Buying a brand-new car might sound exciting, but more and more Phoenix drivers are seeing the benefits of going used instead. From rising interest rates to concerns about depreciation, it’s no surprise that many people, especially busy professionals who rely on their vehicles every day, are rethinking how they spend their money. Whether you’re heading to Scottsdale for client meetings, commuting across the Valley, or planning a weekend in Sedona, a well-maintained used car can meet your needs without the steep price tag of something brand new. Here’s why more people in Phoenix are making the shift.

1. Used Cars Offer Major Cost Savings

Let’s start with the most obvious reason: used cars are more affordable. The price difference can be dramatic, even when comparing the same model just a few years apart. For drivers who are conscious of monthly budgets or want to avoid overextending themselves, used vehicles offer a practical path forward.

And in today’s market, that savings matters. With vehicle costs on the rise due to shifting tariffs and continued demand, used car prices may increase in the coming months. Kelley Blue Book reports the average used vehicle was listed at just over $25,000 as of May 2025. Acting sooner rather than later could mean locking in a better deal before prices climb.

2. Depreciation Hits New Cars Hard—Used Ones Hold Their Value Better

New cars lose value quickly. Within the first year, most vehicles drop by as much as 20–30% in resale value. For Phoenix-area drivers who don’t want to watch their investment shrink the moment they leave the lot, buying used is a smarter play.

With a pre-owned vehicle, the steepest drop in value has already happened. That means your car holds its value better, and it may have more predictable trade-in potential when you’re ready to move on.

3. Lower Insurance and Registration Fees

Arizona drivers enjoy relatively affordable registration rates, but there’s still a cost difference between registering a new car versus a used one. The state bases registration fees on vehicle value and age, which means newer vehicles can cost more to insure and register.

Used cars typically come with lower premiums and allow more flexibility when choosing coverage. If you’re looking to minimize expenses without sacrificing reliability, a quality used vehicle makes a lot of financial sense.

4. More Vehicle for the Money

Let’s say you’re working with a $25,000 budget. That might get you a base-level new car with few upgrades and minimal features. But in the used market? That same amount could land you a low-mileage SUV with leather seats, a tech package, and room for the kids’ gear on the way to soccer practice or a quick trip up to Flagstaff.

At Centennial Leasing & Sales in Phoenix, we work with clients to find pre-owned vehicles that fit both lifestyle and budget. Whether you’re after a high-end sedan for client meetings, a truck to haul gear to the lake, or a fuel-efficient hybrid for city driving, you’ll find more options (and more value) when buying used.

5. Less Stress About Everyday Wear

Let’s face it: life in Phoenix is full of little moments that can take a toll on a car—dust storms, sunscreen-covered seats, or parking lot dings at Desert Ridge. If you’ve bought brand new, those imperfections can feel like a big deal. But with a used car, the pressure is off. You’re not the first owner, and that means small scuffs and daily wear don’t feel quite so costly.

And if you’ve done your homework, you can find a pre-owned car that feels almost new, without the same level of stress or sticker shock.

Why Phoenix Drivers Choose a Broker Over a Dealership

The used car market can be overwhelming. That’s where we come in. At Centennial Leasing & Sales in Phoenix, our team helps you cut through the clutter. You’re not tied to one brand or inventory. We search our extensive network for the best fit based on your needs.

We’re not salespeople. We’re advisors. Whether you’re buying your first used car or you’re a repeat client who values efficiency and expertise, we guide you from the first conversation to final paperwork, and can even deliver the car to your door.

Since 1984, Centennial has been focused on long-term relationships, not quick sales. Our Phoenix clients count on us to make the car buying experience personal, transparent, and refreshingly straightforward.

Ready to see what’s out there? Contact us to start your search.