AAA Study Reveals Vehicle Ownership Cost Increases

When it comes to owning a car, there are many different costs to consider aside from the initial price. Everything from fuel to repairs and insurance can really add up, and a recent AAA study reveals the average cost of ownership has increased since last year. For every mile the average driver puts on their vehicle, they spent about 59.6 cents, which is 1.1 cents higher than it was last year. The researchers examined the cost of driving the five top-selling vehicles in five categories – small, medium and large sedans, minivans and SUVs.

"The average driving cost for 2012 is up due to relatively large increases in fuel and tire costs, and more moderate increases in other areas," said John Nielsen, the director of automotive engineering and repair for AAA. "Those increases were offset by a decrease in depreciation resulting in an overall increase [in cost of ownership] of 1.9 percent. Some driving costs fluctuate at different times during the year, such as what we have experienced with fuel prices since the middle of February."

Depreciation cost, which dropped 4.9 percent, was the only aspect of ownerships that declined. Insurance rose by 3.4 percent and maintenance fees saw a more modest bump of 0.7 percent.

The higher strain on the budget of owning a car has created a larger demand for used vehicles, as they are typically more affordable than their new counterparts. While recent trends have shown a push toward fuel-efficient new cars, there are still plenty of used models that offer decent mileage. Drivers looking for used cars in New Jersey can head to New Jersey State Auto Auction. The NJ dealer has a wide variety of makes and models at affordable prices.

Next-gen Mazda6 to Get Smaller Engine than Concept

The Mazda Takeri concept car, which made its North American debut at the New York International Auto Show, was rumored to be the model for the next generation Mazda6. However, AutoWeek reports the new car, due out in early 2013, will not have the same SkyActiv V6 engine as the elegant concept model. Instead, the new car will be outfitted with a SkyActiv four-cylinder similar to the motor found in the Mazda CX-5.

The concept car's 2.2-liter turbodiesel engine was capable of generating 175 horsepower, but the motor that makes it into the production model will be slightly watered down with only 150 hp. However, the decline in power does mean an increase in fuel efficiency.

"We believe that the balance of fuel economy and power that SkyActiv offers is what customers want," a Mazda spokesman told the news source. He also said the company had not yet decided against offering a V6 option, but no decisions have been finalized.

If nothing else, the automaker has promised the new car will be modeled closely after the design of the Takeri. With a strong, muscular body and sleek aerodynamic curves, the concept car was one of the head-turning cars at the NY Auto Show.

The new Mazda6, which will likely be priced in the mid-$20,000 range, may be out of some drivers' price range, but the car has been in production for a number of years. Motorists looking for used cars in NJ may be able to find a used version of this sporty midsize sedan at the New Jersey State Auto Auction. The dealer carries a wide selection of makes and models, so consumers are sure to find the vehicle they're looking for at a price that fits their budget.

Go Green with These Used Cars

Many motorists are choosing to buy green cars for their next big purchase, but people hoping to find a quality fuel-efficient used car in New Jersey may not know where to start. With pre-owned vehicles being more reliable than ever before, there are many suitable options for drivers looking for something eco-friendly while also saving some money, according to GreenCarReports.com.

The Toyota Prius is at the top of the list, mainly because it's so plentiful. The iconic hybrid was one of the first of its kind, and motorists can likely find a quality used version pretty easily. Specifically, experts suggest buying the 2004 to 2009 models, which get around 46 miles per gallon.

Though hybrids are often viewed as the most eco-friendly and fuel-efficient cars, there are some other used options that can be just as kind to the environment. In particular, the Volkswagen Jetta TDI comes to mind, according to the website. The diesel-powered vehicle gets around 34 miles per gallon and has greatly improved its emissions in recent years.

Smaller cars may be the best option when it comes to fuel efficiency, but sometimes it may not be the most practical choice. Drivers who need more room but still want to go green may want to pick the 2009 through 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid. It's big, powerful and spacious yet still gets about 21 miles per gallon, certainly not bad for a large SUV.

Whether you're looking for a hybrid SUV, compact car or spacious sedan, New Jersey State Auto Auction will likely have you covered. With a wide variety of makes and models all available for affordable prices, there will be something for everyone.

The Best Sporty, Affordable Used Cars

From a practical car to take to and from work to a larger vehicle capable of transporting a lot of people, motorists buy used cars for a number of different purposes. Sometimes people want to add a new car to their collection that will be solely used for cruising. However, they'll probably want to spend as little money as possible on their leisurely new ride, and according to the Philadelphia Inquirer there are several options that fit the bill.

At the top of the list is the 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. This small sports car has been a popular option for years, and for good reason. A 2009 model with around 50,000 miles will go for just around $19,725 and will be the perfect sporty addition to anybody's fleet. Additionally, it gets around 28 miles per gallon, so it won't break the bank when it comes time to fill up.

Along with the Miata, the Inquirer says the 2006 Honda S2000 provides another sporty, yet affordable option. Analysts say it comes in a little bit higher at $19,900, but it's certainly worth it. The S2000 offers drivers significantly more horsepower than the Miata, and thanks to the fact Honda doesn't make the S2000 anymore, you'll have to go used.

If the Miata and S2000 are a bit too small, the newspaper suggests opting for the 2007 Nissan 350 Z. It's the biggest, most powerful car in the group but will run you just about $19,500 for a model with around 70,000 miles.

Regardless of the reason you may be looking for a used car in NJ, New Jersey State Auto Auction likely has the model for you. With plenty of options to choose from, you'll drive away happy.

Victoria Beckham Helps Design Posh Range Rover

Land Rover is well known for its popular line of luxury SUVs, so it should come as no surprise the manufacturer enlisted the help of one of the most glamorous celebrities in the world to promote its Range Rover Evoque. Victoria Beckham recently helped design and lent her name to a special edition of the SUV.

Beckham, formerly known as Posh Spice, is certainly a good fit to help design the car, which recently made its debut at the Beijing Auto Show. Her post-Spice Girls career has been defined mostly by her impeccable style while out with her four children and husband, soccer star David Beckham.

"Both Land Rover and Victoria Beckham are British luxury brands with credibility and global appeal," said Gerry McGovern, Land Rover's director of design. "This dual 'Britishness' makes the collaboration even more exciting especially when considering the huge audience for bespoke products around the world, particularly in China, Russia and Brazil where Land Rover is growing."

Though the Evoque is already fairly luxurious to begin with, Beckham's design takes things to a new level. In particular, its interior is especially attractive with vintage tan leather complete with baseball-esque stitching as a nod to her husband's athletic prowess.

Special edition or not, the Evoque has been one of the most well-reviewed cars of the last year. In fact, it earned the coveted Truck of the Year distinction from Motor Trend magazine.

Thought it might be difficult to get your hands on a specially-designed Evoque, anybody looking for a used car in New Jersey has plenty of appealing SUVs to choose from at New Jersey State Auto Auction. With a wide variety of makes and models to pick from, there's the perfect vehicle for everyone.

New 2013 Nissan Altima Expected to Outperform Previous Model

The 2013 Nissan Altima was a big hit at the New York International Auto Show, and experts are predicting this car could be the best-selling family sedan by the end of the year. This projection is made all the more impressive as the newly-redesigned sedan won't hit dealers nationwide until July.

"Overall with improving fuel economy, we expect 2012 new car sales to jump roughly 15 percent over 2011," said Kelsey Mays, an automotive analyst for Cars.com. "Taking the redesign of the Altima into account, we'd expect the 2013 Altima to outsell its 2012 predecessor by 39 percent by year's end, 24 percentage points above our expected market growth."

The new Altima was among the many gas-powered vehicles on display in New York that offer improved fuel economy over previous models. In fact, a continuously variable transmission, coupled with weight reduction and a more aerodynamic design make the new model 15 percent more efficient than the 2012 version. The overall look of the Altima is relatively the same, but tweaked to appear sleeker, with a smoother front end, streamlined tail lights and a low-profile rear hatch. The sides of the car's body are also a bit more muscular in the new model.

While the newest model may outperform its predecessor, older models are still a good bet for those looking for a reliable family car that gets decent gas mileage. A 2012 Altima gets 32 miles per gallon on the highway. Those in the market for used cars in NJ can head to New Jersey State Auto Auction, which has a wide variety of makes and models sure to suit the needs of every driver.

Gas Prices Fall, Still High In Some Places

Although gas prices experienced a sharp rise throughout the first few months of the year, it looks like there is some relief in sight. The Energy Department's weekly findings showed there was a nationwide drop in gas prices, with an average gallon of gas costing around $3.87. The figure is lower than this time last year, according to the Los Angeles Times reports.

The drop marks the first time in more than two years that the price of gas was less than at the same time the previous year. It also is important given there had been considerable worry there would be no end to the rising prices.

Still, it's not a complete cause for celebration. Although the nationwide average fell 5.2 cents, there are still some places where the price per gallon is especially high. In California, for instance, the average is hovering around $4.20 per gallon, and although it's down from $4.37 earlier this year, it's still significantly higher than the rest of the country.

Additionally, the slight drop in prices may not change drivers' desire to switch to more fuel-efficient cars or change their driving behavior in order to improve their mileage. People looking to improve their efficiency should make sure their tires are properly filled at all times and try to put less strain on their car when they're on the road.

Furthermore, anybody looking to find a fuel-efficient used car in New Jersey may want to head to New Jersey State Auto Auction. With a wide variety of makes and models at affordable prices, from compact cars to SUVs, there's the perfect ride for every consumer.

Consumer Reports Details Feelings About Auto Maintenance

Having a car that's in need of repairs can be enough of a struggle, but going to get the problem fixed can often be difficult as well. Consumer Reports recently released a study detailing exactly what bothers drivers the most in terms of auto maintenance, and the results shed some light on what drivers should do if they're in need of repairs.

For the most part, motorists are content with the service they received when they went to a garage, with about 75 percent saying they were either "completely satisfied" or "very satisfied" with the results. However, the remaining quarter who were not so happy often cited high prices as the reason for their discontent.

Additionally, some respondents said the quality of the fix was not what they expected. In fact, around 28 percent of people who were unsatisfied with their experience said they didn't believe the problem was entirely corrected. Though this might be partly on the mechanic, experts say it is also reliant on the driver to make sure everything works before leaving the garage.

"Make an issue of it right there," Jim Travers, an associate editor with Consumer Reports Autos, told the MSNBC.com. "Don’t leave before you’re comfortable that you’ve been taken care of properly. If you leave, you start to diminish any chance that you’re going to get recourse."

Motorists likely won't have to worry about being unhappy with their experience at New Jersey State Auto Auction's Total Car Care center. Not only can drivers visit its team of talented mechanics for general maintenance, but they can also address more serious issues that may be affecting how their car runs.

No Surprise Here: Men, Women Differ Over Cars

There have been many long-held assumptions about the differences between men and women when it comes to buying cars. While their preferences may still be dissimilar, a recent study from TrueCar.com found the once wide gap between the sexes has shrunk a bit over the last year.

Perhaps least surprising was that men made up the greatest percentage of buyers of domestic-made heavy trucks and SUVs. Specifically, 73.5 percent of GMC owners were male, and 72 percent of people who bought Dodges were also men. There was a similar proportion for Land Rover, Ford and Chevrolet as well.

"Female car buyers really gravitated toward smaller, more fuel-efficient cars and crossovers," said Kristen Andersson, Senior Analyst at TrueCar.com. "It was the complete opposite for male buyers, who preferred either a fast and sporty vehicle with distinctive curb appeal or a big vehicle, like a large truck or SUV."

The most female-heavy brand was MINI, with around 46.2 percent of buyers being women. Nissan came in second at 45.7 percent while Kia was right behind at 45.6 percent. Honda and Mitsubishi rounded out the top five.

Perhaps most interesting was the disparity between male and female buyers when it came to flashy, high performance vehicles. In particular, a whopping 92.5 percent of Ferrari buyers were men, with Bentley, Maserati and Porsche all experiencing similarly high levels.

Regardless of whether you're a man or a woman, everyone can agree on the fact that a car's quality trumps all other aspects. Anybody looking for a reliable used car in New Jersey should head to New Jersey State Auto Auction. With a wide variety of makes and models, there's something for everyone.

Shelby Marks 50th Anniversary with Car that Started It All

This year marks the 50th anniversary for Shelby American, the company behind the sporty performance cars that once stood alone but are now tightly entwined with Ford Mustang. To celebrate the milestone, Shelby had a special showcase set up just outside the entrance to the New York International Auto Show. Nearly a dozen customized Mustang Shelby vehicles were on display in a roped-off section, but one car stood out from the crowd of mostly-new vehicles. The very first Shelby ever built stood on a raised platform on the outer edge, making it the first vehicle visitors saw as they entered the Javits Center in New York City.

The Shelby, built in 1962, belongs to company founder Carroll Shelby and made its first world debut at the very same auto show half a century ago. The vehicle appeared to have been taken care of over the years, but signs of wear and tear were apparent in the torn leather seats and worn shifter. AutoBlog estimates the value of the sporty vehicle to be around $20 million, but Shelby has no plans of selling.

"I heard someone once offered him $25 million for it, but he turned it down," a Ford spokesperson explained at the Auto Show.

The anniversary was also marked by the debut of the newest Shelby 1,000, based on a Mustang GT500. The street-legal version of this supercar offers 950 hp, and the track-only model is even more powerful with 1,100 hp. The latest Shelby is the most powerful sports car ever made by Shelby or Ford, Torque News reports.

However, with a price tag starting around $150,000, this car is not for everyone. Those looking for used cars in NJ, whether they want to find a powerful Mustang or something smaller and more fuel-efficient, can head to New Jersey State Auto Auction. The dealer has a wide selection of makes and models at affordable prices.