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2018 Mazda3 | Drive Direct in Columbus, OH
in Used Vehicles

Bargain Hunting in 2024: Finding Used Cars Under $15,000

While strong demand has pushed up prices of preowned vehicles, you can still find decent used cars under $15,000. Whether you're looking for that spacious car that can comfortably accommodate your family or one that can afford you that premium feel on a budget, the choices are many. 2013 Honda Accord LX Honda cars have a reputation for being tough and reliable, and the Honda Accord LX doesn't disappoint. With its honored 2.4-liter four-cylinder gas engine, this sedan brings power and comfort for both city and highway cruising. With its impressive fuel efficiency of 27 miles per gallon in the city and 30 miles on highways, the 2013 Accord LX is an excellent choice for every budget-conscious drivers. more Spacious enough to fit 5 people, the 2013 Honda Accord LX is also stylish and comfortable. It also boasts impressive safety features such as cruise control, emergency brake assist, and rearview camera. The sedan also comes equipped with an anti-theft system. 2017 Toyota Corolla LE If you're shopping for an entry compact sedan that is good on gas, comes with advanced standard safety features, and offers a roomy cabin, then the 2017 Toyota Corolla LE might be the solution you need. Although offering a modest 132 horsepower, the 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine powering the Corolla LE is highly fuel efficient, giving you 28 miles per gallon in the city and 26 miles on highways. Standing out as one of the world's top-selling cars, the Corolla nameplate has a lot to like in it. Inside the ample and stylish 2017 Corolla LE cabin, 5 people can fit comfortably and enjoy a great ride. The car also offers a large cargo space and comes with many safety features, including lane departure alert and emergency brake assist. 2018 Mazda3 Touring Mazda cars are known for their stylish look and high fuel efficiency, and the 2018 Mazda3 Touring doesn't come short on any of that. Debuting as the 2004 model, the Mazda 3 is the brand's best-selling nameplate globally. The 2018 Mazda3 Touring is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that pumps out an impressive 184 horsepower. Coming with a 6-speed automatic transmission, this 5-door hatchback is gentle on gas and will give you 27 miles per gallon in the city and 36 miles on the highway. 2019 Subaru Legacy 2.5i If you're in the market for an affordable secondhand car that you can cruise around the city and also take off-road confidently when the situation calls for it, consider the 2019 Subaru Legacy 2.5i. With its 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine delivering 175 horsepower and paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission system, the all-wheel drive sedan exceeds expectations with its thrilling experience. The ideal secondhand car will not only save you money on the purchase and maintenance, but also on insurance premiums. Visit us today at Drive Direct in Columbus, OH to explore our range of top-quality, affordable preowned cars.

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2021 Ford Bronco Sport | Drive Direct in Columbus, OH

10 Tips for Buying a Pre-Owned Ford

Buying a second-hand vehicle can be fraught with anxiety. How can you be sure that your new car or truck will be reliable? That's why we're bringing you our top ten tips for buying a pre-owned Ford so you can confidently make your next purchase. 1. Do Your Research Perhaps the most important tip we can offer you is to always do your research well before you jump into making a purchase. It can be tempting to just snap up the first used Ford you see at the price you want, but that could leave you with a vehicle that doesn't meet your needs. more 2. Age Isn't the Biggest Worry The great thing about Fords is that they're built to stand the test of time. Parts can be obtained easily, too, so you won't have any difficulty keeping an older Ford on the road. 3. Check the Service History If the used Ford that you've chosen doesn't have a full-service history, look elsewhere. You want to be sure that any used vehicle has been well cared for before you buy it. 4. View the Vehicle During Daylight If you only view the pre-owned vehicle during the evening or at night, there's a possibility you could miss damage to the bodywork. It's a good idea to choose a dry day to view the vehicle too, since rain could obscure some potential issues that may become apparent later. 5. Take a Test Drive It's always a good idea to test drive any vehicle that you intend to buy, whether brand-new or pre-owned. There's no guarantee that you'll like the way the vehicle feels when you're on the road, and you don't want to buy a model that you're uncomfortable in. Not only that, but a test drive gives you the chance to spot any issues like warning lights or alignment problems. 6. Check Beneath the Hood A vehicle may look perfect from the outside, but when you get under the hood, it could be a completely different story. Make sure there aren't any signs of corrosion or fluid leaks, as both would be bad news. 7. Look at the Tires Tires are often overlooked when inspecting a pre-owned vehicle, yet they can be costly to replace if they turn out to be worn after purchase. 8. What's the Mileage? Vehicles generally travel around 12,000 - 13,000 per year, so compare the age of the Ford with how much mileage it's got to see if it's covered a lot of distance in a short timeframe. 9. Inspect the Frame Even if the vehicle looks cared for and shiny, look carefully at the frame for any sign of rust or corrosion. Check nothing's hanging from its undercarriage and that it sits on the road evenly. 10. Choose a Trustworthy Seller It's best to buy any used vehicle from a trusted dealership that specializes in selling used models that are only of the highest quality. That way, you can enjoy peace of mind that you're choosing a Ford that will run smoothly and give you great value for your money. If you're ready to find the perfect second-hand Ford for you, visit us here at Drive Direct, Columbus, OH.

Chevy emblem | Drive Direct in Columbus, OH

6 Benefits of Owning a Used Chevy

If you're currently shopping for a Chevy, consider buying a pre-owned model. Not only will you save money on the initial purchase price, but you'll also have more options to choose from within your budget. There are several other considerable advantages to owning a used Chevy, as outlined below. Skip the Initial Value Depreciation When you buy a pre-owned Chevy, you're skipping the initial few years of steep depreciation and will get in at a heavily discounted price. Even though most used Chevy vehicles are still in superb condition, market trends can bring their resale price down by 30% or 40%, sometimes even more, during the first few years alone. This creates a dream deal for many budget-conscious car buyers. more Reduce Your Monthly Costs of Car Ownership For most people, the monthly cost of car ownership has a large impact on their finances and overall quality of life. When you purchase a used car at a significant discount, your monthly car payments will also be lower and the total cost paid off sooner. Insurance premiums also tend to be reduced with less expensive pre-owned vehicles. Expand Your Options of Chevy Models Shopping the used Chevrolet car market gives you access to a broader range of models and years to choose from. You may also be able to afford a higher-end trim or vehicle than you could otherwise afford when purchasing only the very latest model. Research Vehicles More Thoroughly As used Chevrolets have been around for longer, you can also read more owner reviews on each model while researching. This can help you to decide which particular Chevy would meet your own individual preferences and daily driving needs. Gain Access to Vehicle History Reports When well-maintained, Chevy cars are remarkably durable. To ensure that any car you're considering purchasing has been well-kept by the prior owners, you can gain easy access to detailed vehicle history reports, which are issued by a few reputable online services such as AutoCheck and CARFAX. These reports let you know if the previous owners had all the recommended services carried out. It also tells you if any repairs were required and the quality of parts that were used in replacements. Find Reassurance in CPO Programs For the ultimate level of quality assurance, you can opt for a car in the Chevrolet Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Program. These vehicles have undergone a thorough multi-point inspection and earned the Chevy mark of approval. They also often include an extended warranty, among other benefits. Long gone are the days when buying a used car was a gamble in terms of vehicle condition and quality.   Test drive your preferred Chevy vehicle today at Drive Direct in Columbus, OH. Since 1979, we've been providing the region's drivers with a terrific range of new and used cars, trucks, and SUVs alongside courteous, personalized customer service.

Park images | Drive Direct in Columbus, OH

Just Down the Road: 4 Favorite Parks Near Columbus, OH

One of Ohio's most beautiful cities, Columbus, OH strikes an excellent balance between metropolitan excitement and relaxing natural areas. If you need a break from the big city, these parks will certainly do the trick. You can stroll, challenge a rock wall, or see some of Columbus' most gorgeous blooms right in the city itself. Your Honda Civic is a reliable ride with a great entertainment system and cruise control, perfect for getting you around Columbus. 1. Goodale Goodale, at 120 W. Goodale Boulevard, is situated in a lovely Victorian area of Columbus and is one of the most historic places in the city. Visitors will find plenty of statues commemorating famous Ohioans and their contributions, lots of green space to explore, and plenty of amenities. It's an excellent place for a picnic, and since it's conveniently located, it's the ideal place to spend a quiet afternoon in a natural and lovely space. more 2. Scioto Audubon Metro Visit Scioto Audubon Metro at 400 W. Whittier Street for some of the city's best birdwatching, walking and biking, and exercising. There's a rock-climbing wall with various obstacles perfect for a fun afternoon fitness with friends, a vast playground for the kids, and a river where you can go canoeing or kayaking. Also, you'll find plenty of parking right around Scioto Audubon Metro so it couldn't be more convenient. 3. Bicentennial Bicentennial, at 233 Civic Center Drive, sits right on the Scioto River and is one of the best spots in the city to enjoy the sunset, take a stroll, see some great public art, and picnic in one of Bicentennial's greenspaces. There are also regular festivals happening at Bicentennial, gorgeous fountains dotting the park, and lots of benches where you can sit and relax. 4. Whetstone If you want to see gorgeous gardens and roses, head to Whetstone at 3923 N. High Street. This incredible place has roses in all different colors and varieties, and it's the ideal place to see in the spring and summer. There's lots of parking, and it's entirely free to visit. Enjoy the flowers, explore the trails, and make the most of this Columbus gem.   Columbus is full of surprises, as these amazing greenspaces prove. No matter where you find yourself in the city, there's never a natural oasis too far away. Plus, many of these spots offer free entry, easy parking, and a way to experience Columbus in a brand-new way. To see the best of Columbus and the rest of the state, you'll need a reliable vehicle. Stop in and see us at Drive Direct and check out our selection of used cars today!

Hyundai emblem | Drive Direct in Columbus, OH

6 Must-Know Tips for Buying a Pre-Owned Hyundai

Got your eye on a pre-owned Hyundai? Smart choice! Hyundais are known for their reliability and great value, and that's still true when you're looking at used options. Any time you buy a used car, you've got to do a bit of homework, though. That will help you make sure the car you drive home is a gem and not a lemon. 1. Set a Budget First Before you go out and start shopping for cars, it's important to check your finances. It won't do you any good to find a car you absolutely love if the payments are twice what you can manage. Don't forget that owning a car also includes the cost of insurance and gas. If it's out of warranty, you'll also have to pay for any repairs it’ll need later if something goes wrong. more 2. Check the Vehicle's History Once you've found a car you like at a reasonable price, you need to dig into its past. Vehicle history reports can tell you a lot, like if it's been in any accidents, had multiple owners, or faced any recalls. 3. Give It a Visual Inspection Even if you're not a car expert, giving the Hyundai a thorough once-over can reveal a lot. Check the body for dents, damage, or signs of rust. Take an extra pass and check for any repairs that might not have been done well enough. These can be signs of accidents that were not reported. Don't forget to check the interior, the engine, and the tires. This can help you catch any obvious problems like bald tires or a rusty engine block. 4. Take It for a Spin Always, always, always test drive any used car you mean to purchase. It's your chance to see how the car feels on the road. Pay attention to how it handles, listen for any odd noises, and check the brakes and steering. This is also a good time to make sure all the gadgets and gizmos like the AC radio and power windows are working properly. 5. Review Service Records Ask the seller for the car's service records. This lets you check how well the car has been maintained. It can also reveal whether it's had any major work done. Regular oil changes and periodic tune-ups are good signs that the previous owner took care of the vehicle. 6. Check for Warranty Coverage One of the perks of buying a used Hyundai is that the warranty may still be valid thanks to generous original coverage. Find out if the car is still under warranty, and what exactly is covered. This can be a big plus and offer some peace of mind with your purchase. With these tips in hand, you're all set to make a smart decision on your next car. Come down to Drive Direct in Columbus, OH, and have a look at our inventory!

Kangaroos | Drive Direct in Columbus, OH

3 Outdoor Activities You Can Drive to Near Columbus, OH

The vibrant, thriving city of Columbus, OH is a terrific place to live, do business, and entertain yourself. After spending a long day or week of indoor work, it's great to find a few fun outdoor activities to enjoy. We’ve got some fun ideas for you to check out listed below! Go Zip-Lining Anyone in an adventurous mood will enjoy an afternoon of heart-thumping zip-lining at ZipZone Outdoor Adventures. In a beautiful green area in the north of town, you can ascend to the forest roof for a full canopy zip-lining tour with friendly, professional zip-lining guides showing you the ropes and keeping you safe. more Along with their extremely popular zip-line tours, they have an adventure park with five different treetop obstacle courses that have sixty challenges in all, suitable for most ages. Younger kids aged four to seven can have a whale of a time at the easier Kids Park course. Find ZipZone Outdoor Adventures at 7925 North High Street. Visit the Zoo Columbus has a world-class zoo and aquarium. If you haven't been there yet, consider spending the day exploring this clean and well-laid-out zoo, marveling at wonderful animals such as lions, elephants, bonobos, bald eagles, bears, manatees, gorillas, Tasmanian devils, and many, many more. The zoo has eight clearly mapped and easy-to-navigate sections in all, promising a full day of exploration if you want to see everything. You have the Adventure Cove, Asia Quest, Heart of Africa, Congo Expedition, Polar Frontier, Australia and Islands, and Shores and Aquarium areas. There's a hands-on tide pool, a reptile house, and even a kangaroo walkabout. Visit Columbus Zoo at 4850 West Powell Road. Enjoy a Pedal-Bike Tour An original and memorable way to see the city with friends or coworkers is with Pedal Wagon Columbus, where you and the other tour members all sit around the table of a pedal-powered bike car and pedal to keep the wheels and vehicle moving. You can go on various well-planned cruises around fun parts of the city, including the Brewery Cruise, the Explore Eastern Tour, and the Northern Cap City Crawl. It's a really fun way to celebrate a birthday or team-building event, and it gets you outside to see the city from a unique perspective. You can rent your pedal bike at 848 North Pearl Street.   When you've enjoyed a little sunshine and outdoor fun with one of these terrific activities, visit Drive Direct. We're a long-standing local dealership that's been keeping the drivers of Columbus happy and safe on the roads since 1979. Our knowledgeable team members are on hand, ready to help you pick out a new-to-you vehicle that’s the best fit for your lifestyle needs, from our collection of hundreds of used cars, trucks, and SUVs.

Car engine | Drive Direct in Columbus, OH

What's Covered Under a Used Car Warranty?

When you purchase a used vehicle, you may be eligible for a warranty plan. Warranties for used cars may be offered by the dealership or by a third-party vendor. Learn more about the coverage benefits and limitations of a used car warranty so you can understand your coverage options. What's Covered Under a Used Car Warranty? The warranty for a used vehicle is generally more limited than the warranty for a new one. Depending on the specific make and model of your car, as well as whether your car falls into a certified pre-owned category, the level of coverage from your warranty will vary. It's common for the powertrain and drivetrain to be covered by a used vehicle warranty. Some programs may also offer anti-perforation coverage and corrosion coverage. more Virtually all warranty programs for a used car, including CPO warranty plans, will cover the cost of vehicle repairs for specific car parts. Your warranty plan will outline the vehicle components that are covered under the plan. If any of these components are defective or broken due to a covered damage, the cost of replacing the part and repairing the vehicle will be covered by your used vehicle warranty. What Isn't Covered? A used vehicle warranty will typically not cover the costs of repairs associated with routine maintenance, wear and tear, or damage from neglect. It's important to understand the precise limitations of your warranty so you can avoid unexpected repair costs. Wear and tear parts include vehicle components like brake pads and windshield wipers, while routine maintenance tasks include oil changes and tire rotations. Is a Warranty for Used Cars Different from an Extended Warranty? In general, an extended warranty and a used vehicle warranty are different types of vehicle protection plans. An extended warranty is typically an extension of the factory warranty on a vehicle from a car manufacturer, whereas a warranty for a used vehicle may be offered directly from the dealership. An extended warranty also tends to offer a more comprehensive level of coverage. Depending on the age of your used vehicle, your car may be eligible for an extended warranty. Many of the main vehicle components covered by a used vehicle warranty will also be covered by an extended warranty, but since an extended warranty has greater benefits, it might be better to sign up for an extended warranty when you purchase your vehicle. A used vehicle warranty can give you peace of mind when it comes to repair costs. Whether you sign up for a bumper-to-bumper used vehicle warranty, an extended warranty plan, or a warranty for a CPO vehicle, you can count on your used vehicle warranty to protect the most important parts of your vehicle. Get in touch with Drive Direct to discuss your warranty options today.

2020 Buick Encore | Drive Direct in Columbus, OH

Looking for a Used Buick? 4 Great Models to Consider

Used cars can feel like a risky proposition for many drivers, but a good and solid model can save you money while providing a long-term and reliable ride. Why not invest in quality with a used Buick? 1. Envision This luxury compact crossover made its debut in 2014 and immediately served up some of the niche's biggest engine offerings, with an available 2.5-L engine and a turbo-charged 2-L that delivered over 250 horsepower. Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive are both options on used models, as is either a six-speed or nine-speed automatic transmission. Reliability rankings are on the high side, with no major recalls for this five-star safety-rated vehicle. more The real headliners for this model, however, are its luxurious style and comfort. The 2019 redesign features aesthetic upgrades to the front and rear. Drivers still enjoy an ultra-plush interior (with optional leather upholstery, heated seats, and tri-zone climate control) and up to five trim levels. You can also secure modern safety and tech features like OnStar and a Driver Confidence security package. 2. Encore While the Encore may be discontinued for now, its legacy of entry-level luxury cannot be replaced...just succeeded. The 2017 and 2018 years are great templates for the subcompact crossover SUV market because they still place the vehicles under Buick's certified pre-owned warranty that provides an additional one-year or 12,000-mile bumper-to-bumper coverage as well as two years or 24,000 miles of free maintenance. The J.D. Power reliability score falls firmly in the Great range, and the NHTSA safety rating secures five stars. Inside, the Encore boasts five comfortable seats that can easily carry a family and an impressive amount of cargo space for long hauls. Its small overall size makes it an easily maneuverable and handled vehicle. Plus, you'll get a pretty stacked standard infotainment system that touts favorites like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 3. Enclave If you want a little more heft in your Buick, the midsize Enclave could be the right fit. Older models include a third row, a larger cargo capacity, and the ability to tow 5,000 pounds. You can also score a more powerful V6 engine that still manages respectable fuel efficiency. A used Enclave can be yours for a price that bests many midsize luxury SUVs. In addition, it will retain a good portion of its value even after a few years. 4. Regal This performance model is perfect for motorists who prefer a more traditional driver over an SUV. It's a handsome car with stylish curves and eye-catching trims like the Sport Touring (hosting 19-inch wheels and an attractive black mesh grille). And even in 2012, this ride was helping fire up the roadways with a blink-of-an-eye 0 to 60 acceleration. If you desire a throwback and fun-to-drive sports car that won't break your bank, the Regal is a righteous option. You never know what hidden gems await. Visit Drive Direct and check out our treasure trove of beautiful, safe, and reliable used autos.

2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA | Drive Direct in Columbus, OH

5 Benefits of Getting a Used Mercedes-Benz C Class

If you dream of driving a luxury vehicle but also want to stay within your budget, shopping around for a used car may be the perfect solution. Used cars cost thousands of dollars less than new vehicles, and well-built models, like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, can be driven and enjoyed for years. There are a lot of reasons why a used vehicle is a smart purchase. 1. Mercedes-Benz Has a Reputation for Quality There are a lot of pre-owned vehicles you could choose from, but Mercedes-Benz is known for quality craftsmanship and well-engineered vehicles that are built to last. The classic look and sophisticated styling of the Mercedes-Benz line also make it easy to keep these vehicles on the road. more 2. Used Cars Experience Less Depreciation We've all heard about the immediate depreciation that new cars experience when they are driven off the lot. When you buy a used vehicle, particularly a high-quality car like a Mercedes-Benz, you'll have little depreciation. You'll also pay considerably less for a used model, but you'll get to experience the luxury of driving a Mercedes-Benz. 3. The C-Class Is a Great Model Aside from the great value associated with buying it used, the C-Class sedan is a terrific choice. The C-Class models have a 255-hp four-cylinder engine that is peppy to drive. And the cabin of the C-Class is insulated well enough to shut out most road noise, giving you a quiet ride. The Mercedes Benz C-Class is recommended by J.D. Power for its dependability. Although it is still a luxury vehicle, the C-Class doesn't have quite as much gadgetry as some Mercedes-Benz models, which can be an advantage when buying used. It means you have less to worry about. 4. You May Pay Less in Insurance When it's time to arrange insurance for the pre-owned Mercedes-Benz you're purchasing, you may be surprised at the reasonable premiums you're quoted. It usually costs less to insure an older vehicle. Because they tend to be lower in price, and because your down payment will represent a greater percentage of the price, used vehicles are also typically cheaper to finance. 5. You Know What You're Getting Before you purchase a used car, be sure to check out its vehicle history report, which can be acquired through an online service but is also usually provided by the dealer you're working with. This report will include information on the vehicle's history, including any accidents or floods it has been in. Once you've reviewed this report, you can rest assured that you know exactly what type of used vehicle you're purchasing. When you're ready to purchase a used Mercedes-Benz, head to Drive Direct today and test-drive your favorite model!

2023 Jeep Wrangler | Drive Direct in Columbus, OH

3 of the Best Used Cars for the Money in 2024

When it comes to used cars, it can be challenging to separate the outstanding bargains from the possible lemons. Explore some of the best cars for the money on the current pre-owned market to get started on a smart shopping journey. Toyota RAV4 You can't go wrong with the Toyota RAV4 if you're in the market for a compact crossover. This rugged yet stylish SUV has plenty of features and lots of interior space. You'll also find updated tech, including new larger touchscreens and wireless smartphone connectivity for the 2023 model year. The vehicle received a full redesign in 2019, ushering in the current generation of this modern classic. more The RAV4 has earned a Top Safety Pick designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration. The SUV is equipped with a 203-horsepower engine that gets up to 37 highway miles per gallon, and it's also available as a hybrid. Ford Escape The Ford Escape is another stand-out compact SUV that offers great value for the money. The crossover received an exterior refresh in 2023, but the current generation began with the full redesign of the Escape in 2020. Inside the cabin, you'll find comfortable seating for up to five passengers and plenty of cargo space, especially with the rear seats folded down. Depending on trim, you can get up to 250 hp in the Escape. It's also a fuel-efficient option that provides up to 42 city mpg, so it's an ideal choice if you want to save at the gas pump. The base trim includes updated tech like a wireless hotspot along with a full suite of driver assistance tech that includes a driver attention monitor, rearview camera, pedestrian detection, and more. U.S. News and World Report even named the Escape one of the best cars for teens. Jeep Wrangler The Wrangler is a rugged icon that can take on just about any type of terrain. It's also one of the best values you'll find in a pre-owned vehicle. You can choose from several powerful engines that can deliver up to 450 horsepower: a rare achievement in the compact SUV class. An array of off-roading upgrades make the Wrangler the ultimate adventure car. Many Wrangler trims in the current generation feature an upgraded infotainment system and other state-of-the-art tech features. The base model gained standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with the 2023 model year. The Jeep Wrangler can accommodate either four or five passengers ​depending on the exact configuration. Depending on your needs, any of these pre-owned vehicles can offer exceptional value. Visit the team at Drive Direct today to test-drive your favorite affordable options today!

BMW grille | Drive Direct in Columbus, OH

5 Reasons Drivers Love Used BMWs

BMW vehicles are becoming increasingly popular purchases in the used auto market, and for good reason. With their renowned engineering, dynamic handling, and luxurious interior, used BMWs deliver an unmatched driving experience without the high sticker prices of new ones. 1. Premium Performance Even in used form, BMWs live up to their reputation for incredible, responsive performance and precision handling. Their smooth yet powerful engines provide an exhilarating driving experience. The high-quality German engineering ensures these machines deliver premium performance throughout their lifespan. When you buy a pre-owned BMW, you are guaranteed superb handling and reliability. more 2. Luxury on a Budget Drivers love buying pre-owned BMWs because they can experience luxury on a budget. New luxury cars experience steep depreciation in their first years of ownership. This means that the first owner bears the brunt of the initial depreciation. When you buy a pre-owned BMW, you get the car for thousands less and enjoy luxury features on a budget. Depending on the model and trim, you may get features like high-quality interior materials, multi-contour leather seats, heated seats, wood trim, ambient lighting, and much more. 3. Wide Range of Options The used car market provides a diverse lineup of BMW models, including sedans, coupes, convertibles, and SUVs. You can choose the model that satisfies your preferences. If you are a performance enthusiast, you can opt for the renowned M series, while families will appreciate spacious SUVs like the X5 and X7. There are numerous engine options to choose from, ranging from the efficient four-cylinder to the robust six-cylinder, turbocharged, and diesel options. You can find models with rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. With this wide range of options, you are sure to find a pre-owned BMW to fit your lifestyle and needs. 4. Access to Advanced Technologies BMWs come with the latest technologies to improve safety and enhance the driving experience. Even models just a few years old come with advanced safety systems like collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind spot monitoring. You also get tech like keyless entry, wireless charging, and BMW iDrive infotainment systems. Options for premium audio and connectivity are also available. 5. Long-Term Cost Savings Opting for a pre-owned BMW saves you money from the start, since the huge depreciation hit of a new car purchase is avoided. If you opt for a hybrid or diesel model, you will save more money at the pump. Ongoing costs stay low because insurance premiums are cheaper on used cars. Thanks to the brand's proven reliability, you can expect minimal maintenance and repairs. If you want to own a BMW without breaking the bank, buying a used car provides great value. Take the first step and visit Drive Direct to explore our extensive inventory of high-quality used cars!

Legoland exhibit | Drive Direct in Columbus, OH

4 Great Kid-Friendly Activities You Can Drive to From Columbus, OH

When you want to treat the kids, Columbus, OH, is just the place for great kid-friendly activities and family fun! Load everyone into an affordable and spacious used sedan or SUV and drive to amazing places to discover new and unique things. Visit COSI to have fun while learning, explore a magical interactive children's garden, experience what life was like in the 1800s, and build and create with Lego bricks! 1. Discover the World of Science and Industry The Center of Science and Industry (COSI) at 333 West Broad Street in Columbus combines fun and learning through more than 300 interactive, hands-on exhibits, live shows, and Ohio's largest planetarium. Watch fascinating demonstrations, dive into the ocean's depths, and explore the universe's wonders. more Visit Big Science Park, which makes science anything but dull, and see a full-sized Tyrannosaurus Rex cast, an eight-foot-long titanosaur femur, and million-year-old fossilized amber. Go around the world in the Motion Simulator, feel the power of electricity, and delve into the archaeology of ancient Egypt. 2. Explore a Magical Children's Garden The amazing Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children's Garden in the magnificent Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens at 1777 East Broad Street in Columbus features an array of unique and interactive experiences where little ones can connect with nature. See the upside-down trees in the Earth Art Garden, wander through the colorful Rainbow Garden, and cross rope bridges to the Hammock Lounge for a bird's eye view of Ohio's wildflowers. The kids will love playing in the shade of the Mulberry Tree at the Nature Play Zone, where they can dig, climb, and jump, and the whimsical Playhouse Garden with a puppet stage where they can dress up and role play. 3. Learn About Ohio's History The Ohio History Center at 800 East 17th Avenue in Columbus is a great place to take the kids to learn more about the state's history from prehistoric times to the present day. View exhibits across all of Ohio's historical, archeological, and natural sites, and visit the Ohio Village to see what a town looked like in the 1800s. Watch the villagers go about their daily business, and the artisans ply their trades, play with historical toys, and dress in period costumes for an old-fashioned photograph. 4. Build, Create, and Play with Lego The Legoland Discovery Center at 157 Easton Town Center in Columbus is the ultimate playground in the city for everything Lego. Your kids will have a blast in the Lego building zones, where their imaginations will run wild as they create and build, race their own Lego car down the speed ramp, and explore Miniland, built out of  1.5 million Lego bricks! There are loads of exciting rides and attractions, 4D movies with epic effects, and a top-secret factory tour to show the kids how these colorful little bricks are made. When their tummies start to rumble, there are healthy eats and treats at the fun Lego-themed cafe.   Take the kids on exciting outings and have loads of fun with your family! While you're out and about, stop at Drive Direct today to check out the wide range of superior and affordable pre-owned vehicles to make your travels easier. Image via pixabay.com

2022 GMC Terrain | Drive Direct in Columbus, OH

3 GMC Models That Make Great Used Vehicles

When you're searching for used cars, the number of choices can seem overwhelming. If you need to narrow down your list, then be sure to consider a GMC, especially if you need a larger vehicle for hauling people or things. Here's a look at a few used GMC models to help you get started! 1. 2018 GMC Acadia SLE This version of the handsome mid-sized SUV comes standard with a 2.5L inline-4 engine putting out 193 horsepower and 188 lb.-ft of torque. Combined with a 6-speed automatic transmission, the powertrain helps achieve an EPA rating of 26 MPG highway. Fully independent suspension means predictable handling when making turns and good absorption of road bumps. more The Acadia's interior features three rows of spacious seating, making it ideal for larger families. Access to the third row is easy, only requiring a quick pull of the lever on either of the sliding second-row seats. Up to 79 cubic feet of cargo space is available when the two back rows are folded down. The cabin also boasts tri-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and a 7-inch infotainment screen providing support for a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot. 2. 2022 GMC Terrain Denali Buyers preferring a more compact SUV for the city will want to consider this model. Though smaller than the Acadia, the Terrain is no less capable thanks to its 1.5L turbo inline-4, smooth 9-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive system. With its 170 horsepower and 203 lb.-ft of torque, the vehicle offers prompt acceleration and effortless highway cruising while achieving an EPA-rated 28 MPG highway. Inside the Terrain, you'll find a modern, attractive cabin that comfortably seats five occupants. Rear legroom is among the best in its class, providing nearly 40 inches. A standard 60/40 split-folding rear seat allows you to easily fit several large pieces of cargo. In its Denali option, the vehicle comes with plush leather trim, power lumbar support for the driver, and a heads-up display that shows useful vehicle information. 3. 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4 Owing to its sturdy construction and 355-horsepower 5.3L V8 engine, the Sierra 1500 is one of the most dependable full-sized trucks that you can find on the market. A hefty 383 lb.-ft of torque generated by the motor is enough grunt for a towing capacity of up to 9,800 pounds. AT4 models are specially tuned for off-roading and feature a two-speed transfer case, a suspension lift of two inches, and a locking rear differential. The Sierra 1500 AT4 does a superb job of serving as a family vehicle with its cavernous and amenity-rich interior. Along with close to 45 inches of legroom in the front and rear, riders can enjoy standard heated seats and leather upholstery. Known for their practicality and robust performance, GMC's vehicles are certainly a smart buy. Come over to Drive Direct today, where you can check out these models and more!

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