Do advanced research!

The most important thing to consider is your budget, needs AND your happiness! Color or how much of a discount is offered should be last. (Vehicles with huge rebates indicate that there is a problem with the demand or surplus of inventory despite being a good vehicle. Go for it if that's what fits your ...a lot of times it's a result of an overproduction or lack of parts for the more upgraded models.) Remember the manufacturers focus is on your satisfaction and return business for sales and service! Dealers included!

1. The dealerships have all the information that you need to make a wise purchase although there are books, magazines and internet sources to confirm or further your information gathering. Drive the vehicle.

National Specials, best time to buy or lease.

 When buying or leasing, take advantage of any national special.....you really can't buy or lease for any less.

The residual value (projected value) for any car is highest at the beginning of the model year. As the year progresses, the projected value drops because all vehicles depreciate (lose value) as they get older.This value is adjusted monthly but generally changes quarterly (every three months).You're only paying for the value of the car that is calculated for use during that specific term & mileage.

The manufacturers can only offer lease cash or change the money factor (cost of use of money similar to an interest rate on a purchase), to keep that low advertised price. These are gifts from the automakers; the dealerships can only hope you add an option or two to make anything other than a unit for their quota.

If you see a lower advertised price, the dealer is changing the terms and conditions by usually requiring more money down or requiring an off the charts credit score.

Just want to buy? The cap cost (price used to start the depreciation in a lease), is generally disclosed in the lease advertisement....dirt cheap. :)  ENJOY!