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European cars have long been synonymous with luxury, elegance, good taste and scary MSRP. Names such as Lamborghini, Porsche, Alfa Romeo, Maserati, Ferrari, Jaguar, BMW, and Mercedes are known in the automotive world for their premium materials, subtle designs, and high-performance engines.
But they’re not the only game in town.
See: 7 Best Cars for Retirees on a BudgetFind Out: 10 New Cars to Avoid Buying in 2024
U. S. retirees on a budget can get behind the wheel of a comfortable, high-performance European imported vehicle without paying the extra that is regularly imposed on cars arriving from across the Atlantic. Here’s a look at the five most sensible European cars for retirees that will be moving to the dealership. with the concept of saving money.
RepairPal ranks Volkswagens, overall, as “above average” in terms of reliability, and the reliable Jetta does even better, earning 4 stars.
“The Volkswagen Jetta is a small vehicle that offers fuel economy, safety, comfort and taste all in one,” said Ali Lijee of Auto Locksmiths. “Its turbocharged 1. 5-liter engine produces 42 mpg highway and 158 horsepower. In addition, it offers a spacious trunk, an easy-to-use infotainment system, and multiple driver-assist technologies.
The 2024 model has a starting price of $21,345, making it one of the best-selling cars on the road, whether European or not.
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The VW Golf GTI starts at $31,965, which is pricier than the Jetta, but far more affordable than the $48,247 that Cox Automotive quotes as the average new car sale price.
“The Volkswagen Golf is a venerable choice for retirees – an affordable yet reliable European vehicle,” said Steve Feiner, CEO of Auto Almanac.
“Known for its practical design, fuel power and versatility, the Golf has maintained a strong presence in the US market for years. Its compact length makes it maneuverable in urban environments, while its spacious interior offers plenty of room for passengers and cargo. Additionally, the Golf offers a comfortable ride and a diversity of protective features, making it an ideal selection for retirees who prioritize practicality without compromising quality. The availability of new and used models ensures that concerned buyers “Because of their budget, they can purchase a Volkswagen Golf that fits their monetary limitations,” he added.
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Few people know more about pairing American buyers with faraway vehicles than Jason Mueller of A-1 Auto Transport, which specializes in shipping vehicles. His hands-down European favorite for Stateside retirees is the Fiat 500.
“This style ensures cost-effectiveness thanks to its fuel economy and low maintenance needs and provides ease of use and reliability,” he said. “This is for retirees who value comfort and safety. “
The Fiat 500 is an iconic Italian classic that debuted in the U.S. in 2011, and it didn’t change much from its 2012 update to 2019 when it was discontinued. They’re instantly recognizable by their throwback design, they’re fun to drive and small enough to park in the tightest of city spots. Consumer Reports says they get an impressive 33 combined mpg and that you can get one from the last two or three production years in good condition for between roughly $8,000 and $15,000.
“On a budget” means other things to other retirees. Some might be looking to take a step back from the Benzes, Audis, Porsche, or other opulent high-end European imports that have driven through their consecutive years without upgrading to anything like it. a Jetta.
In those cases, a Swedish compact SUV starting at $40,500 is the best solution.
“For retirees desiring a touch of luxury without the premium price tag, the Volvo XC40 stands out as a worthy contender,” said Feiner. “Renowned for its Scandinavian design, the XC40 combines elegance with practicality, offering a comfortable ride and a host of safety features. Volvo’s commitment to innovation is evident in the XC40’s advanced driver-assist systems, providing retirees with an extra layer of security on the road. With a competitive price point compared to other luxury SUVs, the Volvo XC40 caters to budget-minded retirees seeking a sophisticated driving experience without compromising on safety or style.”
Cute, elegant, dynamic and perfectly European, the Mini Diversity offers American retirees a taste of British automotive.
“The MINI Cooper is a compact and fun car that offers an exclusive driving experience,” said Brad Foster of DIY Auto Restoration. “It’s possibly smaller, but it’s known for its agility. They’re fast, gas-efficient, and don’t require a lot of paintwork to keep them up to date.
The classic Hardtop two-door, which Mini bills as “the original street-legal go-kart,” starts at $25,800. The Hardtop four-door starts at $26,800. The Countryman, Clubman and Convertible all start in the high-$30s to low-$40s.
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This article originally published on GOBankingRates. com: Five Best European Cars for Retirees on a Budget