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Car buyers have a long list of automobile brands from which to choose. Every brand offers an extensive lineup that features sedans, compact cars, SUVs, trucks and maybe even hybrid or electric models, too. Kia and Hyundai are affordable brands and are headquartered in Seoul, South Korea. How do the cars from these brands differ? Are they the same company? In a matchup of Kia vs. Hyundai, the most popular models for each will be compared by price, fuel efficiency and safety. The matchups are: * Hyundai Accent vs. Kia Rio * Hyundai Elantra vs. Kia Forte * Hyundai Venue vs. Kia Soul * Hyundai Palisade vs. Kia Sorento IS KIA OWNED BY HYUNDAI? Buyers might wonder if Kia is owned by Hyundai. In fact, Kia Corporation is owned by Hyundai Motor Company. While the brands are separate, Hyundai Motor Group purchased a majority share in Kia Corporation in 1998. Think of Kia and Hyundai a bit like GM and Chevrolet. General Motors has GM and Chevrolet as brands (or divisions). GM and Chevy models, though, sometimes overlap in features and specs. When comparing Kia and Hyundai, car buyers also shouldn’t be surprised if there are more similarities than differences. THE MATCHUPS: KIA VS. HYUNDAI When comparing Kia versus Honda, buyers might need to look closely to find differences. Again, buyers shouldn’t be surprised to find some similar specs.  HYUNDAI ACCENT VS. KIA RIO First up, the Hyundai Accent vs. the Kia Rio. Both models are compact vehicles, and they are the most affordable models for their respective brands. The Hyundai Accent has a base price of $16,645 and the Kia Rio has a base price of $16,250. For price, the Rio has a slight edge. How do these two models compare for fuel efficiency, though? The Hyundai Accent offers an estimated 41 MPG on the highway, while the Kia Rio also offers 41 MPG on the highway. Both models are perfectly matched in this regard. Both also featured similar safety scores from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Winner: the Rio, but only because it’s slightly less expensive. HYUNDAI ELANTRA VS. KIA FORTE While the Rio and the Accent are subcompact cars (very small), the Elantra and the Forte are considered small in size. The Hyundai Elantra is designed like a small or compact sedan and has a base price of $19,950. The Forte has a base price of $19,090. Both the Elantra and the Soul offer decent fuel efficiency. The Elantra can get up to 43 MPG on the highway, and the Forte gets 41 MPG on the highway. The Elantra has the slight edge in this category. The 2022 Hyundai Elantra received a Top Safety Pick rating (when equipped with certain headlights) from IIHS. The Winner: The Elantra for safety and fuel efficiency. However, the Forte offers the best price. HYUNDAI VENUE VS. KIA SOUL The Hyundai Venue and the Kia Soul are both smaller SUVs. However, the Soul is designed in the body type of a wagon. The Venue has a base price of $19,000, and the Kia Soul has a base price of $19,290. Both are fairly fuel efficient for SUVs. The Venue can get up to 33 MPG on the highway, and the Soul can get up to 35 MPG on the highway. Both are evenly matched in this regard. Which model is the safer choice? The Kia Soul received a Top Safety Pick (when equipped with front crash prevention and specific headlights) rating from the IIHS. The Hyundai Venue also received a Top Safety Pick rating (with specific headlights). The Winner: The Venue wins for offering a lower price. HYUNDAI PALISADE VS. KIA TELLURIDE The Hyundai Palisade and the Kia Telluride are both full-size SUVs. The Palisade has space for up to eight passengers, and the Kia Telluride has room for seven or eight (depending on the choice of the buyer). Both offer the third row that many families need. How do these models compare related to price? The Hyundai Palisade has a base price of $33,350, and the Telluride has a base price of $33,090. As both models are larger SUVs, fuel efficiency might not be as ideal as smaller vehicles. However, both the Palisade and the Telluride can get up to 26 MPG on the highway. The Hyundai Palisade also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS, and the Kia Telluride received a Top Safety Pick rating (when equipped with specific headlights). The Winner: The Telluride offers the best price, while the Palisade has the best safety rating. KIA AND HYUNDAI: IS ONE BRAND THE BETTER BRAND? Kia and Hyundai models tend to be comparable in price and fuel efficiency. Some models score better than others related to safety ratings, and this might be a key area that buyers research when determining their best option. The two brands offer similar automobiles, and, in fact, their models are often quite similar in many ways. Kia’s reputation, though, has always been about offering budget-friendly, economical vehicles. When it comes to affordability, Kia offers some of the best prices on the market. Hyundai, though, doesn’t offer prices that are far beyond that of Kia. While Hyundai models might differ from a similar Kia model by a few hundred dollars, this is a minimal difference for automobiles. Both brands offer models with great fuel efficiency. When the similar models for Kia and Hyundai are compared, their MPG specs are often identical. Some buyers might simply prefer one brand over another brand. Again, Kia and Hyundai are a bit like GM and Chevrolet. They are very similar, but there are a few differences. A test drive could be a determining factor when buyers are trying to decide which brand is best for their needs. ARE KIA AND HYUNDAI THE SAME COMPANY? Kia and Hyundai are owned by the Hyundai Motor Company. However, in regards to Kia, Hyundai Motor Company owns the majority stake of Kia Corporation. Kia is a corporation, and it’s also a brand. Hyundai Motor Company also includes the luxury brand Genesis. While Kia and Hyundai are owned by the same company, they also function as different brands. Kia vs Hyundai [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Do-Kia-and-Hyundai-Offer-Hybrids-or-Electric-Models.jpg] DO KIA AND HYUNDAI OFFER HYBRIDS OR ELECTRIC MODELS? Some buyers might be interested in the fuel efficiency offered by hybrid or electric models. Both Kia and Hyundai offer hybrid and electric models. Hyundai’s energy-efficient models include: * Kona Electric * Tucson Hybrid * Tucson Plug-In Hybrid * Santa Fe Hybrid * Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid * IONIQ 5 * NEXO Fuel Cell * Elantra Hybrid * Sonata Hybrid * IONIQ Hybrid * IONIQ Plug-In Hybrid * IONIQ Electric Kia also offers a large selection of hybrid and electric models. Kia’s energy-efficient lineup includes: * Niro * Sportage Hybrid * Niro Plug-In Hybrid * Sorento Hybrid * Niro EV * EV6 * Sorento Plug-In Hybrid Kia’s most expensive fuel-efficient model is the Sorento Plug-In Hybrid, which has a base price of $45,190. The Niro (hybrid) is the most budget-friendly option, with a base price of $24,690. Hyundai’s most expensive fuel-efficient option is the hydrogen fuel cell model, the NEXO. It has a base price of $59,435. The least expensive model is the Elantra Hybrid, which has a base price of $23,850. Kia vs Hyundai [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/How-RelayCars-Helps-Buyers-Explore-Kia-and-Hyundai-Models.jpg] HOW RELAYCARS HELPS BUYERS EXPLORE KIA AND HYUNDAI MODELS Choosing between Kia and Hyundai models might not be easy for buyers. Both offer similar vehicles, so how can buyers explore their options when shopping at home? The RelayCars app and the RelayCars website provide car shoppers with immersive solutions for car exploration. The RelayCars app lets shoppers preview vehicles using 3D immersive and interactive imagery or in virtual reality (for consumers who have Google Cardboard). The RelayCars website lets shoppers use 3D imagery or augmented reality to explore different vehicles. However, the augmented reality option is only available when accessing the website via a mobile device. How do these immersive tools help buyers in their decision? With 3D imagery, car shoppers can use their fingers to turn the model of the vehicle around; they can look at the car from any vantage point. With virtual reality, shoppers are transported to a virtual showroom where they can view the vehicle of their choice. Augmented reality offers the option of previewing a car in any space. Using a camera on a smartphone or a tablet, a 3D car image can be transported into any area. View a car model in the garage or in the driveway. RelayCars also provides shoppers with specs and data for thousands of makes and models. For those comparing models from Hyundai and Kia, use RelayCars to find the MSRP and other details. If shoppers are experiencing RelayCars via the website, they can open two different browser pages for the site and explore models from different brands simultaneously. Once buyers find their ideal vehicle on RelayCars, they also can connect to a site within the app to find that car in their area. RelayCars lets buyers research and explore any car model that they want, but they also can use the app to shop for that vehicle, too. RelayCars is a one-stop shop for car research and for finding the best vehicle prices, too!

When you make a major purchase, you will often be asked to contribute a down payment. That’s true when you buy a home, and it’s also true when you purchase a car. Fortunately, most dealers don’t have a hard and fast rule about how much of a down payment you have to put down. Many don’t even require a certain amount. They’ll just ask you what you’re able to pay.  Having a choice can be good, especially if you’re in a tough financial spot and really need a car. But, if it’s all possible, you should try to make a fairly sizable down payment. In fact, the higher your down payment, the better. Here, you’ll learn what size down payments are recommended, as well as some tips and tricks to save up for the expense. AIM FOR 10 TO 20%  While you might not be required to put down a certain amount, there is a general “rule of thumb” that most buyers go by. That rule is to provide 20% of the purchase price of a new car as a down payment. If you’re buying used, the standard goes down to only 10%. Depending on the value of your car and the state of your savings, that can be quite a bit of money. But, if you have it, it’s in your best interest to contribute at least this amount. That’s because there are some surprising benefits to submitting a large down payment. LOWER INTEREST RATES One of the nicest potential benefits of a big down payment is that it could mean lower interest rates. Lenders base interest rates on many factors, including how much you’re attempting to borrow, your credit score, and how much of a risk you pose to them. Handing over a large down payment lowers your loan amount. It also shows, regardless of your credit, that you have money to spend. Those factors combined may help a lender to offer you much better terms and a lower interest rate, which means you could pay less for your car. INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF APPROVAL Many borrowers think that, if they apply for a car loan, they’ll get it, no matter what. Unfortunately, though, that’s not always the case. While there are some finance companies that specialize in high-risk borrowers or borrowers with bad credit, there are also plenty of lenders who will turn down your application if it’s not up to their standards. That can be embarrassing. Plus, it may lead you to seek out less scrupulous lenders, which is never a wise idea. Fortunately, a hefty down payment can increase your chances of getting approved for a loan, and a more desirable loan at that. So, if you have doubts about your ability to get approved, offer up as much of a down payment as you can to stack the odds in your favor. What is a Good Down Payment for a Car [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Enjoy-a-Lower-Regular-Payment-Amount.jpg] ENJOY A LOWER REGULAR PAYMENT AMOUNT No one wants to be forced into a huge car payment each month. In fact, this can set you up for failure from the start and make it much harder to pay off your loan. Luckily, a larger down payment can mean a lower, more reasonable monthly payment amount. It reduces the total you are borrowing, which means you can pay less each month. If you’re aiming for a specific payment amount, talk with your lender or dealer about how much of a down payment you would need to achieve that payment amount. While paying a bigger down payment may pose a challenge at first, it should pay off in the long run. IF YOU CAN PAY MORE, DO IT! Sometimes, people choose to buy a car because they’ve recently come into a large sum of money. Or, their overall financial situation might have improved. If this applies to you and you can afford to pay more than 10 or 20%, go for it. There is no rule that says you can’t pay more than the standard. In fact, most lenders will be quite pleased if you plan to pay more than average. And, of course, if you’re one of the lucky few who can pay for your vehicle outright, go ahead and do so. Then, you won’t have to worry about interest charges, payment plans, or anything else. You’ll just have a great new or new-to-you car to enjoy. WHAT IF YOU DON’T HAVE A DOWN PAYMENT? If you don’t have a big sum of money you can use for a down payment just sitting around, don’t feel bad. Many car buyers have trouble coming up with their down payments. However, that doesn’t mean that you should go out and try to get a car without making a down payment or that you should make a very small one. Instead, you should still try to aim for at least a 10 or 20% down payment. It might just take a little scrimping and saving on your part.  PLAN AHEAD Not everyone is lucky enough to get advance notice that they’ll need a new car. Sometimes, your current car breaks down and can’t be fixed, leaving you to scramble and find a new one. Other times, an unexpected accident can lead to the need for a new car. But, if you do have some kind of advance notice, such as your old car slowing down or not working as well, start saving as soon as you possibly can. The more time you give yourself to save, the better your chances of building a big down payment and enjoying the benefits that go along with it. MAKE (AND STICK TO) A BUDGET When you’re trying to save money, one of the best things to do is to make and stick to a budget. Sit down and look carefully at what you earn versus what you spend each month. Think about which expenses are absolute must-haves and which ones could be eliminated. Things like going out to eat or subscribing to multiple entertainment services are great examples of expenses you can temporarily cut from your budget. Work savings into your budget as well. If you can save 10 or 20% from each paycheck towards your down payment, chances are that you’ll be ready to buy a car before you know it. What is a Good Down Payment for a Car [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Keep-Your-Eye-on-the-Prize.jpg] KEEP YOUR EYE ON THE PRIZE Sticking to that great budget you’ve set isn’t always easy. That’s why many people find it helpful to keep their goal clearly in mind. Consider putting a picture of your dream car in your wallet or somewhere else where you’ll see it often. Use this photo or other visual as a reminder of what you’re working toward and why you’re saving. It can really help you through the tough times. Furthermore, if you know which specific car you want, you’ll have a better idea of how much of a down payment you should be saving for.  GO AHEAD AND CLIP SOME COUPONS Buying groceries with coupons might not seem like much fun. However, it can really help you save. Instead of throwing away those fliers full of coupons, cut out the ones for items you need. You can also browse the sales while you’re at it. Additionally, remember that groceries aren’t the only things that go on sale. You can often find discounts or discount codes for lots of other things you buy. So, keep your eyes peeled. And, speaking of sales, pay attention to car dealerships in your area. You never know when one might run a sale or promotion that can help you get your car at a lower price. CONSIDER ASKING FOR HELP If you’re doing all you can to save but your progress is unbearably slow, you might want to consider asking for a little help. It’s not easy to ask, but you might have close friends or family members who would be willing to help you make a down payment on a car or even co-sign your loan. This can help a lot, particularly if they have better credit than you. Of course, for most people, this option is a last resort, but it’s something worth considering, especially if you’re having a rough time saving or need a car as soon as possible.  Alternatively, you could also take out a loan or open a credit card to help cover the down payment. But, if you do this, you’ll need to be prepared to pay both the loan or card and your car payment at the same time. Buying a car is exciting, but it does involve financial responsibility. The first big responsibility is your down payment. Set yourself up to pay as much as you can afford, and you’ll also set yourself up for a successful car buying experience.

Minivans were once the preferred vehicle for families. These larger vehicles offered ample passenger space plus room for sports gear and other cargo. While minivans have been eclipsed in sales by SUVs, some families still prefer the quintessential van for the comfort, space and ease of access that they offer. What types of minivans can buyers choose? The options have slimmed down as many manufacturers have discontinued the minivan from their lineup, but there are still four popular minivan models available: * Honda Odyssey * Kia Carnival * Chrysler Pacifica * Toyota Sienna THE MINIVAN WASN’T ALWAYS ‘MINI’ The minivan began its rise to popularity in the early ‘80s. Back then, they were just known as vans. Some families even opted for a larger full-size cargo van that provided a spacious interior for long trips. The way, way back seats could be dropped down to create a makeshift bed. By the ‘90s, these vans took on their standard ‘mini’ designation and had become the vehicle of choice for many families. The nostalgic site Click Americana has a page dedicated to the minivan movement and highlights all the popular models of these ‘mom-mobiles’ as the minivan was often called. The introduction of the sports utility vehicle (SUV) eventually led to the minivan falling out of favor. An Autotrader executive interviewed for a USA Today article cited the ‘soccer mom’ stereotype of the minivan. Everything old is eventually new again, though. While sales of minivans have fallen as sales of SUVs have surged, the minivan is starting to become en vogue. In fact, a press release from Autotrader noted that minivan sales increased more than 80 percent during the second quarter of 2021. Types of Minivans [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/The-Four-Different-Minivan-Models.jpg] THE FOUR DIFFERENT MINIVAN MODELS For the 2022 model year, Chrysler shed its minivan offerings for consumers to only the Pacifica. The manufacturer previously offered both the Pacifica and the Voyager, but the latter minivan is now only for ‘fleet.’ This lineup change meant that buyers now only have four minivan models from which to choose. What is the best minivan on the market? That’s up to the consumer to decide, as these models tend to be fairly similar for reliability, safety and price. Here’s what buyers need to know about each available model. Types of Minivans [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Honda-Odyssey-1.jpg] HONDA ODYSSEY The Odyssey was introduced in 1994, and it’s been going strong since then. The 2022 model is priced at $33,040. It can tow up to 3,500 pounds and has space for up to eight (but that depends on the buyer’s choices). The Odyssey also is fairly fuel efficient for its size. The minivan can get up to 19 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. It received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). This is the highest safety rating that a vehicle can earn. Types of Minivans [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Kia-Carnival-1.jpg] KIA CARNIVAL The 2022 Kia Carnival is slightly less expensive than the Odyssey. The Carnival has a base price of $32,300. Like the Odyssey, the Carnival also can tow up to 1,500 pounds. The Carnival’s fuel efficiency also is similar to that of the Odyssey; the Carnival can get 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The Carnival received a Top Safety Pick rating (when equipped with specific headlights and built after March 2021) from the IIHS. Types of Minivans [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Chrysler-Pacifica.jpg] CHRYSLER PACIFICA While Chrysler dropped its Voyager minivan, it offers the Pacifica in both a standard model and a hybrid model. While the standard Pacifica has decent fuel efficiency (19 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway), the hybrid model has a range of 520 miles. However, the standard Pacifica is priced at $37,095 while the hybrid has a base price of $48,478. The Chrysler Pacifica received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS. Of all the minivans on the market, the Pacifica offers the highest towing capacity; it can tow up to 3,600 pounds. Types of Minivans [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Toyota-Sienna-1.jpg] TOYOTA SIENNA The Toyota Sienna debuted in 1998. The 2022 model is priced at $34,710 and can tow up to 3,500 pounds. It offers better fuel efficiency than its competitors because it’s also a hybrid. The Sienna can get 36 MPG combined city and highway. In addition, the Sienna also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS. Types of Minivans [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/What-is-the-Most-Dependable-Minivan-on-the-Market.jpg] WHAT IS THE MOST DEPENDABLE MINIVAN ON THE MARKET? The minivan models that remain on the market tend to be comparable in fuel efficiency, safety in price. Which model is the most dependable, though? Each year, J.D. Power names the top winner for dependability for each different vehicle category. The winner is determined by the scores from vehicle owners; the owners have to score their vehicle in different areas based (over a 12 month period). The winners for the year are models that are three years old. The 2021 dependability award for minivans was given to the 2018 Toyota Sienna. Since the awards reviewed models from three years prior, multiple minivans that have since been discontinued were on the list. The 2018 Dodge Caravan ranked second, the Chrysler Pacifica took third place, the 2018 Honda Odyssey was fourth and the 2018 Kia Sedona ranked as the fifth and final place. The Carnival is a newer minivan model. For Quality/Reliability, here’s how each minivan scored (out of 100): * Toyota Sienna: 77 * Dodge Caravan: 75 * Chrysler Pacifica: 68 * Honda Odyssey: 64 * Kia Sedona: N/A Models were also scored for Driving Experience and Resale Value. The Honda Odyssey received nearly a perfect score for Resale Value—it scored a 97! The Toyota Sienna scored an 85 for Resale Value. The others scored in the 70s. The Chrysler Pacifica secured the best score for Driving Experience, though. It received an 80. The Dodge Caravan received the lowest score in this area—a 65. The others scored in the ‘70s. Every year, J.D. Power releases its latest winners and posts all scores. Buyers can review the winners and scores to see how each minivan stacks up for different model years. Buyers can even review scores and winners from all the way back to 2003 (for the 2000 model year). THE MINIVAN VS. THE SUV Buyers have limited choices when buying a new minivan. Is an SUV or a minivan best? Minivans might offer more cargo space, while SUVs offer a more rugged design and build. SUVs are built on a truck chassis, and some drivers feel that the SUV offers a greater sense of safety and security. The heavier construction also gives an SUV a towing advantage. While minivans are limited in their towing capacity, some SUVs could tow more than 8,000 pounds. In fact, the Ford Expedition can tow up to 9,300 pounds. Typically, minivans offer convenient features like power sliding doors and power lift gates. This means that parents who have their hands full don’t have to fumble to open the doors or the back gate. Again, minivans also offer more cargo space. Drivers can drop down the seats to maximize the space for gear or other necessities. SUVs also can be much more expensive than minivans. The most expensive minivan (the hybrid Pacifica) is less than $50,000, but the least expensive full-size SUV (the Nissan Armada) is $50,745. While smaller or even compact SUVs can be budget-friendly, they won’t offer the spacious interior of a standard minivan. Since SUVS are heavier, they might lag behind the minivan in fuel efficiency. Buyers who are concerned about gas mileage should research their SUV options to find the best option. While buyers could opt for a hybrid or electric SUV, these models will come with a higher price tag. EXPLORE MINIVAN MODELS WITH RELAYCARS Buyers researching their minivan options can explore all the models in 3D, augmented reality and even virtual reality using RelayCars. Buyers can access RelayCars by downloading the app or just by visiting the website. The RelayCars app lets buyers preview and explore thousands of models using immersive 3D models. Turn the car around and explore it from all angles. The app also lets those with Google Cardboard use virtual reality to preview vehicles. The RelayCars website offers an augmented reality showroom, or buyers can use 3D imagery to preview minivan models. With augmented reality, car buyers use their smartphone or tablet camera to drop a minivan model into their environment. RelayCars offers more than just vehicle imagery, however. While buyers can explore thousands of vehicles in augmented reality, virtual reality and in 3D, RelayCars also provides specs and data for all models in its inventory. Compare prices, features and capabilities. Then explore multiple minivans visually to better understand the unique design and style of every option. With RelayCars, buyers can immerse into the buying experience. Once buyers find the minivan they like best, they can take the next step in their buying process. RelayCars partners with CarSaver.com to provide an easy buying experience that lets car shoppers find the best prices for their perfect car. While the minivan might have fallen out of favor over the years, it’s beginning to make a comeback. Although only four models remain on the market, buyers can use RelayCars to better understand their options and even explore earlier models for those interested in buying a used or pre-owned minivan.

An act of nature or a collision can result in damage so extensive that the vehicle is deemed a total loss or ‘totaled’ by the insurance company. When this happens, the insurance company will offer the car owner fair market value less a deductible. Then they will typically take possession of the vehicle and auction it. Can the owner ever keep their totaled vehicle? In some instances, the insurance company offers the owner the option of buying back a totaled car. However, keeping a total car only makes sense in some circumstances. Here’s what car owners need to know about buying back their car after it has been declared a total loss. Buying Back a Totaled Car [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Types-of-Insurance-Coverage-that-Protect-a-Vehicle.jpg] TYPES OF INSURANCE COVERAGE THAT PROTECT A VEHICLE Comprehensive auto insurance covers a vehicle’s damage if the vehicle was damaged by acts of weather, vandalism, an animal in the road, etc. If the driver was at fault in an accident, collision coverage will kick in to handle the repairs. Full coverage is typically inclusive of liability, comprehensive and collision insurance. Liability insurance will settle and pay for damage to another driver’s injuries and vehicle damage sustained in a crash caused by the policyholder. Comprehensive and collision insurance could be involved when a car is damaged. As in all accidents, a police report will be filed, the car owner will contact their insurance company and discuss the nature of the accident. Fault will be determined (if it was a collision). Then an insurance estimator will examine the damage to the vehicle and determine the amount that needs to be paid for repairs. In some situations, the damage is so extensive that the price to repair the car costs more than the value of the vehicle. When this happens, the insurance company will deem the car a total loss. Every state has its own formula for how a ‘totaled’ vehicle is determined. The owner of the car receives the actual cash value (ACV) for their vehicle minus the deductible and the insurance company takes possession of the vehicle. Value Penguin explains that ACV is not the same as the value a car owner would receive via sites like Kelley Blue Book (KBB). However, car owners can ask the insurance company how ACV is determined if they are confused about their settlement. In some cases, the insurance company will offer to let a car owner buy back their vehicle. What do car owners need to know about buying back a totaled vehicle? Is it worth it? Buying Back a Totaled Car [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/How-Car-Owners-‘Buy-Back-Their-Vehicle.jpg] HOW CAR OWNERS ‘BUY BACK’ THEIR VEHICLE When a car is totaled and the insurance company prepares a settlement, the amount is ACV minus any applicable deductible. The insurance company then takes possession of the vehicle and sends it to auction. In some instances, like when a vehicle is totaled by hail damage, the insurance company might let the owner buy back the car. The price to buy back the vehicle is typically the salvage value. This value can vary. However, if the car owner agrees to buy back their car, the salvage value is deducted from the ACV settlement. The car owner also will need to deal with the title of the vehicle—as it would be a salvage vehicle. Car owners should understand that buying back a totaled vehicle isn’t always an option. States might have their own laws related to buying back a totaled vehicle. It also might not make sense. If the car is totaled, fixing it up to make it drivable could be difficult. However, cars that are totaled because of hail damage might be worthwhile to buy back. Typically, these vehicles are totaled because of cosmetic damage. Some hail can be so large that the dents the pellets leave behind cost too much to repair. Yet, the car could be mechanically sound. If the car owner is given the option to buy back the car and they don’t mind the cosmetic damage, they can talk to the insurance company to inquire about steps they need to take before it can be legally driven. A totaled vehicle will be issued a salvage title. Then the car owner needs to take all the necessary steps in their state required for the vehicle to be legally driven. Car Brain explains that in order to hit the road legally, the car needs to be inspected and certified. IS IT WORTH BUYING BACK A TOTALED CAR? Only the car owner can decide if buying back a totaled car makes financial sense. Again, in the case of a hail-damaged car, the mechanics could be fine. For a car that has seen extensive damage, car owners might just walk away, take their settlement and let the insurance company auction off the car. A car owner might want to hold on to their car for other reasons. Maybe they don’t plan to drive it. Buying back a totaled vehicle could depend on the car owner’s personal circumstances. In some cases, though, a car owner might not have the option to buy back their totaled car. WHEN A CAR OWNER DOESN’T BUY BACK THEIR CAR Many car owners will decide not to buy back their totaled car. They might accept the settlement from the insurance company and use it for a down payment for a new car or to buy a car outright. When a car is totaled, a car owner may face an issue of being paid less than what they thought their car was worth. Car owners consult sites like KBB to find the value of their car, but KBB values and ACV settlements are not the same. If a car owner feels that their settlement is inadequate, they can try to negotiate with the insurance company about the value. If the car owner made repairs or upgrades to their vehicle, they might submit receipts to show these upgrades to the insurance company. Sometimes negotiations fall flat, and the car owner has to accept their settlement. CAR OWNERS WHO ONLY HAVE LIABILITY COVERAGE Some car owners only have liability coverage on a vehicle. Perhaps they didn’t pay a high price for the car or it’s an older model. What happens if a car with liability coverage is totaled? If the car owner was involved in an accident and it was their fault, their liability coverage will compensate the other driver for damages. However, the driver’s own vehicle won’t be covered. If the car cannot be repaired or if repair costs are too high, they might opt to sell it to a  salvage yard. What about if the vehicle was damaged by hail or vandalized? Cars with only liability coverage won’t be covered against hail damage or vandalism. The owner will have to drive the vehicle as is, repair it, or, if the car can’t be driven legally, think about selling it to a salvage yard. Car owners never know what could happen around the next turn. Even a car sitting in the driveway could be pummeled by a hailstorm. This is why comprehensive and collision coverage is recommended. Buying Back a Totaled Car [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Finding-a-New-Car.jpg] FINDING A NEW CAR Car owners who have no interest in buying back a totaled car might find themselves in need of a new vehicle. Maybe they want the same model that they lost in an accident. Perhaps they’re ready for something new. When shopping for a new vehicle after a previous vehicle was totaled, buyers might need to reexamine their budget. What can they afford to pay each month? A totaled vehicle might have not had an outstanding loan. Car owners might now need to finance a new car and begin making payments again. Nerdwallet recommends that car buyers allocate less than 10 percent of their monthly take home pay for a car payment. Car buyers also should try to make a 20 percent down payment on a new vehicle. This can help offset the costs of depreciation. When buying a used car, a 10 percent down payment is recommended. If a vehicle was totaled in an accident, car buyers might focus on the safest models. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety makes it easy for car shoppers to research the safety of any vehicle. The IIHS provides safety reports on new and older vehicles. The IIHS also showcases the safest cars on the market via its Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick+ awards. The full list of models that were awarded these safety ratings is released each year. The Top Safety Pick+ rating is awarded to vehicles when certain headlights come standard; models awarded a Top Safety Pick offer specific headlights as an option. USE RELAYCARS TO EXPLORE VEHICLE OPTIONS Finding the best car for the budget can be a hunt. Buyers can use sites like RelayCars to explore their different options. The RelayCars app lets car buyers research cars via 3D imagery and virtual reality (for those who have access to Google Cardboard). Those who are visiting the RelayCars website can explore cars via immersive 3D imagery and augmented reality. Using a camera on a smartphone or tablet, car buyers can drop a 3D model of a vehicle into their own environment and walk around it. RelayCars also provides buyers with MSRP data and vehicle specs to better understand each model. Those who are trying to find their perfect car can explore as many models as they wish on either the RelayCars website or the app. RelayCars is free to explore and never closes!

Do you have a car you want to sell? Maybe you’ve just gotten a new one and don’t need your old wheels anymore. Or, perhaps you want to sell your car so you can buy that new model you’ve been eyeing. Whatever the case may be, there are all kinds of ways to make a deal in today’s world. The key is to choose the right selling option for you. EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS Before you buy a “for sale” sign and stick it in your window, explore all the possibilities. You definitely could sell your vehicle yourself. If you go that route, you can drive around with that for sale sign. Or, you could list your car on online sites or even put an ad in the local paper. If you don’t want to put in all that work, however, you could also visit your local dealership and inquire about a trade-in offer. Some dealerships will also pay you a fee outright for your vehicle without requiring you to do a trade-in.  There are tons of different ways to go about the car selling process. So, spend some time researching each option, as well as its pros and cons, to decide which one is the best fit for you and your situation. SELL YOUR CAR ON YOUR OWN If you’re not afraid of a little hard work, then selling your car on your own may be for you. If you choose this path, you can decide how much to ask for your vehicle and which buyers to target. On the downside, you’ll also be responsible for advertising and taking care of all the legal requirements and documentation that go into a car sale. If you decide the work is worth it, the following tips can help you achieve success. PAY A VISIT TO THE DMV Each state has its own rules and requirements for selling a car. Thankfully, your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is a wonderful resource. Visit your local office, either in person or online, and learn about the process for selling your vehicle.  For best results, come up with a list of questions before your visit. Many of these questions might be answered during the course of the visit or in the informational materials provided. However, if there are any questions left over, you can ask them and make sure you understand the answers.  If you skip this step, you might make a mistake that could hold up the sales process. Impatient buyers might even move on to someone else. So, though it may not be fun, take the time to fully understand the process. It will make everything go a lot more smoothly. BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR CAR BUYING SCAMS Sadly, scams are all too common these days. In fact, there are even scams that specifically target people who are trying to sell their vehicles. From writing out bogus checks to establishing false escrow services, there are a host of ways that “buyers” can try and take advantage of you.  To protect yourself, make an effort to deal only with buyers you can meet in person, face to face. Additionally, never hand over your title until the buyer has paid for the car and you have verified that the payment is legitimate. If anything sounds “off” or “fishy” about a buyer’s request, go with your gut and seek legal advice before proceeding. In fact, consulting with a legal professional about any prospective deal is a wise idea. Best Way to Sell Your Car [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Set-a-Reasonable-Asking-Price.jpg] SET A REASONABLE ASKING PRICE When you sell your car on your own, you’re free to ask whatever amount you want for it. However, just asking for something doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll get it. You’ll stand a much better chance of selling your vehicle and selling it quickly if you set a reasonable asking price.  Knowing how much your car is worth can be tricky. Fortunately, there are many good online resources that can help you determine the value of your car. With that said, though, the value and what people are willing to pay can vary somewhat. As such, spend time researching similar sales in your area, and use what you find, as well as the value, to set a fair price. Also, take into consideration any damage or issues your vehicle might have that could lower the asking price. On the flipside, upgrades you have made could also raise the price. Keep in mind, too, that most buyers will want to negotiate. For that reason, you may want to consider setting your asking price a little bit higher than what you actually hope to get. This can help buyers feel like they’re getting a good deal while also helping you make a fair profit. MAKE YOUR CAR LOOK ITS BEST Presentation can make a big difference in how fast your car sells and in how much it sells for. Thus, it makes sense to spruce up your vehicle as much as possible. Before listing it, give it a good, thorough cleaning inside and out. Consider repairing any minor cosmetic issues as well. Then, take good, clear photos of your vehicle. These will come in handy if you advertise your car via an online platform or if you communicate with prospective buyers online.  GET THE WORD OUT There are countless sites where you can list your vehicle, and you should definitely use them to your advantage. But, don’t underestimate the power of good old-fashioned word-of-mouth advertising. Tell anyone and everyone that you are looking to sell your car. There’s a high probability that you’ll know someone who will know someone who is in the market for a vehicle. Some buyers also have luck with parking or driving their vehicles in areas where they will be seen by a lot of people. If you try this trick, just make sure you do it somewhere safe and where you won’t get towed. Also, include clear but not easily traceable contact details, such as an email address you’ve created specifically for the purpose of selling the car. This will help you advertise to a wide range of people without putting yourself at risk. Best Way to Sell Your Car [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Thinking-About-a-Trade-In.jpg] THINKING ABOUT A TRADE-IN? As mentioned, the do-it-yourself approach isn’t for everyone. If you want to bypass the above steps and get rid of your car quickly, consider a trade-in. Many dealerships will take your current vehicle and allow you to use its value toward a new or new-to-you car. This can be an excellent choice, particularly if your vehicle still has a high value. If you take this route, speak to several local dealerships in your area and find out which ones are willing to do a trade-in deal. Compare how much each dealership is willing to give you for your vehicle, as well as their selection of available cars. Once you’ve found a dealership you want to work with, follow these useful tips.  KNOW WHAT YOUR VEHICLE IS WORTH When you sell your car privately, you need to know its value. The same is true when you do a trade-in deal. Be aware, though, that trade-in value is often much lower than a private sale value. Typically, it will be close to the car’s wholesale value. So, when you conduct your research, you’ll want to see what the wholesale worth of your vehicle is. A good dealership will offer you around that price or more in trade-in credit. If you’re not clued in to what value you should expect, it’s all too easy to get stuck with a not-so-great deal, so don’t skip this step. DELIVER THE DETAILS When it’s time for your trade-in, don’t show up at the dealership empty-handed. Instead, bring along any and all records and receipts related to your vehicle. You should be able to show the dealership how much you paid for the car and any repairs, servicing, or general maintenance you’ve had done. If you’ve taken great care of your car and/or made some repairs recently, it should fetch a higher value, which can help you get a better deal. SELL WITHOUT A TRADE-IN If a trade-in isn’t for you, know that some dealerships will pay you for your car outright. This can be a good choice if you want to buy a new car but not from a dealership, or if you just need to unload your old car quickly. Just like with trade-in deals, you should visit several dealerships and compare offers to get the best deal possible. THE BOTTOM LINE Ultimately, you are the only one who can decide when and how to sell your car. But, if you know you’re going to be parting ways with your wheels soon, start looking into your choices. Review the options and tips presented here. Then, when you’re ready, make your move.

The average car loan is about six years or 70 months. However, not all car owners take the full loan term to pay off their vehicle. Some find that they have the financial means to pay off their loan early. An early payoff, though, might lead to penalties from the lender. Each loan has its own terms, and before a car owner decides to pay off the vehicle early, they need to understand what it will cost them. Here’s how to negotiate car payoff settlements to pay the loan in full and own the car outright. WHAT IS THE PAYOFF AMOUNT? The payoff amount of a car loan isn’t always the same as the loan balance. The payoff amount is the amount that is necessary to completely pay the loan and it likely includes interest and any fees (like early termination fees). When a borrower pays a loan in full before the end of the contracted term, the lender might not make as much money in interest. For this reason, paying the loan early might include termination fees. To find out the payoff amount, the borrower should contact their lender. At this time, they also can inquire if any penalties or additional fees were applied. However, the terms of the loan should include all this information. CAN BORROWERS NEGOTIATE A PAYOFF SETTLEMENT? Car owners that want to pay off their loan early might wonder if they can enter into negotiations with their lender. Lending Tree explains that borrowers can try to negotiate the payoff amount. To talk about negotiating the balance, the car owner will need to contact the lender. However, Lending Tree explains that the borrower should continue to make payments. While some lenders can be open to negotiations, others might be firm in the payoff amount. While it never hurts to try to negotiate, lenders might not budge. Even if they don’t wish to negotiate, the lender will be able to provide a payoff amount. This amount is typically a “10-day payoff quote.” Per Lending Tree, this means that the amount quoted will satisfy the loan if it is paid in the 10-day grace period. After the 10 days, Lending Tree notes that the price could bounce up or down. WHEN THE CAR IS PAID OFF Once the full payoff amount is received and credited to the account, the buyer will own the car outright. When the loan terms are satisfied, the lender will send the borrower documentation of the payoff and include a lien release for the vehicle. Buyers should keep all paperwork in a safe place. In addition, the lien release is necessary to re-title the vehicle so that the lien holder (the bank or lender) is removed from the title. Once the loan is paid off, the buyer owns the car completely. This means that any value that is left in the car represents pure equity. Car owners might wonder how paying off the car might impact their car insurance. Progressive explains that paying off a loan won’t lower the premium, but the car owner could elect to change coverage options. Before dropping comprehensive coverage to save money, car owners should understand how that can affect them if the vehicle is damaged in an accident that is their fault. If the car is still worth a decent amount of money, it might be wise to continue to pay for comprehensive coverage. OTHER WAYS TO PAY OFF A VEHICLE EARLY Not all car owners will have the financial means to pay their car loan in full before the terms of their loan are satisfied. However, car owners could elect to make a larger payment each month so that they can pay off the vehicle earlier than anticipated. Before sending a larger payment, though, borrowers should contact their lender so they know how that extra sum will be allocated. Some lenders automatically apply the overpayment towards the principal, but some lenders might require borrowers to make a separate payment when they wish to allocate the extra towards principal. Nerdwallet explains that allocating extra towards the principal is most beneficial during the beginning of the loan. This is due to the fact that higher portions of payments in the beginning of a car loan usually are allocated towards the interest of the loan. Even paying a little extra each month can help borrowers decrease the length of their loan and pay off the loan faster. Car owners can review their budget to see how much more they might be able to allocate to pay down the principal. How to Negotiate Car Payoff Settlement [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/What-About-Higher-Interest-Debt.jpg] WHAT ABOUT HIGHER-INTEREST DEBT? Every individual might have a different preference when tackling debt. Some might feel like they’ve made a greater impact when they completely pay off a debt. Others want to chip away at debts. Some want to pay down their highest interest debt first, but others want to prioritize their largest debt. Experian explains that consumers might consider prioritizing their highest-interest debts.  Paying off this debt will save more money.   While it might be tempting to pay off more each month on a car loan, if a credit card has double the interest rate and a high balance, it might make more sense to tackle this debt first. When the high-interest debts are paid, then perhaps consumers could begin to chip away at other debts. However, Experian also notes that paying off the highest debt could be preferred if an individual needs to decrease their credit utilization ratio. TIPS FOR FINDING THE BEST CAR LOAN Before buying a car, consumers need to research and understand their loan options. Some buyers want a longer loan term that offers lower monthly payments. Other buyers, though, want to pay off their car quickly and opt for a three-year loan. Interest rates of a loan may depend on the buyer’s credit score. Those with high scores might qualify for the most favorable interest rates, while those with less than desirable scores might see higher rates. Sometimes credit scores improve over time. Refinancing a car loan can be an option for those with higher-interest car loans to find lower rates or perhaps better loan terms. Before signing on the dotted line of a loan, buyers need to understand all the terms outlined in the loan. What is the monthly payment? What is the interest rate? Buyers also can ask about any early termination fees. Shopping around for a car loan can help buyers find the best interest rates available to them. There are many sites that consumers can use to find different loan options; they can compare monthly payments, interest rates, etc. Some sites let buyers get pre-qualified to better understand the loans for which they might qualify. However, getting pre-qualified doesn’t mean that a buyer is approved for the loan. Pre-qualification is a soft credit inquiry. In order to get approved for financing, car buyers will have to submit more extensive information (like their social security number). HOW DOWN PAYMENTS CAN AFFECT A CAR LOAN Car buyers who plan on financing their vehicle might have a trade-in to help offset the cost of their new vehicle. However, while a trade-in can apply as a down payment, Investopedia recommends researching the price of the vehicle so that buyers understand the value of their trade-in. Combining a trade-in with a down payment can be beneficial. To help offset the cost of vehicle depreciation, buyers should try to allocate 20 percent of the purchase price of a new car as their down payment. If the purchase price is $30,000, then try to make a $6,000 down payment. However, Experian explains that with a used car, a 10 percent down payment is sufficient. How to Negotiate Car Payoff Settlement [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Weighing-the-Price-of-an-Early-Payoff.jpg] WEIGHING THE PRICE OF AN EARLY PAYOFF If a car owner has the financial means to pay off their vehicle before the end of their loan, they might be tempted to pay it in full so they own the car outright. Some lenders are open to payoff negotiations, but some might not budge on the price of the payoff. Before paying the car in full, call the lender to understand the terms of the payoff and get a quote for the payoff amount. Some loans might include early termination fees. Paying the car in full before the end of the loan might free up money each month to pay other debts, though. In addition, when the car doesn’t have a loan balance or a lien associated with the lender, the car owner could opt to restructure their insurance coverage. However, the biggest payoff of an early payoff is that the car is owned outright. The value of the vehicle represents equity to the owner. They can use the vehicle as a trade-in for a new vehicle, sell it privately or just drive it until the vehicle is at the end of its life. While car owners might be surprised to learn that the payoff amount might be more than the balance on the monthly statement, saying goodbye to the loan could give the car owner a huge financial sigh of relief.

Not everyone wants to drive a large car, an SUV or a truck. Larger bodied vehicles can be more difficult to park, and heavier vehicles also could guzzle more gas. Some drivers feel more comfortable driving smaller vehicles like compact cars and coupes; their sleek smaller styling might be a better fit for the personality of the owner. Yet, while some drivers may prefer smaller cars, tall drivers might find them uncomfortable. What is the best car for tall people? Kelley Blue Book rounded up the best choices for taller drivers; KBB recommended these compact and smaller cars: * Honda Civic * Honda Accord * Kia K5 * Dodge Charger * Nissan Leaf Best Small Car for Tall People [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Best-Compact-Cars-for-Tall-People.jpg] BEST COMPACT CARS FOR TALL PEOPLE Not all compact cars are ideal for taller drivers. However, a few options offer enough legroom or headroom to provide a comfortable driving experience. These models also shouldn’t require drivers to adjust their seat so far back that it cramps those sitting in the backseat. The best compact cars for tall people, per KBB include these two models: * Honda Civic * Nissan Leaf While this isn’t a very substantial list of options, tall drivers shouldn’t fret. KBB rounds up their choices of all the best options for tall drivers; unfortunately, many models on the list were SUVs or larger vehicles. Even the Accord, K5 and Dodge Charger are mid-size vehicles. The site DrivingLine offered its list of recommendations for tall drivers who are seeking smaller cars. DrivingLine recommended these vehicles: * Volkswagen Jetta * Subaru Crosstrek * Scion xB * Mini Cooper * Honda Fit Scion is no longer an active brand, but the 2015 Scion xB can be purchased pre-owned. In addition, the Honda Fit was discontinued after the 2020 model year, but, again, car buyers could find the Fit as a used model. For buyers who are trying to size up their best compact and small vehicle options, the perfect fit might rely on understanding a few interior dimensions. Headroom and legroom all can impact the comfort of a vehicle for tall drivers. Those who have a longer torso might find that they need more headroom, while drivers with longer legs might need more legroom. The best compact and smaller cars for tall drivers typically offer more headroom and/or legroom than other models on the market. To compare the best models, understanding the legroom and headroom they offer could be beneficial for tall buyers. Here are the front seat measurements for each of the small and compact models referenced by both KBB and DrivingLine. * 2022 Honda Civic Headroom: 39.3 inches Legroom:  42.3 inches * 2022 Nissan Leaf Headroom: 41.2 inches Legroom: 42.1 inches * Volkswagen Jetta Headroom: 38.5 inches Legroom: 41.1 inches * Subaru Crosstrek Headroom: 39.8 inches Legroom: 43.1 inches * 2015 Scion xB Headroom: 40 inches Legroom: 40.7 inches * 2023 Mini Cooper (two-door) Headroom: 40.3 inches Legroom: 41.4 inches * 2020 Honda Fit Headroom: 39.5 inches Legroom: 41.4 inches Best Small Car for Tall People [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Take-a-Test-Drive-to-Feel-Out-the-Options.jpg] TAKE A TEST DRIVE TO FEEL OUT THE OPTIONS While tall drivers can research the headroom and legroom of the car models they are considering, the best way to determine if a car will be a comfortable fit is by visiting the dealership and testing different models. At the dealership, buyers can sit in different models. Position the front seat. Is it comfortable? Did the front seat need to be moved too far back? Is there enough headroom? Sitting in different cars helps buyers understand the comfort of the driver’s seat. However, the best way to determine if the car is going to be a comfortable ride is by taking a test drive. Tall drivers could find that they feel too cramped while driving. Maybe the car is comfortable but they don’t feel that the mechanics of the vehicle are up to speed. While a car could be a good physical fit, it might be a good driving fit. Test drives are important to understand the comfort of the car and its prowess on the streets, too. Some compact cars have less than stellar acceleration; this could be an issue for some drivers. Best Small Car for Tall People [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Financial-Benefit-of-Choosing-a-Small-Car.jpg] THE FINANCIAL BENEFIT OF CHOOSING A SMALL CAR Some drivers prefer small cars because they are easy to maneuver on the highway and in tight parking lots, too. Small cars can fit into tighter parking spaces; this can be a perk when spaces are limited. Small or compact cars also tend to be affordable options. Some tall drivers could be shopping for a compact or small car because they have a tighter budget. For buyers who can’t splurge on a pricier vehicle, these smaller cars offer an affordable price tag and are less than $25K: * 2015 Scion xB (price may vary) * 2020 Honda Fit * 2022 Honda Civic $22,550 * 2022 Subaru Crosstrek $23,145 * 2023 Mini Cooper $23,400 SAFETY RATINGS FOR THE BEST SMALL CAR FOR TALL DRIVERS While price might impact the buying decision for some shoppers, safety ratings also might be another factor that puts one car at the top of the list over the other options. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) provides safety reports for most makes and models. Car shoppers can visit IIHS to research any make and model and review the safety report to better understand how each vehicle performed in crash/safety tests. The safest vehicles are awarded a Top Safety Pick+ or Top Safety Pick rating. The following compact and small cars received either a Top Safety Pick+ or Top Safety Pick: * Honda Civic Top Safety Pick+ * Subaru Crosstrek Top Safety Pick WHAT OTHER FEATURES ARE IDEAL FOR TALL DRIVERS? Headroom and legroom can provide an idea as to the space offered in the front seat for taller drivers, but these drivers also might look for other car features that can also add comfort to the ride. Taller drivers might prefer: * Telescoping steering wheel * Power seat adjustment * Memory seat THE BENEFIT OF A TELESCOPING STEERING WHEEL Telescoping steering wheels also are recommended for more petite drivers. The benefit of this steering wheel feature is that the driver can adjust the wheel to suit their height and comfort. Tall buyers can look for this as a standard feature, or they might add it as an upgrade. POWER SEATS PROVIDE EASY ADJUSTMENTS Manual seat adjustments can be a pain. It might take many different adjustments to the seat to make the fit comfortable for the driver. Manual adjustments sometimes mean that the driver moves the seat too far back or just a little too high. Precise adjustments are a bit more difficult with manual controls. Power seats, however, let taller (or more petite) drivers make smaller adjustments to how high they sit as well as forward or backward adjustments, too. Power seats might be an upgrade, but this could be a worthwhile expense for taller drivers. MEMORY SEATS SAVE THE SETTING Seats that offer a programmable function ensure that the perfect position is always saved for each driver. This upgraded feature means drivers don’t have to constantly adjust their seat; this might be an issue for those who share a vehicle with a spouse, teen driver or partner. COMPACT AND SMALLER VEHICLES MIGHT BE MORE FUEL EFFICIENT The price of gas adjusts with supply and demand. When the price at the pump is incredibly high, buyers might focus on a new car with great fuel efficiency. Tall drivers who are shopping for compact or small cars might discover that these cars typically provide decent MPG stats on both the highway and the city. While electric vehicles could be the most energy-efficient vehicles on the market, not every car buyer has the budget for electric. Some areas also don’t provide many charging stations, and this could be an issue if the driver finds that they need a quick recharge. The Honda Civic is one of the most fuel efficient cars on the market (that isn’t a hybrid). The Civic offers an estimated 33 MPG in the city and 42 MPG on the highway. The Subaru Crosstrek also gets decent gas mileage—28 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway. USE THE RELAYCARS APP OR MOBILE SITE TO EXPLORE ALL THE OPTIONS Car shoppers can download the RelayCars app or visit the RelayCars website on their mobile device to explore all their vehicle options via immersive tools like 3D imagery, augmented reality and virtual reality (for those with Google Cardboard). RelayCars offers an inventory of thousands of makes/models. Shoppers choose the car they wish to explore, and they can interact with a 3D image of the vehicle on the screen using a fingertip to turn the car around or explore the interior. The RelayCars app is free to download on Google Play or the App Store, and those who have Google Cardboard can even explore cars in virtual reality. Use a tablet or smartphone to visit the RelayCars website and use augmented reality to explore any vehicle at home or anywhere. Augmented reality uses the camera on a tablet or smartphone to capture the environment; a model of the vehicle can be dropped anywhere chosen by the user. Preview a vehicle in the garage or in the living room. RelayCars also provides pricing information and specs for each model in the inventory. Use RelayCars to immerse in the car shopping experience and to better understand the options of each model. Download the app for free today or visit the mobile site to start exploring.

When demand is high for used cars, prices for those cars might rise, too. Car owners might see the rising prices of used cars and contemplate selling an older vehicle that they don’t need. Many car owners elect to sell their car when they’re ready to purchase a new model. What is the best way to sell a car? There are three options for car owners when they want to get rid of their old vehicle: * Sell the car to a dealership * Trade-in the vehicle to a dealership * Sell the car privately * Sell the car to an online company * Sell the car to a scrap yard HOW TO SELL MY CAR FAST Some car owners want to sell their car as quickly as possible. They might need the cash to pay off medical expenses or other personal expenses. Some car owners just don’t want that old car lingering in their garage or driveway. The quickest way to sell a car also might be the option that offers the least amount of hassle. Selling the car to a dealership might be the fastest way to sell a vehicle. Before offering up an older car to a dealership, though, car owners should: * Research the car’s value * Pay off any outstanding loan amounts on the vehicle * Locate the title * Clean their car (inside and out!) Car owners can research their vehicle’s value using Kelley Blue Book. The site offers two options for valuing a vehicle; the resale value and the trade-in value. When selling the vehicle to a dealership, car owners will want to research the trade-in value. Dealerships want to make a profit, and, while selling a car to a dealership might be the quickest option, it also might result in less money for the owner. Since car dealerships want to make money on their purchase, they need to consider their own profit margin when negotiating a price. KBB will show car owners the price they might expect to receive from a dealership for their vehicle. Car owners will then need to figure out how much money they owe on their vehicle to a lender. Before a dealership will finalize the deal, they may stipulate that the car owner pays all or a portion of the outstanding loan balance. Car owners also will need to find their car’s title. A car sale needs to include the title to the vehicle. If the owner cannot find the title, they might need to research the process of replacing the new title. This is usually done through the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). When car owners are interested in selling their car to a dealership, they should thoroughly clean the vehicle inside and out. They may even consider having the car detailed. The vehicle’s condition affects the value; make the vehicle presentable. Best Way to Sell a Car [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/What-is-the-Best-Way-to-Sell-My-Car.jpg] WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO SELL MY CAR? Selling a vehicle to the dealership is one of the quickest ways to sell a car, especially when the owner has all their paperwork in order and has paid off the vehicle. The best way to sell a vehicle to maximize profit, though, is by selling privately. A private sale, however, may take more time and effort.  If there is an outstanding loan balance for the vehicle, the car owner should contact their lender to determine how they can sell the vehicle. Car owners will need to clean up their vehicle and make any necessary repairs before listing the vehicle. In addition, car owners should research the resale value of their vehicle on KBB. This is different from the trade-in value, and it’s typically higher. Car owners will need to answer questions about their vehicle’s condition. They also need to select any upgraded features for their vehicle and include data on the vehicle’s mileage. Order a vehicle report to present to buyers, too. Car owners also need to consider how they wish to advertise their vehicle. When selling privately, car owners need to be aware of potential scammers. Be safe when meeting with buyers. Only meet buyers in public places and be sure to arrange a secure payment option; meet at a bank to complete a transaction or insist on using reputable payment options like Zelle, PayPal and Venmo. Best Way to Sell a Car [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/How-to-Sell-an-Old-Car.jpg] HOW TO SELL AN OLD CAR Some cars are classic and collectible. Selling an old car might mean that the car owner needs to target a niche buyer. Other cars might simply be older with a large number on the odometer. The best way to sell an old car depends on the owner’s preferences and perhaps how fast they need to make the sale. Again, selling a vehicle to a car dealership might be the easiest option. However a private sale typically nets a higher profit for the seller. Car owners need to weigh the options. Some owners don’t want to manage a private sale, but others prefer to sell privately if it means they yield a higher profit. BEST WAY TO SELL A CAR WHEN BUYING A NEW CAR Some car owners need to sell their old car to have money for a down payment on a new option. What is the best way to sell a car when buying a new car? Many car buyers opt to use their old car for a trade-in at the dealership. This is another way to sell the vehicle to the dealership except the money for the old car is simply deducted from the sale price of the new vehicle. Before offering up an older vehicle as a trade-in, car owners should research the trade-in value of the vehicle via KBB. When buyers have an idea about the value of their vehicle, they can negotiate with the dealership if they think they are offered a low figure for their trade-in. Buyers who don’t know the trade-in value of their vehicle might be at a serious disadvantage at the dealership. SELLING A CAR TO AN ONLINE CAR COMPANY Companies like Carvana also buy cars. These companies might be another easy option for car owners who want to sell their car quickly. Selling a car to an online car company might allow car buyers to receive a sale quote quickly. The sale process also could be more simplistic. Car owners who are interested in pursuing a quick sale can get a quote from Carvana by entering their license plate or VIN information and the state in which they live. If the offer seems low, car owners could try selling through a dealership or just handling the sale privately. Best Way to Sell a Car [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Selling-Extremely-Old-Cars-to-a-Scrap-Yard.jpg] SELLING EXTREMELY OLD CARS TO A SCRAP YARD Some cars are simply not worth much. Maybe they have been sitting idle for years. Perhaps they are broken beyond repair. In this case, a dealership might not want the vehicle and a private seller definitely would have no use for it. What are the options for a car owner when their car isn’t running? Donating the car to a charity could be an option. The donation could be tax deductible. However, before offering up a car to charity, a car owner should check to see if the car has to be in working condition. Some scrap yards could buy the car for scrap metal and/or parts. While they won’t offer much for a vehicle, this is a way for the car owner to get the vehicle off their hands. Selling a car to a junkyard will still require that the car owner sign over the title. In addition, a junk yard won’t be an option if the vehicle isn’t paid off. If car owners don’t agree with the price offered at one scrap yard, they might visit others to see if they can get a better price for their vehicle. Car owners, though, might simply just want to get rid of the vehicle for any price. How much can a car owner expect to receive when selling their old vehicle to a scrap yard or junkyard? The offer could vary, but some offer a few hundred dollars for a vehicle. Car owners might even be able to get a quote for their old car. WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO SELL A CAR? The best way to sell a car isn’t the same for all car owners. Selling a car to a dealership, though, might be the quickest way to sell the vehicle. A private sale might ensure that the owner gets the most from that sale. Car owners who are still paying off their vehicle might have a more complicated sale. They will need to contact their lender before selling privately, and some dealerships might require them to pay off the loan in full or partially. Using the car for a trade-in also can be a low-stress way of handling a vehicle sale. When using the vehicle as a trade-in, the car owner won’t receive a payment from the dealership. Instead, the trade-in offer will be used to offset the price of the new vehicle. Car owners who have a very old car that isn’t running or that simply costs too much to fix might consider selling it to a scrap yard. This could be the best option when the car won’t be an acceptable trade-in because of its poor condition. Scrap yards might offer a few hundred dollars for a vehicle, but the price varies. The best way to sell a car might depend on the condition of the car, the needs of the car owner and how fast the car owner needs the cash.

Today, many prospective car buyers are on a tight budget. If you’re one of them, don’t worry. You can still get a great car without breaking the bank. However, you do have to put in some research and effort.  Remember too that your goal shouldn’t be just to find the least expensive new car. Instead, it should be to find the highest quality car, one that is right for your needs, at the most reasonable price you can afford. Here, you can find information on some nice, affordable cars. Just make sure you balance price with other factors to make the best buying decision possible. AFFORDABLE OPTION #1: THE 2022 NISSAN SENTRA The 2022 Nissan Sentra may not be the least expensive new car on the market, but it’s still very reasonably priced. It has a base price of only $20,635. Aside from that, it’s also super safe. It comes with electronic stability control, rear parking sensors, lane departure warning, and a variety of airbags. You won’t find anything super fancy here, but if you want a good, basic car at an affordable price, this one is a great choice. AFFORDABLE OPTION #2: THE 2022 CHEVROLET SPARK LS 2022 has brought a lot of nice affordable cars. However, the Chevrolet Spark LS is definitely one of the nicest. It’s priced at a low $15,695. Even better, it can help you save a lot of money on gas. It gets a combined 33 miles per gallon (MPG) on average, which means you’ll have to fuel up a lot less often. It also has an impressive amount of technology for the price. Drivers will enjoy: * Bluetooth streaming audio * Apple CarPlay * Smartphone connectivity  AFFORDABLE OPTION #3: THE 2022 HYUNDAI VENUE The Hyundai Venue might not be the cheapest brand new car, but it does feature a reasonable base price of only $20,245. Plus, it’s a subcompact, which means you can enjoy easy driving, easy parking, and an easy, efficient experience all around. This particular model also packs a lot of power and is good at reaching high speeds quickly. AFFORDABLE OPTION #4: THE 2022 KIA RIO LX Another super affordable choice is the Kia Rio LX, which has a base price of only $17,275. It’s got a great four cylinder engine, and it’s amazing on gas too. In fact, you’ll enjoy a combined 36 MPG. Of course, you do miss out on a few features when you opt for lower priced models. In this case, you won’t get automatic emergency braking, but don’t worry too much. Six airbags, electronic stability control, and hill start assist control are included.   AFFORDABLE OPTION #5: THE 2022 SUBARU IMPREZA “Impreza” sounds an awful lot like “impressive,” which makes it a fitting name for this great car. Priced at a cool $19,790, it may be a little more expensive than some of the others on this list, but it’s well worth the price. It’s the cheapest way to enjoy all-wheel drive, and it’s great for zipping down the highways thanks to its approximate 31 MPG for highway driving. It also includes a helpful rear vision camera and EyeSight Driver Assist technology. AFFORDABLE OPTION #6: THE 2022 MITSUBISHI MIRAGE ES Another reasonably-priced choice for 2022 is the Mitsubishi Mirage ES. It comes in at $16,990. And, while it may look super compact, it can seat up to five people at once. The one downside is that it’s not the speediest car available. If you can live with that,you’ll enjoy a great little car with some awesome safety features. These include: * Forward Collision Mitigation * A Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution body * 7 airbags * A rearview camera system AFFORDABLE OPTION #7: THE 2022 NISSAN VERSA S Yet another Nissan makes its way onto this list. Coming in at $17,625, the Nissan Versa S is smooth, stylish, and loaded with excellent features. Sit back and enjoy the ride with built-in cruise control, a 7-inch touchscreen display, Siri Eyes Free technology, and Bluetooth streaming audio. There’s also room for up to five, so you can bring your friends and family along for the fun. AFFORDABLE OPTION #8: THE 2022 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA If you’re into Volkswagens but always thought they were too expensive, think again. The Volkswagen Jetta has a starting MSRP of only $21,360. It’s also quite good on fuel, especially on the highway, where it gets an estimated 40 MPG. The city mileage isn’t quite as great at an estimated 29 MPG, but the roomy interior makes up for that. Some drivers have complained that it’s not the most aesthetically pleasing car, but that’s best left to personal opinion. So, why not take a look or even a test drive and decide for yourself? AFFORDABLE OPTION #9: THE TOYOTA COROLLA Rounding out our list is the latest Toyota Corolla. This has long been a popular car, and the 2022 model makes it easy to see why. No matter where you drive, you’re sure to get great gas mileage. It gets around 38 MPG for highway driving and 30 MPG for city driving. Plus, plenty of great features come standard, such as built-in WiFi and Apple CarPlay. Unfortunately, there isn’t much room for cargo, but at an MSRP of $21,450, it’s a tough car to beat. Least Expensive New Car [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Dont-Be-Afraid-to-Haggle.jpg] DON’T BE AFRAID TO HAGGLE Some people make the mistake of thinking that the dealer’s word is law. That’s not always true. Often, you can negotiate a much lower price than the sticker price. You can also negotiate for better priced upgrades or have the dealer strike some of the extra fees they often throw in.  The key is to do your research ahead of time. If you ask for a price that’s ridiculously low, you’re likely to get laughed off the lot. Instead, ask for a price that’s closer to the invoice price, meaning the price the dealer paid for the car, than to the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP). Remain cool, calm, and collected while you negotiate. Be respectful and try to present an air of confidence and knowledge. You might just walk away with an amazing deal, especially if you stick to cars that are already reasonably priced to begin with. COMPARE DEALERSHIPS Every dealership is not the same. So, spend some time comparing your options. If there’s a particular car you’re interested in, talk with each dealer who sells it. You might find that one is more willing to budge in terms of price than the other. Or, one dealership might be running a special sale or promotion that could help you save. In other words, don’t just buy from the first dealership that has your dream vehicle. Remember, there are plenty of other dealerships that can sell the car to you, and perhaps at a better price. Make it your mission to find the one that will offer you the best service, the best warranty, and the best all-around deal. BE CAREFUL ABOUT FINANCING If you’re like most people, you probably won’t buy your new car outright, no matter how affordable it is. In that case, you’ll need financing. You may want to finance through your bank or credit union or through the dealership. Either choice can work, but proceed with caution. Make sure you understand the interest rate, whether or not it’s reasonable based on your credit, and that you compare as many financing options as possible. Without research and careful consideration, it’s easy to get roped into a “great deal” that actually costs you a lot more over time. CONSIDER A TRADE-IN DEAL If you already own a car and you’re willing to part with it, be sure to ask the dealer about trade-in possibilities. Many dealerships will allow you to hand over your old car and use its value toward the purchase of a new one. How much trade-in value you can get will vary based on a variety of factors. These include the vehicle’s age, condition, and more.  Generally, the newer your vehicle and the better its condition, the more you can save on your new car. Again, though, don’t just accept the first offer you receive. See how much trade-in credit you can get from each potential dealership. Some may offer a lot more than others. THE BOTTOM LINE If you’re made it this far, congratulations. You’re armed with a lot of great information, not just about the least expensive new car options, but about how you can save on any vehicle purchase. As long as you make an effort to see the “big picture” of every offer and you put these tips to use, you can drive off the lot in an awesome car and feel good about the price you paid. So, get to work. The affordably priced car you’ve been dreaming of is waiting.

Through the years, vehicles have evolved as the needs of families have changed.  While station wagons were a family favorite in the ‘70s, minivans quickly took preference for family travel and held their popularity into the millennium. Although the SUV is now the family car of choice, the minivan still has a solid fan base of loyal buyers. When the minivan reigned supreme, there were many different models available. While the options have dwindled over the years, the remaining models all rank well for safety and dependability. Most are comparable in design, but what is the biggest minivan on the market? Currently, there are only four minivan models available: * Chrysler Pacifica * Honda Odyssey * Kia Carnival * Toyota Sienna Each of these models is comparable when it comes to fuel efficiency, safety and price, too. How do they size up, though? Here’s a look at each minivan in detail. Biggest Minivan [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/2022-Chrysler-Pacifica.jpg] 2022 CHRYSLER PACIFICA The Pacifica has a base price of $37,095, which makes it the highest-priced minivan. It was rated as a Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), which is the highest safety rating a vehicle can earn.  The Pacifica has space for up to seven passengers. While the standard Pacifica Touring can get 19 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway, the minivan also is offered in a fuel-efficient hybrid option.  The hybrid has room for seven passengers but can get more than MPGe (combined for both city and highway). The Pacifica also includes more than 100 safety features (standard and options) to keep the driver and passengers safe during the drive.   How big is the Pacifica? It offers a maximum interior cargo space of 140.5 cubic feet. For passenger space, the second row features 39 inches of legroom, and the third row offers 36.5 inches. The driver and front passenger have 41.1 inches of legroom. Biggest Minivan [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Honda-Odyssey.jpg] HONDA ODYSSEY The Odyssey has a base price of $33,040. It also was rated as a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. The Odyssey offers the same fuel efficiency as the standard Pacifica—19 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The Odyssey also boasts numerous standard safety features and upgrades. However, the Odyssey offers more legroom than the Pacifica. The front seats and middle row include 40.9 inches of legroom. The third row offers 38.1 inches. Behind the first row, the Odyssey offers a maximum cargo space of 144.9 cubic feet. Behind the third row, it offers about 38 cubic feet of space. Biggest Minivan [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Kia-Carnival.jpg] KIA CARNIVAL The Kia Carnival is one of the most budget-friendly minivans available. With a base price of $32,300, the Carnival has space for up to eight passengers. The Carnival can get 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway, which makes it slightly less fuel efficient than its competitors. It received a Top Safety Pick rating from IIHS (for models with specific headlights). However, the Carnival is noted to be best in class for cargo space. It offers a maximum cargo space of 145.1 cubic feet. While legroom space is decent, the Carnival offers the least amount of space for third row passengers. The front seat offers 41.1 inches of legroom, and the second row offers 40.5 inches. The third row is a bit tighter and only offers 35.6 inches of leg space. Biggest Minivan [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Toyota-Sienna.jpg] TOYOTA SIENNA The Toyota Sienna is the second most expensive minivan with a base price of $34,710, but it’s a hybrid. However, it offers room for eight passengers (unless buyers elect for captain’s chairs in the second row), and it boasts the best gas mileage among all the minivan models (except the hybrid Pacifica). The Sienna can get 36 MPG combined and received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS.  The Sienna offers the tightest legroom space for the driver and front passenger, but it offers the most space for third row passengers. The front row has 40.3 inches, the second row has 39.9 inches, and the third row passengers have 38.7 inches of legroom. As for cargo space, the Sienna might be a bit more cramped. The Sienna has a maximum cargo space of 101 cubic feet—far below its competitors. WHAT MINIVAN HAS THE MOST SPACE? When the seats are dropped down in the second and third rows, minivans can hold quite a lot of cargo. This is handy for families who need to pack boxes for moving or haul other items. The minivan with the most cargo space is currently the Kia Carnival—but only by a very slight margin. For legroom, though, each minivan has its strengths. The Kia Carnival and Chrysler Pacifica offer the most legroom for the driver and front seat passenger. The Odyssey has the most space for second-row passengers, while the Toyota Sienna offers the most legroom in the third row. BEFORE MINIVANS WENT MINI, THEY WERE JUST VANS Minivans weren’t always the standard family car. Again, station wagons once dominated the family market. However, vans also were an option. Vans of the past weren’t always known as mini, and older vans tended to be less refined in style. Many ‘80s children slept in the back of the van during long car trips. Like newer sleeker minivans, the older vans were sized to hold plenty of passengers. For example, the Chevy Astro could seat up to eight (the same as many of today’s minivans). The older vans of the ‘80s also typically included a velvet-like interior. Now minivans commonly feature cloth seats or leather. What was the largest minivan or van ever? Older now discontinued vans like the Dodge Grand Caravan could boast more space than modern predecessors. However, there are no solid stats on what minivan offered the most cargo space. Biggest Minivan [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Are-New-Minivans-On-the-Horizon.jpg] ARE NEW MINIVANS ON THE HORIZON? One of the most iconic early relatives of the minivan was the kitschy and groovy Volkswagen Microbus. These vehicles are highly collectible and remain emblematic of the ‘60s and ‘70s. The vintage bus was extremely roomy, and these buses are still used by some modern nomads as on-the-go mobile living space. Volkswagen is set to release a new electric minibus/minivan called the ID Buzz. According to Tom’s Guide, the bus/van is expected to drive into the U.S. market in 2023 and will have an estimated range of 250 miles. The downside of the new bus/van, though, might be related to its power—it takes 8.5 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 60. Many modern electric vehicles now boast quick acceleration stats. However, minivans have never really been known for their quick speed. Stats for the Honda Odyssey, for example, note that its 0 to 60 time is around 6.5 seconds. The Sienna has similar stats. The VW ID Buzz could be a possible new electric option for those who want a more modern iteration of the old microbus or for buyers looking for a cool alternative to the standard minivan. Biggest Minivan [https://blog.relaycars.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Minivans-vs.-SUVs.jpg] MINIVANS VS. SUVS Many families choose third-row SUVs for a sporty family car; some buyers might like the weight of the SUV and choose these cars because they feel safer. Others might just like the look of the SUV. The minivan, though, offers a few key features that the SUV doesn’t. For example, minivans typically include sliding doors. This makes loading the vehicle easier. Sliding doors also provide hands free convenience. Many minivans let drivers use the key fob to automatically open the sliding doors. When carrying kids, sports gear or groceries to the car, this makes accessing the vehicle a less cumbersome experience. Minivans also provide the most cargo space. The largest SUV is the Chevrolet Suburban, which offers 144.7 cubic feet of space. With a base price of $53,200, the Suburban costs about $16,000 more than the most expensive minivan. Both the Kia Carnival and the Honda Odyssey offer a little more cargo space for much less money. CHOOSING THE BEST MINIVAN Car buyers who want to find the best minivan for their needs can explore all the available models using RelayCars. The RelayCars website lets buyers explore all the most modern minivan models using 3D interactive imagery or augmented reality. Car buyers also can download the RelayCars app to explore vehicles in virtual reality (with Google Cardboard); those without Google Cardboard can explore cars on the app by exploring 3D models of vehicles on their screens. Using RelayCars interactive and immersive platforms, car buyers can use a fingertip to interact with 3D car models and explore the car from all angles. In addition, those who use a mobile device to visit the RelayCars website can explore vehicles by dropping models of their favorite models into their environment using augmented reality. Explore minivan models in the driveway, the backyard or place them into the garage. RelayCars also includes data for all newer models; compare vehicle specs and features or just research different vehicle options. Shopping for a new minivan can begin at home using the immersive tools and vehicle data offered by RelayCars. Explore all the minivans—even earlier models—and find the minivan that fits the lifestyle, the budget and, of course, the family!