Looking for a Car in the New year but I need your help

[SofiaBourbon]

Hi All,

Currently, I drive a very old SUV and I want to replace it with a smaller car. I would like to take this car (used/new) a cross the country drive from the east coast to the west coast and back and planning to keep it until it dies; just like I have done with the SUV.

1. What should I look for?
2. What would be a realist budget for it?
Not sure what else to ask since I just started. I am planning to get AAA in case something was to go wrong during the drive.
3. Should I get it this year or in January? what's the difference? I heard that if you get it in the new year you don't have to pay taxes until the end or beginning of the year after the car was bought (not sure about this statement)
4. Any other things I should be considering?

Thank you for your help! 

[SofiaBourbon]

Hi Craiglepaige,

Thank you for the follow up, see my answers below.

1. Budget: $10,000 - Less would be great but not sure if realistic
2. Good Old Gas would be fine

[MrFancypants]

Hi Craiglepaige,

Thank you for the follow up, see my answers below.

1. Budget: $10,000 - Less would be great but not sure if realistic
2. Good Old Gas would be fine

You should be able to get a well cared for Prius for that much.