’s models are typically considered high-end or luxury vehicles. The Land Rover Range Rover has a starting MSRP of $93,800, but the Land Rover Defender is almost half that price with a starting MSRP of $48,700. The Land Rover Range Rover Sport starts at $70,900. Ford offers the lowest-priced model on the list. The 2021 Ford Bronco Badlands Sasquatch is offered in two different options—two door and four door. The two-door model started at $42,095, while the four-door model was priced at $44,590. The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk is priced in the $50K range. The Trailhawk had a starting MSRP of $54,235—about $7,000 more than the 2021 model. Best Ground Clearance SUV [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/How-High-off-the-Ground-is-Each-Model.jpg] HOW HIGH OFF THE GROUND IS EACH MODEL? Every model on the list offers high ground clearance. These SUVs also are ideal to take on off-roading adventures; Jeep and Land Rover SUVs are designed for rougher terrain. The Ford Bronco also can tackle the great outdoors and comes equipped with 35” tires, front and rear axles that electronically lock and other off-road features.   Here’s how high each model sits off the ground: * 2022 Land Rover Range Rover 8.6” (base model); 11.6” (off-road) * 2022 Land Rover Defender With air suspension, the Defender sits between 8.5 inches–11.6 inches * 2022 Ford Bronco Badlands Sasquatch 8.4” (for the base model); 11.6” (equipped with 35” tires) * 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk Up to 11.3” * 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Sport 8.5” (base model); 11.1” (off-road) Best Ground Clearance SUV [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Off-Roading-and-Ground-Clearance.jpg] OFF-ROADING AND GROUND CLEARANCE Car buyers interested in driving on rough terrain, sandy beaches or anywhere beyond the highways and roads need to ensure that the vehicle they choose is equipped for these adventures. Taking a vehicle onto rocky terrain might damage the tires (if they aren’t designed for this), but the vehicle could be damaged, too, if it sits too low. Many trails include information about the ground clearance of vehicles for safe navigation. Car owners should be mindful of these signs. If car buyers aren’t sure how much ground clearance they might need, they can consult the site 4 Wheel Drive Guide. This helpful guide offers more data on the ground clearance specs that drivers will need to take on different types of terrain. For example, the site explains that gravel tracks or paths need a minimum clearance of “…between 6.6 inches and 8.7 inches.” Drivers interested in rock crawling should opt for a minimum clearance of 10.8 inches (plus those wheels need to be designed for crawling). While ground clearance is important to ensure that the SUV isn’t damaged, some models might need extra equipment to tackle some terrain. Before heading off-road, talk to the dealership or consult with an expert about how to best equip the SUV for a specific off-road adventure. Best Ground Clearance SUV [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Some-SUVs-Are-Meant-for-the-Roads-Most-Traveled.jpg] SOME SUVS ARE MEANT FOR THE ROADS MOST TRAVELED There are many high-ground clearance SUVs that are designed for off-roading, but, as SUVs have become a popular vehicle for many buyers, some of these models are meant to take on the paved roads, not the dirt paths. Some SUVs don’t offer four-wheel drive or even all-wheel drive. There are many models that offer the heft of the truck chassis (on which SUVs are built) but don’t offer the off-roading capabilities. These SUVs might be a bit more formal and a ride that’s meant to be more refined. Car buyers shouldn’t assume that all SUVs are created to tackle tough roads, rocky paths and even sandy beaches. In fact, popular beaches typically post signs stating that certain areas can only be driven on by vehicles with four-wheel drive capabilities. Those with front-wheel drive might end up digging themselves into a hole and needing a push (or maybe even a tow truck!). COULD USED SUVS BE LESS EXPENSIVE? Car buyers who want a high-clearance SUV for off-roading might not have the budget for a new model. The top five high-clearance vehicles range in price from the $40K-range to more than $93K. If buyers opt for upgraded features, the price could jump even higher. Opting for a used or pre-owned vehicle provides buyers with the option to pay less for a similar vehicle. However, the price of used models varies based on several factors: * Condition * Age * Mileage The make/model also impacts the price of a used SUV. For example, a luxury model will cost more than a standard model of a similar age and mileage. Some buyers decide that they are willing to pay less for an older model. Others are fine with a higher mileage on the odometer. However, a higher mileage vehicle could have more wear and tear. While a few basic factors impact used car prices, so does supply and demand. If supply is low but demand is high, buyers might face higher prices for used cars. A low supply also could mean that popular models are hard to find. Buyers who want the best deal for a used or pre-owned model might shop around. Visit Kelley Blue Book’s (KBB) website to get an idea about what certain models are selling for in the area. Compare prices at dealerships. If the buyer has a trade-in to offer a dealership, the car owner also should use KBB to research the value of their vehicle. KBB let’s car owners find either the resale price or the trade-in value. KBB provides the most up-to-date values related to market trends. While selling a car privately could lead to more money for the owner, it also could be more complicated, too. When using a car for a trade-in, buyers should understand that the dealership will always need to build in their profit. This is why trade-in values are lower than resale values. Knowing the value of a vehicle can help car owners feel more empowered when they are negotiating with the dealership on the price of their vehicle. If car owners feel that the dealership isn’t giving them a good deal for their trade-in based on their KBB research, they may decide to move to another dealership. Car buyers should keep in mind, though, that if supply is low, other dealerships might not have the car they want. They should research which dealerships have their vehicle in stock and focus on these particular dealership locations. CAR BUYERS CAN RESEARCH DIFFERENT CARS VIRTUALLY AND IN AUGMENTED REALITY Car buyers who are researching new SUVs with the highest ground clearance can download the RelayCars app or visit the RelayCars mobile website to explore their options in virtual reality and/or augmented reality. The RelayCars app lets buyers immerse in the car buying journey via 3D interactive models that can be explored with just a fingertip. Thousands of makes and models are included in RelayCars’ inventory; car buyers can interact with these 3D images and turn the car around to view it from all angles. The app also lets buyers explore cars in a virtual reality showroom. However, users need to have access to Google Cardboard for the virtual reality experience. RelayCars’ mobile site encourages buyers to explore vehicles using 3D models or in augmented reality. The augmented reality experience can be enjoyed with a smartphone or a tablet. The camera from the mobile device is used to capture the real environment, and the augmented reality vehicle can be dropped in this space. With the augmented reality showroom, car buyers can walk around the car to explore its design. In addition, buyers also can choose to preview the car in their garage or their driveway. The 3D imagery interactive experience and the augmented reality/virtual reality showroom experiences let buyers preview cars in different paint colors, too. In addition, RelayCars also offers specs and data for every make/model in its inventory. Review the starting MSRP and compare different features, too. Car buyers can use RelayCars to explore all the high-clearance SUV models to find the one that fits their budget and their off-road adventures. Download the app or visit the mobile site today!

Buying a new or used car can be very financially focused. Buyers will need to determine how they plan to pay for their must-have vehicle. While most buyers get financed through a lender, others pay for a vehicle in cash. Those who opt for financing, though, might need to offer up a down payment. Some buyers have saved a significant amount for a down payment, but some buyers are unprepared and try to come up with any down payment for that vehicle. Buyers wondering how much down payment for a car is necessary can focus on these guidelines and tips. WHAT’S A GOOD DOWN PAYMENT ON A CAR? Before focusing on how much to secure for a down payment, consumers might focus on how much car they can afford to purchase. Experts recommend that the monthly payment of a car should be less than 10 percent of an individual’s monthly take-home pay (this is the amount that’s left after taxes and other deductions like healthcare). Spending too much on a vehicle could impact other areas of an individual’s finances. Buying a car shouldn’t cause an individual to pinch their food budget or make too many other financial concessions. Instead, consumers should focus on what they can afford per month. To get a better understanding of the financial big picture, consumers can review their monthly costs and expenses. Add all the bills and expenses together to obtain a total—don’t forget to include food, fuel, etc. Consumers also need to total up their monthly income, and then they need to deduct all the expenses from the income. Is there enough left for a car payment? Would spending less than 10 percent of monthly take home pay still crunch the budget? These are important considerations, as some consumers may find that they can spend much less on a vehicle than they assumed. In addition, consumers also can request their credit report. This helps an individual better understand their credit risk or worthiness. Review the credit score and check over the report to make sure there are no mistakes. Buyers can use the credit score from their report when using a car payment calculator. NerdWallet’s calculator helps buyers understand interest rate terms for different credit scores. The calculator also can help buyers understand payment obligations and how much car they might be able to afford. How Much Down Payment for a Car [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/How-Much-to-Put-Down-on-a-Car.jpg] HOW MUCH TO PUT DOWN ON A CAR When buyers have reviewed their credit report and their finances and have determined how much they can spend for a car, they also need to understand the best options for a down payment. Some experts recommend a 20 percent down payment for a new car and a 10 percent down payment on a used vehicle. For a $20,000 vehicle, a 20 percent down payment would equal $4,000. Some buyers might not have this amount of money set aside for a down payment. Others could struggle to make any down payment. Lenders might offer more favorable terms and interest rates for those who can make a down payment or even individuals who can put 20 percent down. Why? A down payment reduces the lender’s risk by lowering the amount that the lender needs to provide for the vehicle. HOW MUCH DOWN PAYMENT FOR CAR THAT IS USED OR PRE-OWNED Experts recommend that car buyers try to allocate 10 percent down for a used car. This is due to the fact that a used vehicle has already been impacted by depreciation. Cars depreciate once they are driven off the lot. In fact, cars will lose anywhere from nine to 11 percent once they leave the dealership. After five years, a vehicle might have lost 60 percent of its original value. There could be exceptions to these numbers, though. Post-Covid, the United States faced a shortage of microchips; these tiny parts were essential for the construction of modern-day vehicles. For some manufacturers, the shortage shut down production. In response, the used car market was in high demand. Buyers were interested in used models, and dealerships suddenly were moving these cars off their lots quickly. The demand for used cars pushed the value of many vehicles higher. Some models might be worth more used than they were worth the day they were originally purchased. In a high-demand used market, the amount of money that a buyer allocates for a down payment might depend on their financial situation. In addition, some buyers have a trade-in that also could decrease the price of a new or used vehicle. WHY IS A DOWN PAYMENT BENEFICIAL? Some buyers might wonder why they even need to allocate a down payment. How is a down payment beneficial? The down payment for a vehicle helps: * Offset the value loss from depreciation * Removes some risk from the lender * Can help buyers get better loan terms and/or rates * Helps buyers pay less interest during their loan [https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Iyf9morNVp3ilyDFuxLEZmY93XubT_nwuAUZKUEqjEUJ7dFgBbiZD-7z5TrpeELJg6IbyqHcxATLcRdP8t_HZoaC00RqoAKfdLHRnskBb7X6CFOSvad2oK9OP7wYhawT-a-DkJbXYanAR9z7Tw] DEPRECIATION CAN CAUSE AN UPSIDE DOWN LOAN Cars depreciate quickly. The issue with depreciation is that it affects the value of the car in relation to the balance of the loan. If the car drives off the lot, loses 10 percent of its value, and the buyer opted for a lower than normal down payment, the car could immediately be underwater. An underwater vehicle or loan means that the loan balance is greater than the car’s value. This is bad because if the owner needs to sell the car or if they total the car in an accident (and don’t have GAP insurance), the value won’t be high enough to pay off the loan. The owner will need to come up with that extra cash. HELPS LOWER A LENDER’S RISK Allocating a 20 percent down payment for a new car means the lender only has to finance 80 percent of the value of the vehicle. The car could have equity or, at the very least, not be pulled underwater from depreciation. BUYERS MIGHT SECURE BETTER TERMS OR RATES A down payment helps lower the loan amount and can help make the loan less risky in the eyes of a lender. Buyers who offer down payments also might secure better interest rates or loan terms. While not all buyers might get a lower interest rate because they offer a down payment, those with good credit scores and a down payment could see a benefit from that cash down payment. Every lending situation is unique, however. BUYERS PAY LESS INTEREST DURING THEIR LOAN A down payment decreases the purchase price of the vehicle. This means that the interest rate is applied to a lower principal. Over the course of the loan, the borrower will pay less interest. In addition, borrowers who make a significant down payment could reduce the cost of the vehicle enough to opt for a shorter-term loan. They could pay off the vehicle in full after three years instead of six. Down payments can provide options for buyers related to the loans and the financing for which they might qualify. How Much Down Payment for a Car [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Down-Payment-Promotions.jpg] DOWN PAYMENT PROMOTIONS Many consumers have heard the ‘dime down’ commercials advertised on the radio. The allure of these promotions is that the buyer doesn’t have to provide a significant down payment. Instead, a dime could be all that is needed to secure financing for that car. The offer could be appealing to those who simply don’t have the money saved for a down payment. Is the promotion a good deal, though? The answer really depends on the needs of the buyer. Some buyers might need to take advantage of these deals because their lending options could be limited. They might have a low credit score, and perhaps this type of promotion allows them to buy the car they need. Buyers should read the terms of their financing before signing. What’s the interest rate? What is the monthly payment and how long is the loan? When a down payment is minimal, buyers also need to keep in mind that their vehicle might be underwater when they drive off the lot. This could put them in a precarious situation if they total the car (without GAP insurance). RESEARCH OPTIONS AT HOME WITH RELAYCARS When consumers are researching different vehicle options, they can use RelayCars to preview and explore different models and understand the pricing and specs of different vehicle options. In addition, RelayCars also partners with CarSaver.com to simplify the shopping process and find the best vehicle prices. Download the RelayCars app to preview vehicles via interactive 3D models or using virtual reality (for those with Google Cardboard). However, buyers also can investigate different models by visiting the RelayCars website on a mobile device. The RelayCars website lets smartphone or tablet users explore models using 3D models or in augmented reality. The camera on the phone or tablet captures the real world environment, and cars will appear as 3D images within this environment. Drop the vehicle anywhere and walk around it to explore. Both the RelayCars mobile website and the app let users access information about thousands of makes and models in the virtual inventory. Review the MSRP and specs of the vehicle. Compare models and then visit CarSaver.com to search for favorite models and find the best prices. With RelayCars, the car shopping experience is immersive and hassle-free.

We all want to look good in our everyday lives. We want to live in nice places and wear nice clothes. We also want nice cars.  Whether we’re driving around all day or just using the car to get back and forth, we all want to look our best and feel good about what we drive. Nobody wants to drive an ugly clunker!  For some of us, driving around in a car that looks expensive is a matter of business and self-promotion. Some professionals need to appear wealthy as a function of their jobs, and many of the rest of us like the ambiance of wealth that having the right car can give. When looking for a car, you might ask yourself what cars make you look wealthy. There are some great options for someone looking for an affordable car that looks expensive. Some are reliable older luxury models, including BMWs, Porches, and Maseratis. Others are low-priced luxury models from brands like Audi and Honda.  Keep in mind that cars require maintenance, and some of the cars that make you look wealthy might require wealth to replace specialty parts. Older models might even be discontinued, making parts a challenge to find. This is an expense that needs to be considered, but will be well worth it if you find a car that’s right for you. Before you go shopping for any type of car, it’s important to know what’s available to you. Having a good sample can start you on your journey by showing you the possibilities. These cars are a taste of what’s out there. BMW Z3 In the mid 1990s, BMW released a series of cruisers called the Z3 and Z4. Light on the road and full of V6 zip, the Z3 and its sister are durable and fun cars that look like something James Bond would drive on an exotic European beach highway. The convertible models give the air of carefree wealth and classic luxury. This is a car for people who enjoy the open air and want to do so while looking sporty.  Cheap Cars That Look Expensive [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Jaguar-XK.jpg] JAGUAR XK The Jaguar make has long been a car that makes its driver look wealthy. Often associated with old wealth and prestigious jobs, its distinctive hood ornament has always been a symbol of money. The XK series took the classic and merged it with the aesthetics of a sports car, including the power of a V8 under the hood. Inside, the leather interior adds a constant reminder that you are driving a luxurious car. MASERATI SPYDER Do you want to drive a sleek sports car? The Maserati Spyder was released in the early 2000s, but still looks like it could have just rolled out of the showroom. Open the roof and enjoy the wind in your hair while driving this respected name, knowing that everyone who sees you will see wealth and style. Only you and your car dealer will know that you probably paid under $10,000 for it. FIAT SPIDER Arachnids seem to be good inspiration for automobile designers. Fiat has its own signature to its designs, and the Fiat Spider draws from the maker’s 124 series of the 1970s to create a uniquely 2017 body. It’s a meeting of compact and sports cars, a little wonder that packs a big punch. Even its headlights are little narrowed eyes intensely concentrating on enjoying the road, and you get to look like an elite racer when you’re behind the wheel. Cheap Cars That Look Expensive [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Bentley-Arnage.jpg] BENTLEY ARNAGE Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Bentley released models like the Arnage and the Turbo R. These cars still have the timeless air of luxury as when they were new, and today’s competitor models try to emulate their classy style. Over the years they have come down in price to under $20,000. It may need a little love and care, but the Arnage still looks as though you have money to blow. MAZDA MX-5 MIATA The Miata has long been known for its two-seater, drop-top, simple fun. Drivers can take a Miata for a night on the town, a day at the lake, or a weekend in the woods. The storage space in the back is complemented by sports car power under the hood and a body that can be recognized even by people who don’t know anything about cars. They look like a drive through the Hamptons, but even newer models can be obtained for around $20,000. LEXUS IS The L in Lexus could easily stand for “luxury,” and you’d not be far off: Lexus is the luxury brand for Toyota. This make is associated with prestigious wealth and top-tier professionals, with all the dependability and reliability that made the Toyota name what it is today, but with all the perks of any of its luxury competitors. Easily maintained, with a V8 and rear-wheel drive, the Lexus IS tells everyone who sees it that someone important is driving. AUDI A3 German engineering meets luxury design in this more recent model compact sedan. Even newer models won’t break the bank, but models as recent as 2017 can be found for under $20,000. For that low price, your car will look classy on the outside, feel classy on the inside, and run and steer like a dream. With all this, and simple maintenance, the Audi A3 is a car that only looks expensive, but is actually very reasonably priced. Cheap Cars That Look Expensive [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Mercedes-Benz-CLA-and-CLS.jpg] MERCEDES-BENZ CLA AND CLS Any Mercedes-Benz that can be found for under $20,000 is a steal, but the CLA and CLS models are especially so because they are so gas-efficient. Luxury cars are not known for this quality, and it’s only one thing of many that sets the CLA and CLS classes above other Mercedes models on the scale of affordable cars that look expensive. It has everything we expect from a Mercedes-Benz, but you don’t have to be an A-lister to own one. INFINITI Q50 The Infiniti is the luxury branch of another high-performance car producer, Nissan. Everything they put into their sports cars is channeled here into a luxurious SUV that is so detailed in design that new manufacturing methods had to be invented to produce it. When the maker pays that much attention to a car, you know you’re in for a smooth ride on the inside and a gorgeous machine on the outside. PORSCHE BOXSTER The convertible Boxster 987 and its hardtop sister the Cayman, both from Porsche, are two of the most popular affordable cars that look expensive. Maybe some of that is the name, which has long been associated with wealth and speed. Maybe it’s the powerful engine or the 6-speed transmission that backs up its reputation. The car is the first of the 2-seaters, so it could be that the popularity of this style of sports car attracts people to own one. Or maybe it’s the design that tells observers its driver is a wealthy person on-the-go, who just loves to drive.  MERCEDES S-CLASS A Mercedes can make anyone look wealthy when they drive it, and the S-Class provides another great option for the budget-minded. Loaded with features and a wood-grain interior dashboard, you’ll feel like you spent a million bucks, even though you spent $25,000 or less. There are a few models in the S-Class, such as the W220 and the S550, whose powerful engines and distinctive exteriors tell anyone who sees them that there is wealth inside. HONDA CIVIC A popular car for people who like to go fast, the Honda Civic is a sports car with a bargain price tag. More recent models have evolved to become sleek and expensive-looking, but the Civic is around $30,000 brand new. What it lacks in a price tag, it has in reliability and power. This is a little roadster with zip, but it looks like it belongs in the Grand Prix.  Cheap Cars That Look Expensive [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Lotus-Elise.jpg] LOTUS ELISE The Lotus Elise came out in 1996, but is another design that anticipated 21st century aesthetics. Lotus is known for speed, power, and design, and the Elise delivers all three. This British sports car brings to mind the days of driving goggles and wind-blown scarves, with a light body that screams for speed. The Lotus Elise was genuinely expensive when it was new, and still looks like it costs a lot, but can be found for under $20,000. CADILLAC ESCALADE The “Caddy,” as it’s affectionately known, will always be associated with old money and elite prestige, and the Escalade takes all of this and channels it into an SUV. With a big V8 under the hood and a lush interior, the Cadillac Escalade set the bar for luxury SUVs. Today, you can find mid-2000s models for under $10,000, but no one who sees you in it will think you paid less than a fortune. ROLLS ROYCE SILVER SPIRIT One of those makes whose name is synonymous with prestige and money, Rolls Royce are always pricey when they come off the showroom floor, but older models are available for a steal. The Silver Spirit is a timeless design that we often think of when we hear the brand name. They aren’t easy to fix if something goes really wrong, but if you know how to take good care of your engine, you’ll be driving around in one of the cars most associated with luxury. NISSAN Z350 Nissan Z has been almost as recognized as a fast sports car as its cousins from Porsche and Maserati. The fifth-generation of the model, the Z350, was its incarnation in the 2000s. This is the kind of car that when you tap the gas pedal slightly, the V6 engine lets you know with a mighty roar. Today you can find them for around $10,000, but they look as exciting and luxurious as the Z series has always been. KIA CADENZA What if speedsters and SUVs aren’t your thing, or are not in line with your needs? The Kia Cadenza is the luxury sedan for your needs. Loaded with features and a comfortable interior, the secret to the Cadenza is its classy design, which looks a lot  more expensive than its $30,000 showroom price tag. This is a car you can take your kids to school in right before hitting the board meeting, or at least that’s what your neighbors will think! Cheap Cars That Look Expensive [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Porsche-911.jpg] PORSCHE 911 This is the classic Porsche that everyone is familiar with, and is one of those unique vehicles that is recognizable as wealth no matter how old it is. The 911s from the mid 1990s and early 2000s can be bought for as low as $15,000, but the Porsche name and 911 body are so well-known that anyone who owns one is still thought of as wealthy. No list of cars that make you look wealthy would be complete without it. FIND YOUR LUXURY CAR Shopping for a car is always exciting, and shopping for a luxury car has an air of pride and accomplishment about it. When shopping for a luxury car at a bargain price, it’s important to shop around and see what type of car appeals to you, what a model’s gas and maintenance is like, and what is available. You can start here on your search for cheap cars that look expensive, and find a ride that turns heads and projects wealth.

The majority of car buyers finance their purchase with a car loan. There are a number of ways to secure a loan, though. Car buyers can visit the dealership to get financed, they can use an online site to find financing or they can get financed through a bank. The latter option is often the best option. In fact, there are five reasons to finance through a bank: * Banks could offer better interest rates * The experience may be more personable * Car buyers can shop around * The dealership visit can be shorter * Financing in hand gives buyers an easy out at the dealership DEALERSHIPS MIGHT UPCHARGE THAT INTEREST RATE Buyers might find that applying for financing at the dealership is incredibly convenient. This could allow buyers to just pick out their car and then get financed. While allowing the dealership to help find financing for the vehicle is convenient, it also could be more expensive. In some situations, the dealership might tack on a few percentage points to the bank’s interest rate for assisting with the financing. This is a fairly common practice. Those extra percentage points might mean more money for the dealership, but it also causes buyers to pay more each month for their vehicle. Dealership also could add in extra amenities into the loan, too. Real Car Tips explains that they could include warranties or GAP insurance. Finance a Car through a Bank [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/How-and-Why-Financing-From-a-Bank-Can-Benefit-Buyers.jpg] HOW AND WHY FINANCING FROM A BANK CAN BENEFIT BUYERS Securing a loan from a bank to purchase a vehicle allows car buyers to visit the dealership with their financing lined up. This enables them to know exactly how much they can spend and stick to that budget. Before visiting the dealership, though, buyers might want to use a car payment calculator to enter in their loan terms and work out how different car prices would impact the payment. Just because a buyer is approved for a specific loan amount doesn’t mean they have to borrow the maximum amount extended to them. Shopping for a less expensive car also could help buyers who might not have a lot of money for a down payment. While the loan covers the purchase price, Nerdwallet explains that the buyer needs to abide by the lender’s terms. The terms of the loan could stipulate a specific down payment and/or mileage and age of the vehicle. In addition, buyers also need to prepare for any tax that they might owe for their purchase. While buyers might be able to roll sales tax into the loan, this isn’t always an option. Buyers might be stuck with the full bill and the amount could be due before they are allowed to title or register their vehicle. Finance a Car through a Bank [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Do-Banks-Offer-Better-Interest-Rates.jpg] DO BANKS OFFER BETTER INTEREST RATES? Dealerships can tack up a few percentage points for handling the loan search, and these extra points could impact that monthly payment. When applying for financing at a bank, though, interest rates that are offered to a borrower are typically cut and dry. The process to get pre-qualified also is pretty simple. The bank will run a credit check to review the individual’s credit score and credit report. Loan terms and interest rates may rely on this information. Those with high credit scores might secure the best rates and terms. Car buyers can visit the bank that they use personally or that they have financed with in the past. Perhaps the bank is their mortgage lender. Buyers can go through the pre-approval process to better understand the interest rates and terms for which they might qualify. This helps them also understand their potential car budget. A MORE PERSONABLE EXPERIENCE AT THE BANK Getting pre-approved for a car loan at a bank or credit union could be a more personable experience for buyers. Banks aren’t trying to sell anything, and buyers don’t have to worry about unusual markups or charges. While all consumers need to review the rates and terms of a loan, borrowers can ask the bank to explain any unclear details of the loan and/or the monthly payment obligations. Most loan officers, though, are pretty good about explaining all these details. In addition, if the rates at the bank aren’t great, the individual can move on. CAR BUYERS CAN SHOP AROUND Getting pre-approved for a car loan at a bank is considered a hard credit inquiry and it will slightly impact a consumer’s credit score. However, this inquiry is necessary for banks and credit unions to better understand an individual’s risk or creditworthiness. Nerdwallet recommends that buyers get pre-approved from two to three lenders. The site notes that if the credit inquiries for these lenders are made around the same time, they will hit the credit score as one inquiry. Getting multiple loan quotes allows buyers to find the lender and the loan with the best interest rate and terms. A SHORTER DEALERSHIP VISIT When buyers are pre-approved for financing, they can go into the dealership visit without worrying about the financing portion of the deal. This can allow the buyer to sit down with the sales team member and find the car that they want at the price they can afford. The dealership visit can focus on taking a test drive and finding the car with the ideal features that satisfies the needs of the buyer. Finance a Car through a Bank [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Pre-Approved-Financing.jpg] PRE-APPROVED FINANCING CAN LET BUYERS AVOID SALES PRESSURE When buyers visit the dealership and have already been pre-approved for financing by a bank, the loan serves as the maximum price they are able to spend on their vehicle. Nerdwallet explains that this can give buyers an out for any upselling that the sales team member might try to push. When an extended warranty or other options push the car’s price too high, the buyer can just decline based on what they know about their financing. Getting pre-approved at a bank can provide more power and more buying confidence for the consumer. SOMETIMES THE DEALERSHIP CAN BEAT THE BANK’S RATES Getting financed with the help of a dealership isn’t always a bad deal. In fact, dealerships might be able to help a buyer secure financing that is better than what the bank could offer. Some dealerships might have a promotion for a 0 percent interest rate for qualified buyers. While these special promotions could require the loan to be a certain length, the 0 percent interest rate can be unbeatable. If the terms are right and the buyer can afford the payments, they will have a loan that allows them to pay only the principal on the car each month. Before getting too excited about 0 percent offers, though, buyers might need to ask about the qualifications and the terms. Some buyers might qualify but the monthly payments could be too high. HOW MUCH CAR CAN I AFFORD? Getting pre-approved for financing at a bank lets buyers know how much they can spend at the dealership. However, buyers don’t have to max out their loan. Nerdwallet recommends that buyers allocate less than 10 percent of their take-home pay for the actual car payment. However, the site notes that buyers should allocate less than 20 percent of take home pay for total car expenses (insurance, fuel, etc.). Knowing these recommendations can further help buyers understand their monthly budget. While, yes, the pre-approval helps them understand the bottom line budget, they still need to think about the cost of insuring the vehicle as well as other costs of car ownership. If the car payment plus those fuel and insurance costs seems to tip the scale, buyers might opt to purchase a less expensive car. Again, buyers don’t have to spend every cent for which they are approved. SAVE FOR TAXES AND OTHER FEES The bank may provide financing for the car loan, but buyers still have other costs related to that purchase. In some cases, the sales tax from the vehicle purchase cannot be rolled into the loan. The buyer might need to pay those costs in full before they can title or register their vehicle. Sales tax can be a big expense if the buyer isn’t prepared for it. In addition, buyers also need to pay for the registration and other fees (these, however, are typically not too expensive). Not all states charge sales tax for the purchase of a vehicle, so this is an expense that won’t affect buyers across the country. A TRADE-IN CAN HELP LOWER COSTS A lender might have stipulations related to a down payment when extending a loan offer. However, buyers can further decrease their purchase price if they offer a trade-in. Before visiting a dealership, buyers should use Kelley Blue Book (KBB) to research the price of their trade-in vehicle. KBB will ask the owner for the VIN or make/model. The site also will prompt the owner for details related to the car’s trim, features and condition. Car owners should be honest about the car’s condition. Otherwise the value estimate from KBB won’t be accurate. The purpose of researching the value of the vehicle is to find out if offers from the dealership are in line with the average trade-in value. Understanding the value of a trade-in can be a point of negotiation for buyers. If a dealership offers a low price for the trade-in, buyers might visit a different dealership or enter into negotiations to attempt to raise the price of the trade-in. DO BANKS OFFER THE BEST CAR FINANCING? There are a number of reasons why car buyers might consider getting pre-approved for financing through a bank. A bank or credit union might offer better terms and interest rates, the experience could be more personable and visiting the dealership with financing could give more power to the buyer. The bank doesn’t necessarily always offer the best rates, though. In some cases, the dealership might offer a 0 percent interest rate or even better terms. When it comes to financing a vehicle, buyers should shop around to ensure they find the best terms and interest rates.

Toyota is one of the biggest companies in the automotive industry. For decades, it has dominated the market by producing vehicles such as the Corolla, Camry, Tacoma, Rav 4, and 4Runner that appeal to a wide range of consumers. The use of innovative technologies has also helped Toyota stay on top of the market for so long. For example, Toyota used advanced technology to manufacture the Prius, which was the world’s first mass market hybrid vehicle. Toyota is now using another technology to gain a competitive edge: augmented reality. This technology allows users to superimpose digital elements such as images, animations, and sounds, onto their real world environment. Here’s a look at how Toyota uses augmented reality technology: OFFER CONSUMERS A VIRTUAL SHOWROOM EXPERIENCE In the past, automotive consumers had to visit dealerships in person to tour showrooms, explore different vehicles, and gather the information they needed to make a purchase decision. But now, Toyota is one of many automotive manufacturers that is using augmented reality technology to offer consumers a virtual showroom experience. Automotive consumers can use their smartphone, tablet, or computer to access Toyota’s virtual showroom. Inside the showroom, they can see a 360-degree view of the vehicle’s exterior, zoom in for a closer look, or even peek inside the vehicle to examine the interior. Thanks to augmented reality technology, consumers will feel like they’re looking at the car in person at a showroom. Another feature allows consumers to project life-size digital models of the vehicles into their real world environment. This gives consumers the chance to see how a specific Toyota vehicle would look in their driveway, parked in their garage, or sitting on their coffee table. Using augmented reality technology in this manner makes it easier for automotive consumers to shop for a vehicle online. It allows them to conduct research on their options from home so they don’t have to visit a dealership in person until they are ready to purchase a vehicle. Toyota Uses Augmented Reality [https://relaycars.gryffin.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Create-A-Unique-User-Manual.jpg] CREATE A UNIQUE USER MANUAL Lexus, which is the luxury vehicle division of Toyota, has developed a system known as the Lexus Augmented Reality Kit, or LARK. Part of this system is a digital user manual powered by augmented reality technology. The app is designed to recognize and present information on various features found inside a vehicle. For example, if a consumer points their smartphone at the infotainment system, the app will automatically display information about this system on the consumer’s smartphone screen. This information will help the consumer set up the system, connect their devices, and troubleshoot issues. This makes it much easier for consumers to learn about their vehicle. It also helps them quickly identify and fix simple issues without a professional’s help. The app is not available to consumers yet, but Toyota believes that it will eventually change the way in which consumers access information on their vehicles. SELL ACCESSORIES TO CONSUMERS David Kleiner, Toyota’s Extended Reality Lab Manager, recently discussed several augmented reality projects that are currently in development at Toyota. One of these projects involves targeting consumers in the post-purchase phase of the consumer buying cycle in an effort to sell more accessories.  Kleiner revealed that Toyota is working on an augmented reality experience that allows consumers to see how accessories look on their Toyota vehicle. The tool would let consumers explore different ways to customize the way their vehicle looks and performs. Toyota consumers would also be able to purchase accessories directly through this tool, which would make shopping online for automotive accessories more convenient. Kleiner also noted that this tool would target Toyota Tacoma consumers first. He believes this augmented reality tool would help Toyota increase Tacoma accessory sales by $5 million per year. TRAIN EMPLOYEES A number of automotive manufacturers, including Toyota, are now using augmented reality technology to train new employees.  Toyota has partnered with Microsoft to provide augmented reality training through HoloLens smart glasses. Employees can use these smart glasses to access training material that prepares them for the assembly line. Using augmented reality technology to train employees helps Toyota train more employees at once. It also allows new employees to get hands-on experience in a safe environment where their mistakes won’t have costly consequences. This way, new employees will know exactly what to do once they complete training and start working on the assembly line.  Toyota Uses Augmented Reality [https://relaycars.gryffin.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Plan-Production-Plant-Layouts.jpg] PLAN PRODUCTION PLANT LAYOUTS Toyota is also using Microsoft HoloLens smart glasses to plan production plant layouts. In the past, Toyota used physical models to plan the layout of a future production plant. But building physical models is time-consuming and expensive. Now, Toyota relies on augmented reality technology to increase the efficiency of this planning process. During the planning process, Toyota uses these augmented reality headsets to project digital models of equipment and machinery into the empty production plant space. This allows them to determine where each piece of equipment and machinery should go to maximize production efficiency. It also eliminates the need to build a physical model, which helps Toyota save time and money on planning the layout for a future production plant.  IMPROVE THE EFFICIENCY OF VEHICLE MANUFACTURING Several years ago, it was reported that Toyota’s project managers were experimenting with different ways to use augmented reality smart glasses to improve the efficiency of a variety of tasks.  One project manager at the company’s headquarters in Japan found a way to use Microsoft HoloLens smart glasses to quickly measure the thickness of a vehicle’s exterior paint. This needs to be done on every vehicle to ensure the paint color is consistent. It also helps employees confirm that the rust prevention coating has been applied to the vehicle.  In the past, the process of checking the thickness of a vehicle’s paint required two people and took a total of eight hours. But now, a single employee can complete this task in just under four hours using a pair of Microsoft HoloLens augmented reality glasses. This is just one example of how augmented reality technology has helped Toyota drastically speed up the process of manufacturing new vehicles and performing quality checks. Toyota Uses Augmented Reality [https://relaycars.gryffin.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Entertain-Passengers.jpg] ENTERTAIN PASSENGERS Augmented reality is often thought of as a new technology, but it’s been around for quite some time. In fact, Toyota has been experimenting with this technology for over a decade. In 2011, Toyota partnered with the Copenhagen Institute of Interaction Design (CIID) to create its “Window to the World” design concept, which used augmented reality technology to turn a standard car window into a glass canvas for passengers to play with. Passengers could use their fingers to trace images onto the window. Using augmented reality technology, the images turned into three-dimensional digital objects that were superimposed onto the real world environment. Passengers could also point at a landmark outside of the window to measure its distance from the car. Toyota never incorporated this innovative design concept into any of its vehicles. However, two prototypes of the concept were on display for several months at the Autoworld Museum in Brussels. Toyota has found a great deal of success by using augmented reality technology to improve production processes, market vehicles, and connect with consumers. Because of this success, it’s safe to say that Toyota will continue to explore new ways to take advantage of this technology in the future.

The automotive industry is constantly changing as a result of new technologies. The automotive industry often uses innovative technologies to provide new in-vehicle services or features. But sometimes, automotive manufacturers use new technologies behind the scenes instead. A recent example of this is augmented reality technology, which automotive manufacturers are now using to improve the vehicle production process from start to finish.  What is augmented reality? How does the automotive industry use augmented reality? Here’s what you should know about AR in the automotive production process: WHAT IS AUGMENTED REALITY? Augmented reality is a technology that allows users to superimpose various digital elements onto their surroundings in the real world. Users can choose from a wide range of digital elements, including images, audio clips, and videos. In simpler terms, it changes the user’s perception of the real world by adding elements from the digital world to it. Some augmented reality experiences can only be accessed using a headset or a pair of specially designed glasses. However, many augmented reality experiences can be accessed using just a smartphone or tablet. In fact, the most well-known application of augmented reality is Pokemon Go, which is a smartphone app that launched in 2016.  Although augmented reality is often associated with gaming, it has many other applications outside of the gaming world. Now, it is used in countless fields, including the automotive, healthcare, education, retail, ecommerce, and tourism industries.  AUGMENTED REALITY IN THE AUTOMOTIVE PRODUCTION PROCESS Augmented reality is used for a number of different purposes in the automotive production process, including: * Employee Training * Workstation Planning * Designing New Vehicles * Manufacturing  * Route Guiding Automotive Production Process [https://relaycars.gryffin.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Employee-Training-1.jpg] EMPLOYEE TRAINING Before the vehicle production process begins, automotive manufacturers use augmented reality technology to train new employees on the assembly line.  One of these manufacturers is BMW, which uses augmented reality technology to conduct training sessions for engine assembly units. Training participants are given augmented reality glasses, which they can use to access detailed visualizations on how to assemble different engine parts. There are unique visualizations for every step, so the glasses guide participants through the entire process.  Using augmented reality to provide training allows participants to move at their own pace, so they can spend more time on topics they find challenging. It also helps automotive manufacturers train more people at once. Augmented reality allowed BMW to increase their training sessions from one participant to three participants.   Augmented reality training is just as effective as traditional training, too. BMW has used augmented reality to train employees for several years. After conducting surveys, the company found that there was no difference in quality between augmented reality and traditional training sessions. WORKSTATION PLANNING Some automotive manufacturers also use augmented reality to plan production plant layouts.  If an automotive manufacturer is building a new production plant, for example, they can use augmented reality software to project true-to-size digital models of equipment and tools into the empty space. This way, they can see where everything fits and visualize what the plant will look like once it’s complete. This helps automotive manufacturers save time and money. Without augmented reality technology, manufacturers would need to waste time and money on building detailed models of production plant layouts. But now, they can use augmented reality technology to quickly create layouts that will increase the efficiency of the production process. DESIGNING NEW VEHICLES In the past, automotive manufacturers had to create clay prototypes of new vehicle designs. If the design was changed, the engineers had to create another clay prototype from scratch to reflect the revisions. But now, automotive engineers can use augmented reality technology to improve the efficiency of the design process. Engineers use augmented reality software to create digital models of new designs. Then, they project the digital model into their real world environment so other engineers can examine the design and give feedback. Changes can be made directly to the digital model, so engineers won’t need to waste time or money on building a new clay prototype. Using augmented reality technology in this way helps automotive manufacturers speed up the time it takes to finalize the design of a new vehicle. Thanks to this technology, manufacturers can quickly move new designs into production. Automotive Production Process [https://relaycars.gryffin.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Manufacturing.jpg] MANUFACTURING Automotive manufacturers rely heavily on augmented reality technology during the actual manufacturing process. Many manufacturers now give their assembly line workers access to augmented reality glasses. If an employee needs help assembling a certain part, they can use these glasses to look up the information they need. The glasses can project detailed instructions onto the employee’s real world environment. This way, the employee can get help without having to leave the assembly line, ask someone else for assistance, or waste time flipping through a user manual. All of the information will be projected right in front of them so they can reference it while they assemble the car part.  Using augmented reality in this manner speeds up the assembly process and ensures parts are put together correctly. ROUTE GUIDING The warehouses that store various automotive parts are huge. Employees who work in these warehouses must study the layout to remember where everything is so they can quickly find the parts they need while on the clock. Fortunately, augmented reality technology makes it much easier for employees to find what they’re looking for regardless of the size of the warehouse. Augmented reality technology is used as a route guide in large automotive warehouses. To access this feature, employees must put on a pair of augmented reality glasses. The glasses will then project navigational instructions directly onto the wearer’s real world environment. For example, it will tell them when to turn down an aisle and which shelf to look at when searching for a part.  This can drastically improve the productivity of warehouse workers. Automotive Production Process [https://relaycars.gryffin.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Automotive-Augmented-Reality.jpg] AUTOMOTIVE AUGMENTED REALITY IN THE POST-PRODUCTION PROCESS There’s no doubt that augmented reality technology has led to significant improvements in the production process in the automotive industry. But the automotive industry has also found new and exciting ways to use this technology in the post-production process. For example, some manufacturers have used augmented reality to create virtual automotive showrooms for consumers. Now, automotive consumers no longer need to travel to different dealerships in order to explore vehicles and gather the information they need to make a purchase decision. Instead, they can step inside a virtual showroom powered by augmented reality using their smartphone or tablet.  They can select which vehicle they want to explore once they are inside the showroom. Then, they can use augmented reality technology to project a three-dimensional, realistic digital model of the vehicle into their real world surroundings. They can even look inside the vehicle to see what it would be like to sit behind the wheel. Automotive consumers can experience all of this and more without ever leaving home thanks to augmented reality technology. Augmented reality is also used as a marketing tool in the post-production world. This technology can be used to create unique experiences that help automotive manufacturers connect with consumers and promote the launch of new vehicles. For example, Audi introduced an augmented reality app that was triggered by the company’s TV commercials. Whenever the commercial aired, the app would automatically launch on the consumer’s phone. Then, the app would use augmented reality technology to make the cars jump out of the TV screen and into the consumer’s living room. From pre-production to post-production, augmented reality technology has completely disrupted the way the automotive industry operates.