But if you view a vehicle for its utility in taking you from point A to point B, that would probably be the least expensive way to own a car.

I generally buy used (3-4 years) with the car being fully loaded with options. The older I get, the more I value the safety options like blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning (this is embarrassing actually, why do I need this? But honestly I think I do), and 360 degree view camera.

Everyone’s circumstances differ, as do their personal preferences for things like convenience, comfort, performance.