CarSeekBlog

Apologies for being tardy this week, but it gives me a chance to wish everyone a Happy Fourth of July! I just caught the latest commercial for Jay Leno’s new show. He cracks a joke about having used public transit that day — GM. It did, ironically highlight, that on this Independence Day, our government has assumed a role that would, no doubt, make our frugal founding fathers stroke out. :)

I want to highlight an article Clark Howard did for CNN.com Living this week, “New Car Today Can Be Cheaper Than Used One.” This is a topic that has gotten kicked around a lot in the last few months in the unique climate of previously owned sales climbing while new cars are going for a song as automakers pretty much beg on street corners for sales.

According to Howard, who quotes Comerica Bank’s Auto Affordability Index, new cars are now going at their most affordable sticker prices since 1979 — a full $1,700 cheaper than asking prices in the last quarter of 2008. It’s a good piece, and one you should read before making your own purchase.

I still say that in this climate, research is key. Weigh all your options since some of the “previously owned” cars on the lots now are, in reality, new. Add Howard’s piece to your clip file though, it’s good background material as you survey your options.

Filed under: Buying Trends by Shorty