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2026 Price Updates For the 10 Most Popular SUVs in America
SUV prices are on the move again for 2026, but not all in the same direction. While most automakers are implementing modest price increases, a few surprises stand out. Meanwhile, some manufacturers are still sitting on mountains of 2025 inventory, delaying their 2026 announcements.
We’ve broken down the 2026 pricing changes for America’s 10 most popular SUVs, calculating exactly how much more (or less) you’ll pay for each trim level. The average price increase across all models with confirmed pricing sits at 1.6%. That’s not terrible, but it adds up when you’re already spending $30,000 to $60,000 on a vehicle.
Here’s what you need to know about 2026 SUV pricing before you head to the dealership.
2026 Honda CR-V
2026 Pricing Changes:
- Base (LX): $32,370 (vs. $31,550 last year) | +$820 (+2.6%)
- Mid-Spec (EX): $34,600 (vs. $33,800 last year) | +$800 (+2.4%)
- Top-Spec (EX-L): $36,850 (vs. $36,450 last year) | +$400 (+1.1%)
- Average Price Change: +$673 (+2.0%)
What’s New for 2026: For 2026, all trims receive a larger 9.0-inch touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard, as is a wireless smartphone charging pad.
The CR-V consistently ranks among America’s top SUVs for its combination of value and utility, not to mention Honda’s legendary reliability. It’s plenty popular, having sold 402,000 copies last year. The addition of new connectivity features for 2026 keeps it competitive with newer rivals like the Volkswagen Tiguan, Mazda CX-50, and especially the redesigned 2026 Toyota RAV4.
Find Honda CR-V deals with CarEdge
2026 Chevrolet Equinox
2026 Pricing Changes:
- Base (LT): $30,495 (vs. $29,995 last year) | +$500 (+1.7%)
- Mid-Spec (Activ): $35,395 (vs. $34,395 last year) | +$1,000 (+2.9%)
- Top-Spec (RS): $35,395 (vs. $34,395 last year) | +$1,000 (+2.9%)
- Average Price Change: +$833 (+2.5%)
What’s New for 2026: Following a full redesign for the 2025 model year, the Equinox sees few changes for 2026. A few new paint options and accessories are all that’s new.
The recently redesigned Equinox has struck a chord with budget-conscious buyers. Starting just over $30,000, it offers compelling value in the competitive compact SUV segment. Although the Equinox remains a great value, it’s not getting any cheaper. GM continues to raise prices across the lineup, with an average price hike of 2.5% for the Equinox across trims.
Find Chevy Equinox deals with CarEdge
2026 Tesla Model Y
2026 Pricing Changes:
- Base (Standard): $41,630 (new base trim for 2026)
- Mid-Spec (Premium RWD): $46,630 (unchanged)
- Top-Spec (Performance): $59,130 (vs. $53,130 last year) | +$6,000 (+11.3%)
- Average Price Change: +$2,000 (+3.7%)
The new Model Y Standard was announced on October 7th, with a roughly $5,000 lower price tag in exchange for the loss of a glass roof, and notably, Autopilot. The Model Y Performance sees a price hike for 2026, but remains well below 2023 prices when Tesla models were in highest demand.
The Model Y has long been America’s best-selling electric vehicle and one of the most popular SUVs overall. Thanks to its impressive range (over 300 miles), quick acceleration, and access to Tesla’s expansive Supercharger network, many have been converted to the EV lifestyle with the Model Y.
Don’t overlook depreciation with any EV. See how the Model Y depreciates over time.
Build your Model Y at Tesla.com
2026 Chevrolet Trax
2026 Pricing Changes:
- Base (LS): $22,995 (vs. $21,895 last year) | +$1,100 (+5.0%)
- Mid-Spec (LT): $24,495 (vs. $24,095 last year) | +$400 (+1.7%)
- Top-Spec (Activ): $26,695 (vs. $25,895 last year) | +$800 (+3.1%)
- Average Price Change: +$767 (+3.3%)
What’s New for 2026: Other than two new paint colors, nothing changes for the 2026 Trax.
As one of the most affordable new SUVs in America, the Trax offers an amazing value. That’s why we’re hoping Chevrolet takes a break from the price hikes following a 5% increase in the base MSRP for 2026.
Find Chevy Trax deals with CarEdge
2026 Hyundai Tucson
2026 Pricing Updates:
- Base (SE): $30,800 (vs. $30,200 last year) | +$600 (+2.0%)
- Mid-Spec (SEL): $32,150 (vs. $32,060 last year) | +$90 (+0.3%)
- Top-Spec (Limited): $40,775 (vs. $40,140 last year) | +$635 (+1.6%)
- Average Price Change: +$442 (+1.3%)
What’s New for 2026: Refreshed in 2025, the Tucson is still fresh enough that we expect to see no significant changes for the 2026 model year.
Hyundai’s industry-leading warranty coverage provides peace of mind, while available Tucson hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants offer excellent fuel economy.
Find Hyundai Tucson deals with CarEdge
2026 Ford Explorer
2026 Pricing Updates:
- Base (Active): $40,160 (vs. $41,745 last year) | -$1,585 (-3.8%)
- Mid-Spec (ST-Line): $46,850 (vs. $46,715 last year) | +$135 (+0.3%)
- Top-Spec (ST): $56,600 (vs. $56,465 last year) | +$135 (+0.2%)
- Average Price Change: -$438 (-0.9%)
What’s New for 2026: There’s a new Tremor trim for the 2026 Explorer, which gains off-road capabilities. Otherwise, the Explorer remains largely the same as the 2025 model year.
It’s great to see the Explorer Active getting $1,585 cheaper for 2026. Offering three-row seating and genuine towing capability, the Explorer has been a go-to for families for three decades. Although the 2026 model sees a 1% price DECREASE averaged across trims, let’s not forget that just five years ago, the Explorer base trim was $6,000 cheaper. SUV price inflation is real.
Find Ford Explorer deals with CarEdge
2026 Nissan Rogue
2026 Pricing Updates:
- Base (S): $30,285 (vs. $29,980 last year) | +$305 (+1.0%)
- Mid-Spec (SV): $31,285 (vs. $30,980 last year) | +$305 (+1.0%)
- Top-Spec (Platinum): $40,485 (vs. $39,980 last year) | +$505 (+1.3%)
- Average Price Change: +$372 (+1.1%)
What’s New for 2026: Besides a new blacked-out trim option, nothing changes for 2026.
The Rogue has become Nissan’s best-seller by delivering a comfortable, quiet ride with generous passenger and cargo space at a competitive price. Its a straightforward, no-nonsense crossover at an affordable price. However, Nissan is in trouble. As the automaker’s sales tumble, Nissan becomes even more dependent on the success of its few winners, namely the Rogue, Kicks, and Pathfinder. The Altima has been critical for Nissan, but it’s headed for the graveyard after 2025.
See Nissan Rogue deals near you
2026 Subaru Crosstrek
Pricing:
- Base: $28,415 (vs. $27,980 last year) | +$435 (+1.6%)
- Mid-Spec (Sport): $32,045 (vs. $31,780 last year) | +$265 (+0.8%)
- Top-Spec (Wilderness): $35,215 (vs. $34,780 last year) | +$435 (+1.3%)
- Average Price Change: +$378 (+1.2%)
What’s New for 2026: The base Crosstrek now gets the same 180-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine as the rest of the lineup.
The Crosstrek serves as the gateway to Subaru’s outdoor-oriented brand. The power upgrade for 2026 addresses one of the previous base model’s main weaknesses, making it an even better value. The Crosstrek also has reasonable depreciation, according to our resale value rankings.
See Subaru Crosstrek deals near you
2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Pricing: Not yet announced as of October. See remaining 2025 Grand Cherokee listings.
What’s New for 2026: With 41,000 2025s on dealership lots and 850 leftover 2024s in October, it’s no surprise that the 2026 Grand Cherokee hasn’t been announced. Check back for pricing updates as information becomes available.
2026 Toyota RAV4
Pricing: Not yet announced as of October. See remaining 2025 RAV4 listings.
What’s New for 2026: The 2026 RAV4 gets a massive upgrade for the new model year. With a bold new design, standard hybrid powertrain, and more horsepower than ever before (now 226 HP). Pricing hasn’t been announced yet as of October, but we expect it to arrive any day now. In the meantime, Toyota still has 72,000 2025 models left to sell.
The Bottom Line on 2026 SUV Pricing
If you’re shopping for a popular SUV in 2026, expect to pay a bit more than last year. Frankly, car buyers are tired of seeing ever-rising MSRPs. Although the average price increase of 1.6% is modest, most of these SUVs have seen prices increase by over $5,000 since 2020, often a 20% increase or more.
We track car price inflation, and it’s happening across brands, across price points, and regardless of powertrain. The real story here isn’t just the year-over-year changes. It’s the long-term trend.
Getting a fair deal is still possible, and we’re glad you found us. Use CarEdge’s free research tools and America’s best car search tools to compare real-time pricing, analyze depreciation, and find the lowest prices in your area. Don’t pay MSRP when better deals are out there.
10 Best New Car Deals in October: 0% Financing, Lease Deals, and Cash Savings
If you’re planning to buy or lease a car soon, don’t let October slip under the radar. While everyone else is marking their calendars for December, deals are here that rival expectations for year-end car sales. We’re talking 0% APR financing, lease payments that won’t eat your monthly budget, and cash incentives that look like a typo.
Here’s the thing: automakers are already in clearance mode. They’re not waiting until December to get started with serious incentives. They’re staring down packed lots and deliveries of next year’s models, which means October has become the soft launch for discount season. Welcome to a buyer’s market, at least for some makes and models.
Here are the 10 best new car deals in October 2025.
2025 Ram 1500
0% APR financing for 72 months
This isn’t just the best truck deal of October, it’s the strongest financing offer across the entire market. A six-year loan at 0% interest means buyers save thousands compared to typical rates. If a Ram pickup is on your radar, this is the month to make your move. Ford and GM can’t match this deal, at least not yet. December may change that.
👉 Browse Ram 1500 listings near you, and see offer details.
2025 Toyota Tundra
1.75% APR financing for 72 months
Toyota almost never offers low-interest financing, because its trucks usually sell just fine without incentives. That’s what makes this Tundra deal stand out — 1.75% APR for six years is a rare chance to save. Toyota’s incentives are notoriously regional in nature, so be sure to check your local offers.
👉 Search Toyota Tundra deals near you, and see Toyota offer details.
2025 Nissan Rogue, Murano, and Pathfinder
0% APR financing for 60 months
Nissan is keeping its zero-percent financing streak alive for a third straight month. With global financial struggles putting pressure on the brand, Nissan is leaning heavily on U.S. buyers to stabilize sales. Shoppers benefit with no-interest loans on three of Nissan’s most popular SUVs.
👉 Find Nissan offers near you, and see Nissan offer details.
All 2025 Mitsubishi Inventory
0% APR financing for 60 months
Mitsubishi just joined the short list of automakers offering interest-free financing across all 2025 models. From the Outlander to the Eclipse Cross, every vehicle qualifies for five years of free money. That’s worth thousands in savings over the life of the loan.
👉 Browse Mitsubishi inventory near you, and see offer details.
2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV, Blazer EV, and Silverado EV
0% APR financing for 60 months
GM wants to stay ahead of Ford in the EV race, and it’s extending its 0% APR special for a fourth month. The Equinox EV is America’s best-selling non-Tesla EV, with 8,000+ sold in September. Buyers of the higher-priced Silverado EV stand to save the most with interest-free financing. The new Trail Boss spec is proving to be a popular electric truck.
👉 Browse Chevy deals near you, and see offer details from Chevrolet.
2025 Subaru Crosstrek
1.9% APR for 63 months, or lease for $249/month (36 months, $2,748 due)
The Crosstrek has quickly become Subaru’s best-selling model in the U.S., and October brings your chance to score a deal. Buyers can choose between low-APR financing or a competitive lease at just $249/month — perfect timing as winter approaches.
👉 Check Subaru Crosstrek listings near you, and see Subaru offer details.
2026 BMW X3 and X7
1.99% APR financing for 60 months
Luxury buyers, we didn’t forget about you. In fact, luxury shoppers save the most when financing rates drop. The cost to finance a more expensive vehicle will always be higher. In October, BMW’s popular X3 and flagship X7 are available with 1.99% APR financing for five years. That’s a big win for Beemer fans.
👉 Browse BMW inventory near you, and see offer details.
2025 Buick Envista
Lease for $279/month (24 months, $2,499 due at signing)
Buick’s zero-down specials are gone, but the brand continues to lead with competitive lease offers. At just $279/month, the Envista crossover remains one of the cheapest new-car leases in America.
👉 See Buick Envista deals near you, and see Buick offer details.
2025 Mazda CX-50
1.9% APR for 60 months
Mazda’s October incentives are mostly lackluster, but the CX-50 offer stands out. With standard all-wheel drive and plenty of ground clearance, this compact SUV is an excellent pick for northern drivers gearing up for winter. It’s even a Top Safety Pick (Plus) winner from IIHS crash testing.
👉 Find Mazda CX-50 offers near you, and see Mazda offer details.
2025 Infiniti QX50 and QX55
$6,500 cash bonus
Infiniti is pushing hard to win back American buyers, and the discounts show it. The QX50 and QX55 come with $6,500 in retail bonus cash, while the larger QX80 tops the chart with up to $10,000 in incentives this month.
👉 Browse Infiniti listings near you, and see offer details.
Why haggle when AI can do it for you?
October isn’t as deal-packed as year-end sales, but these offers prove it’s still a great month to buy if you shop the deals. Automakers are eager to keep momentum going before November and December’s clearance events bring the biggest discounts of the year. With that in mind, if you don’t see a deal you like, patience will pay off. Year-end clearance sales are just weeks away.
Now, for a dose of reality.
If you’ve bought or leased a car in the past few years, you know that dealers still play games to squeeze an extra penny out of your wallet. Even when the deals look great on paper, buying a car is often still a pain.
The good news? You have a NEW tool at your disposal that simply didn’t exist this time last year. In 2025, car shoppers are letting AI handle the awkward negotiating with salespeople.
👉 Let AI negotiate car prices for you
Prefer to keep it old school? We get it. Start with these FREE car buying resources and Vehicle Research Hub, courtesy of the team of experts here at CarEdge. If you ever get stuck or simply have questions, reach out to us. We’re here to help!
3 Tips to Get the Best Car Deal in October
October isn’t just about pumpkin spice and Halloween decorations—it’s also a sweet spot for car deals. New manufacturer incentives are here, and dealers are under pressure to sell aging 2025 models and very dusty 2024s. As always, shoppers who know how to negotiate have the upper hand. Consider it a buyer’s market, but only if you know where to look.
Here are three tips that will help you get the best car deal in October 2025.
1. Shop the Slowest-Selling Cars
Some cars practically fly off the lot, while others sit for weeks—or even months. Which ones do you think are more negotiable?
Dealers holding onto slow-selling inventory are motivated to move those cars, often with big discounts or extra incentives. That’s where the real deals are hiding.
With CarEdge’s free car buying tools, you can see the fastest- and slowest-selling cars nationally and in your local market. If you’re flexible on what you drive, targeting the slow movers is the easiest way to tilt the odds in your favor.
2. Don’t Overlook Cheap Lease Deals
Leasing isn’t for everyone—but for millions of drivers, it’s the smarter choice. One in five drivers already lease, and that number is climbing as cheap lease deals pop up nationwide.
Here’s why it matters:
- Lower upfront costs. Instead of committing to a big down payment, a lease lets you drive new with less cash out of pocket.
- Less risk with EVs. Electric cars are advancing so fast that today’s new EV can lose value quickly. Leasing lets you sidestep steep depreciation. See the cars with the best and worst depreciation.
- Fresh ride every few years. If you don’t want to keep a car long-term, leasing often makes more financial sense than buying and trading in later.
Before signing on the dotted line, make sure to check the best-value lease deals available this month, and use our free leasing calculator to know what to expect.
3. Let AI Negotiate for You
This time last year, it didn’t even exist. Today, it’s a game-changer.
With CarEdge’s new AI Negotiator, shoppers can now have AI agents anonymously negotiate car deals on their behalf. No awkward calls. No pressure from salespeople. Just results.
If you’re shopping for a new car this October, especially as year-end sales season heats up, AI Negotiator can save you time, stress, and money.
👉 Learn more about AI Negotiator, the easiest way to negotiate your deal.
Final Thoughts
October is a great time to shop for a car, but only if you know where to look. Focus on slow sellers, don’t skip lease deals, and better yet, let AI do the hard work for you. With these three steps, you’ll be in the driver’s seat in no time.
A great place to start is our Best Deals Hub. And if the perfect deal hasn’t shown up yet, don’t sweat it. November brings more incentives, and December is the peak of year-end sales—when automakers throw everything they’ve got at clearing out old inventory.
Stay tuned to CarEdge Guides for the best year-end car deals of 2025 as automakers make one last big push to ‘move the metal’. We’re here to help!
85,000 New 2024s Remain Unsold In Late 2025 – Here’s How Much To Negotiate
Picture this: you walk into a dealership in late 2025, and sitting right there on the lot is a brand-new 2024 model that’s been waiting for a buyer since last year. The dealer is motivated, you have leverage, and thousands of dollars in savings are within reach. Sound too good to be true? It’s not, and it’s happening right now across America.
With 85,000 new 2024 models still unsold as we approach the end of 2025, car shoppers have an opportunity to score major deals on the vehicles that dealers are most eager to move off their lots. Here’s where you’ll find the most negotiable new cars in October, November, and during December’s year-end car sales.
Why 2024s Are Still Sitting on Lots
The numbers tell a compelling story. This year’s carryover inventory is significantly larger than what we saw in 2024. As of late September 2025, there were 85,000 leftover 2024 models on sale in the U.S. That’s compared to just 50,000 leftover 2023s at this same time last year.
Even more surprising? There are still 8,000 new 2023 models sitting unsold as of September 2025.
This surplus didn’t happen by accident. Automakers delayed some 2026 model rollouts and maintained higher inventory levels as the market adjusted to tariffs, interest rate fluctuations, and unpredictable demand for certain trim levels. EVs were slow to sell until the recent urgency to take advantage of expiring federal incentives.
The result is a perfect storm of aging inventory that dealers need to sell. That means serious negotiating power for buyers who know where to look.
Your Target: Negotiate 15-20% Off MSRP
Here’s your baseline: on most leftover 2024 models, you should be targeting at least 15-20% off MSRP to offset the immediate depreciation that comes with buying a previous model year. Be sure to check depreciation forecasts before you buy.
The key is flexibility and strategy. Be open to different colors and option packages, and remember that your savings can come from multiple sources: direct price reductions, finance incentives, and removal of dealer add-ons from your out-the-door price.
Dreading haggling with the car salesman? Let AI do the negotiating for you. Over 2,000 shoppers have already saved with this all-new car buying tool. Consider it CarEdge’s best kept secret in 2025!
The 10 Cars and Trucks with the Most Unsold 2024 Inventory
Based on current inventory levels, these ten models offer the best opportunities for substantial savings. Not coincidentally, they’re dominated by trucks and SUVs—segments where high MSRPs make percentage discounts particularly valuable.
1. Ford F-150 — 2,853 Units (2% of inventory)
America’s bestselling truck also leads the leftover inventory list. With nearly 3,000 2024 F-150s still available, dealers are ready to deal, especially on higher-trim models with inflated MSRPs.
Negotiation Strategy: Start at 20% off MSRP on 2024 F-150s. If they won’t meet your price target, accept a combination of cash discounts and a lower financing rate, often referred to as a ‘rate buydown’. Another option is to let AI do the negotiating for you.
2. Ford Escape — 2,146 Units (6% of inventory)
Ford is discontinuing the Escape at the end of 2025, and sluggish sales likely contributed to the decision. The compact SUV market has been unpredictable, leaving many 2024 Escapes in limbo on dealer lots. Soon, one of the most affordable Ford models will be gone for good.
Negotiation Strategy: Find a dealer with multiple 2024 Escapes and get out-the-door quotes from multiple dealers to negotiate with leverage.
3. Ram 2500 — 1,896 Units (5% of inventory)
Heavy-duty trucks aren’t moving quickly in many markets, particularly high-specification builds that carry premium price tags. In 2025, the Ram 2500 sells for north of $70,000 on average.
Negotiation Strategy: Focus on both price and APR—push for a discount plus rate APR buydown to maximize your monthly payment savings. Financing any high-dollar truck is quite expensive, and a lower APR can save you thousands of dollars over the life of the loan.
4. Ford Bronco 4-Door — 1,895 Units (5% of inventory)
The initial Bronco excitement has cooled, leaving plenty of 2024 models for negotiation-minded buyers.
Negotiation Strategy: You should be able to confidently negotiate 15% off MSRP for 2024 Bronco models. If MSRP discounts stall out, negotiate for high-value accessories (roof racks, protection packages) at no charge. These will also help to lift your car’s resale value should you choose to sell.
5. Ford F-250 Super Duty — 1,852 Units (5% of inventory)
Big trucks mean big MSRPs, which translate to big depreciation risks that every buyer should be aware of.
Negotiation Strategy: Anchor your offer at 15-20% off and verify there are no unwanted add-ons or “market adjustment” fees. Here’s which fees are fake, and which are legit.
6. Ford Bronco Sport — 1,672 Units (4% of inventory)
High supply in the crowded compact SUV segment puts the negotiating advantage squarely with buyers. 2024 models are the most negotiable SUVs in the market today.
Negotiation Strategy: Show that you’ve done your market research, and then push aggressively on percentage discounts. You have the advantage when negotiating any year-old model.
7. Dodge Hornet — 1,549 Units (64% of inventory)
More than half of all new Dodge Hornets are 2024 models as of late September 2025. Despite being a newer nameplate, the Hornet has never been a hot seller. In fact, it routinely ranks among the slowest-selling new cars in America. Plenty of 2024 Hornets remain, and Stellantis dealers are motivated to clear them.
Negotiation Strategy: If a straight 20% discount proves difficult, ask for 0% APR to bridge the gap. Leasing may be a better option with little to no money down.
8. Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD — 1,443 Units
Similar to the Ford Super Duty, aging heavy-duty trucks can be negotiated hard in the right circumstances.
Negotiation Strategy: Don’t hesitate to bring up how costly ‘floorplanning expenses’ must be for an expensive truck like this. That’s a big part of why dealers will be happy to sell it at a discount. Be willing to travel to nearby dealers; a short drive can easily be worth several thousand dollars in savings.
9. Chevrolet Silverado 1500 — 1,173 Units
Competitive incentives in the full-size truck segment create high expectations for discounts across all brands.
Negotiation Strategy: Get three out-the-door quotes from different dealers before discussing trade-ins or financing. Or, let CarEdge’s AI Negotiator do it all for you.
10. Ford Ranger — 1,062 Units (5% of inventory)
Midsize trucks face pressure in many regions as 2024s compete with incoming 2025s and 2026s for lot space.
Negotiation Strategy: Use dealer-to-dealer competition on identical or nearly identical stock numbers.
The Stellantis Story: Where the Deals Are Deepest
When we examine the data by manufacturer, one pattern emerges clearly: Stellantis brands are dramatically overrepresented in carryover inventory, creating big opportunities for buyers who know where to look.
The numbers are striking:
- Ram: 6,629 leftover 2024s (approximately 5.0% of Ram’s total new inventory)
- Jeep: 3,812 leftover 2024s (approximately 2.5% of total inventory)
- Dodge: 2,304 leftover 2024s (approximately 13.8% of total inventory)
- Alfa Romeo: 422 leftover 2024s (approximately 23.6% of total inventory)
- Maserati: 360 leftover 2024s (approximately 35.6% of total inventory)
Maserati’s situation deserves special attention. With more than one-third of all Maserati inventory consisting of 2024 models, luxury shoppers should negotiate with particular confidence.
High-MSRP vehicles are especially vulnerable to depreciation once they’re considered “last year’s model,” so it’s important to lock in significant savings (15% off MSRP at the very least).
The Bottom Line: The Best Year-End Deals Are Aging Models
With 2026 models approaching and dealers facing carrying costs on aging inventory, the next few months represent prime negotiating season for leftover 2024s. Whether you’re shopping for a Ford F-150, a Jeep SUV, or any of the other models with substantial carryover inventory, your goal should be clear: secure at least 15-20% off MSRP through some combination of cash discounts, financing rate buydowns, and fee elimination (especially for unwanted add-ons).
The key to success is preparation and persistence. Know your goals, understand the local market, and negotiate from a position of strength. With 85,000 leftover 2024s still waiting for buyers, the deals are out there. And now, you know where to find them.
Time is a factor, but it’s working in your favor for now. The longer these vehicles sit, the more motivated dealers become. Start your search today, and you could drive away with both a great car and bragging rights about the deal you negotiated.
Ready to put AI to work for YOU, and not the billionaires? Learn how CarEdge AI negotiates deals on your behalf.
7 Questions Every Car Salesperson Should Answer — No Exceptions
Buying a car is a big deal, and it’s normal to have a lot of questions. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or have been through the process before, knowing what to ask can make everything a lot smoother. Here are some common questions every car dealer should be prepared to answer, so you can feel confident and informed about your purchase. Remember, knowing the right questions to ask when buying a car can make all the difference. Knowledge is power when it comes to buying a car in 2025!
What is the Out-the-Door Price of the car?
Why it’s important: One of the most important questions to ask when buying a car is about the total price, commonly referred to as the ‘Out-the-Door Price’. Knowing the OTD price, including taxes, fees, and any add-ons, helps you understand the full financial commitment. A reputable dealer should provide a clear breakdown of these costs. Try our free Out-the-Door Price Calculator to get a feel for the numbers to expect.
How Long Has It Been On the Lot?
Why it’s important: First of all, knowing how long a specific VIN has been waiting for a buyer gives you an instant snapshot of the negotiability. The longer a car sits, the more car dealers are willing to cut you a deal. Dealerships finance their inventory, and these ‘floorplanning costs’ add up quickly in today’s high-interest environment.
👉 Unlock days on the lot, market supply data, and local price trends with CarEdge Pro, now including invoice prices!
What manufacturer or dealer incentives are available?
See the best new car incentives this month!
Why it’s important: Understanding the available APR offers, cash discounts and rebates, or lease specials can help you make an informed decision. Sometimes, the salesperson may not mention all offers unless you inquire. Asking about what incentives are available and when they expire is one of the essential questions to ask when buying a car.
Can I take the car for a test drive?
Why it’s important: A test drive allows you to experience the car’s performance, comfort, and features firsthand. A reputable dealer will always allow a test drive, giving you the chance to ensure the car meets your expectations. No test drive? No deal!
What are the terms of the warranty?
Why it’s important: Understanding the terms of the warranty is essential for knowing what is covered and for how long. Asking detailed questions about the warranty coverage, including any exclusions and the duration of the coverage, can help you make an informed decision.
It’s important to ask 1) who the extended warranty is managed by (for example Fair, AUL, Endurance, or one of the other companies), 2) the duration of the coverage (mileage and time period), 3) covered components (the details matter, feel free to ask for the contract), 4) the deductible amount if you file a claim, and 5) if roadside assistance is included.
Before you agree to any coverage, compare your offer to CarEdge’s Extended Warranty, backed by Fair’s trusted coverage.
Can I see the vehicle history report? (Used Cars)
Why it’s important: For used cars, a vehicle history report includes information about accidents, repairs, and previous ownership. This report is crucial for assessing the car’s condition and history, making it one of the key questions to ask when buying a used car.
If you’re shopping at a dealership, never pay for this report. It should be offered free of charge. If it’s not available, that’s a red flag! We’d advise you to look elsewhere, no matter how ‘perfect’ the car seemed.
Can I have the car inspected by an independent mechanic? (Used Cars)
Why it’s important: Having the car inspected by an independent mechanic is especially important for used cars. The industry term for this is a Pre-Purchase Inspection (learn more about PPIs here). This inspection can reveal any potential issues that may not be apparent during a test drive.
If the dealer shows any hesitation about letting you get the car inspected by an independent mechanic (ie one that’s NOT working at the dealership), there may be something they’re hiding. What good is a used car if you end up needing thousands of dollars in maintenance when you drive it home?
Frequently Asked Questions When Buying a Car
Q: What is the Out-the-Door Price?
A: The out-the-door (OTD) price includes the vehicle’s sticker price plus taxes, dealer fees, and any add-ons. Always ask for this number to understand your total financial commitment. Try CarEdge’s free Out-the-Door Price Calculator to see what to expect.
Q: How long has this car been on the lot?
A: The longer a car sits, the more negotiable it becomes. Dealers pay financing costs (floorplanning), so vehicles on the lot for months often come with better discounts. CarEdge Pro reveals days on lot, invoice pricing, and market supply data. Even better, our AI Negotiator includes these data points and more, without you lifting a finger.
Q: What manufacturer or dealer incentives are available? Can I stack them?
A: Cash rebates, APR offers, and lease specials can save you thousands, but not all salespeople will mention them upfront. Ask about current offers, expiration dates, and whether they stack. See the best new car incentives this month at the CarEdge Best Deals Hub.
Q: Can I take the car for a test drive?
A: Of course! If any seller dares to say no, that’s an immediate dealbreaker. A test drive helps you evaluate comfort, performance, and features. If a dealer or private seller refuses, that’s a red flag. No test drive? No deal.
Q: What are the terms of the warranty?
A: Ask about who manages the coverage, how long it lasts, what’s included, the deductible, and if roadside assistance is covered. Compare the dealer’s offer with CarEdge’s Extended Warranty backed by Fair, so you know you’re protected.
Q: Can I see the vehicle history report? (For used cars)
A: This report shows accidents, ownership history, and major repairs. Dealers should provide it for free—if they won’t, walk away. It’s a must-have when buying used.
Q: Can I get the car inspected by an independent mechanic? (For used cars)
A: A Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI) can uncover hidden issues. If a dealer hesitates to allow one, take that as a warning sign. Spending a little upfront could save you thousands in surprise repairs. Learn how PPIs work.
Skip the Dealership – There’s a Better Way to Buy
Navigating the car buying process can be overwhelming, but equipping yourself with these questions to ask when buying a car can help you feel more confident and informed. Understanding the OTD price, days on the lot, incentives, and other crucial details ensures you make a smart buying decision
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