Did you ever wonder what it would be like to drive any one of the hundreds of vehicle models you encounter during your crowded, daily commute to and from work?
Of course you have. It’s a great way to pass the time. If you’re driving, you have to pay attention to the traffic anyway – well, theoretically. So why not get some pleasure out of it, wondering what it might be like to own/drive this car or that on your regular commuting route.
You could call it window shopping, and it just might influence your next vehicle purchase.
Well, experts from the American Automobile Association (AAA) have done some of the window shopping for you, recently selecting their top commuter vehicles in four categories – compact cars, sedans, crossovers and minivans – comprising a dozen different vehicle models. Among the vehicles they highlighted is the AAA “top choice” Nissan Altima.
“Most Americans (86 percent) rely on their vehicle to get them to and from work every day,” according to AAA in a March 26 press release about the results. “With an average commute of 25 minutes each way and gas prices hovering about $3.50 per gallon since February, selecting the right vehicle can make a commute more enjoyable and lower expenses.”
The top vehicle picks are selected by AAA experts who “test drive and evaluate hundreds of vehicles each year,” judging fuel efficiency, comfort and overall performance.
AAA highlights the redesigned 2013 Nissan Altima, which “continues to be the top choice for commuting.” All other AAA “Top Vehicles for Commuters” by category, along with the TrueCar.com “Average Paid” price for each, are:
Compact vehicles – Chevrolet Volt ($38,871), Toyota Prius and Prius V ($24,066 and $26,350, respectively) and Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen TDI ($23,894)
Sedans – Audi A4 ($31,397), Buick LaCrosse ($30,727), Ford Fusion ($20,038), Hyundai Genesis ($33,358) and Nissan Altima ($21,706)
Crossovers – Ford Flex ($26,803) and Toyota Highlander ($27,078)
Minivan – Honda Odyssey ($27,801)
“Many Americans are spending several hours every week in their vehicle to get to and from work,” said John Nielsen, director of AAA Automotive Engineering & Repair. “Having a vehicle that is reliable, fuel-efficient and comfortable can really make a difference in your routine.”
More details on the AAA selections here.
