Start with your actual shortlist.
Bring two or more vehicles you’re considering. Use the prices and loan terms available to you, rather than a generic national average.
Beyond the sticker price
The right car.
The full cost.
A lower price doesn’t always mean a cheaper car. CarCost Compass is exploring a clearer way to compare financing, fuel, and insurance across your shortlist—over the years you’ll own it.
Early-stage concept, built around the existing TrueCost Auto tool.
One shortlist. A longer view.
Compare the ownership costs, not just the monthly payment.
Our starting principles
Your inputs, visible assumptionsEstimates—not guaranteesValidate before building more
The comparison that matters
Two cars. One honest
look at your budget.
For shoppers choosing between real vehicles, especially when a lower payment hides a higher running cost.
A shared view of ownership
Where does the money go?
Comparison frameworkYour ownership period
Purchase & financing
Price, down payment, APR, loan term
Fuel & mileage
Annual distance, MPG, fuel type and price
Insurance
Your estimate for each vehicle
Time horizon
How long you plan to keep the car
Scope shown is based on the early TrueCost Auto tool. Estimates depend on your inputs; maintenance, depreciation, taxes, and fees may change the full picture.
Make the assumptions yours.
Set your annual mileage, fuel price, insurance estimate, and ownership period. A useful comparison should reflect how you actually drive.
Look past the monthly payment.
Compare estimated costs over the same period and see which categories drive the difference. A smaller payment is only one part of the decision.
Before your next test drive
Build a shortlist.
Not a surprise expense.
Start with the numbers you can gather today. We’re validating the comparison experience before expanding the product or setting a price.
Review the comparison inputsYour comparison checklist
Keep these handy for each car on your list.
- Vehicle price and expected down payment
- Loan APR and term from your lender
- Annual mileage and fuel efficiency
- Local fuel price and an insurance quote
- The number of years you expect to own it
No paid offer is available on this page. This is a preview of the comparison approach, not a financial recommendation.