If you’ve ever been to an auto show, you know the feeling of seeing more new cars than
you can count. You wonder, what makes them all so different? Especially when some of
them look so similar. Choosing your new car is a tricky business, and the vast selection to
choose from can be overwhelming.
Use these tips and recommendations to demystify the business of buying a car and maybe
even save yourself some money in the process.
Buy the Car That’s in Season
The two best times to buy a new car are the beginning of the year, and the summertime.
Look at models that are being redesigned in the coming year. Any model that’s being
replaced is facing a major change, hence a major price decrease. This is especially true of
American cars.
Comparison Shop First
As with many other purchases, you’re likely to find the best deals if you comparison shop
first. Use the internet, local papers and other resources to scout out locations for buying
your car of choice.
Keep notes of which places have the best prices, even if it’s not the dealership you
ultimately want to do business with. Sometimes dealers are willing to match the best
price that’s being advertised for the car you’re looking to buy.
Negotiate Carefully
Tell the salesman up front the lower end of your price range. Do NOT say how much
you can afford on a monthly basis. If you do, they’ll often insist you can afford a higher
priced car than you intend to buy.
Negotiate the price of the car before mentioning a trade in at all. Once you have agreed
on a price, then mention you have a car you’d be willing to trade in. It pays to research
the blue book value beforehand, so you know if the offer on your car is good.
Recommendations
The Most Hatchback For Your Money: Nissan Versa
Price: $10,000-$12,000
“Versa is short for “versatility,” which the hatchback version exudes best. One of the
roomiest in its class, the Versa also supplies good power in this category, as well as fuel
thrift and low prices. A six-speed manual gearbox and a load of standard safety features
are all positives.” – Car and Driver
The Most Small Sedan For Your Money: Hyundai Elantra
Price: $18,645
“It’s a solid, all-around car that’s relatively comfortable, quiet, and roomy, and provides
good fuel economy and plenty of features for the money.” – Consumer Reports
The Most Family Sedan For Your Money: Ford Taurus
Price: $24,000-$32,000
“From and engineering and design standpoint, the Taurus is a Success. It is stylish,
contemporary, and functional.” – Fortune
The Most SUV For Your Money: Toyota Venza
Price: $25,000-$28,000
“Reviewers praise the Venza, Toyota’s Camry -based crossover, for providing all the
comforts of a sedan with the functionality of an SUV. Unlike Toyota’s other crossover
SUVs, the Venza does not feature three-row seating — giving it an advantage over
competitors in cargo space.” – U.S. News and World Report
The Most Station Wagon For Your Money: Mazda5
Price: $23,805
“With three rows of seats and sliding rear side doors, it combines the convenience of
a minivan with the maneuverability and stingy fuel economy—24 mpg overall—of a
wagon. The interior is airy, with good fit and finish. Plus the Mazda5 is fun to drive, with
a nimble feel and a comfortable ride.” – Consumer Reports
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