When it comes to buying a car, you're faced with several options. You might be tempted to buy a brand-new vehicle, but the prices can be steep. On the other hand, used cars are cheaper but come with risks.

That's where Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles come in—a perfect middle ground. Let's take a closer look at the advantages of CPO cars and why they're worth considering for your next purchase.

Advantage #1: A CPO Vehicle Costs Much Less

One of the main reasons people opt for CPO vehicles is the cost savings. A CPO car has already gone through the initial depreciation, meaning you can get a 2- or 3-year-old vehicle at a significantly lower price. Typically, a CPO car costs 25% less than its new counterpart. If you go for a 4-year-old CPO car, you could save as much as 40%. This means you can drive a nearly-new car without paying the full new car price.

Advantage #2: You Get a Manufacturer Warranty

A big selling point of CPO vehicles is the manufacturer-backed warranty that comes with them. Just like a new car, CPO vehicles are often covered by a powertrain warranty and a bumper-to-bumper warranty. Depending on the manufacturer, these warranties can last up to 100,000 miles. Some warranties also come with a deductible ranging from $50 to $100. Be sure to check the fine print—sometimes there is a new-owner transfer fee if you decide to sell the vehicle before the warranty expires.

Advantage #3: CPO Vehicles Undergo a Thorough Inspection

CPO vehicles undergo extensive inspections to ensure they are in excellent condition. These vehicles typically have fewer than 36,000 miles on the odometer, and they come with a comprehensive vehicle history report. The inspection is conducted by a factory-trained mechanic and covers more than 120 items. Some manufacturers, like Audi, even check up to 300 items before listing a vehicle as CPO. If any issues are found, they are fixed, ensuring the car is in top shape.

Advantage #4: Roadside Assistance

In addition to the peace of mind from the warranty, many CPO programs offer roadside assistance. This service can be a lifesaver if you run into trouble on the road. For instance, brands like FCA, Mercedes-Benz, and Lexus provide 24-hour roadside assistance, including towing, jump-starts, and lock-out help. Some programs also offer free maintenance visits or financial assistance if you're stranded more than 150 miles from home.

Advantage #5: Free Trial Subscriptions

Several CPO programs also come with additional perks like free trials for satellite radio and navigation systems. For example, GM's CPO program offers three free months of OnStar's turn-by-turn navigation service and SiriusXM satellite radio. If you're someone who enjoys these kinds of services, this can add even more value to your purchase.

Advantage #6: A Vehicle-Return Policy

Not sure if you'll love the CPO car you're considering? Some CPO programs offer a vehicle-return policy, allowing you to exchange the car within a limited time frame or mileage. For instance, GM offers a three-day, 150-mile return policy, which gives you the opportunity to test the vehicle and make sure it's the right choice for you.

Consider the Trade-Offs

While there are many advantages to purchasing a CPO vehicle, keep in mind that these cars come at a premium compared to their non-certified counterparts. The extended warranty, rigorous inspection process, and additional benefits all add to the cost. Also, there may be fewer models available to choose from, as not every used vehicle qualifies for the CPO program. However, the peace of mind and savings you get from a CPO car can be well worth the price difference, especially when compared to a brand-new vehicle.

So, if you're looking for a vehicle that offers great value, reliability, and added benefits, a CPO vehicle might be your best bet. With a lower price, a factory-backed warranty, and extensive inspection, it's a smart way to buy a nearly new car without the new car price tag.