Beware, an SUV or large pick-up can double your fuel expenditure. Don't forget your tolls. If you work in an urban area, remember to add in your parking fees as well. Some new cars come with free maintenance for the original warranty period, but with most new cars you're on your own. Repair costs are easy to budget on a new car.
Used cars are another matter entirely.
A good extended warranty will cost about the same amount of money, but I prefer to manage my own auto expenses. Any money budgeted but not used can go towards a down payment on your next vehicle. Repairs - This March, go to a newsstand and buy the April issue of Consumer Reports . This is their annual Auto Buying Guide and contains useful information for any car shopper. Look up any prospective purchases to see how they measure up.