The more used vehicles there are in a market segment, the better the potential values. For each category ripe for deals, we list three-year-old models that had higher-than-average sales when new and are in plentiful supply now.
Compact. Deal! More new-car choices in recent model years plus buyer interest in fuel efficiency mean more used choices -- and relatively attractive prices. Shop for: Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic
Midsize. Deal! Lease returns this fall will boost models in the used market, and new-model sales will spur trades. Shop for: Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
Hybrid. No deal. Sales have been limited, and green vehicles hold their value well. You may be able to find a bargain on the ubiquitous Toyota Prius, but until there is an oversupply of other hybrid models, don’t expect to find savings.
Luxury. Deal! These automakers kept leasing through the recession, so there are plenty of cars to choose from. Shop for: BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and E-Class
Small crossovers. No deal. Folks transitioning from larger SUVs are seeking them out for more miles per gallon, so demand is high and supply is tight.
Midsize/large crossovers and SUVs. Deal! Larger crossovers and body-on-frame SUVs don’t enjoy the demand they once did, thanks to high gas prices. Shop for: Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer
Full-size sedans. Deal! Even though there aren’t a ton of choices in this category, demand is down due to their less-than-stellar fuel economy. Shop for: Chevrolet Impala, Ford Taurus, Nissan Maxima
-
Five Ways to Save on Vacation Rental PropertiesTravel Use these strategies to pay less for an apartment, condo or house when you travel.
-
How to Avoid Annoying Hotel Fees: Per Person, Parking and MoreTravel Here's how to avoid extra charges and make sure you don't get stuck paying for amenities that you don't use.
-
Gas-Saving Tips That Actually WorkThese are gas-saving tips that will actually work for you and your car this year.
-
Want to Lease an EV? There's a Tax Credit 'Loophole' for ThatTax Credits If you are deciding whether to lease or buy a car, here's what you need to know about the EV lease tax credit.
-
Car Buying in a Topsy-Turvy MarketYou need a new car? Good luck with that! What should you do? We've got some answers.
-
Watch Out for Flood-Damaged Cars from Hurricane IanBuying & Leasing a Car In the wake of Hurricane Ian, more flood-damaged cars may hit the market. Car prices may rise further because of increased demand as well.
-
Car Buyers: The 3-Day Grace Period Is Just a Myth!Buying & Leasing a Car Many car buyers think they have three days after making a purchase to return a car. Here’s where they’re going wrong, and what they should do instead to get a decent used car.
-
PODCAST: Car-Buying in an Inflated Market with Jenni NewmanBuying & Leasing a Car With cars both scarce and expensive these days, what to do if you want – or need – a new ride? Car-buying strategist Jenni Newman of Cars.com shares some tips. Also, more on the magical 9% savings bond.
