Survey: Used car sales may rise in 2011

A new survey by Consumer Reports has revealed that more American are interested in buying a used car in 2011.

As part of the Brand Perception Survey, the consumer guide asked respondents about their likelihood to consider a used car for their next vehicle purchase. In total, 71 percent of respondents said that they would be more likely to consider a used vehicle for their next car than they would have been several years ago. Forty-seven percent of that total further stipulated that they would "very likely" make a used car their next vehicle purchase.

The survey further broke down the data by revealing that 75 percent of men were considering a used car, compared to 67 percent of women surveyed.

The guide cites several advantages to buying used over new. In addition to being obviously cheaper than new cars, drivers who buy a used car avoid the rapid depreciation that occurs as soon as they drive a vehicle off of a lot. And with the lifespan of vehicles extended greatly by new technology, there isn't too much of a difference maintenance-wise in buying a used vehicle, especially if its a certified pre-owned car backed by a manufacturer's warranty.