These weights are a starting framework. Before ratings launch, we will validate the rubric with real evaluations and publish the scoring anchors, reviewer process, and version history.
Score a specific car in a specific context
Every assessment must name the year, trim, transmission, market, condition, and intended use. A used car buying guide is not a rating of every example of that model. Parts need a separate product rubric; a vehicle score cannot stand in for a product test.
The proposed criteria
| Criterion | Weight | Evidence to explain |
|---|---|---|
| Driving experience | 20% | Steering, controls, feedback, and engagement in documented road conditions. |
| Ownership confidence | 20% | Service documentation, known issues with primary evidence, and a clear maintenance plan. |
| Total ownership cost | 20% | A dated, location-specific picture of purchase, maintenance, consumables, and running costs. |
| Everyday usability | 15% | Comfort, visibility, storage, access, and fit for the stated use case. |
| Upgrade ecosystem | 15% | Documented fitment, supplier support, serviceability, and the trade-offs of common upgrades. |
| Value for the intended driver | 10% | The complete proposition relative to a named, comparable group of cars. |
How the calculation would work
Each criterion would receive a score from 0 to 10 against published anchors. The overall score would be the weighted average, shown to one decimal place. A 20% criterion contributes its score multiplied by 0.20.
Missing evidence is not zero, and weights must not be silently redistributed. If a required criterion cannot be assessed, the overall result stays Not yet rated. The underlying observations and limits must accompany any future number.
Before any rating goes live
- Define the intended driver and the comparison group before deciding a winner.
- Document which claims come from hands-on evaluation and which come from research.
- Attach source dates and exact configurations to specifications and cost assumptions.
- Have a second reviewer check the evidence, calculation, and rubric consistency.
- Publish the methodology version, conflicts of interest, and meaningful corrections.
Commercial relationships have no vote
Affiliate commissions, advertising, and supplied products must not determine the weighting or the result. A commercial relationship must be disclosed beside the relevant content. There are currently no affiliate integrations.
Read the editorial standards or explore the current car guides.