RELATED ARTICLES

2010 Auto Guide

• Buyer's Guide: 2010 Cars
• New Features and Technologies
• Car Shopping by the Budget
• Slide Show of 2010 Autos

Read More

• 2009 Auto Guide Slideshow
• Buyer's Guide: GPS and Navigation
• All Buyer's Guides

There are literally hundreds of different new car, truck, and crossover models on the market these days, and in the current economy, carmakers and their dealers are more than willing to do what it takes to close a sale. Here are some tips to get the right vehicle for the best deal:

• Think carefully about what vehicle really is right for you. Often, we're won over by fancy ads or by our basic emotions. But carefully lay out your basic needs, whether they're driven by interior space, cargo capacity, fuel economy — or even the need to impress with a luxury car you can show off at the club.
  
• Do your homework online. According to research by J.D. Power and Associates, roughly eight out of 10 car buyers now start the shopping process online. Be one of them. There are plenty of sites that offer reviews, quality data, pricing information, and more. Walk into the showroom knowing more than the salesperson and you'll control the conversation.
  
• Have you considered a "previously owned" alternative? There's nothing like the smell of a new car—except, perhaps, the deal you can get on a used vehicle. Not just any clunker, but one that has been certified under the special programs offered by virtually every automaker these days. That means they've been carefully inspected, repaired if necessary, and usually given a like-new warranty.
  
• Expand your horizons. The tendency of American motorists to almost always limit their selection to one of the top three vehicles on their list is known as "the Rule of Three." But consider a fourth or even a fifth option. Sure, it takes a bit more work, but you may find a prize you wouldn't have thought about – or maybe you'll negotiate a better deal on a model that's selling slowly.
  
• Ask about incentives and other deals. Sure, you hear about rebates and low-interest loans all the time, but sometimes a manufacturer will keep quiet, giving dealers extra incentive money they can use to clinch a deal with a reluctant customer — or put into their own pocket. Ask. And check online, as there are numerous sites that reveal the latest, frequently changing incentive offers.
  
• Also check to see if the vehicle you're looking at might qualify for state or local incentives. This is particularly true with the newest, high-mileage hybrids, or diesels, which could earn you a hefty state tax deduction or even a federal tax credit.
  
• Be ready to walk. Unless you're eying a one-of-a-kind package that's available nowhere else in town, expert shoppers are ready to stand up, say thanks, and drive off from the showroom—even if they've been presented with a seemingly good deal. Automotive retailers are hungry these days, and there's a good chance they'll call you afterwards to say they can cut you a better break, if you'll just come back.
  
• Consider outside financing. One reason the auto market fell into a slump, starting in late 2008, was that financing dried up. If you've got good credit, you should be able to get a loan again, though not all makers offer the range of packages once on the table. Chrysler, for example, has yet to relaunch leasing. But just because the dealer lines something up for you doesn't mean it's your best option. Consider checking with your own bank, local credit union, or other lender to compare.

•  

  

   

  Learn More: Photo Gallery  ׀  New Features and Technologies  ׀  Shopping by Budget