Deciding whether to invest in a brand-new vehicle or a pre-owned model is a significant milestone for any driver. To help clarify the best path forward, we sat down with Hashmat Merajuddin, a Sales Consultant at Hanania Subaru with 5 years of experience helping Jacksonville families find the perfect fit. In this interview, Hashmat shares his professional insights into the 2026 lineup, the rigorous standards of the Certified Pre-Owned program, and how to calculate the true value of your next vehicle for the long Florida roads ahead.

Q: Hashmat, when a customer is torn between a new 2026 model and a used vehicle, how do you help them weigh those options?

A: It really comes down to how that individual plans to use the vehicle and what their long-term goals are for ownership. For many of our neighbors in Ponte Vedra Beach, the draw of a brand-new 2026 Subaru Forester is the combination of the latest EyeSight Driver Assist Technology and that “new car” peace of mind. When you look at our new Subaru inventory, you are seeing vehicles equipped with the most modern safety updates, like the improved vehicle to vehicle front crash prevention 2.0. Plus, every new purchase here comes with our exclusive Vehicle Lifetime Warranty and two years of maintenance, which is a massive value-add that you won’t find just anywhere.

On the other hand, our all used inventory offers a different kind of value, especially for those looking to maximize their budget. A used Subaru Outback from a few years ago still provides that legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive that handles the sudden Florida downpours so well. If you are interested in specific capabilities, I often suggest looking at our new Forester inventory or the new Outback inventory to see how the features have evolved. For those needing more space, our new Ascent inventory highlights the 2.4L H4 engine’s capability, while enthusiasts usually head straight for our new Subaru performance inventory. If you want to see these differences in person, you can get directions to our showroom or give us a quick call at (904) 906-1235 to talk through the new Crosstrek inventory currently on the lot.

Q: Many shoppers ask about the middle ground—the Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. What makes those vehicles stand out?

A: The Certified Pre-Owned program is essentially the “gold standard” for used vehicles because it removes the guesswork. Every CPO vehicle undergoes a 152-point safety inspection where we check everything from the powertrain to the smallest electrical components. If a part doesn’t meet our strict standards, it gets replaced with a genuine Subaru part. This process is why I’m so confident when showing off our certified pre-owned inventory. These cars come with a 7-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and 24/7 Roadside Assistance, which is a huge safety net for someone commuting from Yulee every day.

Beyond the warranty, there are perks that make the buying process even more rewarding. You get a CARFAX Vehicle History Report, a $500 Owner Loyalty Coupon, and even a trial for SiriusXM. It is a great way to get a high-trim Limited or Touring model at a more accessible price point. If you are thinking about upgrading, we can help you value your trade-in online to see how much equity you have in your current ride. And of course, once you are part of the family, you can easily schedule a service appointment to keep that warranty in top shape. It really is about providing that new-car confidence with a pre-owned price tag.

“The Certified Pre-Owned program is essentially the gold standard for used vehicles because it removes the guesswork for the buyer.”

Q: How do the newest 2026 models specifically compare to those slightly older used alternatives?

A: That is a great question because the 2026 models have seen some significant technological leaps. For instance, the 2026 Subaru Ascent now offers a more refined technology stack, making wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard across the board. If you are looking at a 2026 Subaru Forester, you are getting a vehicle with an MSRP starting around $32,149 that features the most current CVT tuning and 26 city / 33 hwy mpg. While a three-year-old used Forester is still incredibly reliable, the 2026 version feels a bit more “connected” and intuitive for modern professionals who rely on cloud-based navigation during their commute.

We also see new additions like the 2026 Subaru Uncharted EV, which is a game-changer with its 300-mile range and 338 horsepower on the higher trims. You won’t find an electric equivalent in the used market that offers that specific NACS charging port and 150 kW fast-charging capability yet. However, if your priority is a rugged workhorse, a used Subaru Outback Wilderness or a Limited trim with the 2.4L H4 turbocharged engine still holds its own beautifully against the new models. It often comes down to whether you want the absolute latest in EV technology and safety sensors or if you prefer the proven value of a recently off-lease vehicle.

Q: When we talk about the “Total Cost of Ownership” over five years, which path usually wins out?

A: I often tell shoppers that the math changes depending on how long you keep the car. A used Subaru typically has a lower initial purchase price and experiences less immediate depreciation, which can lead to a lower total cost over five years. However, a new 2026 model counters that with better financing incentives—sometimes as low as 4.29% on certain programs—and the fact that you won’t have major repair costs thanks to the 3-year/36,000-mile Subaru Limited Warranty. When you factor in our Lifetime Warranty at Hanania Subaru, the long-term cost of a new car becomes very competitive because we’ve mitigated the risk of major out-of-warranty repairs.

Fuel efficiency also plays a role in that five-year calculation. The 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid, for example, is expected to hit 36 mpg combined. If you are driving a lot of miles, those savings at the pump add up quickly compared to an older, non-hybrid SUV. Maintenance is another factor; with a new Subaru, your first two years of maintenance are covered here, whereas a used vehicle might be approaching its first major mileage interval for things like brake fluid or spark plugs. I always encourage buyers to look at the “big picture” including insurance premiums and fuel, not just the monthly car payment.

Q: How does the buying confidence differ between these two categories at your dealership?

A: One of the first things I show buyers is our transparent inspection process. Whether you buy new or used, we want you to feel secure. With a new 2026 Subaru Outback, your confidence comes from the factory-fresh components and the Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. You know exactly where that car has been—which is nowhere but our lot. For used cars, we provide that same level of certainty through our CPO program’s 152-point check. We even offer Classic and Gold Plus extended plans that can provide bumper-to-bumper coverage nearly identical to the factory warranty.

Buying confidence is also about the financial side of things. We work hard to ensure there are no surprises when you get to the finance office. I recommend that all our customers prequalify for financing through our website before they even arrive. It streamlines the process and lets you shop with a clear budget in mind. Whether you are looking at a Premium trim Ascent with 21 city / 27 hwy mpg or a used Impreza, knowing your rates upfront makes the whole experience much more relaxing and supportive.

Q: Will a driver actually feel a difference behind the wheel of a 2026 model versus a used one from three or four years ago?

A: You will definitely notice some refinements. Subaru is constantly working on “NVH”—noise, vibration, and harshness. A 2026 Subaru Forester is going to feel a bit quieter on the highway than a 2021 model because of updated sound dampening and chassis rigidity. The Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is always active in both, but the newer models often feature the Dual-Function X-MODE as a standard feature across more trims, which gives you better control in mud or deep sand. If you are heading out for a weekend at the beach, that extra bit of electronic sophistication in the traction control can be felt.

The steering feel has also been tuned for a more car-like response in our newer SUVs. While a 3-year-old Subaru still drives better than most of its competitors, the 2026 models have a “tighter” feel to the electric power steering. Then there is the EyeSight system; the newer cameras have a wider field of view and faster processing power, which means the adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist feel smoother and less intrusive. It is not a night-and-day difference because Subarus are built so well to begin with, but it is certainly a more polished experience.

Q: Finally, Hashmat, how can customers make the actual purchase process easier using your online tools?

A: We have really embraced digital tools to respect our customers’ time. You can do almost everything from your living room before you ever visit our Blanding Blvd location. From browsing our latest inventory to calculating your trade-in value, we want the transition to be seamless. If you have questions while shopping online, you can always give us a quick call to speak with a consultant who can walk you through the specifics of a Limited versus a Touring trim or explain the benefits of the Bronze Edition on the Ascent.

Our goal is to be as transparent as possible so that when you do come in for a test drive, you can focus on the car and how it fits your lifestyle rather than worrying about the paperwork. We participate in programs that allow you to structure your deal online, which is perfect for busy professionals who don’t want to spend all Saturday at a dealership. Whether you choose new or used, our team is here to ensure you drive away in a vehicle that is safe, reliable, and perfectly suited for your next adventure.

Choosing between a new and used Subaru is a personal decision that depends on your budget, technology needs, and how long you plan to stay on the road. With the expertise of consultants like Hashmat Merajuddin and the comprehensive protection of our Vehicle Lifetime Warranty, Hanania Subaru is dedicated to making that choice clear and rewarding. Whether you are eyeing the cutting-edge 2026 lineup or a high-value Certified Pre-Owned model, we invite you to explore our inventory and experience our commitment to the Jacksonville community firsthand.

Keep Your Vehicle Running Strong

Keep your vehicle performing at its best with our service team:

• Subaru Service Center
• Genuine Subaru Parts

---

© 2026 Hanania Subaru. All rights reserved.

Tags: Hanania Subaru
Posted in Buying Guides, Jacksonville Subaru Dealer, Model Comparisons | No Comments »