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These 7 Year-End Car Deals Were Extended For January: 0% APR Financing and More
Following the fireworks of December’s year-end car deals, January’s manufacturer incentives are finally here. If you weren’t ready to buy last month, 2025 has a pleasant surprise: some of the best year-end deals have been officially extended into the new year! Here are 7 New Year car deals worth the test drive in January.
Jeep
2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe
Best January Deal: 0% APR for 72 months
This offer expires on 2/3/2025. See details at Jeep.com.
Browse Listings Near You, and Compare Jeep Cost of Ownership
Ram
2024 Ram 1500
Best January Deal: 0.9% APR for 72 months and up to $6,500 total cash allowance on the 2024 Ram 1500 Big Horn Crew Cab 4×4. The cash offer is for current lessees of FCA vehicles. No trade-in is required.
This offer expires on 2/3/2025. See details at RamTrucks.com.
Browse Listings Near You, and Compare Ram Cost of Ownership
Ford
2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E
Best January Deal: 0% APR for 72 months financing offer, plus a complimentary home charger and standard installation.
This offer expires on 2/3/2025. See details at Ford.com.
Browse Listings Near You, and Compare Ford Cost of Ownership
Subaru
2024 Subaru Forester
Best Deal: 1.9% APR for 72 months financing offer
2024 and 2025 Subaru Outback
Best Deal: 2.9% APR for 72 months financing offer
These offers expire on 1/31/2025. See details at Subaru.com.
Browse Listings Near You, and Compare Subaru Cost of Ownership
Volkswagen
2024 Volkswagen Tiguan
Best Deal: 0% APR for 60 months financing offer
This offer ends on 3/3/2025. See details at VW.com.
Browse Listings Near You, and Compare Volkswagen Cost of Ownership
GMC
2024 GMC Sierra 1500
Best January Deal: 0% APR for 36 months or $6,000 purchase cash allowance on the Sierra 1500 SLT 5.3 Liter V8.
This offer expires on 3/3/2025. See details at GMC.com.
Browse Listings Near You, and Compare GMC Cost of Ownership
Start the Year with Savings
January is your second chance to grab a fantastic deal on a new car, truck, or SUV. With extended 0% APR financing offers, hefty cash allowances, and even bonus perks like free home chargers, 2025’s new year car deals are better than expected.
Remarkably, some automakers are already extending their New Years car sales into early March. GMC and Volkswagen are among these in it for the long haul.
Ready to negotiate with confidence? Learn more about CarEdge Pro, the best DIY toolkit for car buyers today. Prefer to have an expert do it all for you? Our Car Buying Service is the perfect fit. Happy car shopping!
Why February 2025 Is a Great Time to Buy a Used Car
Did you know that the shortest month of the year is actually a great time to negotiate a used car deal? This month, used car shoppers can seize upon a rare opportunity. While December was indeed the best time to drive home a deal on a new car, February can be just as rewarding for used car buyers. Here’s how you can negotiate serious savings on a used car in February 2025.
For Used Car Shoppers, February 2025 Is a Buyer’s Market
After December’s car-buying spree, dealerships face a quieter market in January and February. But simple math shows another reason for increased negotiability in the month ahead. February is the shortest month of the year, but that doesn’t change automaker and dealership sales goals. In February, sellers will be eager to ‘move the metal’ before this fleeting month slips by. This rushed month gives buyers leverage in used car negotiations.
But that’s not all—historical trends reveal some unique opportunities for used car shoppers this time of year.
- Rising Inventory
The influx of trade-ins from last year’s new car buyers means dealerships have more used cars to sell in February. With used car inventory levels rising, many dealers are motivated to move these vehicles off the lot quickly. This is especially true for dealers still awaiting deliveries of 2025 models. - Tax Refund Season Is Just Beginning
The surge of tax refund car buying season typically begins in March. February buyers beat the rush, facing less competition and enjoying more room for negotiation. - Motivated Dealers
With only 28 days in February, dealerships have monthly sales quotas to meet. This motivation often translates into better deals and increased willingness to negotiate with buyers ready to close. However, don’t expect the best deals to fall into your lap—knowledge is certainly power in today’s market, with empowered buyers winning the best deals.
Winter Weather Creates Buying Opportunities
Across the northern U.S., used car buyers have even more reason to shop confidently. When it’s cold and snowy, hardly anyone shops for cars. If you happen to be the one out on the lot when the dealership is hungry for business, you’re got the upper hand in negotiations from the start. The salesperson WANTS to make a deal happen, and will be willing to talk numbers.
CarEdge Co-Founder Ray Shefska can recall times when winter-inspired incentives bordered on nonsense, but to the benefit of the buyer!
“There have been times where we received so much snow that we actually paid customers to help dig out their own car deal. That’s right, we encouraged the customers to pick out their car, dig it out of the snow and we saved them an extra $200 to $500 depending on the model. It was either that or we would have to hibernate until the spring thaw!!!“
Keep an eye out for snow-filled car buying opportunities this February, especially if you don’t mind putting in a bit of extra work to save on a used car.
Tips for Scoring Savings on a Used Car in February 2025
While February 2025 offers great potential, it’s still important to approach car buying strategically. If you show your cards too soon, you could end up fighting headwinds as you negotiate. Use these tips to maximize your savings, minimize stress, and most importantly, stay focused on the numbers that matter.
1. Negotiate With Leverage
Don’t walk into negotiations unprepared. Use tools like CarEdge Pro to identify the most negotiable inventory at your local dealerships. Focus on cars that have been sitting on the lot for an extended period—these are often the ones dealerships are most eager to sell.
2. Keep Financing Details Private
There’s no need to show all your cards right away. Whether you’re paying cash, financing independently, or considering dealership financing, wait until the out-the-door price is fully negotiated and put in writing before discussing payment options. It’s also wise to understand the auto finance market in February. Right now, new car APRs average around 9% APR, but those with excellent credit may qualify for much lower rates. Used car loan rates remain painfully high and currently average 14% APR.
3. Don’t Focus on Monthly Payments
While it’s tempting to think in terms of monthly affordability, dealerships often use this to steer buyers into unfavorable terms. Always negotiate the out-the-door price, which includes taxes, fees, and all add-ons you agree to. Once the OTD is agreed on in writing, it’s time to talk about how you’ll pay.
👉 FREE: Out-the-Door Price Calculator
4. Insist on a Pre-Purchase Inspection
Even if the car looks and feels perfect, always get a pre-purchase inspection from an independent mechanic. Dealerships are incentivized to sell, and their assessment may not tell the whole story. protect your wallet by ensuring you know exactly what you’re buying.
👉 Learn more about pre-purchase inspections for used cars
5. Let a Pro Negotiate for You
If the thought of haggling over prices and fighting unwanted add-ons sounds exhausting, consider letting an expert handle it for you. With CarEdge’s Car Buying Service, experienced professionals will take care of every detail—securing the best deal, maximizing your trade-in value, and eliminating bogus fees.
💲💲💲See how much you can save with CarEdge Verified Deals!
Negotiate Used Car Prices With Confidence in February
For knowledgeable used car shoppers, February 2025 presents a golden opportunity. With rising inventory, less competition, and motivated dealerships, it’s the perfect time to find the right car at the right price.
Don’t let car buying hassles hold you back. Visit CarEdge today to unlock the free tools, premium insights, and professional services to secure a deal you can be proud of.
👉 Download FREE car buying cheat sheets (limited time offer)
Every New Car Under $25,000, And the Last New Car Under $20,000
For 2025, affordable new cars and SUVs are becoming a rare breed, with only a handful of options under $25,000. And if you’re looking for a new car under $20,000? There’s just one left. Whether you’re hunting for value, reliability, or cutting-edge features on a budget, this guide covers every new car in 2025 that won’t break the bank.
The Last New Car Under $20,000: 2025 Nissan Versa
Base Price + Destination Fee: $18,330 – $22,330
CarEdge Value Rating: A ($34,012 5-year cost to own)
What Drivers Like: Following the end of production for the Mitsubishi Mirage, the Nissan Versa is the last new car on sale in America with a starting price under $20,000. It’s what you’d expect for the cheapest car in America – affordable, basic transportation without the frills.
Compare Nissan Versa Cost of Ownership
New Cars Under $25,000 in 2025
As new cars under $20,000 are on the verge of extinction, we’re forced to increase our budget. Without further ado, here’s every new car and SUV on sale today for under $25,000 (including mandatory destination fees).
2025 Hyundai Venue
Base Price + Destination Fees: $21,395 – $24,645
CarEdge Value Rating: A- ($35,544 5-year cost to own)
What Drivers Like: In 2025, the Hyundai Venue is the cheapest SUV on sale in America. Drivers love the compact size for city driving, while the impressive standard features like an 8-inch touchscreen and advanced safety tech make it a well-rounded choice.
Compare Hyundai Venue Cost of Ownership
2025 Kia Soul
Base Price + Destination Fees: $21,665 – $26,965
CarEdge Value Rating: B+ ($37,174 5-year cost to own)
What Drivers Like: The Kia Soul stands out with its quirky design, flexible interior, and shockingly low price point. It’s perfect for drivers who prefer a car with character. Its unique styling, user-friendly tech features, and fun driving dynamics make it a favorite among young drivers.
Compare Kia Soul Cost of Ownership
2025 Nissan Sentra
Base Price + Destination Fees: $22,730 – $25,730
CarEdge Value Rating: B ($36,750 5-year cost to own)
What Drivers Like: If you’re searching for a cheap new car that doesn’t feel cheap, the 2025 Sentra is right up your alley. The seats are comfortable, infotainment simply works as it should, and the price is shockingly low for a new car in 2025.
Compare Nissan Sentra Cost of Ownership
2025 Nissan Kicks Play
Base Price + Destination Fees: $22,910
CarEdge Value Rating: B ($37,605 5-year cost to own)
What Drivers Like: Most of all, drivers love the price. Time and time again, car buyers have lamented the shift to premium cars, and the premium prices that come with it. Budget-friendly automakers like Nissan have been steadily increasing prices, but the cheaper version of the Kicks is sticking around as an affordable subcompact SUV for now.
Learn more about the Nissan Kicks Play
2025 Hyundai Elantra
Base Price + Destination Fees: $23,025 – $30,600
CarEdge Value Rating: A+ ($35,190 5-year cost to own)
What Drivers Like: The 2025 Elantra is a car that looks more expensive than it is, both inside and out. With options like faux leather, dual touchscreens, and three engines to choose from, there’s plenty of ways to customize your Elantra. The hybrid Elantra starts at $26,250, but nearly doubles fuel economy to 58 miles per gallon.
Compare Hyundai Elantra Cost of Ownership
2025 Kia K4
Base Price + Destination Fees: $23,145 – $24,245
CarEdge Value Rating: A ($34,382 5-year cost to own)
What Drivers Like: With the discontinuation of the Kia Forte comes the arrival of the K4. Kia wasn’t shy about their plans to basically rename the Forte with the big overall for 2025. With the new name comes even more value. The K4 is a huge hit with thoroughly modern looks and features, all for under $25,000.
See Kia K4 listings with local market data
2025 Nissan Kicks
Base Price + Destination Fees: $23,220 – $29,070
CarEdge Value Rating: B ($37,605 5-year cost to own)
What Drivers Like: The Nissan Kicks is fully redesigned for 2025. With better looks and all-wheel drive joining the lineup, a lot more shoppers will be test-driving the Kicks. The new Kicks is slightly larger in every way, giving this compact SUV more room for the driver and passengers alike. Drivers appreciate the 2025 Kicks for its modern design, roomy interior, available all-wheel drive, and most of all, the low price.
Compare Nissan Kicks Cost of Ownership
2025 Toyota Corolla
Base Price + Destination Fees: $23,460 – $29,325
CarEdge Value Rating: A+ ($33,007 5-year cost to own)
What Drivers Like: What’s not to love? The Corolla is known around the world for reliability, efficiency, safety, and overall great value. The Corolla Hybrid is one of the cheapest hybrid cars on sale in America, starting at just $24,960 with destination fees included.
Compare Toyota Corolla Cost of Ownership
2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer
Base Price + Destination Fees: $24,395 – $30,595
What Drivers Like: Looking for something more than the Chevy Trax, but hoping to stay under $30,000? The Trailblazer offers a blend of sporty styling and practicality, with plenty of tech and safety features. Its more powerful engine option, optional all-wheel drive, and low price are top attractions.
Compare Chevrolet Trailblazer Cost of Ownership
2025 Subaru Impreza
Base Price + Destination Fees: $24,780 – $29,555
CarEdge Value Rating: A+ ($33,410 5-year cost to own)
What Drivers Like: The 2025 Subaru Impreza is one of the best values for a new car today. But the greatness doesn’t end there. Standard all-wheel drive, excellent safety ratings, and a generous interior make the Impreza a legendary budget choice.
Compare Subaru Cost of Ownership
2025 Buick Envista
Base Price + Destination Fees: $24,795 – $29,695
Value: Buick’s Envista brings upscale comfort and refinement to the entry-level SUV segment. As a replacement for the less exciting Encore, Buick’s new base model is great for around town, but lacks the acceleration for regular highway driving.
What Drivers Like: Drivers enjoy its quiet cabin, smooth handling, and attractive exterior styling at an affordable price.
See Buick Envista Listings Near You
Value-Packed New Cars Still Exist in 2025
As car prices continue to rise, it’s refreshing to see that value-driven options are still available in 2025. From the only new car under $20,000 to feature-packed models like the Kia K4 and Subaru Impreza, there’s something for everyone at an affordable price point. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly transportation or a stylish and dependable ride, these vehicles prove that great value is still within reach.
Learn more about how CarEdge can take the hassle out of car buying once and for all.
The Cheapest SUVs Today – SUVs Under $30,000 in 2025
Looking for an affordable SUV in 2025? You’re not alone. With rising vehicle prices, finding an SUV under $30,000 that doesn’t skimp on features can feel like a challenge. But even in the era of rising car prices, there are still plenty of budget-friendly options out there. Whether you’re searching for a family-friendly crossover or a compact SUV perfect for city living, this guide highlights the best SUVs for 2025 that keep affordability front and center.
Here’s a look at all of the SUVs under $30,000 in 2025.
2025 Hyundai Venue
Base Price + Destination Fees: $21,395 – $24,645
Value: In 2025, the Hyundai Venue is the cheapest SUV on sale in America. The Venue offers an exceptional value for budget-conscious buyers looking for a practical subcompact SUV that comes loaded with modern tech.
What Drivers Like: Drivers love the compact size for city driving, while the impressive standard features like an 8-inch touchscreen and advanced safety tech make it a well-rounded choice.
Compare Hyundai Venue Cost of Ownership
2025 Kia Soul
Base Price + Destination Fees: $21,665 – $26,965
Value: The Kia Soul stands out with its quirky design, flexible interior, and shockingly low price point. It’s perfect for drivers who prefer a car with character. However, it’s lacking the cargo space of larger crossovers on this list.
What Drivers Like: Its unique styling, user-friendly tech features, and fun driving dynamics make it a favorite among young drivers and bargain hunters alike.
Compare Kia Soul Cost of Ownership
2025 Nissan Kicks Play
Base Price + Destination Fees: $22,910
Value: With the arrival of the fully redesigned Kicks for 2025, Nissan is keeping the previous generation Kicks in the lineup as a cheaper alternative, the 2025 Nissan Kicks Play. It’s compact, cheap, and offers great fuel economy for well under $25,000.
What Drivers Like: Most of all, drivers love the price. Time and time again, car buyers have lamented the shift to premium cars, and the premium prices that come with it. Budget-friendly automakers like Nissan have been steadily increasing prices, but the cheaper version of the Kicks is sticking around as an affordable subcompact SUV for now.
Learn more about the Nissan Kicks Play
2025 Nissan Kicks
Base Price + Destination Fees: $23,220 – $29,070
Value: The Nissan Kicks is fully redesigned for 2025. With better looks and all-wheel drive joining the lineup, a lot more shoppers will be test-driving the Kicks. But it’s not just about aesthetics. The 2025 Kicks is larger with 1.7 inches more front shoulder room, 1.9 inches more rear shoulder room, and 0.9 inches more knee room in the back. Ground clearance rises from 7 inches to 8.4, making this a better fit for snowy climates.
What Drivers Like: Drivers appreciate the 2025 Kicks for its modern design, roomy interior, affordable all-wheel drive, and most of all, the low price.
Compare Nissan Kicks Cost of Ownership
2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer
Base Price + Destination Fees: $24,395 – $30,595
Value: Looking for something more than the Chevy Trax, but hoping to stay under $30,000? The Trailblazer offers a blend of sporty styling and practicality, with plenty of tech and safety features. The main advantage of the Trailblazer is that it’s available with all-wheel drive for under $30,000.
What Drivers Like: Its more powerful engine option, all-wheel drive, and value-packed low price are top attractions.
Compare Chevrolet Trailblazer Cost of Ownership
2025 Buick Envista
Base Price + Destination Fees: $24,795 – $29,695
Value: Buick’s Envista brings upscale comfort and refinement to the entry-level SUV segment. As a replacement for the less exciting Encore, Buick’s new base model is great for around town, but lacks the acceleration for regular highway driving.
What Drivers Like: Drivers enjoy its quiet cabin, smooth handling, and attractive exterior styling at an affordable price.
See Buick Envista Listings Near You
2025 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
Base Price + Destination Fees: $25,365 – $30,380
Value: The Outlander Sport is a dependable choice for those who value affordability and versatility. However, it hasn’t changed much at all in the past decade. If you’re nostalgic for the early 2010s for some reason, this could be worth a test drive.
What Drivers Like: Its rugged design, high ground clearance (8.4 inches), and optional all-wheel drive make it a solid pick for some drivers.
Compare Mitsubishi Outlander Cost of Ownership
2025 Toyota Corolla Cross
Base Price + Destination Fees: $25,385 – $32,930
Value: Toyota’s renowned reliability is at the heart of the Corolla Cross, which also features excellent fuel efficiency and a comfortable ride. However, many drivers say it performs like an appliance, and lacks the more lively character of competitors.
What Drivers Like: Buyers appreciate its roomy interior, proven reliability, and impressive resale value.
See Toyota Corolla Cross Listings Near You
2025 Kia Seltos
Base Price + Destination Fees: $25,695 – $32,465
Value: The Kia Seltos combines eye-catching design, a spacious interior, and advanced technology in a compact SUV that costs well under $30,000.
What Drivers Like: Drivers love its responsive handling, customizable driving modes, and premium-feeling cabin. Like it’s sibling the Kia Soul, the Seltos offers a lot for the price.
See Kia Seltos Listings Near You
2025 Hyundai Kona
Base Price + Destination Fees: $25,747 – $33,295
Value: The refreshed Hyundai Kona offers a sporty drive (with the available 190-hp turbocharged option) and loads of standard features for its price.
What Drivers Like: Its bold design, high-tech cabin, and lively performance make it a favorite for urban commuters shopping the cheapest SUVs under $30K.
Compare Hyundai Kona Cost of Ownership
2025 Mazda CX-30
Base Price + Destination Fees: $26,415 – $38,370
Value: The Mazda CX-30 delivers luxury-like refinement and sporty handling at an affordable price point. Plus, Mazda routinely brings low-APR financing deals to the CX-30.
What Drivers Like: Drivers rave about its premium interior, agile performance, and advanced driver-assistance features. It’s among the most luxurious SUVs on sale for under $30,000 in 2025.
Compare Mazda CX-30 Cost of Ownership
2025 Volkswagen Taos
Base Price + Destination Fees: $26,420 – $36,120
Value: Featuring updated looks for 2025, the Taos now comes with a much-needed engine upgrade. The VW Taos combines European styling with practicality, all for around $30K.
What Drivers Like: Its spacious rear seats, intuitive tech, and smooth ride are major highlights. All-wheel drive is an option!
See Volkswagen Taos Listings Near You
2025 Honda HR-V
Base Price + Destination Fees: $26,750 – $30,850
Value: The Honda HR-V offers a blend of reliability, efficiency, and practicality. Better yet, it’s expected to maintain decent resale value for years to come. We give it a rare A+ CarEdge Value Rating.
What Drivers Like: Buyers love its roomy interior, excellent fuel economy, and Honda’s reputation for making reliable cars.
Compare Honda HR-V Cost of Ownership
2025 Subaru Crosstrek
Base Price + Destination Fees: $27,115 – $33,915
Value: Standard all-wheel drive and rugged capability make the Crosstrek a standout in the compact SUV market. However, it’s easy to spec the Crosstrek above the $30,000 mark.
What Drivers Like: Adventurers appreciate its off-road and all-weather readiness, ground clearance, spacious interior, and great resale value.
Compare Subaru Crosstrek Cost of Ownership
2025 Buick Encore GX
Base Price + Destination Fees: $27,295 – $34,395
Value: The Encore GX brings a premium feel to the compact SUV category with upscale features and a quiet ride. The Encore GX is much more feature-packed than the previous generation Encore. However, the Encore GX is lacking acceleration for the highway.
What Drivers Like: Drivers enjoy its refined interior, smooth handling, and impressive fuel economy in a compact SUV starting under $30,000.
See Buick Encore GX Listings Near You
2025 Jeep Compass
Base Price + Destination Fees: $27,495 – $33,990
Value: The Jeep Compass combines off-road capability with a stylish and comfortable interior. However, don’t expect an engaging driving experience.
What Drivers Like: Buyers appreciate its trail-ready features, optional 4×4, and rugged styling.
Compare Jeep Compass Cost of Ownership
2025 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
Base Price + Destination Fees: $28,255 – $33,450
Value: The 2025 Eclipse Cross is an affordable SUV, but has nothing in common with the Eclipse sports car of yesterday besides inheriting the legendary name. But for those looking for standard all-wheel drive for around $30,000, the Eclipse Cross is worth the test drive.
What Drivers Like: All-wheel drive, spacious interior, affordability, and off-road capability are loved by fans of this Mitsubishi crossover.
Compare Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Cost of Ownership
2025 Kia Niro
Base Price + Destination Fees: $28,365 – $42,165
Value: For 2025, the Niro comes standard with a hybrid powertrain, providing fuel savings for all. There are also fully-electric and plug-in hybrid options.
What Drivers Like: The Niro is thoroughly modern inside and out, and much improved from the previous generation of the Niro. Fuel efficiency is a big plus.
Compare Kia Niro Cost of Ownership
2025 Kia Sportage
Base Price + Destination Fees: $28,565 – $39,465
Value: The Kia Sportage is due for a major facelift in 2026, something that can be to the advantage of buyers looking to negotiate in 2025. Although lacking in power, the Sportage is well-equipped with infotainment and safety features.
What Drivers Like: Modern looks are complimented by a 12-inch infotainment screen, wireless smartphone charging, and heated front seats in the EX trim and up.
Compare Kia Sportage Cost of Ownership
2025 Ford Escape
Base Price + Destination Fees: $29,645 – $39,605
Value: The Ford Escape is the cheapest Ford SUV on sale in 2025. It covers all the bases for drivers looking for a commuter car (or crossover), but it’s not the best at anything. Unfortunately, it will be discontinued later this year following 20 years in the Ford lineup.
See the cars, trucks, and SUVs being discontinued in 2025
What Drivers Like: Affordable transportation in crossover form, with intuitive infotainment and decent fuel economy.
Compare Ford Escape Cost of Ownership
2025 Mazda CX-5
Base Price + Destination Fees: $29,990 – $42,020
Value: The craziest thing about the Mazda CX-5 is that it’s still great, even after 7 years of production without a major refresh. All-wheel drive is standard, but fuel economy suffers as a result.
What Drivers Like: Affordable all-wheel drive, an engaging driving experience, and luxury-inspired interior are all loved.
Compare Mazda CX-5 Cost of Ownership
2025 Chevrolet Equinox
Base Price + Destination Fees: $29,995 – $34,395
Value: Redesigned for 2025, the Chevy Equinox is more value-packed than ever before. After big upgrades, the 2025 Equinox has more in common with the larger Traverse.
What Drivers Like: While a CVT engine is standard, those who opt for all-wheel drive get a more powerful eight-speed automatic. The 2025 Equinox’s updated looks are a major leap ahead as far as aesthetics go.
Compare Chevrolet Equinox Cost of Ownership
What’s the BEST SUV Under $30,000?
Why spend more when you can get a fully redesigned, well-equipped crossover for well under $25,000? All things considered, we’ve chosen the 2025 Nissan Kicks as the best SUV on sale in 2025 for under $30,000.
With a base MSRP of just $23,220 with required destination fees, the 2025 Kicks is loaded with value. Now with more power, better looks, and a modern interior, Nissan’s new darling is already a hot seller. For the first time ever, all-wheel drive is available. To top it off, the 2025 Nissan Kicks is larger than the previous generation in every way, adding nearly 2 inches of additional shoulder room in the rear, and an inch of additional leg room.
Perhaps automakers will see the success of the 2025 Nissan Kicks, and put more sub-$30K SUVs on the market in the near future.
How to Leverage Year-End Deals for Big Savings on Used Cars
Year-end car deals aren’t just for new cars and trucks – smart shoppers in the used car market can leverage new car specials for big savings. Used car prices have been steadily declining, and the timing couldn’t be better to secure a great deal. Here’s how to use market trends and negotiation tools to your advantage this December.
Why Now Is the Time to Shop for a Used Car
Year-end car buying season is well-known for flashy new car promotions, but the holidays also create opportunities for used car buyers. With dozens of 0% APR financing offers and competitive lease deals pulling buyers to new car lots, demand for used vehicles has softened.
For used car buyers, that means one thing: leverage.
However, new car offers are so great that it’s totally reasonable for many would-be used car buyers to check them out first:
👉 32 offers of 0% APR financing. These deals won’t last!
👉 Up to $11,500 off MSRP on full-size trucks
Check out ALL of the best year-end deals at the CarEdge Deal Hub
Still set on negotiating the best used car deal this month? Let’s take a look at how to bring your own car buying toolkit with you to lock in big savings. With the right tools and negotiation know-how, you’ll confidently drive home a deal you can be proud of.
Key Negotiation Tools to Bring to the Dealership
1. A Pre-Approval Letter for Competitive Financing
Arrive at the dealership armed with a pre-approval letter from a credit union, bank, or online lender. Not only does this save you time at the dealership, but it also provides leverage if the dealership’s financing offers can’t match or beat your pre-approved rate. Credit unions often have the best rates for used car buyers.
👉 How to finance a car like a pro (free guide)
2. Black Book Value for the VIN You’re Interested In
Knowledge is power in any negotiation, and knowing the true value of the car you’re eyeing is key. Black Book, the valuation tool used by dealerships, provides real-time data on what a vehicle is worth. Before heading to the lot, check the Black Book value for the specific VIN to ensure the asking price is fair—or to use as leverage if it’s not. Access unlimited Black Book valuations with CarEdge Pro.
3. Days on the Lot, and Other Market Data
Dealerships want to move older inventory, and vehicles that have been sitting on the lot for a long time are prime for negotiation. Use CarEdge Pro to find out how long the car has been on the lot. If it’s been sitting for 60 days or more, you have a better chance of negotiating a lower price.
Some used cars have been on the lot for 6 months or longer, and are HIGHLY negotiable. However, don’t expect the car salesperson to volunteer this information!
4. Free Car Buying Cheat Sheets
A car buying cheat sheet is your go-to guide for navigating the deal. Know what’s fair, identify unnecessary add-ons to avoid, and recognize when it’s time to walk away from a deal. The more informed you are, the less likely you are to overpay. Download your negotiation cheat sheets, and take them with you to the dealership!
More Tips for Year-End Used Car Buying
- Shop at the End of the Month: Dealers are eager to hit sales targets and clear inventory before the new year, making them more likely to agree to lower prices or added perks during the last days of December.
- Compare Prices Online: Don’t settle for the first deal you see. Browse local inventory online to see which dealers are pricing competitively and which cars are sitting longer than others.
- Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection: It’s always worth the peace of mind to have an independent mechanic complete a pre-purchase inspection on any used vehicle you’re serious about. If the dealer is not okay with it, that’s a deal breaker.
- Check for Recalls: Before signing the dotted line, verify that the car hasn’t been affected by any recalls. If it has, confirm that the necessary repairs have been made.
- Be Ready to Walk Away: Your greatest strength as a buyer is your willingness to leave if the deal isn’t right. Dealers are more likely to work with you when they know you’re not desperate to buy.
- Consider Warranty Coverage: Don’t let unexpected maintenance costs hurt your finances – get the best deal on extended warranty coverage with CarEdge. Car dealers mark up their warranties by hundreds of dollars!
👉 Ask these questions when buying a car!
Take Advantage of Year-End Market Dynamics
As the year comes to a close, the combination of falling used car prices and lower demand creates the perfect storm for savings. By coming prepared with the tools and insights you need, you’ll have everything you need to negotiate the best possible deal.
For more real-time market insights and negotiation tools, learn more about CarEdge Pro (25% off!). With CarEdge by your side, you’re sure to drive home the car you want—at the price you deserve.
