When auto companies roll out exciting new models as they did in the recent New York auto show, the unveilings can sometimes push down the price of cars already on sale.
Usually the immediate impact is small, according to industry analysts, but the deals can get a whole lot better once the new models hit the showrooms and the automakers try to clear the old models from dealer lots. And the extent of the impact depends on whether the latest models are significantly more appealing than the old ones because of new features or styling changes.
All automakers discount outgoing models in late summer and early fall to clear room on dealer lots for new models. Typically, those discounts run 2 to 4 percent off the sticker price as the new cars arrive. But the big deals come later in the fall, especially if the automakers are having trouble getting rid of the year-old models. Then the discounts can go as high as 5 or even 10 percent.
Websites such as , , or show invoice and sticker prices for new vehicles.
