Autotrader lists top certified pre-owned deals for May

(May 14, 2019) ATLANTA — As Memorial Day weekend approaches, the auto industry is entering a critical sales stretch. Dealers are trying to land sales while consumers are focusing on getting a good deal on a car before the summer. Consumers should look to certified pre-owned vehicles to drive out of the dealership in their dream car without making a big dent in their wallet.

"Dealers and automakers will be rolling out new incentives in May and trying to get the attention of car shoppers with Memorial Day weekend promotions," said Brian Moody, executive editor of Autotrader.

"Smart shoppers can get the most bang for their buck by checking out certified pre-owned programs. CPO vehicles offer perks similar to a new car, but at a lower price. Backed by a manufacturer's warranty, buyers can save themselves the headache of unexpected repairs, so they can sit back, relax and enjoy the summer."

The editors at Autotrader have rounded up some of the best CPO deals to help shoppers find that perfect certified pre-owned vehicle this month.

Top Picks for certified pre-owned deals for May

GMC's certified pre-owned program is one of our favorites, as it offers an additional year of comprehensive coverage, along with 6 years or 100,000 miles of powertrain protection. This month, shoppers who choose a certified pre-owned Acadia, Sierra or Terrain can get an even bigger benefit, as GMC is offering 0.9 percent interest for up to 36 months on all CPO versions of those models to qualified shoppers.

Jaguar's certified pre-owned program, meanwhile, is one of the best in the industry, as it offers 7 years or 100,000 miles of comprehensive coverage from the original sale date. Through the end of May, qualified shoppers interested in getting an F-Pace with that certified pre-owned warranty can take advantage of some impressive deals: qualified shoppers looking to finance a CPO F-Pace over 24 months can get 0.9 percent interest, while drivers looking for a 36-month term can get 3.9 percent interest.

Lincoln's certified pre-owned program offers comprehensive coverage for up to 6 years or 100,000 miles from the original sale date. In May, the best deal is for drivers looking for a certified pre-owned version of Lincoln's high-end Black Label models, as the brand is touting 2.9 percent interest for a whopping 72 months on those. For shoppers interested in all other certified pre-owned models, Lincoln is offering 4.49 percent interest for up to 66 months on all CPO vehicles.

Mazda's certified pre-owned program  offers two warranties: powertrain coverage for up to 7 years or 100,000 miles from the original sale date, along with comprehensive coverage for an extra year or 12,000 miles. This month, Mazda  is also offering 1.49 percent interest for up to 36 months for qualified shoppers on all certified pre-owned vehicles -- an excellent rate for a used car.

The Mercedes-Benz certified pre-owned program  offers comprehensive coverage for up to one year with no mileage limit, while shoppers can extend that coverage for additional years if they desire. Through the end of the month, Mercedes is touting 1.99 percent interest for up to 36 months to qualified shoppers on most certified pre-owned vehicles, including the CLA, the C-Class, the GLA, the E-Class, the GLC and the GLE.

Subaru's certified pre-owned program touts a powertrain warranty that covers vehicles for up to 7 years or 100,000 miles from their original sale date. In May, Subaru  is offering an excellent incentive to make its CPO program even more alluring: 1.99 percent interest on all certified pre-owned models for up to 36 months to qualified shoppers, which is a good deal for a used vehicle.

Toyota's certified pre-owned program includes two warranties: one offers powertrain coverage for up to 7 years or 100,000 miles from the original sale date, while the other boasts an additional year of comprehensive coverage. Through the end of May, Toyota  is adding another benefit to its CPO program: Toyota is touting interest rates from 3.9 percent for 36 months on certified pre-owned Camry and RAV4  models to qualified shoppers.

Volkswagen's certified pre-owned program offers various coverage lengths depending on the current age of the vehicle — but all tout some additional coverage beyond the factory warranty. In May, qualified buyers interested in Volkswagen's certified pre-owned program can get an even better deal than more warranty coverage: 3.99 percent interest for up to 60 months, which is a good rate over a desirable long term for a used car.